Deep cleansing of the skin is useful not only for those with problem skin. Regular cleaning will help maintain health, attractive appearance, and even youthful appearance of tissues. It all depends on the methods used to achieve results. At the same time, preparation for the procedure becomes an important condition for obtaining the expected effect. Many people are interested in how to steam their face for cleansing. The right approach to expanding pores and softening their contents will help achieve the goal without difficulty. Let's consider possible options.
Description and principle of action of facial steamers
Facial steaming products are aimed at preparing the skin for deep cleansing. Steaming is necessary in order to open the pores as much as possible, because cleansing the skin is aimed precisely at getting rid of impurities, dust that clogs the pores, and then saturating it with nutrients.
Previously, lotions, compresses, and a water bath were used for such purposes. But such steaming has many contraindications. The procedure could not be performed in case of rosacea, problems with blood pressure, or diseases of the cardiovascular system. That's why cold-action gels are popular today for home care.
How does steaming gel work:
- It is applied in a thick layer to the skin. Perhaps for additional effect it is necessary to cover the composition with nylon film.
- In this form, a greenhouse effect is created on the face, but without the high temperatures that affected the skin during hot compresses. Such a sharp change in temperature is harmful for rosacea. Even more spider veins may appear on the skin. When cold steaming with a gel, this effect is not observed.
- Horny cells on the skin soften and swell.
- Then the composition must be removed from the skin. The face is ready for cleansing procedures.
Why steam your skin before cleansing?
In the normal state, the skin pores are closed, and on the surface of the epidermis there is a mixture of dead cells and discharge from the sebaceous and sweat glands. And this is even without a layer of makeup.
There is no point in starting many manipulations on the skin, especially cleansing, without special preparation. Therefore, before starting most cleaning techniques, the skin is steamed.
At the same time, surface contamination softens, the upper layer of the epidermis loosens and the pores open. Comedones and acne are removed much easier and less painful. Skin trauma and the risk of infectious complications are significantly reduced.
Before chemical cleaning with acids, steaming makes the effect of the procedure much stronger and longer lasting.
Composition of the product and its advantages
A cosmetic steamer for the face consists of natural ingredients that, when they enter the layers of the skin, weaken the bonds between cells. Therefore, the pores expand. Additional components are aimed at soothing, relaxing and at the same time disinfecting the skin.
It is useful to use such products before proceeding to cleansing the skin.
The composition of different products may differ, but the following components are mainly used:
- Substances with hypotonic properties. Their effect is caused by the fact that they act on tissues and cause them to swell and soften due to the movement of water from the extract into the cell.
- Additional plant components that improve blood circulation, accelerating the process of opening pores. These include oils and plant extracts. Their additional property will be a calming and antibacterial effect.
- Water.
- Glycerol.
- Gelatin.
- Disaccharide.
What is it used for, effect
Gels designed to penetrate deep into the layers of the skin increase blood flow, but the result is achieved with the help of special substances, and not high temperature. Therefore, traditional methods with exposure to high temperatures fade into the background.
Direct contact with the skin allows not only to remove dead skin cells, but also to moisturize, soothe and heal damaged areas. Gels have an anti-inflammatory effect. After use, the unhealthy skin tone disappears as the cells are healed and renewed. Skin pigmentation also decreases.
Are there any contraindications?
Cold hydrogenation is a safer method for treating the skin. Therefore, it ranks first in the recommendations of cosmetologists, displacing the traditional option of exposing the skin to high temperatures. Cold hydrogenation has many fewer contraindications: it does not cause irritation and does not injure the skin.
What are the contraindications for cold hydrogenation?
- Individual intolerance to the components of the gel. If you experience any unpleasant sensations when applying the gel (burning, itching), you must remove the product from the skin, as this is an indicator of an allergy. If you are prone to hypersensitivity to cosmetic components, it is better to first consult a dermatologist or cosmetologist.
- Dermatitis.
- Severe peeling.
Otherwise, steaming gel is a safe product.
How to prepare for a cleanse
The hydrogenation procedure itself is a preparatory stage of skin cleansing. But to use the gel correctly, you must also adhere to some recommendations.
The first stage of preparation is cleansing the skin of impurities. It is necessary to remove makeup from the face if it has been applied. To do this, you need to use skin makeup remover milk. It is better to use fragrance-free products marked hypoallergenic in order to avoid a negative reaction.
