It’s not surprising to see the rise in popularity of speedy mini facials and sheet masks. We’re all pressed for time and something is better than nothing, especially when it comes to a little self TLC.

And whilst we wholeheartedly welcome simpler skincare rituals, there’s something grounding and wholesome in setting aside a little more time partaking in a ritual that not only leaves you with a glowing complexion, but one where you’re required to sit still, be mindful and fully present.

Cue: Facial Steaming

Facial steaming or steam inhalation is an ancient ritual that can be traced back to the time of the Pharaohs and was used to aid skin detoxification and promote healthier skin.

Our newly launched Fragrant Floral Steam is a pure botanical blend of dried rose, hibiscus and chamomile, that, when infused in hot water, not only helps to reduce stress and anxiety, but also helps to deeply cleanse the skin, boost circulation and detoxify. As you immerse your skin in a cloud like vapour, rest safe in the knowledge that the nourishing botanical properties are toning, soothing, hydrating and clarifying your skin.

It not only feels indulgent, but it also cleanses and nourishes your skin, helps with product absorption and leaves a lasting glow.

What does steam do for your skin?

• Deeply cleansing: Steam is very effective in opening up the pores and loosening dirt and grime, that would otherwise have been trapped, allowing for a deeper cleanse. This in turn, helps to release acne causing bacteria that otherwise would have been trapped in your pores.
• Boosts circulation: The warm steam boosts your circulation, the increase in blood flowing to your face helps to deliver oxygen to the skin thus improving complexion and helping the skin to radiate a glow. The increase in blood flow to the skin also promotes collagen and elastin production, resulting in more youthful and firmer skin.
• Improves product absorption: Steam increases your skins ability to absorb product, which means the products you apply topically afterwards can penetrate deeper into the skin.

Aside from the obvious benefits to your skin, incorporating steam into your facial is incredibly easy and affordable. What we love most about a facial steam is you can completely customise it to your needs, it can be as basic or luxe as you want or need it to be using supplies that you’ll already have at home…

What you Need:

• Large fluffy towel.
• Heat resistant bowl
• Hot (hand hot water is ideal – where you can comfortably place your hands in the water, not very hot and definitely not boiling water)
• Fragrant Floral Steam (or your choice of herbs, flowers or essential oil)

How to Steam?

1. Wear comfortable clothing.
2. Choose a comfortable area where you can rest a bowl safely and a seat.
3. Prepare your skin before you steam. It’s important that your face and neck have been cleansed.
4. Fill a large heat resistant bowl with hot water (not boiling) so that it is 2/3 full.
5. Infuse a generous sprinkle of Fragrant Floral Steam into the water
6. Take a seat and lower you face over the bowl. Drape the towel over the head and also cover the bowl. Take care not to lower your face to low, keep it at least 6 inches away from the water. Close eyes.
7. Your can regulate the intensity of the steam based on you needs by raising/lower your head from/to the bowl. You can also lift a corner of the towel to release some steam if you find that you need to cool off.
8. Steam your face in this way for 5-10 mins.

You can follow the basic principles of steaming by using a sink instead of a large bowl and still reap the benefits of steaming by omitting the towel.

Our fragrant floral steam Ritual includes an aromatic blend of dried rose to hydrate, chamomile to soothe and calm and hibiscus flowers to tone and firm the skin. Infusing green tea is another favourite, as it imparts potent antioxidant properties into the steam.

Words of Caution

Steam burns can cause more damage the boiling water so please be careful when using hot water. Ensure that it is not very hot, definitely not boiling, as a gauge, you should be able to comfortably place your hand in the water.

Don’t get your face too close to the steam as it could burn. You need to feel comfortably hot, like a sauna. If your skin is very sensitive, try steaming without the towel.