You Need a Facial Steamer in Your Bathroom

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Facial steamers are more than just fancy, spa-like contraptions that take up precious counter space. When used as part of your skincare routine, facial steamers can take your skin's health to the next level.

"Steaming is beneficial because it increases circulation and helps get rid of surface debris," board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, Dennis Gross, tells Bazaar. "The steam works to heat skin up, and causes waxy, solid build up to liquefy and drain out of pores. This process removes dirt, bacteria, and makeup residue that can lead to acne."

Steaming also provides a more gentle alternative to scrubs and peels. "In this regard, steaming is also an exfoliating treatment using a natural source, namely water in the form of steam," Gross continues. "For this reason, it is also hydrating, especially if moisturizer is applied immediately after steaming."

With all that in mind, we’ve pulled together the top devices for you to keep in mind if you’re looking to elevate your routine. From Dr. Dennis Gross to the beloved Canopy, here are nine best facial steamers that will deliver amazing skin-changing results with the press of a button.

Pro Facial Steamer

You just need nine minutes and a little distilled water to reap the benefits of this professional-grade steamer from Dr. Dennis Gross, which primes skin for product absorption.

One satisfied customer writes:

"I have used facial steamers from many brands and most of them broke or not functioned well after a few months but this one is a steal! Totally a spa experience, good quality, and long-lasting product." —Chau

Aira Ionic Facial Steamer

Here's a facial steamer that makes it a breeze to decompress after a long day. Just add your favorite essential oil for the ultimate spa vibes with a hydration bonus.

One satisfied customer writes:

"I just love this steamer, so very relaxing and allows my serums to absorb so much better." —Jennifer D.

Humidifier + Aromas + Filters

While it's not technically a facial steamer, BAZAAR beauty editors named Canopy's Humidifier one of its most iconic beauty products for a reason: In addition to being dual-purpose as a humidifier and complexion staple, the tool also holds up to 2.5 liters of water and hydrates rooms up to 500 square feet, which helps keep skin feeling supple.

One satisfied customer writes:

"I’ve had this over a year, and I love it! I use it in the colder months, as I’m in NYC and it’s humid in the summer but dry in the winter. It’s helped so much with a bout of allergies I had last year, and it’s kept me and my husband hydrated overnight, so we wouldn’t wake up dried out from the radiator heat as usual. Plus, keeping this humidifier clean is SO easy, and no mold ever. Highly recommend!!" —Mila M.

Hydrasteamer Vanity Facial Steamer

This facial steamer has an extra-large water tank, it's perfect for the person who doesn't want to be bothered with filling up their device every five minutes. And with all that steaming time, your skin will feel as soft as a baby's bottom in no time.

One satisfied customer writes:

"The steam was nice and strong but not strong to the point it caused discomfort. The instructions give you a list of recommended essential oils you can use with the steamer so I will definitely be investing in some essential oils to use with my steamer. So far I'm very pleased with my purchase and would recommend to others." —Tangie

NanoSteamer Large 3-in-1 Nano Ionic Facial Steamer

Over 38,000 Amazon shoppers swear by this stainless steel face steamer to keep their skin dewy and smooth. And as an added bonus, it even includes a built-in chamber to warm your towels.

One satisfied customer writes:

"So glad I bought this! Be careful with the towel warmer though because towel will come out scalding hot. Steam is great. Nice feature that it can be a humidifier, too." —LawyerLady

Voda Facial Steamer

Here's a simple face tool that uses micro-steam to enhance your glow while removing dirt and debris. Plus, it's easy to use since it's powered by the single press of a button.

Facial Steamer

In addition to a top-rated steamer that uses a light to convert water into nano-sized water molecules, you'll also receive a comfy head wrap to keep hair out of your face, and a set of extraction tools (though we advise visiting your aesthetician or dermatologist before taking matters into your own hands).

One satisfied customer writes:

"I love this product, it opens my pores and I have noticed I don’t have breakouts since using this steamer. I always use purified water so to insure the best care for both my face and the steamer. Definitely recommend this product for anyone looking to improve the health of their skin!" —Liz M.

True Glow Moisturizing Mist Facial Sauna System

King loves this facial steamer because it includes an exfoliating brush and a nasal cone for targeting comedones on the nose. Plus, it's pretty budget-friendly for all the things that you get in this packaged deal.

One satisfied customer writes:

"Wow! The True Glow Moisturizing Mist Facial Sauna System is seriously the bomb! It cleanses my face so well! My face feels absolutely refreshed and I haven't been experiencing any more acne breakouts since I've started using it! I love how the scrubbing brush really unclogs my pores!" — Hannah G.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is using a steamer good for your skin, and what are some of the benefits?

Aside from almost immediate relaxation, one of the benefits of facial steaming also includes an opening of the pores, which allows for better product absorption. Additionally, the best facial steamers can be essential for sloughing off surface debris, and used as a pre-cursor to loosen blackheads ahead of extraction.

How frequently should you steam your face?

While utilizing your facial steamer every hour on the hour might be tempting, most professionals advise steaming no more than three times per week for a maximum of 10 minutes.

King says that the heat and steam could trigger facial flushing for anyone prone to redness. She recommends those with rosacea skip out on using a facial steamer as it might exacerbate the condition. If you have eczema or very dry skin, she says to proceed with caution as it could cause more irritation.

Other risks include burns, so be sure to keep your face a safe distance of 6 to 10 inches away.

How do you use a facial steamer?

Garshick says it's important to cleanse the skin beforehand. After you use your steam for five to ten minutes, she says to avoid any harsh active ingredients, such as retinol or benzoyl peroxide, as products are more easily absorbed and you want to avoid irritation.

King says to focus on serums and moisturizers to nourish the skin.

What should you look for in a facial steamer?

King says to look for steamers that have safety mechanisms to prevent burns. Other than that, the best facial steamer is one that best suits your needs and budget.

Meet the Experts

• Dennis Gross is a board-certified cosmetic and medical Dermatologist based in New York City. He is also the founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare.

• Hadley King, MD, is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.

• Marisa Garshick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.

Why trust Harper's BAZAAR?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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