7 Best Facial Steamers for Acne & Dryness, According to Dermatologists 2023

Publish date: 2024-05-05

What the best facial steamers promise to do for your skin may not seem as dramatic as the best LED face masks or microcurrent devices like the NuFace, but experts say there are benefits to incorporating this spa-treatment-like device in your skin care routine. As part of a weekly regimen that proceeds gentle cleansing, facial steaming can help improve hydration and unclog pores to prep skin for blackhead and whitehead extractions.

The heat can also “improve circulation, which helps the skin appear glowing and refreshed,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and New Jersey. “It may also help to enhance absorption of subsequent products placed on the skin.” Additionally, experts say using a facial steamer can help alleviate congestion from allergies or colds since the steam can soothe and open nasal passages.

People with eczema, rosacea, or active breakouts should hold off on facial steaming, though, as it “could potentially worsen red, irritated, or sensitive skin due to the heat and steam,” says Jodi LoGerfo, a certified New York City–based doctor of nursing practice and family nurse practitioner.

Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, also warns of overzealous steaming: “Excessive use of a facial steamer can also remove too much of the skin’s natural oils from the surface, potentially making the skin dry, itchy, and irritated.” Lastly, you also want to be mindful of timing. According to experts, the sweet spot for steaming is around 10 minutes of use, up to three times a week for oily-skin types, and once a week for those with sensitive and dry skin.

Our top picks

Ready to try out the best facial steamers? Below are seven that come highly recommended by editors and dermatologists who have tested them and swear by these gadgets for soft and refreshed skin, including a new mom who’s incorporated a home facial steamer into her postpartum routine.

Our experts

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