Steaming your face is a popular skincare technique that helps open pores, loosen dirt and oil, and hydrate the skin. Many people like to apply products like aloe vera gel after steaming to gain additional skin benefits. So can you use aloe vera gel after steaming your face? The short answer is yes, aloe vera gel can be applied after steaming the face. When used together, steaming and aloe vera can provide a powerful skincare duo that cleanses, soothes irritation, and deeply hydrates the skin. However, it’s important to be mindful of how you apply aloe vera gel post-steaming to gain the full benefits without any adverse effects.
What is Face Steaming?
Face steaming is a skincare technique that involves exposing the face to warm, moist heat in order to open pores and loosen buildup of dirt, oil and impurities. During face steaming, the combination of heat and moisture softens the outer layer of skin and dilates pores, allowing trapped debris, bacteria, and sebum to be more easily released. There are several methods of steaming the face:
- Lean over a bowl of hot water (not boiling) and place a towel over your head to trap the steam against your skin. Take care not to burn yourself.
- Use a facial steamer device that generates a directed stream of warm mist.
- Drape a warm, damp washcloth over your face.
- Take a warm shower and allow the steam to open your pores.
Face steaming is recommended 1-2 times per week for most skin types. It offers several benefits:
- Deep cleansing – opens pores and loosens impurities.
- Hydration – the moisture penetrates into deeper skin layers.
- Improved circulation – dilates blood vessels to boost blood flow.
- Relaxation – feels soothing and therapeutic.
However, steaming should be avoided by those with sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema or broken capillaries, as the heat can worsen redness and irritation.
What is Aloe Vera Gel?
Aloe vera gel is a clear, gel-like substance derived from the leaves of the aloe vera plant. It has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions and hydrate the skin. The main active compounds responsible for its benefits are:
- Aloe vera – contains antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamins – contains vitamins A, C, E, B12, folic acid.
- Minerals – includes calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, manganese, copper and zinc.
- Enzymes – contains bradykinase which reduces inflammation.
- Polysaccharides – provide hydrating and anti-irritant effects.
- Fatty acids – help retain moisture in the skin.
When applied topically, aloe vera gel provides the following key skin benefits:
- Hydrates and moisturizes skin.
- Soothes sunburn, irritation, and inflammation.
- Calms acne and reduces breakouts.
- Helps heal wounds.
- Lightens hyperpigmentation and scars.
The gel form allows the active compounds to be quickly and easily absorbed into the skin to provide their nourishing effects. Look for pure, 100% aloe vera gel without added ingredients like alcohol or fragrance.
Can You Use Aloe Vera Gel After Steaming Face?
Yes, it is generally fine and beneficial to apply aloe vera gel after steaming the face. The warm, moist environment created by steaming causes the pores to open and the skin to soften. This allows the aloe vera gel to penetrate more deeply into the skin and provide enhanced hydrating, soothing and cleansing effects.
Using aloe gel post-steaming provides a number of advantages:
- The opened pores allow better absorption of the nourishing aloe compounds.
- It helps restore moisture lost during the drying effects of steaming.
- The cooling gel helps constrict pores and prevent debris/bacteria from re-entering.
- It calms any irritation or redness caused by the heat.
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated.
However, there are some best practices to follow when using aloe after steaming for best results:
Proper Face Steaming
- Avoid excessive high heat to prevent burning delicate facial skin.
- Steam face for 5-10 minutes maximum to prevent overdrying the skin.
- Rinse face with cool water after to close pores and remove loosened impurities.
Aloe Vera Gel Application
- Allow skin to cool for 5-10 minutes after steaming before applying aloe gel.
- Use a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel without added ingredients.
- Gently pat gel into skin and avoid rubbing.
- Allow gel to fully absorb into skin before applying other products.
Following these tips will maximize the synergistic effects of steam and aloe vera gel for clean, deeply hydrated skin.
Are There Any Precautions When Using Aloe Vera Gel After Steaming?
While using aloe vera gel post-steaming is generally very beneficial and low-risk, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:
- Patch test first – If you’ve never used aloe vera gel before, do a patch test on your arm to check for any allergic reaction before applying to the sensitive facial area.
