12 Best Facial Steamers and How to Use Them Without Harming Your Skin
Read this before trying one, pls!
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TBH, incorporating steam into a skincare routine isn't all that new. Steam rooms, saunas, facial steamers...legit holding your face over a pot of boiling pasta (just me?)...are some of the tried—but not always true—ways to steam your skin to supposedly get plumper, more hydrated skin. And even though I get the appeal, I’ve always had a certain level of skepticism when looking at those oh-so-glowing faces on IG. Like, does facial steaming really work to “unclog” pores and get rid of blackheads? Do they really help your face absorb products better? And, most importantly for my bank account, is a facial steamer actually worth the $$?
And if you're anything like me and just spent the last 30 minutes Googling, you can officially rest. Because I chatted with two amazing dermatologists (hi, Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, MD, and Michelle Henry, MD) about all things facial steam, starting with the biggest question: Do facial steamers really work? Keep on reading to find out and see below for a few of our favorite facial steamers on the market.
Our top facial steamer picks of 2022
But before you go ahead and grab some random products from this list, check out all the honest reviews, pros and cons, and tips on how to pick the best facial steamer for you. Plus, you'll find info on how often you should use a facial steamer, if they're bad for you, and how to know when it's not "working".
Pure Daily NanoSteamer
Pros
- Multiple settings
- Steady flow of steam
Cons
- Isn't easy to clean
- Some reviewers say it only works with distilled water
Not only will this facial steamer help unclog your pores, but it also moonlights as a humidifier and has a special chamber where you can warm towels to complete your at-home spa day. If you’re really feeling fancy, add a couple drops of essential oils to the steamer and let the soothing scents fill up your room (but skip this if you have sensitive skin; it can cause irritation).
THE REVIEWS: "Love the design. It is very easy to use and what’s great about it is that it has three features: a warm towel, facial steamer, and humidifier," one reviewer writes. "I used the facial steamer this week and it was very good, I used the tools it comes with to clean out my clogged pores and I was amazed at how clean it left my skin!"
Vanity Planet Facial Steamer
Pros
- Chic and simplistic design
- Steam can last up to 45 minutes
- Adjustable nozzle
Cons
- Works best with distilled water
- Doesn't have a shut-off function
I own this facial steamer, and I absolutely love it. So much so that I bought a second one to keep at my mom's house. For $40, you can have an aesthetically pleasing facial steamer that legit works. With a tank full of water, the steam can last up to 45 minutes, and it comes with three essential oil nozzle changers for a real spa experience.
THE REVIEWS: "I love this aria facial steamer—the streamlined look and its colors are aesthetically pleasing," reads one review. "Its steam nozzle delivers steam aimed so accurately towards your face and is moveable—you can use your coupon when applicable for unbeatable savings—definitely a great buy all around."
Okachi Gliya Facial Steamer
Pros
- Has an attached mirror
- Steady flow of steam
Cons
- Nozzle is not adjustable
This facial steamer brings my two favorite hobbies together: pampering myself and inspecting every bump and rogue hair on my face in a well-lit mirror. After you steam, you can use the little mirror that’s attached to the steamer to tap on your serums and moisturizers.
THE REVIEWS: "I had been scoping out facial steamers & reading reviews for a couple of weeks when I decided to pull the trigger on this one. This IS SUCH a good product," a reviewer writes. "Easy to use, easy to clean. Relatively quiet. I use this about three nights a week and I look forward to it every single time! Adding this into your skincare routine will definitely maximize results. Even my teenager enjoys using it!"
Panasonic Facial Steamer
Pros
- Compact design
Cons
- Only six minute run time
This facial steamer has nano-ionic steam, which is absorbed more easily by your skin and penetrates deeper than your regular ol’ hot water steamers. The result? The feeling of a deeper, more soothing clean. Couple this with some chemical exfoliants and your blackheads really don't stand a chance.
THE REVIEWS: I love this facial steamer and am so glad I purchased it. I have been using it for a couple months and can tell a difference in my skin," according to one tester. "It looks brighter, I don’t have many breakouts, and my skin isn’t as dry. The 6 minutes is the perfect amount of time for my morning routine and it helps me look more awake."
Vanity Planet Senia Hot and Cold Facial Steamer
Pros
- Six different beauty modes
- Both hot and cold steam settings
Cons
- Some reviewers say it has burning-plastic scent on first use
I mean, how freakin’ cute would your serums look next to this facial steamer? But trust—it doesn’t just look pretty, it actually works too. It releases soothing yet powerful steam that’ll leave your skin extra soft and super glowy.
THE REVIEWS: "I was hesitant to invest as I didn't think it would be as great of an experience with my esthetician. However, I'm obsessed, one review reads. "Steam comes out really quickly—and a lot of it. It's also super easy to set up. I'm going to buy the new smaller one also for travel. Perfect little wellness add-on for my vanity!"
W Empty Facial Steamer
Pros
- Compact design
- Steam can last up to 30 minutes
Cons
- Stationary nozzle that doesn't move
This lil bb will perfectly fit in any spot you put it and won’t make a peep until your mid-winter, dried-out skin really needs it. Keep it by your bed, on your vanity, or by your desk for a little bit of extra pampering in the middle of the day.
