Who doesn’t love a good sauna? You’d be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t enjoy the sensation of hot steam on their body. The same goes for your face!
It can be an invigorating or calming experience depending on your mood, as well as being a popular skincare regime.
Steam baths or saunas have existed in many cultures throughout history, so the benefits of exposing the body to steam have long been recognized.
Facial steaming then became popular as a practice in the 50s when early beauticians took the benefits of whole body steam baths and focussed them on the face.
However, while many of us can’t afford to have a custom sauna in our homes, we can afford a facial steamer!
Facial steamers save you time and money in spa visits by letting you give yourself a steaming facial treatment in the comfort of your own home.
And, the great thing about facial steamers is that there aren’t different kinds for different skin types. You don’t have to worry about purchasing a product that may or may not work for you.
This article will explain a bit about facial steamers and what to look for when choosing the best model for your needs. It will then review the best facial steamers on the market.
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Contents
- Why Use a Facial Steamer?
- Essential Oils + Facial Steamer
- Side Effects of Facial Steaming
- How To Clean a Facial Steamer
- 9 Best At Home Facial Steamer Reviews (2024)
- Panasonic Nano Facial Steamer Review
- Pure Daily Care Nanosteamer 3 in 1 Ionic Facial Steamer
- Kinga Nano Ionic Facial Steamer
- Revlon Illuminating Warm Mist Facial Steamer
- Olaxer Facial Steamer With Aromatherapy Basket
- KINGDOMCARES Large 2-in-1 Hair and Facial Steamer
- Okachi Gliya Hot Mist Facial Steamer
- Zenpy Nano Ionic Facial Steamer
- Panasonic Nano Care Steamer EH-SA95-P
- FAQs
- Is Steaming Good for Your Skin?
- Do Face Steamers Help Acne?
- How Often Should You Use a Face Steamer?
- What Should I Do After Steaming My Face?
- Is It Good to Steam Your Face Daily?
- Can Steam Cause Acne?
- Will Steaming My Face Get Rid of Blackheads?
- Is Steam Good for Pimples?
- What Should We Apply on Face Before Steaming?
- Does Steaming Your Face Unclog Pores?
- What Water to Use For a Steamer – Tap, Bottled, Distilled?
- Putting it All Together
Why Use a Facial Steamer?
Facial steamer benefits include:
- Increased circulation to the face.
- Increased perspiration and the opening of the pores to help release trapped debris, toxins, and excess oils.
- The softening of blackheads for easy extraction.
- The appearance of more youthful looking skin.
Warming the skin and opening the pores also makes the skin more receptive to receiving beneficial nutrients in the form of skin treatments and topical applications which may otherwise sit on the surface and not penetrate deeper into the skin.
Some manufacturers claim that steaming promotes collagen regeneration, but this hasn’t been scientifically proven.
It may be that the increased circulation encourages cell regeneration due to a greater supply of oxygenated blood. But whether this translates into collagen regeneration is hard to say.
Also, it’s hard to say whether it’s the use of the steamer alone, or what you do after the steaming treatment that has more of an effect on your skin. It may be the quality of the moisturizer that you use after steaming, in conjunction with the steaming that makes the difference.
Essential Oils + Facial Steamer
Using a facial steamer with aromatherapy can add further benefits to your health and well-being, of course, depending on the oils you use.
For example, lavender is known for its calming, relaxing and de-stressing properties while also being moisturizing and good for sensitive skin.
Eucalyptus or peppermint oils are amazing for clearing the sinuses if you’re feeling a bit blocked up with cold.
Tea tree oil and rosemary are amazing for treating skin conditions such as acne due to their natural antimicrobial properties, but be careful not to use too much, 2 or 3 drops are plenty!
Unfortunately, most steamers aren’t compatible with essential oils as the oils can build-up and clog the machine.
But, a sneaky way of getting around this is to put a few drops of your chosen essential oil on a piece of cotton wool and place it near the steam vent. It won’t be quite as effective but you’ll still get some of the benefits.
Side Effects of Facial Steaming
There is such a thing as too much steaming!
Increasing the permeability of your skin isn’t necessarily a good thing if you do it repeatedly. After all, the skin is your body’s line of defense and a natural barrier against foreign pathogens.
Disrupting this too often could have negative consequences for your skin. If facial steaming is something you enjoy and you believe that you benefit from it, then go for it!
But I wouldn’t recommend doing it every day.
How To Clean a Facial Steamer
Some websites recommend running your steamer with a solution of white vinegar and distilled water to remove mineral deposits that may build up on the element.
But if you’re using only distilled water in the steamer (which should be the case), then you shouldn’t have a problem with deposits and cleaning with vinegar shouldn’t be necessary.
However, make sure you read the cleaning instructions that come with your specific steamer, as each steamer is different.
