Get Steamed

Anytime of the year is a good time to partake of a herbal facial steam. Herb-infused steam will hydrate your skin and allow your pores to perspire and breathe. As the steam penetrates your skin, the various herbs will soften the surface, act as an astringent or toner, and aid in the healing of skin lesions. Also, any clogging from dirt or makeup will be loosened for easy removal afterward.

Herbal steams can be used regularly, say once or twice per week, by those with normal, dry, or oily skin. Those of you with highly sensitive skin, dilated capillaries, rosacea, or sunburned/windburned skin, however, should abstain. Always cleanse your skin prior to steaming.

Steams For Pore Perfection

To prepare a facial steam, boil 4 cups of distilled or purified water. Remove pan from the heat, add herbs, cover, and allow to steep for about 5 - 10 minutes. Place the pot in a safe, stable place where you can sit comfortably for about 10 minutes. Use a bath towel to create a tent over your head, shoulders, and steaming herb pot; allow at least 10 to 15 inches between the steaming herb pot and your face to avoid burning your skin. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and relax.

All of the herbs in the following blends are in dried form. If you're using fresh herbs, double the quantity.

Recipes:

1. For Normal or Oily Skin: 1 teaspoon yarrow leaves, 1 teaspoon sage leaves, 1 teaspoon rosemary leaves, and 1 teaspoon peppermint leaves.

2. For Normal or Dry Skin: 1 teaspoon orange flowers or orange peel, 2 teaspoons comfrey leaves, and 1 teaspoon elder flowers.

3. For All Skin Types: 1 teaspoon calendula blossoms, 1 teaspoon chamomile flowers, 1 teaspoon raspberry leaves, 1 teaspoon peppermint leaves, and 1 teaspoon strawberry leaves (optional).

4. Wrinkle Chaser: 1 tablespoon crushed fennel seeds and 2 drops essential oil of rose or rose geranium. Add the essential oil to the water immediately before you steam your face.


NOTE: The above article was written by Stephanie Tourles, certified aromatherapist, licensed holistic esthetician, herbalist, and author of "Organic Body Care Recipes". The information is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee and are for educational purposes only. Ms. Tourles disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. Use your common sense and seek medical attention should you have an adverse reaction to the use of herbs on your skin.