THE REVIEWS: "I think this is good for personal use. Mine does blow out a lot of steam and when I fill the little tank it lasts closer to 15 minutes which is perfect when used on your face, neck, and chest," one tester writes. "I love mine and I’m very happy with this purchase and highly recommend getting this one. I didn’t have not one issue."
Conair True Glow Moisturizing Mist Facial Sauna System
Pros
- Reviewers say super easy to use and set up
- Comes with nasal cone attachment for targeted steaming
Cons
- Batteries are required and not included
While I firmly believe that all you really need to cleanse your skin are your hands and a creamy face wash or cleansing balm, I can’t deny that using a cleansing brush like the one in this facial steaming kit can be great for exfoliation—if used sparingly and gently. And if you love a good facial cleansing tool, this kit also includes a sponge for dabbing on your post-steaming products.
THE REVIEWS: "I have been missing my steams/facials due to COVID, but once I got this awesome system, I have been satisfied with not leaving home, reads one review. "It's super cute, small and easy to use! I sit and relax while watching a show and do my steaming. I have an amazing glow and my skin is loving this facial steamer. I would totally recommend!"
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Pro Facial Steamer
Pros
- Even and consistent steam level
Cons
- Expensive price tag
- Not easy to clean
Yes, this facial steamer is more expensive than the others on this list, but I swear it's worth every damn dollar. It's lightweight and super easy to use—just fill it up with water, power it up, and pretend like you're at a fancy-ass spa, instead of your cramped apartment. Your skin will be hydrated and clean in under 10 minutes (thanks to the micro-steam technology).
THE REVIEWS: "I’m so glad that I added this to my skincare tool kit! I use it nightly, sometimes with a mask on, and I’ve noticed some major improvements in the size of my pores, the texture of my skin, and my overall complexion," according to one tester. "I really enjoy that this steamer is temperature-controlled and set to a timer, it makes for a super seamless steam!"
TRUU TRUU Portable Nano Double-Hole Facial Mister
Pros
- Two spray nozzles
- Perfect for traveling
Cons
- Some reviewers say it leaks
- Some reviewers say Moisture & Oil Sensor doesn't work
Ok, so realistically this one won’t be enough for a five to 10-minute steam, but it’s legit perfect for keeping in your purse while you’re on the go. Charge it ahead of time and use it during a makeup refresh or while traveling (hi, dry AF plane air). Pro tip: Immediately follow up your steam with a moisturizer and then a face oil to lock in your moisture.
THE REVIEWS: I absolutely love this, I use it when setting my makeup, when my foundation is drying, during my skincare, even I let it spray my hair a little but when I want it to look softer/shinier," one reviewer writes. "For the cost, it’s definitely worth it! It feels sooo relaxing and I can see my skin holding hydration better over time."
Seneryla Face Steamer
Pros
- Three heat settings
- Consistent level of steam
Cons
- Some reviewers say steam power is low
Not only does this facial steamer come with an opening that fits the shape of your face perfectly (for that nice, full steam contact), but there's also a separate attachment that specifically targets your nose.
THE REVIEWS: "I love this face steamer!!! It is very easy to use, I use it to open up my pores and exfoliate my face," reads one review. "It gave me growing skin like I just had a $200 spa facial. This is a MUST BUY item!"
Diozo Facial Steamer
Pros
- Steams up quickly
- Automatically turns off when out of water
Cons
- Some reviewers say steam is too hot and can cause burns
In this age of instant gratification, no one wants to wait for anything. And this includes waiting for your facial steamer to heat up. Who has the time? Anyway, thankfully with this one, it takes less than a minute for the water to turn into a strong steam that’ll instantly loosen up the gunk in your pores.
THE REVIEWS: "This product is just what I needed‼️ I have been struggling with acne and blackheads for the last year since being pregnant," one reviewer writes. "I've been paying high dollars going to a facial spa however I just wanted to try this product and do it at home! I have done 5 facials on myself since receiving this product and when I say my skin is glowing not one blackhead."
Newbealer 3-in-1 Nano Ionic Facial Steamer
Pros
- Super easy to use
- Offers both hot and cold steam
- 20 minute steam runtime
Cons
- Some reviews say doesn't have a steady flow of steam
There’s nothing complicated about this facial steamer—all you need to do is flip a switch and wait 30 seconds for the water to heat up. It even comes with a manual facial cleansing brush to help exfoliate for a deeper treatment and radiant skin. Just place your face in front of the steam nozzle and relax.
THE REVIEWS: "This lovely facial steamer, it's not only attractive and slim, but it’s mighty with its steam and heat," according to one tester. "The nozzle is adjustable for height and you can control the level of steam. It’s the best I’ve ever tried! I even use it in an isolated area to unclog my kitty’s sinuses. She loves it too! Thanks, Newbealer. Great product!"
Do facial steamers really work?
