Changed my mind about using steam for all extractions

For years I was taught to steam every client for at least 15 minutes before extractions. Last month, a client with rosacea came in and the steam made her flare up badly. I switched to using a warm, damp towel compress for her instead, and the results were much better. Her skin calmed down and the extractions were actually easier. Has anyone else found certain skin types do worse with traditional steaming?

3 comments

3 Comments

harperp2426d ago

My old spa manager swore by steam for everyone. Honestly, I see way less redness now with warm towels on sensitive types. It just makes more sense for reactive skin.

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evan54325d ago

It's like the simple fix is always better, right?

tessap7326d ago

Totally get the towel thing, it's way more controlled. Makes me wonder about the air quality in the treatment room itself though. Old steam machines can spread mineral dust or even mold spores from the water tank if they aren't cleaned like crazy. That's a hidden trigger for reactive skin that a warm towel would never have.