Facial steams feel great, cleanse, hydrate and detox your skin, and improve blood flow, giving your face a nice glow and healthy complexion. Increasing the blood flow promotes healing, too. The steam opens and unclogs your pores and removes dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities. The skin absorbs the essential oils, nourishing and toning your skin.
Lavender essential oil is a nice choice for a facial steam, offering both soothing and healing properties. Tea tree is cleansing, so if you have rashes or blemishes, it’s a good one to try. Eucalyptus is great if you’re congested—it helps with your breathing and your skin. Rosemary helps balance oily skin. Combinations work well, too, such as:
- Lavender and Tea Tree—soothing and cleansing
- Lavender and Rose—skin nourishing combo—rose is an astringent and tightens the skin and lavender, in addition to its healing properties, has anti-inflammatory benefits
- Geranium and Lavender are good for sensitive skin
- Lavender and chamomile—very nice before bedtime, as they both have relaxing, soothing properties
- Tea Tree and Rosemary—for blemishes and oily skin
What To Do:
Your first step is to wash your face as you usually do. In a pot, bring three to four cups of water to a boil. Transfer water to a bowl. Add a drop each of lavender and tea tree oils (or whatever oil you have chosen). Start off with two drops total. You can always add another drop or two. Drape a towel over your head, close your eyes, and lower your face until you’re about 6 to 12 inches above the water. If it feels too hot, bring your head away from the water. Steam for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. When you’re done steaming, splash your face with water, then apply moisturizer.
Enjoying a spa day at home on a regular basis is relaxing for you and a gift to your skin with lots of benefits and incredible results.