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Steaming softens and hydrates the skin, allowing products to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.

If you've ever had a professional facial, you've probably spent time beneath the warm, relaxing mist of some of the best facial steamers around. Those spa-grade models are pretty intense—in size and in price—but there are plenty of home-friendly versions that will allow you to experience all the benefits of steam whenever and wherever you want.

“Facial steaming can hydrate and soften the skin to help better remove dirt and soiling,” says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. Double-licensed esthetician Jessica Houston adds that it also softens dead skin and blackheads, allowing for easy exfoliation and removal. Plus, it boosts circulation to create a natural, healthy glow.

Contrary to popular belief, the one thing facial steamers don't do is physically open your pores. “It's a myth,” admits Dr. Zeichner. “Your pores have no muscle around them and they don't get bigger or smaller depending on the temperature.” With that being said, having a facial steamer stowed away for self-care days is 100% worth it, as long as you know how to use it safely and effectively. It is important to note that if you have sensitive skin or rosacea, Dr. Zeichner recommends skipping the at-home steam, as it can lead to flushing and flare-ups.

✔️ Prep the area: “Wash your face before steaming to remove makeup the best you can,” says Dr. Zeichner.

✔️ Read the instructions: It may sound menial, but because facial steamers deal with hot water, it's important to follow your model's instructions closely. Most advise not bringing the steamer closer than six to 12 inches from your face.

✔️ Set a timer: “Limit your steam to 10 minutes or less,” says Dr. Zeichner. “Excessive exposure to hot temperatures can actually disrupt the skin barrier and lead to dryness.”

✔️ Follow up with skincare products: Steaming increases the skin's permeability, allowing it to better absorb skincare, explains Houston. She recommends applying your favorite serum or moisturizer immediately after a session to maximize its effectiveness.

Now that you know how to use one, get ready to upgrade your self-care game with one of these top-notch models.

Houston recommends this popular steamer because it truly is one of the best. It releases a powerful, consistent steam from its 85 milliliter water tank, and features three essential oil baskets that infuse the steam with relaxing aromatherapy. Plus, it comes with an adorable bunny ear spa headband to keep your hair out of the way.

This one is a splurge, but it's totally worth it, according to Houston. It's professional quality and uses micro-steam technology to evenly and effectively dampen and moisturize the skin. 

This option's nanosteam combined with ionic water particles makes steam penetrate the skin up to 10 times more effectively.  There's a large water chamber for longer steams, as well as an aromatherapy and cool mist chamber. It also comes with a five-piece stainless steel skin kit with a storage pouch and a cotton hair band.

Dr. Zeichner recommends this one as an ideal starter steamer that won't break the bank. “It's easy to use and it's consistent,” he says. “It gives an even flow of steam to soften the skin so you can more easily remove dirt and soiling.”

This luxe steamer uses ionic steam to evenly treat the skin, dispelling a full stream of steam within 30 seconds of turning on the device. It also has an adjustable steamer head so you can point it in various directions, and aromatherapy pads. All of that explains why it has over 14,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.5-star rating. “I saw immediate results after just one use. My skin looks and feels great. The rosy glow it brings to your face is so nice,” one shopper wrote.

A step-up from most at-home steamers, this one has an extendable arm and a large water tank for your convenience. It can also be converted to a tabletop model, so you get the best of both worlds. According to reviews, some estheticians use it for on-the-go facials and say it works wonders.