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And yes, there is some evidence to support the hydrating and product-absorbing benefits of facial steaming.
subman / Getty Images
(Those pore opening benefits though?
Not exactly true, and well share more on why below.)
Steaming as self care has been a thing since ancient times.
Does facial steaming have any benefits?
The short answer is yes!
But for the long answerincluding some important caveatskeep reading.
Our pores are fixed structures that do not open and close in response to changes in temperature.
What actually happens when you expose your face to steam?
A quick 10-minute steam is enough to get your blood flowing.
That increased circulation can temporarily give you a flushed (depending on your skin tone) and healthy glow.
Theoretically, since youre blasting your face with warm vaporized water, steaming can bring moisture into the skin.
Basically, the skins barrier becomes leakier because its softer, and water can more easily seep out.
(Well explain just how short to keep them below.)
This increased permeability of the top layer of your skin allows products to enter more easily.
Basically, heat can provoke inflammation.
The heat from steaming could aggravate chronically acne-prone and even just very oily skin, Dr. Robinson says.
Other than the above conditions, theres of course a risk of burning yourself with steam.
Heres how to steam your face at home.
How do most at-home facial steamers work?
Just finished your steam?
Youre not done yet.
Translation: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize afterward!
Can you steam your face daily?
This is the face-steaming bottom line.
Steaming your face might make your skin slightly softer and more hydrated and can help unclog your pores.
