From the Research
Pores don't actually "open" and "close" as commonly believed, but rather the appearance of pores can change due to various factors such as steam, which softens sebum and increases blood flow to the skin. When you use steam on your face, it doesn't technically open your pores, but rather softens the sebum (oil) in your pores and increases blood flow to your skin 1. The warmth and moisture from steam helps to loosen dirt, dead skin cells, and oil that may be clogging your pores, making them appear smaller and cleaner afterward. This gives the illusion that pores have "opened" and then "closed." Steam also hydrates the skin and increases circulation, which can make your complexion look healthier.
Some key points to consider when using steam on the face include:
- Steam can help to loosen and remove debris from pores, making them appear smaller and cleaner
- Steam can increase blood flow to the skin, which can help to improve skin health and appearance
- Steam can hydrate the skin, which can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- It's essential to follow steam treatment with gentle exfoliation and cleansing to remove loosened debris and maintain healthy skin.
For best results, steam your face for 5-10 minutes over a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head, or use a warm washcloth. Follow with gentle exfoliation and cleansing to remove the loosened debris. This process is effective for deep cleansing but isn't actually changing the physical structure of your pores. It's also important to note that sensitive skin may require special care, and individuals with sensitive skin should be aware of potential triggers and take steps to prevent irritation 2, 3, 4.