The Best Facial Steamers to Buy in 2022, According to Experts

2022-08-08 22:45:31 By : Ms. Ava Ye

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Give yourself an at-home facial with these hardworking gadgets.

There's nothing quite like stepping out of the aesthetician's office with that post-facial glow. Clean pores, smooth skin, a bright and dewy complexion, and a relaxed mind... ahhh. But booking a repeat appointment—stat—isn't always in the cards. After all, those treatments often take an hour or more, plus they don't come cheap.

Thankfully, there's another option that'll have you back in that state of bliss ASAP: at-home facial steamers. Approved by both dermatologists and aestheticians alike, at-home facial steamers are small, typically handheld, devices that create and hold warm steam over the face, says Lorena De Oliveira, owner and lead aesthetician for The Wax & Skin Lounge in Chicago. Typically, facial steamers are used to prep the skin for facial extractions, but it's also a natural way to remove dead skin cells, says De Oliveira. "[Facial steaming] has also been proven to improve skin health and increase the effectiveness of skincare products during and after use," she adds.

While at-home versions are generally safe, De Oliveira says it's important to approach with some caution, depending on your skin type. "Individuals with rosacea, eczema, and severe acne should avoid steamers," she explains. "Heat from the steamer dilates blood vessels, aggravating any condition and causing an increase in redness and inflammation."

But once you've got the green light, using the device is as simple as can be. First, cleanse and lightly exfoliate your skin, says De Oliveira. Then, follow directions on your specific model. This literature will tell you important things, like the recommended distance the steamer should be from your face when applying the steam. "This will help prevent any burns and conditions that could come from extremely hot steam too close to the face," she says. Finally, follow up with a serum and moisturizer to hydrate and calm your skin.

Ready to bring the spa to you? Check out these expert-backed facial steamers below.

With the single touch of a button, this face steamer generates nano-sized steam particles that are thousands of times smaller than regular steam. Why is that so notable? These smaller particles are better able to penetrate the skin, significantly increasing moisture. The result: softer, smoother skin.

This hardworking machine uses an ion generator that enriches the water molecules in order to help the steam penetrate skin, providing a deeper clean. It's great for the spa-like experience you crave, too. The steamer includes three separate, easy-to-use oil baskets to help prevent oils from mixing.

Though one of the more affordable options out there, this facial steamer comes with a bonus blackhead extractor kit to give you the full experience of an at-home facial. It also comes with a storage pouch, so you can travel with the set and reap the benefits from anywhere.

This wallet-friendly system from one of the most trusted drugstore brands in beauty not only includes the facial steamer itself but also a nasal cone to target blackheads on the nose, and an exfoliating brush with two interchangeable heads. It's fast-acting, too—you can set the timer for as little as three minutes or for as long as 15 minutes if you want to take advantage of the relaxation factor.

This facial steamer is another affordable pick that's worth every penny. The lightweight device—it weighs less than two pounds—emits a warm steam mist that helps dilate pores to make it easier to extract blackheads and dirt from acne-prone skin, plus increase blood circulation, and clear sinuses.

Though lightweight and exceptionally easy to use, this dermatologist-developed facial steamer has the professional-level power to clean and hydrate skin in less than 10 minutes. All you have to do is fill it up with water, hit the power button, and sit back.

Compact and portable it's not, but this facial steamer is the closest thing you'll get to an in-office treatment, thanks to an extendable arm and a rotating sprayer that allows you to lie down while you steam. Adding to the convenience factor, it heats up almost instantly. Plus, it includes a UV light the manufacturer says sterilizes the steam before it hits your face.

When you're trying to unwind, you don't want to be married to a bunch of wires. This compact steamer is exactly what you need. It's completely wireless and rechargeable—simply use the included micro USB cord to give it a full eight-hour charge. When you're ready to use it, simply hit the power button and enjoy the cool mist.

It may not emit a warm mist, but this handheld mister does emit a nano mist that'll give you a nice hydration boost on the go. It even includes a little mirror, so you can see exactly what you're doing or even use it to touch up makeup.

Facial steaming isn't all about beauty benefits—it's also a great way to clear your sinuses if you're suffering from a cold or allergies. This portable machine is easy to store and accepts up to two Vicks VapoPads, sending those soothing menthol vapors straight up into your clogged nasal passage for instant relief.