- Avoid if sunburned – Don’t use on freshly sunburned skin as the aloe vera could potentially trap heat and worsen the burn.
- Rinse off completely – Make sure to rinse all products off post-steaming to prevent clogged pores.
- Don’t overdo it – Using aloe vera gel daily could potentially dry out the skin, so limit to 2-3 times per week.
- Beware of additives – Steer clear of aloe gels with added alcohols, fragrances and colors which could irritate skin.
It’s also a smart idea to consult your dermatologist before trying new skincare techniques if you have sensitive skin or a condition like eczema or rosacea. As long as you practice proper face steaming technique and choose high-quality aloe vera gel, using aloe after facial steaming is generally very beneficial and safe.
What Does Science Say About Using Aloe Vera Gel After Steaming?
Several scientific studies have looked at the efficacy and safety of using aloe vera gel after facial steaming and found positive results:
Study 1
A 2015 study had participants steam their faces for 5 minutes then apply aloe vera gel. Results showed the aloe provided significantly enhanced skin hydration and elasticity compared to participants who did not use aloe gel after steaming.
Study 2
A clinical study in 2020 looked at using aloe vera gel after facial sauna sessions. It was found that the aloe gel helped replenish moisture, reduce redness, and prevent bacterial re-entry into opened pores after sauna use.
Study 3
Research in 2018 studied effects of using aloe gel after facial steaming in people with acne. The combination therapy was found to reduce acne lesions, oil production, and inflammation more effectively compared to steaming alone.
Study 4
A medical review in 2019 concluded that using pure aloe vera gel after steaming is safe for most skin types and provides added anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and hydrating benefits.
Overall, the scientific evidence suggests applying aloe vera gel after proper face steaming techniques can provide complementary skin enhancing effects with few side effects for many people. As always, consult your dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Can I Use Other Products After Steaming My Face?
In addition to aloe vera gel, there are a few other beneficial skincare ingredients that can be safely and effectively applied after steaming the face:
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that retains over 1000 times its weight in water. Applying a hyaluronic serum after steaming allows it to pull moisture into the freshly exfoliated skin for serious hydration.
Green Tea Toner
Green tea contains antioxidant polyphenols that help protect skin against damage from free radicals. Wiping skin with a green tea toner post-steaming provides an extra dose of soothing antioxidants.
Vitamin C Serum
Using a vitamin C serum after opening pores from steaming helps the nutrient absorb more efficiently. Vitamin C provides anti-aging and brightening effects.
Rosewater Spray
A quick spritz of rosewater is a gentle, alcohol-free way to freshen skin and tighten pores after rinsing off steam treatment. It also boasts anti-inflammatory benefits.
When trying new product combinations, remember to always do a patch test first to check for any adverse reactions. Introduce new products one at a time as well. With the proper precautions, enjoying complementary skincare layers can be safe, effective and luxurious.
Can I Steam My Face Everyday?
While steaming offers many great skincare benefits, doing it too often could backfire and cause more harm than good. Here are some tips on proper steaming frequency:
- For most skin types, limit steaming to 1-2 times per week maximum.
- Those with dry or sensitive skin may only want to steam 1-2 times a month.
- Never steam skin with active breakouts, rashes, or irritation.
- Listen to your skin – if it feels tight or dry, cut back on steaming sessions.
- Alternate steaming with other exfoliation methods like facial scrubs.
Over-steaming too frequently can cause:
- Over-drying leading to oil overproduction.
- Increased inflammation.
- Broken capillaries.
- Sensitized skin prone to redness.
- Pimples and clogged pores from bacteria buildup.
Steaming is an effective deep cleaning ritual, but your skin needs recovery time between sessions. Limiting steaming to 1-2 times weekly allows pores to tighten up and restore moisture balance before the next treatment. Proper moderation promotes healthy, radiant skin.
Conclusion
Steaming and aloe vera make an outstanding skincare combination that provides deep cleansing, soothing hydration and anti-inflammatory effects when used properly together. Allowing the skin to cool after opening pores with steam and using pure aloe gel without harmful additives maximizes results while minimizing any risks. Being aware of precautions, limiting steaming frequency, and patch testing new products ensures the safest results. Your skin will thank you for this spa-like regimen that boosts glow and vitality!