Summer days can be so VERY humid, sticky and hot. My patient “B” had the worst breakout on her face after wearing make up on one such day. She usually can’t use anything but the gentlest of hypoallergenic products on her skin.
Her schedule was very full, and she was unable to get an appointment to see her facialist.
I suggested she try a DIY face steam to cleanse and soothe her itchy, irritated skin.
Here’s how;
Use a clean stock pot filled with clean purified water
Bring it to a boil
Remove it from the heat, and wait 3 min.
While you are waiting for the water to cool, wash your face using your usual trusted face wash.
Add 3 drops of Eucalyptus oil to the now warm water.
Drape a towel over your head and carefully lower your face to hover over the large pot, covering it with the towel so you are enclosed over the steam.
Allow the steam to wash over your face for up to 1 minute.
Inhale slowly, and deeply to get the full benefits of the Eucalyptus.
Gently pat dry your face with a clean towel.
Lie on your back, or recline and place a cool wet cloth or cooled sliced cucumber slices over your eyes.
Meditate for 15 min.
Use a toner or your favorite moisturizer.
You will feel revitalized, relaxed and will notice your face to be less irritated.
Sheri Laine, LAc, Diplomate AC is an author, teacher and lecturer. She is a California state and nationally certified acupuncturist/herbologist licensed in Oriental medicine. Sheri has been the Director of Eastern Medical Arts in the San Diego area for over 25 years. Sheri writes a regular column for Counselor The Magazine for Addiction Professionals, and in addition to teaching speaks throughout the country about the benefits of integrative living and how to achieve a balanced lifestyle. Sheri's latest book, Living the EnerQi Connection, will be publishing in December.