9 Best At Home Facial Steamer Reviews (2024)
Panasonic Nano Facial Steamer Review
Widely touted to be the best at home facial steamer, the Panasonic Spa-Quality Facial Steamer uses nano-sized steam particles to better penetrate your skin for a deeper more nourishing treatment.
Unfortunately, this model isn’t compatible with essential oils, but it is a good quality machine that should justify its high price point.
Pros
- Claimed to promote deep pore cleansing.
- Nano-sized steam particles are 4000 times finer than regular steam and penetrate deeper into the skin.
- Small, compact size is easy to use anywhere in the house.
- Doubles as a makeup remover.
- Has 3 or 6-minute treatment settings.
Cons
- Not suitable for use with aromatherapy oils and can only be used with distilled water.
- Plastic refill bottle is not particularly durable.
- Steam has a chemical smell for the first few uses.
Takeaway
This is a top rated facial steamer that should serve you well provided you don’t wish to use it with essential oils.
Pure Daily Care Nanosteamer 3 in 1 Ionic Facial Steamer
Another very popular model, Pure Daily Care’s Nanosteamer is a more affordable version of the Panasonic model above. This is a quiet steamer that can be used for up to 30 minutes for a long, relaxing facial treatment.
Pros
- Nano-ionic steam is ultra-fine and negatively charged for optimum steaming benefits.
- 200ml water tank can provide steam for up to 30 minutes.
- Can be used as a humidifier for your house.
- Comes with stainless steel blackhead remover and a chamber for warming towels.
- Very affordable.
- Switches off automatically when it runs out of water.
Cons
- Not as durable as more expensive models.
- Not compatible with essential oils.
Takeaway
This could be the best facial steamer for blackheads due to the top quality steam that it produces and the blackhead remover that is included. It is also really good value for money.
Kinga Nano Ionic Facial Steamer
This is a popular steamer that is small and compact, quick and easy to use, and effective. It generates hot, fine steam with negatively charged ions for a more effective treatment.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Ultra-sonic vaporizer produces nano-steam.
- Automatically switches off when it runs out of water.
- Heats up and is ready to generate steam in just 30 seconds for a speedy treatment when you’re in a rush.
Cons
- Not compatible with essential oils or tap water.
Takeaway
Very similar to the Panasonic Spa Quality steamer above but more affordable, this steamer is a great option if you’re on a budget and want an affordable introduction to the world of facial steaming.
Revlon Illuminating Warm Mist Facial Steamer
This is a simple model with no gimmicks that does what it says it will do.
The steamer can go up to 113 Degrees for a deep skin cleansing and hydrating session, that is, on the condition that your face keeps a 20 cm (about 8 inches) distance from the steamer.
It also gives you the option to set a timer, to chose how long you want your facial to last – 15 or 20 minutes.
I think a great feature is that you can adjust the nozzle in the direction you want it to do its magic, which gives you the chance to focus on the nose, the chin or forehead.
Pros
- Compact steamer – will easily fit your bathroom counter (but small enough to store away).
- Heats up quickly and starts steaming in a matter of seconds.
- No rocket science instructions needed, this an easy-to-use, ready out of the box steamer.
- Steam flow is big enough to reach all your face. No need for a full face cone that supposedly directs the steam.
Cons
- A bit pricy.
Takeaway
This is a no-frills steamer that doesn’t require frown lines on your forehead just to understand how it works. Simply fill it up to the suggested line, turn it on and enjoy your facial!
Olaxer Facial Steamer With Aromatherapy Basket
This is a versatile machine that can be used as an aromatherapy diffuser and humidifier as well as for steaming facials.
Pros
- Design includes an aromatherapy basket making it compatible for use with essential oils.
- The 180ml water reservoir is large and allows for 20 minutes of steaming.
- Steam can be hot or cold.
- Doubles as a humidifier and essential oil diffuser for your home.
Cons
- Possibly some durability issues.
Takeaway
This is the best facial steamer for acne as it can be used with acne-fighting essential oils, unlike many other models.
KINGDOMCARES Large 2-in-1 Hair and Facial Steamer
Hair steaming comes with similar benefits to facial steaming in terms of making the hair more receptive to absorbing moisture and nutrients from the treatment.
Combine your deep conditioning sessions with a steamer and say hello to hair growth.
Although it is stated as a 2-in-1 steamer, the water tank is big enough to use it also for interior humidifying.
Pros
- 2-in-1 facial and hair steamer.
- Can adjust the angle of the sprayer nozzle.
- It has an auto-off function that turns off the device once there is not enough water.
- Has high-tech ozone function to sterilize the water before it steams your face or hair.
- Can be used as an aromatherapy diffuser (with drops of essential oils).
