How to Use a Facial Steamer

Have you heard the buzz on social media about face steamers? Chances are good, if you’re here, you have! This trending skin care tool seems to be all anyone can talk about, so it’s only right to be curious about the benefits of using a face steam machine and how to incorporate one into your skin care routine. Interested? Below, find out everything you need to know about face steaming, including how to use a facial steamer.

IS A STEAMER GOOD FOR YOUR FACE?

We hinted at this already, but in case it wasn’t clear, yes, a steamer can be good for your face! There’s a reason why steam is typically used as part of a facial at the spa. A study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information explains that one of the first steps in a facial typically involves using steam to open the pores before the esthetician extracts acne, like blackheads.

In general, steaming your face can be beneficial to your skin, even outside of a facial, whether you use a facial steamer or a humidifier. Learn more in our article, Are There Benefits of Steaming Your Face?

Now that you know steam is good for your face, you’re probably wondering how and when to use a facial steamer in the first place. Follow the steps below, and you’ll be a face steam machine pro in no time.

STEP #1. CLEANSE YOUR COMPLEXION

To start, you’ll want to wash any buildup of impurities, dirt, and oils from your face. Use the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types to do just that.

STEP #2. EXFOLIATE AWAY

Next, slough away dead skin cells and ensure your face is squeaky clean by exfoliating. We recommend using a gentle face scrub, like the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Resurface & Energize Kona Coffee Scrub.

STEP #3. STEAM YOUR FACE

Ready to learn how to put your facial steamer to work? It’s as easy as 1-2-3!

1. Fill the water tank. A face steamer comes with a water tank, and in a similar fashion to an iron, this water is then evaporated to produce steam. Fill the steamer with lukewarm distilled water instead of regular tap water.

2. Place the water tank. Insert the water tank into your steamer. Turn on the steamer and allow the water to heat up, per the instructions that came with your facial steamer. (Keep in mind, some steamers have cool steam settings as well!)

3. Steam your face. Turn on your steamer and allow the steam to fall over your face. You can control the temperature, adjusting it to your liking. If you want to lock in the steam, place a towel over your head while using the steam machine. Do this for about two to 10 minutes, depending on your skin’s needs and reaction.

STEP #4. USE A FACE MASK

Now that your face is prepped, you’ll want to apply a face mask so you can reap all the benefits of your steam session. Use one that has a soothing formula, like the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Clear & Comfort Face Mask, which contains seaweed and three pure clays.

STEP #5. SMOOTH ON A SERUM

After rinsing off your face mask, pamper your skin and reach for a face serum. For the best results, find one that suits your individual skin concerns. If you have dull skin, we love the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum. If you have dry skin, consider giving the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum a try.

STEP #6. MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN

Last but not least, as with any skin care routine, finish with a hydrating moisturizer. If you’re steaming your face at night, lock in hydration with a night cream, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Overnight Mask.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE A FACE STEAMER?

The frequency with which you should steam your face will be dependent on your skin, its condition, and level of sensitivity. Generally, you should steam your face no more than once per week. Listen to your skin to determine the frequency that’s best for you!

Next up: Treat yourself—and your skin with a complete at-home facial that can include steaming. Here’s How to Do a DIY Facial at Home.