Elizabeth’s Pick: Herb Facial Steam

Summer is in full bloom, and so is my herb garden! It’s nothing fancy, really, but it’s mine. (That, and I’d probably be heckled mercilessly by the Dehn’s Garden family if I didn’t at least attempt to represent.) I’ve been plucking fresh sprigs of herbaceous goodness for mint juleps, caprese salad, my semi-famous grilled lamb, and . . . a totally invigorating facial steam. And here you thought you were reading a food blog. Humor me. Nothing opens up pores, increases circulation, preps the skin for a deep-cleansing mask, and imparts a healthy glow like a good steam. You don’t need to go to the spa or buy fancy products to treat yourself to one. Simply:

1. Cleanse face
2. Boil a pot of water
3. Carefully transfer the water to a large bowl
4. Toss in a handful of fresh herbs into the bowl (basil, rosemary, and mint are very refreshing)
5. Cover head with a towel and hold face over steamy water for 5–10 minutes

That’s it! A slight addiction to steaming may ensue—just go with it. Summer will be over before we know it.
 

Posted on Monday, July 26, 2010 in Permalink