Cons
- May see dripping from the steam, so put a towel over your shoulders.
- Quite expensive (but you do get 2-in1).
Takeaway
Though it is a bit more expensive than other models, it still saves money in the long-term since this is your very own personal spa center at home.
Okachi Gliya Hot Mist Facial Steamer
This is another very popular model of facial steamers using the latest nano-ionic technology for extra fine, negatively charged steam. The unique feature of this steamer is that it comes with a mirror, but this may or may not be useful if you can’t see your reflection through the steam.
Pros
- Ceramic heating element generates steam with no chemical smell.
- Nano-ionic steam is fine and negatively charged.
- Very quiet compared to some other machines.
- 80ml water tank provides steam for 15 minutes and then the machine turns off automatically.
- Steam is a comfortable temperature to keep your face immersed without feeling scorched.
Cons
- Not compatible with essential oils.
Takeaway
This is easily one of the best at home facial steamers being reliable and reasonably priced.
Zenpy Nano Ionic Facial Steamer
I’ve heard excellent feedback for this facial steamer. It is quick and easy to use, creating steam in less than a minute and with a simple one-button operating system.
Pros
- Ultra-sonic vaporizer produces nano-steam with negatively charged ionic particles.
- Inhalation attachment for nose and mouth treatments.
- Includes blackhead remover toolkit.
- Excellent value for money.
- UV light system sterilizes the water before turning it to steam.
Cons
- May have an odd smell for the first few uses.
Takeaway
This is another great option for affordable and reliable at home facial steamer.
Panasonic Nano Care Steamer EH-SA95-P
This Panasonic steamer is touted as being the best personal facial steamer on the market but at a ridiculously high price point. If steaming is a big priority for you and you want the best on the market, then this is the steamer to go for.
Pros
- Includes a cold mist function so you can alternate temperatures for a revitalising steam.
- Nanotechnology produces extra fine mist for deeper penetration of the skin.
- Large 200ml water reservoir provides steam for the longest 13.5 min cycle option.
Cons
- Expensive.
Takeaway
This is a top quality steamer with more functions and settings than any on this list, though it may require a Japanese translator before you can utilize such functions.
FAQs
Is Steaming Good for Your Skin?
This is kind of a personal choice, but in general, if used in moderation, yes, steaming can be great for skin as it can help you achieve a deeper cleanse afterward.
Do Face Steamers Help Acne?
Depending on the rest of your skin care regime, yes, face steamers can help your acne.
But, you’ll want to make sure that you cleanse your face with an appropriate cleanser before and after steaming and moisturize with the right kind of moisturizer for your skin type.
How Often Should You Use a Face Steamer?
This depends on your skin type and preferences and may require a little trial and error, but generally speaking any more than once per week is excessive.
What Should I Do After Steaming My Face?
Cleanse gently, dry, and then moisturize.
Is It Good to Steam Your Face Daily?
No.
While some facial steamer manufacturers will tell you that their steamers are suitable for daily steaming, using a steamer every day will actually cause your skin to dry out, or produce an excessive amount of oils depending on how your skin reacts.
Can Steam Cause Acne?
Yes and no.
This depends on how you go about steaming your face and how often you do it. If you cleanse your skin with a gentle antimicrobial cleanser before and after steaming, and then moisturize, the steaming treatment shouldn’t cause acne.
However, if you steam too often and don’t carefully clean your face before and after, steaming could exacerbate acne.
It’s partly going to depend on your skin type and how your skin reacts to steaming.
Will Steaming My Face Get Rid of Blackheads?
Steaming your face will not magically get rid of blackheads, but it will soften them and make them easier to remove using a blackhead extraction tool.
Is Steam Good for Pimples?
This depends on your skin type. But in general, steaming your face periodically can help with pimples provided you cleanse well.
What Should We Apply on Face Before Steaming?
This depends on what kind of treatment you want.
But in general, you don’t need to apply anything to your face before steaming.
It’s actually what you do after the steaming that is more important. Just make sure that your face is clean beforehand.
Does Steaming Your Face Unclog Pores?
Yes, steaming can help to unclog pores, provided you cleanse your face after the steaming process and then use either a moisturizer that contains an astringent or some cold water to close the pores back up.
What Water to Use For a Steamer – Tap, Bottled, Distilled?
You should only use distilled water in facial steamers, as a build-up of mineral deposits on the element will shorten the lifespan of the machine.
Putting it All Together
That concludes this article on facial steaming. I hope it’s answered some of your questions.
Feel free to comment and share your experience if you’ve tried facial steaming and if you’ve used any of the reviewed products. I’d love to hear from you!
Cynthia Stalde
I’m the girl behind Miss Coty. Here I talk about the struggles of womanhood – from hair removal all the way to deep facial wrinkles in your 20s. More about me.