Now you need to wash your face using a daily product with the addition of water at a pleasant temperature. It is not recommended to wash your face with water that feels close to hot, because such exposure dries out the skin.
After washing, rinse your face with cool water to stimulate blood circulation.
Now you need to pat your face dry with a clean towel. Cosmetologists recommend using disposable towels for such purposes to reduce the risk of bacteria getting on your face.
Rules for opening pores
To obtain a high-quality result, it is important to adhere to the general rules when performing the procedure:
- You should not start steaming before superficial cleansing of the skin. Residues of cosmetics, dust, and other contaminants can get into the pores, causing inflammation. This will aggravate the situation and will have the opposite effect from cleaning.
- Steaming has a number of contraindications and limitations. Before performing a manipulation, you must make sure that the action will not cause harm. Perhaps the procedure is permitted, but you need to choose the type of influence wisely.
- Steaming is not carried out if there are inflammations on the skin containing pus. Defective contents of elements can become a source of infection.
- The procedure is carried out strictly according to the instructions. Even when performing cold steaming, there is a danger of excessive softening of the tissues, which will complicate further cleaning.
- After steaming, rinse the face with warm water, wipe with an antiseptic, and wait until the surface dries completely. Only after this can you begin cleaning.
- It is impossible to carry out the pore opening procedure often. Deep cleaning is performed as needed, but not more than 2 times a month.
- After cleaning, the pores must be closed using agents or influences that narrow the ducts.
Steaming is recommended to precede not only mechanical cleaning. After the tissue heating procedure, peeling, ultrasonic treatment, deep cleansing or therapeutic masks are performed.
How to use the products correctly
A cosmetic facial steamer is easy to use correctly, but there are some nuances. The effectiveness of the procedure depends not only on the gel used, but also on the correctness of the procedure.
How to use steaming gel:
- Apply the gel to previously prepared skin. It is better to apply the product with a special brush. Sometimes manufacturers supplement the packaging of the product with such a brush. You can also use a plastic spatula for application. If you apply the gel with your fingers, wash your hands thoroughly first.
- Apply the gel to the entire face, avoiding the area around the eyes and lips.
- Prepare a piece of cling film if the package does not come with a prepared piece with the necessary cutouts for the eyes, nose and mouth. Some manufacturers supplement the product with a fabric mask rather than a film. In this case, first apply the gel, then the mask and another layer of gel. The film should also be used to cover your face over the gel.
When using a steaming cream for the face, use cling film. - Keep the product on the skin in this form for about 15 minutes. The exact time will be indicated on the packaging, it may vary.
- After 15 min. After keeping the gel on the face, the keratinized cells swell and soften.
- Remove the film and remove the gel. In this case, you can do a light facial massage. The remainder of the composition will begin to roll and curl.
- Remove any remaining product from the skin with a napkin.
- Now you can proceed to deep cleansing of the skin using peeling. Acid, milk and fruit peeling are used.
Home treatments
Outline gel for biorevitalization advantages of this drug To steam your face at home, use:
- Steaming masks, gels.
- Herbal decoctions and infusions.
Step-by-step instructions for steaming skin with hot steam:
- Treat your skin: remove dirt and cosmetics.
- Secure your hair with a bobby pin, elastic band, or wear a headband.
- Fill a container with purified water, bring it to a boil and let it cool to 50 degrees.
- Place the container in front of you on the table.
- Lean over the container. The distance between the face and the bath is no more than 20–25 centimeters. If the distance is greater, the hot air will damage the capillaries, causing irritation and burns.
- Cover your head with a towel. Choose thick fabrics such as terry.
- Steam according to your skin type: • Dry type – 5 minutes. The procedure is carried out once every 30 days. • Normal type – 15 minutes. The procedure is carried out twice every 30 days.
Fat type – 20 minutes. Carry out the procedure every 3 days. After the steaming time has passed, wash your face with warm water or wipe with toner. This will help remove any remaining dirt and waste from the pores. Dry with a towel. After this, do peelings and cleansing.
Oily skin is treated with a scrub after the procedure. Moisturizer is applied to the dry area.
It is better to steam your face in the evening. After this, you should not wash your face with cold water or spend time in a draft. Cold air will provoke the appearance of acne, inflammation and ulcers.
