Botanical Facial Steamers have MANY benefits -

• they deep clean by opening up pores.
• they help release bacteria casuing acne.
• they hydrate and prepares your face to better absorb skin products giving you more bang for the buck on those products.
• they also promote collagen and elastin via increased blood flow resulting in younger firmer looking skin.
• they can be partnered with Essential Oils to assist with sinus congestion.
• they are soothing, calming and afforadable.
• one of the best 10 minute investments you can make in your Self Care Journey.

STEAM OVER A BOWL OR SINK 

With all methods mentioned below it is recommended to begin with a clean face ( include your precious neck)

• Select a large mouth bowl (or use a sink) and add your botanicals.
• Pour hot water over the botanicals to fill your vessel to half way.
• Cover the vessel and let the herbs simmer for a minute or 2.
• If you are using Essential Oils, this is the time to add them.
• Tie your hair back and have a seat or place yourself over the sink with a towel draped over your head and your face 5 to 6 inches above the hot water in your vessel. 
• And Breathe !!!  5 to 10 mins of nice long deep breaths.

Additional Tip:

Raise or lower your head for more or less heat or lift a corner of the towel to cool off as needed.

AT HOME FACIAL STEAMING MACHINES

Read through the filling and usage instructions for your machine. Ensure the machine permits other liquids besides distilled water.

Steep the botanicals and use the water to fill your Steamer.

Since Facial steamers offer a more powerful steam than the other methods, steam for 2 or 3 minutes at a time with a 1-minute break in between to see how your skin is handling the steam.

How hot, how long, and how often?

• A steam burn is more damaging than a burn from boiling water, so you need to be especially careful when steaming your face.
• To lower your risk of burns, avoid putting your face too close to the steam. Increase the distance as needed for you to be comfortable. Water should be warm, not hot, if you’re using the towel method.
• Steam your face once a week for the best results. Limit each steam session to around 10 minutes to avoid irritating your skin.

Preparation

• Hydrate. Drinking water before exposing yourself to heat of any kind is a good idea, so drink some water before you begin.
• Cleanse. Wash your face using a gentle cleanser with an exfoliator so your skin is ready to reap all the rewards of steaming.

During the steam

• Keep your eyes closed. You’ll be more comfortable, you won’t risk irritating your eyes, and you can allow your eyelids to enjoy the benefits of the steam.
• Keep your face 6 to 10 inches away. You don’t want to get too close to the bowl or sink and risk getting burned. Listen to your skin and do what feels comfortable.
• Follow directions if using a facial steamer. Read the instruction booklet and use your facial steamer as directed.

Immediately after

• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Your skin will be extra sensitive, so you don’t want to irritate it by rubbing with a towel.
• Apply a moisturizing cream or serum. The effects of your moisturizer or serum will be enhanced after a steam, so use something that nourishes. If you’re after younger looking skin, this is a great time to use an anti-aging cream.
• Massage your face. What better way to end a relaxing face steam than with a gentle face massage? Use your fingers to gently massage your forehead, cheeks, and neck using upward strokes. Unless you have oily or sensitive skin, you can use a bit of facial oil to enhance your massage.