As an experienced professional aesthetician, I’ve had my hands on countless faces in the last 30+ years, and I’ve strategized over numerous treatments. One common practice in facials is the use of steam in the process. While it may “feel good” and seem like a beneficial addition, it’s essential to understand the disadvantages and potential risks of a steamer during a facial, and why we do not use it in our practice.

Why Have Steamers Been Used in Skin Care?

Steamed skin was believed to be more receptive to skin care products, allowing for deeper absorption of serums and moisturizers. Today, skin care products have much smaller molecular structure and can easier penetrate deeper into the skin without steam. Also, cleansers and exfoliants, in combination with services such as microdermabrasion, ultrasound exfoliation and acid peel,s are much more effective for deep cleaning, and make steam not only unnecessary but more risky.

The Misconception of Opening and Closing Pores

One of the most common beliefs about steam is that it opens up the pores for clearer skin. However, the reality is that pores do not physically open and close like doors; they are simply structures on the skin. Steam can temporarily soften the debris inside pores, which may help with extractions, (if any exist) but it doesn’t fundamentally change their size or shape. In fact, excessive steaming can lead to overproduction of oil, as the skin may react to the increased heat and moisture by trying to maintain balance.  The outer layer of the skin can soften up with a warm towel, in preparation of extractions or deep cleaning.

Dangers of Inadequate Disinfection

Aestheticians must prioritize cleanliness to ensure the safety of our clients. Steamers can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly maintained. Even with thorough cleaning, the internal components of the equipment are impossible to sanitize between facial clients on a timely manner and can harbor bacteria, which can lead to skin infections and other complications. Ensuring proper disinfection protocols are in place can be cumbersome, time consuming and may deter some Aestheticians from using steamers altogether.

Risk of High Heat

While steaming can feel luxurious, the Aesthetician cannot customize the temperature which can pose a risk of high heat exposure to the skin. For those with sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea or eczema, high temperatures can cause irritation, redness, or even burns. If the steam is too hot, it can compromise the skin barrier, which may lead to further skin issues rather than healing. At Salon Greco we prefer to use hot/warm towels and carefully monitor the temperature for each client.

Dependence on Heat Over Active Ingredients

Instead of relying on steam, I emphasize working with specific professional skincare products that have a smaller molecular structure to effectively penetrate the skin. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants are designed to deliver moisture and nutrients at a cellular level, offering benefits without the potential harm of excessive heat. This focused approach allows for deeper absorption and longer-lasting effects on the skin, making it a smarter choice than steaming.

Lack of Individualization

Every client’s skin is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in aesthetics. Some clients may benefit from steam, while others may not. In practice, it can be difficult to customize a treatment that incorporates steaming. Instead, focusing on tailored products can better address individual skin types and concerns, leading to more personalized results without the risks and blanket use of steam.

Potential for Over-hydration

Another downside of steam is the risk of over-hydration, which overwhelms the skin. Too much moisture can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier function, leading to issues such as increased sensitivity, breakouts, or even a condition known as “micro masseration” (moisture overload), where the outer layer of the skin becomes oversaturated, like a waterlogged sponge. That in turn slows down the skin’s own production of natural moisture and lipids. In such case the skin experiences increasing water loss from deeper layers, making skin look drier and always in need of moisturizing.

By being cautious and ensuring a balanced approach to skin care, we can maintain the skin’s integrity and health without overwhelming it.

Our Conclusion

While it may seem that steamers can enhance facial treatments, we believe the disadvantages outweigh the benefits. As professional aestheticians, we must prioritize safety and skin health through evidence-based practices. Instead of relying on steam, focusing on effective products with active ingredients tailored to each client’s needs yields better, longer-lasting results.

Consider your approach the next time you ask for a steamer—your skin will thank you!

Let Salon Greco in Suwanee GA, create a customized, steam free, skin care routine free and see the difference.  Call 678-546-5116