If you want to do steaming, consider the contraindications:
- Allergy to essential oils, herbs that will be added to the decoction.
- Rashes.
- Sensitive dermis.
- Moles.
- Scratches.
For cleaning, use scrubs and peelings, both home-made and industrial.
Homemade scrub recipes:
- One spoon of natural ground coffee is mixed with one spoon of yogurt.
- Two tablespoons of oatmeal are mixed with one tablespoon of sour cream.
After cleansing, the face is wiped with a decoction for disinfection. Then cream is applied to it.
Rating of the best facial steamers
Manufacturers offer many options for skin steaming gels. Below are popular options for products on the cosmetic market.
Anna Lotan Plumping Mask
The cosmetic facial steamer from Anna Lotan is one of the well-known products that is used for professional care. Anna Lotan is a leading expert in the field of cosmetic chemistry and cosmetology. She created a company of the same name, which produces eco-cosmetics in Israel.
The cosmetics of this brand are widely known all over the world. Anna Lotan herself is the creator of the cold hydrogenation method itself. Therefore, the gel produced by her company deserves the attention of consumers.
The product is aimed at gently affecting dead skin particles, preparing it for the cleansing procedure. The gel has a soothing property, it heals microcracks and moisturizes the deep layers of the skin. The gel is packaged in a large jar with a volume of 625 ml. The consumption of the product is quite economical. Therefore, the gel will last for a long time.
Pros:
- Large packaging.
- A well-known brand - the creator of the cold hydrogenation method inspires confidence.
- Has a positive effect on the skin.
- Economical consumption.
Minuses:
- High cost: 1500 rub. for 1 jar.
- There is a risk of an allergic reaction.
- In open sources there is no description of the composition of the product - only the enzymes of plant extracts are indicated.
Pleyana with aloe vera
Cosmetics of this brand are produced in Switzerland, but they are quite popular in Russia. Aloe vera gel is designed to prepare the skin for the cleansing procedure. It can be used in beauty salons before ultrasonic cleaning. The manufacturer notes that the product can be used from the age of 14, when the skin is already entering the restructuring stage.
Active components of the product:
Compound | Action |
Aloe vera | The extract is used to deeply moisturize the skin. Aloe restores the water balance of dehydrated skin. The component will also help relieve signs of fatigue and eliminate swelling. With regular use, the complexion improves and the skin becomes more matte. Due to the restoration of water balance, sebum production is normalized. Thanks to this, there is less inflammation. |
Allantoin | The component is designed to soften skin particles. It actively fights inflammation and irritation. The component helps remove dead skin particles, starting the renewal process. Allatoin helps protect the skin from environmental influences (high or low temperature, humid or dry air). |
Biozol | Marked by the manufacturer as a unique antiseptic. It actively acts on various types of bacteria, fungi, as well as some strains of viruses, without causing irritation or dry skin. |
Plant extracts: wormwood, millennial, calendula | Extracts of these plants have long been used as anti-inflammatory components for the skin. |
Mint, chamomile, fennel | Plant extracts are used to relieve irritation and soothe the skin. The components have a gentle effect on it, healing small wounds and cracks. |
A steamer is a universal product. It can be used for hydrogenation. But it can be used as a preparatory agent before cosmetic ultrasonic cleaning.
The gel is also used as a mask that deeply moisturizes the face. This method is indicated for dehydration and sunburn.
The gel can also be used on the skin after depilation; plant extracts perfectly soothe irritated areas, and antiseptics prevent the introduction of bacteria. The manufacturer's website describes how to use the gel for facial skin massage.
Pros:
- The product is universal.
- A large number of positive reviews.
- Convenient dispenser.
- Pleasant unobtrusive aroma.
Minuses:
- High price: 1400 rub. for 200 ml of product.
- There is a risk of an allergic reaction.
Echoice Aloevera Soothing Gel
According to the manufacturer, the cosmetic steamer for the face from Echoice contains 98% aloe. A large number of Korean facial cosmetics contain aloe vera, because the component deeply moisturizes the skin.
The gel itself is a universal remedy. It can be used for the hydrogenation procedure, applying it before using cleaning products. The product is used as a moisturizing mask. According to the manufacturer, the gel can be used after prolonged exposure to the sun.
