Let's Be Real – Does Facial Steaming Actually Do Anything?

In case facial steaming is a new concept for you, it involves boiling water, putting it into a heat-proof bowl, possibly adding an essential oil if that’s your preference, then draping a towel over your head and the sides of the bowl to keep the steam in. Five to ten minutes is fine, but don’t steam past 20 minutes. Those with oily skin may steam twice or three times weekly.

Steaming will open your pores, but rather than extracting blackheads afterward with your fingers, it’s safer to use a looped extraction tool or better yet, work with an aesthetician or dermatologist. Steaming helps release sebum, the oil which, when combined with bacteria, causes acne, and steaming helps to prevent new pimples from forming. It also increases blood circulation, which oxygenates your face. Steaming is hydrating for the skin and a good prep before buttering your face with your favorite serum or moisturizer.