DIY Spa Facial in 6 Simple Steps: Step 3, Herbal Steam

This is the third step in the Spa Facial Series, and it also happens to be is my favorite part of doing a facial. It not only provides the pore-opening therapy of steam, but also gives you a delightful lift in spirit with the aromatherapy of lavender, peppermint, patchouli, lemon balm, chamomile, or whatever dried herbs you enjoy.

Let’s take just a minute to review. We have already discussed the first two steps, which are: Step 1, Cleanse; and Step 2, Exfoliate. Cleansing removes residual makeup, dirt, and oils from your skin; exfoliating speeds up the process of removing dead skin cells (which dulls the complexion) to reveal fresh and glowing new skin.

Here are a few reasons why facial steaming is good for your skin:

▪ It warms the skin and opens the pores, allowing masks and serums to penetrate more deeply and effectively;

▪ It increases perspiration, which helps rid the skin of toxins;

▪ It softens any debris in the pores, making it easier to remove;

▪ It improves blood circulation, which increases skin cell health and growth;

▪ It’s relaxing – did I mention that this is my favorite part of a facial?

Making an herbal steam only takes a few minutes. You’ll need some dried herbs, and an easy source for those just might be in your kitchen cabinet: think about chamomile tea, peppermint tea, lavender tea, lemon balm tea, nettle tea, hibiscus tea -yes, all those teas are dried herbs. My favorite is a combo of lavender, lemon balm, and patchouli. You’ll also need a medium size pot or deep pan and a face towel or small bath towel. Here’s how to make your facial steam:

1. Fill the pot at least halfway, but not too full, with water;

2. Put it on the stove and bring the water to a rolling boil;

3. Add about two to four tablespoons of dried herbs and turn off the heat under the pot.

4. Place a lid on the pot and let it sit for 4 or 5 minutes, allowing the herbs to heat up, soften, and release their aroma and micronutrients;

5. Put the towel over your head and stand over the pot with hot water and herbs, allowing the towel to create a tent to direct the steam to your face;

6. Close your eyes, relax, and enjoy the aroma and cleansing steam for about 1 ½ to 2 minutes – don’t overdo it, especially if you have rosacea or broken capillaries on your face.

By now your face will be feeling pretty amazing – keep going, I promise it’ll be worth it! Check out Step 4, Tone – you might be surprised at the amazing things that a good toner can do for your skin.