Benefits of Steaming Face: How to Do It Properly and What to Do After

Discover the benefits and risks of facial steaming with tips on how to steam your face safely for glowing, healthy skin.

Shivani Pathak

Shivani Pathak

07 Aug ‘25
Face Steaming Skincare Blackheads Whiteheads
Face Steaming Skincare Blackheads Whiteheads

Keep reading to know...

When it comes to getting that lit-from-within glow, the benefits of steaming face regularly have made quite the comeback in skincare circles. And it’s easy to see why—it’s low effort, budget-friendly, and makes your skin feel instantly fresh and clean. Whether you’re dealing with congestion, dullness, or just fancy a bit of self-care, steaming can be a game-changer. But hold on—before you reach for that bowl of hot water, there’s more to facial steaming than just basking in a cloud of warmth.

So, is steam good for face? Let’s break it down, explore the perks, the precautions, and the perfect aftercare routine to help you get the most out of your mini at-home facial.

Top Benefits of Steaming Face

Let’s get into why facial steaming is having its skincare moment. The benefits of steaming face aren’t just skin-deep, it’s a technique that’s been around for centuries, known for its ability to open pores and prep your skin to soak up every drop of serum or moisturiser you layer on afterwards. Here’s a look at what steaming really does:

Opens up pores:

Opens up pores

The heat helps loosen dirt and oil trapped in your skin, making it easier to cleanse more deeply and effectively.

Softens blackheads:

Softens blackheads

Steaming makes extractions gentler and safer if you’re removing blackheads.

Boosts circulation:

Boosts circulation

Warm steam increases blood flow to the skin, giving you a temporary flush of radiance.

Aids product absorption:

Aids product absorption

Your skin becomes more receptive post-steam, which means your serums and moisturisers can work harder for you.

Relieves congestion:

Relieves congestion

If you’re under the weather or have allergies, the steam can feel incredibly soothing for sinuses too.

How to Take Steam on Face: Step-by-Step Instruction

How to Take Steam on Face: Step-by-Step Instruction

Before you start, always cleanse your face to remove surface dirt and makeup. Then follow these steps:

  1. Boil water and let it cool slightly so the steam isn’t too hot and you’re not risking scalding your skin.
  2. You could toss in a few herbs (like chamomile or mint) or essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) for added skin benefits and spa-like vibes.
  3. Use a bowl and towel method. Pour the hot water into a bowl, place your face about 8–10 inches above it, and drape a towel over your head to trap the steam.
  4. Steam for 5–10 minutes. Anything longer and you risk drying your skin out.
  5. Pat skin dry gently and immediately move to the next steps of your routine.
Simple Active Skin Barrier Care Replenishing Cream Cleanser 150ml

₹359.00 ₹399.00

Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser with Borage Seed Oil + Pro-Vit B5 + Vit E

₹419.00 ₹465.00

What to Do After Steaming Your Face : Post Care Essentials

Now that your pores are open and your skin’s prepped, what’s next? Here’s how to make the most of this golden skincare moment:

  • Tone:

    Tone

    Use a gentle toner to rebalance your skin’s pH and tighten pores.

  • Treat:

    Treat

    Apply a serum packed with hydrating or brightening ingredients—your skin is in prime absorption mode.

  • Moisturise:

    Moisturise

    Lock in all that hydration with a soothing moisturiser. We love the Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser, it’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and super calming post-steam.For an added layer of gentle care, especially after cleansing or steaming, try the Simple Active Skin Barrier Care Replenishing Cream Cleanser. It helps support the skin’s natural barrier while leaving it soft and nourished.

If your skin feels slightly flushed, don’t worry—it’s a sign of boosted blood circulation. But always follow up with SPF during the day, especially if you’re heading out.

How Often Should You Steam Your Face

How Often Should You Steam Your Face

Once a week is generally safe for most skin types. If you’ve got dry or sensitive skin, keep it to once every two weeks or skip altogether. Oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from a weekly steam, but make sure you’re following it up with the right care to avoid post-steam flare-ups.

Face Steaming by Skin Type

Face Steaming by Skin Type

  • Dry skin: Steam less frequently and always follow up with hydrating products.
  • Oily skin: Weekly sessions can help manage sebum, but tone and moisturise right after.
  • Sensitive skin: Steer clear, or consult a dermatologist before trying.
  • Combination skin: Steam carefully and spot-treat with masks post-steam to balance oil zones.

Steaming Face for Acne: Is It Safe or Risky?

Steaming Face for Acne: Is It Safe or Risky?

If you’re battling breakouts, facial steaming can be helpful—but only if done carefully. Steaming face for acne helps unclog pores and soften hardened sebum, which makes acne treatments more effective. However, go easy.

  • Limit to once a week
  • Avoid if you have active, inflamed acne, rosacea or very sensitive skin
  • Always follow up with calming productslike niacinamide or aloe vera

Disadvantages of Steaming Face

Disadvantages of Steaming Face

As with all things in beauty, moderation is key. While face steaming can be beneficial, overdoing it or doing it wrong can cause more harm than good. Here are a few disadvantages of steaming face you should be mindful of:

  • Over-drying: Too much steam can strip natural oils and leave skin feeling tight and dry.
  • Broken capillaries: Excessive heat or steaming too close to your skin can damage delicate blood vessels.
  • Irritation for sensitive skin types: Those with rosacea or eczema should avoid steaming altogether.
  • Excess oil production: Paradoxically, dehydrating your skin with too much steam can trigger it to produce more oil.

Face Steaming : Quick Dos and Don’ts

Disadvantages of Steaming Face

Do:

  • Use clean towels and a clean bowl
  • Moisturise right after
  • Keep water at a safe temperature
  • Steam in a relaxed space—think candles, music, mindfulness

Don’t:

  • Go beyond 10 minutes
  • Steam daily
  • Use steaming as a substitute for cleansing or exfoliating

So, is steam good for the face? Yes, when done mindfully. Facial steaming can be a powerful addition to your skincare routine—opening up your pores, boosting circulation, and prepping your skin for deeper treatment. Just remember to keep it occasional, follow up with nourishing products and listen to your skin’s cues. Glow, but make it gentle.

FAQs About Face Steaming

Q: Can I steam every day?

A: Not recommended. Over-steaming can dry out your skin and lead to irritation.

Q: What’s the best time to steam—morning or night?

A: Night-time is ideal as it allows better absorption of your nighttime skincare.

Q: Can steaming remove blackheads permanently?

A: No, but it softens them for easier removal.

Q: Can I use a facial steamer instead of a bowl?

A: Absolutely. Facial steamers give more controlled results and are less messy.

BePicks

Face Steaming skincare routine Post-Steam Care Acne Treatment
Face Steaming skincare routine Post-Steam Care Acne Treatment
Shivani Pathak

Shivani Pathak

Shivani Pathak is a Mumbai-based lifestyle writer. She has written across a diverse range of formats, including digital features, interviews, trend stories, personal essays, and listicles. Her work has appeared in publications such as Tweak India, Luxebook, DNA, Mongabay, and Indiaspend. When she’s not writing and obsessing over sentence structures, you can find her buried in a book with a cup of coffee by her side.