Shut out the world for a while and breathe deeply of this relaxing
and hydrating herbal steam facial. Steam opens the skin's pores while
deeply cleansing and rejuvenating all the skin's layers. Using herbs
in facial steams is a wonderful way to nourish your skin. All you
need to make your own natural facial is a pot of water, a method of
heating the water, and a towel. Therapeutic herbs can be infused in the water so that their healing benefits will become part of the steam and
reach deep into your pores.
Herbs have surprising effects on the skin. Many are emollient,
softening and lubricating; others hydrate and moisturize; and most
are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Licorice root is the number one
herbal choice for steaming no matter what your skin type, because it
helps open the pores, soothes, cleanses, and lubricates. Just break a
piece of root into your steam pot. As for other herbs, for dry skin
try lavender, mint or calendula; for sensitve skin try calendula,
chamomile, or comfrey; for oily skin try mint, lavender, rose and/or
witch hazel. Note: Those with asthma or allergies to herbs should
speak to their doctor before using these herbs in a steam. Chamomile
is in the ragweed family.
If you are traveling, instead of steaming your face with herb-infused
water, you can use the hot-towel method. Saturate a towel with
steaming hot water. Let cool enough to touch the skin, then wrap your
clean face with it, and leave it on for two minutes or so.
Here are simple, seven-step directions to make your own facial steam:
How to Make Your Own Facial Steam
1. Place a handful of herbs in a pot of water. Bring to a boil, then
reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, adding water as needed.
2. Secure your hair back from your face.
3. Wash your face as usual.
4. Place the pot with the steaming water on a trivet or potholder on
a table or countertop. Make a tent over our head with a towel, and hang
your head over the steaming pot. Make sure not to lean close enough
to the steam to scald yourself.
5. Keep your face in the steam tent for about 5 minutes.
6. Rinse your face with cool water.
7. Follow with an natural toner to close the pores.
