Along with all of the other “maintenance” doctor’s appointments everyone is supposed to do each year (OBGYN, Physical, Eye Dr, Dentist…), I also see a dermatologist. Although I am super lucky when it comes to my skin – just hormonal breakouts and some early signs of aging – I go for an annual skin check to check for skin cancer. However, while I’m there I always make sure to use the time to pick my dermatologist’s brain. For example, I always bring in my skincare products and get her opinions on what works, what doesn’t, and if I need to make any changes. I also love asking about skincare trends and anything else I should be paying attention to. This year, our talk was all about hydration. After talking about products, she said the newest trend that’s on her radar is using hyaluronic acid and a facial steamer.

Of course I immediately looked up facial steamers on Amazon as soon as I got in my car. Although there are a TON of choices, I went with this one. (AUTHORS NOTE: It looks like the one I bought was an older model. The new model is $59.99, can be used as a humidifier and a steamer, and you can add essential oils.)

First, let’s talk about the benefits of using a facial steamer. Not only does steam help plump and hydrate the skin, but it can also help open your pores. This makes it easier for your skincare products to absorb, as well as eases extractions. (Although we all know better and shouldn’t be picking at our faces, now should we?)

Next let’s talk about the process. Although you can steam morning, noon, or night, I prefer to steam as part of my night time routine. Of course you don’t have to steam your face every night. But whether you do it once a week or once a day won’t hurt you. However, speaking of hurt… Man does that steam get HOT! So if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! I mean… find a steamer that has a hot/cool option like the new model I mentioned above. (But you will see more results from a warm steam than a cool steam, as cool will tighten your pores and warm will open them.)

Also, don’t forget to check to see if your steamer needs distilled water before using it. You don’t want to be all ready to steam and get super bummed because you don’t have the right kind of water. That will totally kill your spa like vibe. Another way to increase your steaming benefits is to grab a small towel or hand towel and use it to cover your head and the steamer to keep all of the yummy steamy air close to your face. And then sit back, relax, and enjoy the little at home spa you just created. Once your steaming is complete, follow it up with your skincare. Make sure you apply water based products before oil based products. Facial oils always go on last.

Last but not least, there is one more added benefit to having a facial steamer at home. A few weeks ago I got super sick and congested and could hardly breathe. I was surviving on Sudafed, Vick’s patches, and Gatorade. And then I remembered my beloved steamer. Just a few minutes with my little steam machine and I could almost breathe again. Plus, it really helped the tragedy that was my nose from using 3 boxes of Kleenex in a week, AND it helped plump and hydrate my skin. That’s a Win, Win, Win in my book! (Kind of like my Chiefs. ;-P )

Like I said in my Daily Harvest Review post, I’m notoriously cheap when it comes to things I can do myself. So adding a facial steamer to my night time routine makes me feel like I’m really treating myself and getting some of those professional facial benefits in the comfort of my own home (and for less money). Plus, add in a nice hot bath with a Ouai Chill Pill bath bomb, and a new book, and you’re sure to feel refreshed. Don’t forget – self care isn’t selfish. You always have to put the oxygen mask on yourself first before you can help others. Or in this case, the facial steaming mask.

XOXO,
Tiffany

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