Steamy Secrets

Facial steaming is a natural way of achieving the bright and clear skin we see in magazines, which very often owe thanks to a chemical peel. Steaming removes dead skin cells, and also helps to rehydrate the outer layer of the skin. It's easily done at home, and the benefits are many.

Steaming the face works by sweating the skin, causing the pores to open. The daily assault on the face from dust, dirt, and oil, clogs the pores and leads to breakouts, blackheads, etc. Steam penetrates the face, reaching deep into the pores. It's a once weekly simple cleansing method, that lifts away the deep everyday grime that dulls the skin.

Fill a bowl with hot water, and toss in one facial steaming packet, or some fresh or dried herbs of your own. Use a towel as a tent over your head, and lean over the bowl. Don't lean too close to the bowl, or the rising steam might burn your skin. Steam face for between 5 and 15 minutes. Remove your head from time to time if gets too warm in your tent. Splashing with cold water afterwards will help close the pores.

You can search the internet to see which herbies you may already have to hand in your kitchen cupboard, or in your garden.

Dry skin loves chamomile and lavender.
Oily skin loves rosemary and basil.
Sensitive skin loves rose and calendula.

Steaming also revives tired skin, and removes toxins, as well as improving circulation. It is also a great stress relief, and helps tremendously with colds.