Naturally Radiant Skin Care - Deep Pore Cleansing Herbal Steam

At the end of a stressful week, pamper yourself with an herbal facial steam!  Facial steams are the best possible method for deep pore cleansing.  Moist heat hydrates skin, boosts circulation, brings oxygen to the facial area, and improves skin clarity.  Steam loosens debris and softens skin to help pores unclog and appear less prominent, and the herbs recommended below are rich in nutrients and aromatic oils that nourish and tone the skin.

  

Method:
 
After cleansing, boil 2-3 quarts of water in a large pot.  Add a handful or two of herb mixture, cover and simmer for a couple minutes, then remove from heat.  Place at a level you can comfortably sit and lean over the pot.  Cover your head and the pot with a towel, breathe in the delicious aroma, and let your pores open and drink in the nourishing plant oils for 5 - 8 minutes. Follow with a cold water rinse, then herbal toner, and finally moisturize.

Herbs for oily or acne prone skin

• chamomile
• comfrey
• calendula
• lemongrass
• lavender
• rosemary
• sage
• witch hazel leaves
• rose petals
• strawberry leaves
• raspberry leaves
• blackberry leaves
• eucalyptus leaves if you specifically want to address acne
• licorice herbs, which include anise seed, fennel or licorice root, help rid the skin of impurities   

Note:  If skin is severely broken out or inflamed avoid steaming, as steam may aggravate these symptoms.

Herbs for dry or aging skin

• fennel seeds
• rosemary leaves
• rose petals
• lavender
• peppermint leaves
• chamomile
• calendula
• comfrey root
• comfrey leaves
• comfrey flowers
• borage flowers
• dandelion root
• licorice root
• marshmallow root

Note: To prevent over-drying, don't steam your face for more than five minutes, and use the treatment no more than once a week.

If you're wondering where to get these ingredients, Mountain Rose Herbs sells high quality organic herbs and other products, and they are a fair trade company.  (Full disclosure, I do receive a small commission if you click the links on my blog and complete a purchase.)

If you're not a DIY-er, or you're not up for a another project right now, I do have herbal steams available for purchase in my store.

 

This post shared at Frugally Sustainable's Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways #79, Tilly's Nest Down Home Blog Hop #44, and Sunny Simple Life's From the Farm Blog Hop #40

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.