Benefits of Steaming Face: How to Do It Properly and What to Do After

Let's get into why facial steaming is having its skincare moment. The benefits of steaming face aren't just skin-deep, it's a technique that's been around for centuries, known for its ability to open pores and prep your skin to soak up every drop of serum or moisturiser you layer on afterwards. Here's a look at what steaming really does:

The heat helps loosen dirt and oil trapped in your skin, making it easier to cleanse more deeply and effectively.

Steaming makes extractions gentler and safer if you're removing blackheads.

Warm steam increases blood flow to the skin, giving you a temporary flush of radiance.

Your skin becomes more receptive post-steam, which means your serums and moisturisers can work harder for you.

If you're under the weather or have allergies, the steam can feel incredibly soothing for sinuses too.

Before you start, always cleanse your face to remove surface dirt and makeup. Then follow these steps:

1. Boil water and let it cool slightly so the steam isn't too hot and you're not risking scalding your skin.
2. You could toss in a few herbs (like chamomile or mint) or essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) for added skin benefits and spa-like vibes.
3. Use a bowl and towel method. Pour the hot water into a bowl, place your face about 8–10 inches above it, and drape a towel over your head to trap the steam.
4. Steam for 5–10 minutes. Anything longer and you risk drying your skin out.
5. Pat skin dry gently and immediately move to the next steps of your routine.

Now that your pores are open and your skin's prepped, what's next? Here's how to make the most of this golden skincare moment:

Use a gentle toner to rebalance your skin's pH and tighten pores.

Apply a serum packed with hydrating or brightening ingredients—your skin is in prime absorption mode.

Lock in all that hydration with a soothing moisturiser. We love the Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser, it's lightweight, non-comedogenic, and super calming post-steam.For an added layer of gentle care, especially after cleansing or steaming, try the Simple Active Skin Barrier Care Replenishing Cream Cleanser. It helps support the skin's natural barrier while leaving it soft and nourished.

If your skin feels slightly flushed, don't worry—it's a sign of boosted blood circulation. But always follow up with SPF during the day, especially if you're heading out.

Once a week is generally safe for most skin types. If you've got dry or sensitive skin, keep it to once every two weeks or skip altogether. Oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from a weekly steam, but make sure you're following it up with the right care to avoid post-steam flare-ups.

• Dry skin: Steam less frequently and always follow up with hydrating products.
• Oily skin: Weekly sessions can help manage sebum, but tone and moisturise right after.
• Sensitive skin: Steer clear, or consult a dermatologist before trying.
• Combination skin: Steam carefully and spot-treat with masks post-steam to balance oil zones.

If you're battling breakouts, facial steaming can be helpful—but only if done carefully. Steaming face for acne helps unclog pores and soften hardened sebum, which makes acne treatments more effective. However, go easy.

• Limit to once a week
• Avoid if you have active, inflamed acne, rosacea or very sensitive skin
• Always follow up with calming productslike niacinamide or aloe vera

As with all things in beauty, moderation is key. While face steaming can be beneficial, overdoing it or doing it wrong can cause more harm than good. Here are a few disadvantages of steaming face you should be mindful of:

• Over-drying: Too much steam can strip natural oils and leave skin feeling tight and dry.
• Broken capillaries: Excessive heat or steaming too close to your skin can damage delicate blood vessels.
• Irritation for sensitive skin types: Those with rosacea or eczema should avoid steaming altogether.
• Excess oil production: Paradoxically, dehydrating your skin with too much steam can trigger it to produce more oil.

Do:

• Use clean towels and a clean bowl
• Moisturise right after
• Keep water at a safe temperature
• Steam in a relaxed space—think candles, music, mindfulness

Don't:

• Go beyond 10 minutes
• Steam daily
• Use steaming as a substitute for cleansing or exfoliating

So, is steam good for the face? Yes, when done mindfully. Facial steaming can be a powerful addition to your skincare routine—opening up your pores, boosting circulation, and prepping your skin for deeper treatment. Just remember to keep it occasional, follow up with nourishing products and listen to your skin's cues. Glow, but make it gentle.

A: Not recommended. Over-steaming can dry out your skin and lead to irritation.

A: Night-time is ideal as it allows better absorption of your nighttime skincare.

A: No, but it softens them for easier removal.

A: Absolutely. Facial steamers give more controlled results and are less messy.