3 Facial Steams for Every Skin Type
If you’ve read my article about facial steaming to get glowing skin, you know that it’s an absolute game-changer for your skin—and probably one of the best ways to get that spa experience at home. While I shared my go-to facial steam recipe in that post, I wanted to share three more with you here. But first, let’s go over the basics of steaming again.
Steaming Your Face: The Essentials
Facial steaming is simple, affordable, and effective; although it takes a little bit of time, you’ll see benefits with only two to three steams a month, which is what I do for my own skin. With a regular steaming routine, you can unclog your pores to prevent breakouts, your products will work better because your skin is more permeable, and you’ll have the most amazing glow.
I recommend reading my first post about facial steaming for all the details, but the basics are as follows:
- Fill a pot with about a quart of water and bring it to a boil.
- Remove it from heat and add the herbs and essential oils from one of the recipes below. Let the blend steep for 5–8 minutes, covered.
- Once the pot is at a comfortable temperature, move it to a table and lean your face over the pot. You should be about 20 inches away from the water. Alternatively, you can transfer the water to a large heat-proof mixing bowl, which is safer.
- Place a towel over your head to create a tent. Steam for 5 minutes if it’s your first time, or 10–12 minutes if you’re a seasoned pro.
- Rinse with lukewarm water, use a gentle mask if you like, then tone and moisturize. I’m currently loving Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Facial Mist for toning and Boscia Cactus Water Moisturizer for my post-steaming moisture fix.
Facial Steaming Blends: 3 Ways
Elevate your at-home skincare routine with one of these herbal face steams, which are made with herbs and essential oils tailored to different skin types.
Mature & Aging Skin
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers (or a chamomile tea bag)
- 1 tablespoon fresh or dried rose petals
- 1 drop of frankincense essential oil (this is the brand I trust)
Why It Works:
Rosemary is anti-inflammatory, reducing puffiness and swelling.
Chamomile is also anti-inflammatory, and it’s high in antioxidants to combat the effects of aging.
Rose helps with redness, inflammation, and dryness—and it smells amazing!
Frankincense is the go-to essential oil for fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Oily & Acne Prone Skin
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon calendula (fresh or dried)
- 2 drops of tea tree oil
Why It Works:
Rosemary is a healing herb that benefits anyone with acne.
Calendula is a soothing herb that’s also antibacterial.
Tea tree oil is well-known for fighting breakouts thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Normal & Combination Skin
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender
- 2 drops of geranium essential oil
Why It Works:
Lavender makes this steam a zen experience, and it’s calming for your skin too.
Geranium is both anti-aging and antibacterial, making it an excellent choice for combination skin.
If you try one of these recipes, I’d love to know what you think! Do you have your own facial steam recipe that you use?