But the composition of the product has a significant disadvantage - alcohol. He is at the top of the list. Therefore, we can say with confidence that the gel contains a large amount of alcohol. And the declared aloe is in the 7th position of the composition. This means that there is not much extract there. There are other Korean-made products in which aloe extract occupies up to 90% of the total composition.
Therefore, it is not recommended to use the gel as a mask or moisturizer, since the effect is superficial. At first, the skin will look moisturized, and then the alcohol will make it feel tight. The water balance of the skin may be disrupted.
Pros:
- The product effectively softens dead skin particles.
- Budget product - about 300 rubles. per package.
- The smell is light, similar to cucumber.
Minuses:
- Alcohol included. Most likely, it is needed for better absorption of the gel, but this results in a negative effect - a feeling of tightness, irritation of the skin.
- The manufacturer is misleading by describing aloe in the name. Since the extract is far from being in the first positions.
Alpika
Alpika is a Russian-made brand that produces professional cosmetics. Alpika gel is a keratolytic that is used to prepare the skin for cleaning procedures (ultrasonic and mechanical) and is often used in beauty salons.
But it can also be used at home. It perfectly removes dead skin particles and expands pores, thereby enhancing the effect of further procedures.
The product has an antibacterial and antiseptic effect, eliminating inflammation, acne and blackheads, preventing the spread of bacteria.
The gel contains papaya and pineapple extract, which help the skin start the regeneration process, renewing it. After use, the skin becomes noticeably smoother and more even. Clover extract helps relieve swelling by triggering the acceleration of lymph.
Composition of the product:
Compound | Action |
Water | |
Lecithin | Restores skin barrier functions, helps the formation of new cells. |
Acacia extract | Increases skin elasticity. Soothes inflamed skin, relieves irritation. |
Plantain extract | The extract contains vitamins: C, K, A. They have a beneficial effect on the skin, toning it and reducing the rate of aging. The component also has a healing and antibacterial effect. Suitable for sensitive skin. |
Clover extract | Relieves swelling. |
Orris root extract | The component is an organic preservative. Flavonoids in the extract neutralize the effects of free radicals, which contribute to premature aging. Xanthones moisturize and soften the skin. |
Papaya extract | Start the regeneration process |
Pineapple extract | Anti-inflammatory effect. Pineapple extract also helps relieve swelling. |
Cetearyl alcohol | The component is necessary as a co-emulsifier. It helps to avoid the breakdown of the ingredients of the product. The component also helps tighten pores and creates a protective layer on the skin. |
Allantoin | A synthetic component that has antioxidant properties. Allantoin helps the effects of free radicals, reducing the aging process. |
Oleic acid | Slows down the aging process, promotes cell regeneration. |
Acrylate | Synthetic component. Creates a film on the skin that protects from external influences. |
Rosemary oil | Promotes skin cell renewal, improves blood circulation. |
Geranium essential oil | The component is useful for dry and dehydrated skin. |
Advantages:
- It copes well with the task - cold hydrogenation.
- Has a pleasant smell.
- A large number of plant components.
Flaws:
- High cost - 1000 rubles. for 225 ml of product.
- There is a risk of an allergic reaction.
It is difficult to buy a facial steamer in a regular store; it is sold only in professional cosmetics stores.
Cost of service in the salon
Salons perform atraumatic or combined cleaning using cold hydrogenation. The price of the procedure is from 3,000 rubles.
You can also perform passive steaming at home. To do this, you need to buy medications and strictly follow the instructions. In addition to the products listed above, the following products have proven themselves to be effective:
- 3D Cold hydrogenation gel (Cold Pure Medical Collagene) - 700 rubles;
- Hydration whitening peel gel Beauty Style - 500 rub.
- Cold hydrogenation gel (HYDRO COLD MASK) - RUB 1,700.
- Enzyme peeling “Cold hydrogenation” (G-Derm) — RUB 1,800.
- Enzymatic gel with papain for cold steaming of the skin (NEW LINE PROFESSIONAL) - 890 rub.
- Cold hydrogenation gel for enzymatic cleaning with papain (Mesomatrix) - RUB 1,100.
- Cosmetic product “Cold facial cleansing” (Premium) - 1,000 rubles.
- Hydration gel LeviSsime - RUB 1,280.
- Cleansing mask “Cold hydrogenation with red caviar enzymes” (Normal and Dry Skin Florylis) – RUB 2,500.