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Best Essential Oil for Facial Steam for Allergy Relief!
Facial Steam for Allergy Relief
Spring is almost here, which means pollen is going to be everywhere. We hear you, spring allergies are a pain. Known as hay fever, the discomfort can range from headaches to nasal congestion and dry, itchy eyes. We've already shared plenty about essential oils for the immune system and springtime essential oils for vitality. In this post, we'd like to share a soothing DIY facial steam recipe to refresh your senses during pollen season.
Common Signs of Hay Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Headache and pain around the temples
- Earache
- Itchy, red and watery eyes
- Discomfort in the throat, nose and ears
Hay fever is the body's response to airborne allergens such as tree, grass and weed pollen. While these tips may help you feel more comfortable, see a pharmacist or GP if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Why a Facial Steam?
Facial steaming, also known as steam inhalation, is a long-standing home comfort during congested, stuffy spells. The practice simply involves warm water combined with herbs and a little essential oil, with the warm vapour traditionally used to ease the feeling of dryness and stuffiness while the aroma soothes the senses. Many people find a gentle facial steam comforting when they have hay fever, a headache or a blocked nose from a cold. You only need a few simple things to prepare one: a towel, warm water, herbs and/or essential oils.
Anti-Allergy Facial Steam Recipe
This recipe brings together lavender, lemon, peppermint and thyme essential oils, some of our favourite aromas for a sense of vitality and mental ease. Nettle joins the blend too, a herb traditionally valued during pollen season.
Ingredients:
- a bowl of warm water
- 2 tbsp nettle leaves
- 2 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 drops lemon essential oil
- 1 drop peppermint essential oil
- 1 drop thyme essential oil
Directions
- Boil a pot of water, then turn off the heat. Add the nettle leaves and set aside for 10 minutes.
- Test the temperature of the water: take care, it shouldn't be too hot to be near comfortably. Let it cool until there is still some gentle rising vapour but no risk of scalding.
- Add the essential oils to the bowl of water.
- Drape a towel over your head and the bowl, keeping your face a safe distance away, and breathe gently for 5-10 minutes. Keep your eyes closed.
- Once you've finished, splash a little cool water on your neck and face.
- Optional: pour yourself a cup of nettle tea to enjoy alongside.
Tips for a Safe, Comfortable Steam
- Keep your face at least 30cm from the water and lift the towel if it ever feels too hot.
- Use oils sparingly. A drop or two is plenty, as too much can irritate the eyes and airways.
- Limit steaming to once a day during a flare-up.
- Patch test any new essential oil before use, and stop if you notice irritation.
FAQs
How often can I do a facial steam during hay fever season?
Once a day is plenty during a flare-up. Give your skin and airways a rest in between, and stop if you notice any irritation.
Which essential oils suit a congestion-easing steam?
Many people reach for peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon and thyme. Use only a drop or two in total, as these aromas are strong.
Is facial steaming safe for everyone?
Take extra care, or check with a healthcare professional first, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, epileptic or have a respiratory condition such as asthma. It is not suitable for young children.
Can I use the leftover nettle water?
You can enjoy a separate cup of nettle tea alongside your steam, but don't drink the bowl you've added essential oils to. Essential oils are not for ingestion.
Why add nettle to the steam?
Nettle is a traditional springtime herb that many people like to use during pollen season. Here it adds a gentle, green note to the blend.