Home facial steamers or facial saunas are small, countertop machines that generate a potent steam mist to moisturize and treat dry or problem skin on your face and upper neck. Some people like to use these mini steam-baths as a chance to relax or even meditate. About five minutes is the standard treatment time for steaming problem skin, although you may extend the sessions to as much as 30 minutes for the sake of relaxation.
Step 1
Open the base of the facial steamer by either twisting the top off or lifting a covering flap away.
Step 2
Carefully add warm water to the reservoir inside the steamer base until it reaches just below the fill line. Do not fill above this line. If there is no fill line, leave at least 1 inch of "head space" above the water level to keep it from boiling over.
Step 3
Add one or two drops of essential oil to the essential oil reservoir located directly above the reservoir---it may be part of the face mask unit---if your unit has such a reservoir and if you so desire. Never add essential oils directly to the water, as the heat required to general steam will cause them to evaporate almost immediately.
Step 4
Reinstall the cover or cover flap on top of the base. Check to make sure that the face mask attachment is already installed on top of this cover. If it's not, slide out or unscrew the current attachment and slide in or screw in the face mask.
Step 5
Make sure the facial steamer unit is plugged in, then press the "Steam" or "On" button.
Step 6
Wait about three minutes until the unit's ready light comes on, if it has one. If it doesn't have one, you should see traces of steam generated by the machine after about three minutes. While you're waiting, thoroughly clean your face and upper neck.
Step 7
Gently place your face against the face mask. You don't need to put a towel over your head unless you feel the need for extra steam. Blot your face with a cool, damp towel as necessary, and limit your steaming to no more than 30 minutes.
Step 8
Turn the steamer unit off and unplug it when you're finished. Rinse your face with cool water and, once the water in the unit is cool enough to handle, open the reservoir as directed above, pour the water out, and wipe the reservoir and mask with a clean, dry cloth.
Tips and Warnings
- Some steamers require you to use distilled water, while use of tap water. If in doubt about what sort of water your facial steamer requires, err on the side of caution by using distilled water to help reduce mineral buildup inside the device. If your steamer runs out of water, shut it off, add more water, then resume where you left off. Clean your steamer's reservoir and mask with soap and water every two or three times you use it, or after having stored it for an extended period.
Things You'll Need
- Essential oils (optional)
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