Facial steams are an excellent way to open pores, detoxify, and revitalize skin. Made with steamy hot water and beneficial herbs or oils, steams can also help to clear sinuses after a long cold and flu season. I love how this particular spa inspired DIY is like a giant herbal tea…for your face!

You’ll Need:

• A large bowl (big enough to hold 4 to 6 cups of water)
• A kettle
  
• A bath towel
  
• 2 to 3 drops of each essential oil of choice OR tea of choice

You want the water to be warm enough that it releases some steam, but not so hot that it will scald your skin. If you have a temperature indicator on your kettle, warm water to about 60 degrees Celsius, if not, run your kettle until it’s just beyond halfway to boiling.

Pour water into your bowl, and then add essential oils. For acne, try Holista 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil and Aura Cacia Rosemary Oil. For dry or mature skin, Divine Essence Rose Otto Extract and NOW Essentials Jasmine Oil will help revitalize. And for very sensitive skin, add 2 to 3 drops each of NOW Essentials Lavender Oil and Aromaforce Geranium Essential Oil.

Or if you’re a tea drinker, consult your tea cupboard for herbs that contain amazing benefits for your skin. Steep a bag of Stash Organic Chamomile Tea in the water to soothe sensitive skin, or try Touch Organic Green Tea to reduce redness caused by the harsh winter weather. For anti-aging, Numi Organic Rooibos Tea is a great choice.

After you’ve added your tea or oils, place your bowl on a table, and sit with your face over the water. Cover your head and the bowl with a bath towel, breathe in all those benefits for 5 to 10 minutes, and relax!