I have become famous for my unconventional skincare methods. These often include herbs or essential oils, and sometimes even rubbing ice or mud on the face. There are so many plants in nature that offer a variety of skin benefits. This herbal face steam is a great way to reap these benefits!
I have done steaming before, mainly for congestion or upper respiratory support. Herbal face steam creates an incredibly natural facial. It’s really simple and doesn’t require any advanced equipment.
You can also pick and choose which herbs you want to use. Use just one or a combination of all available.
Best Herbs for Facial Steaming
There are many different plants that go well with facial steaming, and you probably already have some in your pantry. Feel free to mix and match this list, or use something completely different. Make sure it is not a substance that irritates the skin.
Here are some of my favorite herbs to use in herbal face steams.
- rose petals – Rose has long been used for radiant, youthful skin. Fragrant petals also have powerful aromatherapy benefits that soothe heartache. A 2015 study found that roses help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce wrinkles.
- lavender flowers – Lavender, which soothes and soothes the skin, is a favorite ingredient in skincare. It is naturally anti-inflammatory and helps repair damaged skin.
- mint leaves – Refreshing and energizing, hot mint relaxes arteries and stimulates blood circulation, aiding faster healing. It’s also a rich source of the vitamins and minerals your thirsty skin craves!
- calendula flower – Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, calendula has an extensive and long history in treating wounds and damaged skin.
- Chamomile – The flowers and leaves have an apple-like floral scent that calms and relaxes the mind. It has the same effect on the skin and is great for soothing irritated and damaged skin.
- Comfrey – This plant is my favorite for skin care. Both flowers and leaves are very efficient in healing damaged skin and bones. It stimulates tissue repair and cell proliferation.
- Echinacea – People use the flowers or leaves topically for a variety of skin conditions, including damaged skin, eczema, and varicose veins. Echinacea has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects, which can also help with acne.
- Helichrysum – This herb has cheerful yellow flowers with powerful skin benefits. It’s drying, warming and astringent, so if you have very dry skin, use it with emollient herbs like violet or marshmallow. A 2020 study examined night creams containing helichrysum and found significant improvements in wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and sun spots.
- horsetail – This amazing herb is full of micronutrients, including silica, to give you plump skin. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects and has been traditionally used to treat wrinkles, improve acne, and moisturize the skin.
- lemon – Lemons have a wide variety of uses, not only for making lemonade but also for your skin. The juice is rich in vitamin C and acids, and the peel contains volatile essential oils that boost mood and brighten dull, damaged skin. A 2013 study found that lemon juice was significantly more effective against acne than conventional options tested.
How to Herbal Face Steam
I prefer to use herbs that are gentler on the skin and do not have harsh volatile oils that can irritate the skin or eyes. Cinnamon and oregano come to mind!
You may have seen face steamer machines in stores or online. Companies typically use plastic to make facial steamers, so the steam contained in the plastic heats directly into your pores. A pot on the stove isn’t all that fancy, but sometimes simpler is better (and cheaper!).
You also cannot add herbs to the face steamer tank. Otherwise, the hub may be damaged. Once again, another win done the old-fashioned way.
Step-by-step facial steam directions
- Simply place the herbs you are using in a pot of very hot, filtered, or distilled water. Be careful not to boil too much. Otherwise, you may get burned.
- Turn off the stove or move the pot to the counter. Place a towel over your head and lean over the steam.
- You want the steam to be close enough to wash your face, but not so close that you get steam burns.
If you’re looking for a more specific recipe, start here.
Revitalizing herbal face steam
It’s a relaxing way to open pores, hydrate your skin, and improve the appearance of blemishes and signs of aging.
produce: 1 face steam
Place the water, lemon and herbs in a clean saucepan and bring to a slow boil with the lid on. This helps retain more volatile oils.
Turn off the heat and lean over the pot with your eyes closed. Don’t get too close. Otherwise you may get steam burns! I discovered that as the water cools, it will get closer. You can also place a towel over your head to allow more steam to enter.
Once your pot is steaming, compost your herbal facial steam.
The herbs I used here can be mixed with other skin care friendly herbs. Aim for about 1/3 cup of total herbs.
It saves you time and allows you to mix herbs in bulk later. Add 1/4 cup (or as much as desired) of each and store in a large mason jar. When ready to use, scoop out 1/3 cup. Then add freshly cut lemon and water and let your face steam!
What are your favorite herbs to use in skin care? Have you ever played Steam before? Let us know by leaving a comment!