It depends on what you mean by "work." If you're looking for a way to shrink your pores down to invisible atoms that'll never make themselves known again, then no, facial steamers won't work—and neither will anything else. I hate to break it to you, but your pores and pore size are genetic. So as much as you may want to plaster yourself with irritating nose strips (pls don't) or violently scrub your face with DIY coffee scrubs (also pls don't), your pores will just fill back up with sebum and skin cells again, because ~life~.
"You can't really change your pore size," says Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip, "but you can help decrease the appearance of pores by keeping them clean." And in that vein, facial steaming can help by softening the top layer of your skin to help increase exfoliation and product absorption. So when you dab on the formulas that actually treat blackheads and unclog pores (think: retinoids and acids), you'll be making them that much more effective.
"Facial steaming can also help soften the contents of your pores, which could be a plug that may cause acne," explains Dr. Henry. "Also, the heat may also stimulate sweating which may help to encourage the extrusion of that plug." So if you're experiencing some congested blackheads or a breakout that's just ready to pop, going under facial steam may help push out whatever is clogging your pores.
How often should you use a facial steamer?
Even if steaming can make your skincare products somewhat more effective, that doesn't mean you should be using a facial steamer every night. Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip recommends steaming no more than once a week, for only five to 10 minutes per session. "It's very easy for something beneficial to become irritating quickly," she says.
Are facial steamers bad for you?
Any amount of hot steam for extended periods will hurt your skin, yes. This is why it's essential to limit your use to once a week until you see how your skin reacts. But one skin type that should probably stay away from facial steaming? Sensitive skin/rosacea-prone skin. Steam can trigger flare-ups of eczema and rosacea and increase redness and sensitivity.
And even if you don't have sensitive skin, you still need to be careful. Dr. Henry warns against using facial steamers at the highest temperature to avoid burns or scalding the skin because facial steamers "can get faulty really quickly," and you risk accidentally burning yourself. So if you do use a facial steamer, make sure to be extra careful.
Always hold the steamer at least five inches away from your face (with closed eyes) and read the instructions (they vary! Do not just trust your ~instincts~). But more importantly, if your skin begins to feel uncomfortable at all, stop immediately. Because no, anything that feels tingly or burn-y on your skin is not "working."
How to choose a facial steamer
K, now you know that facial steaming won't magically erase your pores or turn your serums and moisturizers into super-powered elixirs (womp). But here are some great tips to help find the right one for you.
Consider your lifestyle
Since most face steamers do relatively the same thing (ya know, steam your face), it's necessary to consider how much you think you'll use it. For example, if you're someone who's constantly on the go or only spends a night or two at home throughout the week, investing in the latest, most expensive facial steamer on the market probs wouldn't be worth it. So instead, look for either a compact or portable option that you can literally take anywhere with you.
Find the design that works best for your skin type
Essentially, face steaming "works" for most skin types, except those with super sensitive skin. Still, it would be best to consider your skin goals when deciding on which steamer will work best for you. If you don't have acne-prone skin (lucky you!), a steamer with a small nozzle-head will work fine to achieve a more glowy and hydrated look.
On the other hand, if you're like me, who frequently experiences new breakouts, then maybe look to a steamer with a relatively wide opening so you can ensure an evenly steamed face. It'll come in handy if you're looking to do extractions afterward or want to make sure all of your acne treatment product has equally been absorbed throughout your face.
How we chose the best facial steamers
To find the best of the best facial steamers the internet has to offer, we consulted with two top-tier dermatologists to ask for their expertise regarding facial steaming at home. As shopping experts, we also did a lot of digging to compare which face steamers on the market had the best and most honest reviews.
Meet the experts:
- Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and CEO of Vibrant Dermatology and Skin Bar MD based in Boston, MA. She has expertise in cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatology.
- Dr. Michelle Henry, MD FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, based in New York City. She specializes in skin cancer, hair restoration, cosmetic procedures, and advanced laser surgery.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Jacquelyn Greenfield is the associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan with three years of experience writing about beauty, shopping, and lifestyle, including the best contour brushes and the best diffusers for curly hair. Her facial steamer picks were based on product reviews and personal testing, along with information from experts.
Sami Roberts was previously the beauty assistant at Cosmopolitan with four years of experience researching, writing, and editing health, social media, and beauty-related stories, including the best eyelash curlers and the best glass and crystal nail filers. She looked at ratings, reviews, and her own personal testing to compile the best facial steamers.
Ama Kwarteng was the associate beauty editor at Cosmopolitan for nearly three years and has years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and entertainment across print and digital, including the best affordable hair dryers and the best face washes for oily skin. Based on product reviews, ratings, and personal testing, she helped curate this list of best facial steamers.
Jacquelyn Greenfield is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers the best gift ideas, sales, and more across all things beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and sex. She has a serious obsession with sneakers and lives for a great clear lip gloss. She previously worked at Nylon and has had bylines in The Zoe Report, Coveteur, and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.
Sami Roberts was the previous beauty assistant at Cosmopolitan. Keep up with her cat-filled life in New York on Instagram.
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