Facial steam - What is it really doing?

Since I started my adventure in natural cosmetics and remedies I have been giving myself a facial steam on a weekly basis. At first I didn't really like it and found it hard to relax breathing in this hot air under towel, but now I have learnt to really enjoy it and my skin has definitely seen the benefits.

Steam encourages the pores of the skin to perspire and breathe which allows moisture to seep to deeper layers of your skin. It relaxes muscle tissues, plumps those wrinkles, brings oxygenated blood to the surface of you skin and boosts circulation.

If you are feel like your skin is lacking some shine and glow I would really suggest doing a simple facial steam - I convinced my boyfriend to give it a go yesterday and he absolutely LOVED it.

Do not underestimate the STEAM..

Ingredients:
3 cups water
1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar
Crushed fennel seeds
rosemary
lavender

A little bit of info about the ingredients...
Apple cider vinegar is used in this steam purely for its properties of bringing the skin to its natural pH level and leaves the skin nice and soft. Fennel seeds when used in a steam have hydrating benefits and also smell divine. Lavender for its relaxing aroma and has a natural calming effect on our central nervous system. Rosemary is known to have cell-regenerating properties as well antiseptic properties.

Method:
1. boil the water and vinegar together.
2. Take off heat and add fennel seeds and herbs.
3. Place lid on the pot and leave to brew for 5 minutes
4. Place a large towel over your head and shoulders, creating a tent with the pot underneath
5. Immerse your face in the steam (about 20cm away from water)
6. Stay like this for 10 minutes.
7. Cool your face off with luke warm water and pat dry.
8. Always a great idea to follow this with a face mask.

The face mask I chose after this facial steam was similar to my previous banana concoction which I thought was a great idea after a long weekend in the sun... My skin needed some extra hydration!

Ingredients:
1/2 Banana
2 Tbsp Cream
1 tsp Apricot Kernel Oil

Method:
1. Mix all ingredients together
2. Apply to face and recline as this face mask does not really dry and can drip if you are not careful!
3. Leave on for 20 minutes and then remove with a face cloth.

Happy steaming!

p.s If you have any direct concerns or are unsure whether this would suit your skin type please feel free to contact me and I may be able to suggest something more suitable :)

X