5.9.10

Skincare: Steaming Update

Hi everyone! Firstly, I'm so sorry for the lack of posts over the past week: I've had so much work to get through that there just hasn't been any time spare, and because I'm so badly prepared, I didn't stock pile posts for while I was away: oops! Anyway, today is going to be dedicated to getting back on track, so expect a week rich in my ramblings!

I promised that I would update you on my steaming routine, and I have to say, it's gone really well. I started two weeks ago and steamed for 5-10 minutes every day, then followed immediately with Liz Earle's Cleanse & Polish, Boots Glycerin & Rosewater toner and No 7 Protect & Perfect Intense serum. I've already seen a reduction in blackheads and the couple of spots that I had when I started dried up very quickly and nothing else surfaced: result!

Then, I got complacent. Saturday and Sunday went by and I didn't steam. I went out on Saturday night, had a few drinks, and felt a little rough around the edges on Sunday, and by midday, I had the makings of one of the worst spots I've ever had! By Monday morning, I had two horrid spots that were so unsightly and uncomfortable that I got my head over the hot water for 20 minutes and vowed never to miss a day again! Since then, I've managed to steam for at least 5 minutes a day (although I naughtily missed yesterday, I will be catching up later) and it's made a big difference to the clarity of my skin. Each night, I've used my Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel - which is a wonder product if ever there was one - and I am really happy with the outcome. I've also not been moisturising, as I think my Sanctuary creams are now a little rich for my skin. I'm off shopping later and I'm going to look for an oil free moisturiser, as although I don't feel like my skin is suffering, I can't imagine see how not moisturising will benefit my skin in the long run.

A few of you noted just how boring steaming is, and I confess, it's not the most stimulating part of my day. I'm trying to see it as a little bit of 'empty brain' time, although on a particularly busy day last week, I did actually de-mist a part of the pyrex bowl and read a report through the glass! If you have sinus problems like I do, this routine will really help to provide some temporary relief: just don't put too much Vicks in the bowl as it feels like it's stripping the inside of your nose!!

So, if you're suffering from congested skin and feel as though you need an extra boost, stay away from the heavy-duty spot treating face masks and oil control products and try a facial steam. There's no investment required - we all have water, a kettle, a bowl and a towel - and it's the best skin treat I've had in a long time. Put the towel over your head and have a 5 minute daydream about your next holiday: zaps the stress and clears your skins. What more could you want?

I'm really interested to hear whether any of you have tried steaming? Is it something that you can see yourself doing regularly or is just too boring for words?!

Image courtesy of travelpod.com

3 comments:

  1. I've actually started steaming because of your blog! It's going really well - I just wish it wasn't such a dull process! I can definitely see an improvement in my skin.

    Zoe
    romeoandthelonelygirl.blogspot.com
    twitter

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  2. Ooh, I'm so pleased it's going well, Zoe! Glad you've been inspired :)

    It is boring, but I'm trying to think of it as a bit of relaxing break in my day, plus the skincare benefits can't be argued with! Hope it continues to go well!

    Rach x

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  3. I used to do this all the time when I was a teenager - I've not done this for absolutely years - it worked really well. Glad it's going well for you - I might have to give it a go! x

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