Steam is a gentle and effective way to improve skin health and ensure a clearer and brighter aesthetic. A lot of dirt, debris, oil, and dead skin cells are trapped in our pores. The heat from the steam unclogs the pores by opening them and increasing the blood flow in the area. The natural oils of the face (sebum) tend to harden and lead to acne. Steam warms up sebum, loosens, and expels it to reduce the formation of blackheads and unsightly pimples.
A good blood flow is a sign of health because blood is the primary carrier of oxygen and other nutrients in the body. Steam causes the blood vessels under the skin to dilate, increasing blood flow and ensuring that adequate nourishment is received by the skin cells. This leads to better healing and regeneration.
Steam relieves stress by activating the body's relaxation response, helping to reduce anxiety and tension. The heat from the steam causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing oxygen flow and promoting muscle relaxation while easing stiffness. The warmth of the steam increases mood-lifting chemicals like endorphins and lowers the levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
There are many ways in which steam therapy helps in the rest and recuperation of both body and mind. It is especially effective for stress injuries from sports or intense workout routines and general fatigue from the daily hustle. The heat from the steam aids healing by enhancing circulation, detoxification, and muscle relaxation.
Detoxification is one of the primary goals of steam therapy. The heat from the steam opens up pores and induces sweating. These two actions lead to the expulsion of dirt, debris, sebum, etc., from the skin. This detoxification process reduces inflammation and opens clogged pores. The excess sweat helps cleanse the skin and washes off these harmful bacteria to minimize their damaging effects. This purification process is one of the key hammam benefits, as traditional hammams are designed to deeply cleanse and rejuvenate the skin.
There is nothing better for a good night's sleep than a steam treatment before bed. Steam reduces stress, promotes muscle relaxation, regulates body temperature, and decreases cortisol levels. All these positive effects enable the body to enter deep and uninterrupted sleep.
Steam is an effective way to moisturize the skin and mucosa, making it easier for irritants and harmful bacteria to be flushed away naturally. The vasodilating effect of steam ensures easy access of immune cells to injured tissues. Steam triggers the immune system by mimicking a fever-like state by increasing the body temperature, which essentially causes an increase in white blood cell formation and fortifies the body’s defense mechanisms.
Steam baths are a great way to achieve muscle relaxation because they activate the parasympathetic (relaxation response) response of the body. The warmth of the steam enhances circulation, relaxes the muscles, and reduces tension and stiffness. Regular steam treatments open the airways, moisturize the mucosal surfaces, and promote restful sleep.
Steam not only has many skin rejuvenating benefits, but it also enhances the impact of skincare masks and other beauty treatments. The many skin-enhancing benefits of steam treatment include:
It is no secret that regular steam treatment promotes healthy and glowing skin. Steam is also an effective way to activate some ingredients in skincare treatments and ensure their deep penetration.
Steam promotes deep breathing which lowers anxiety levels and has a calming effect on the brain. The elevated endorphin levels during a steam therapy session improve mood and deepen the feeling of relaxation. Consistent steam treatments improve sleep patterns and ensure deep and undisturbed sleep during the night, further augmenting the positive impact of steam therapy on mental health and well-being.
Steam therapy has been an integral part of the Ottoman hammam culture. The benefits of steam therapy are incorporated into various treatments and massages successfully at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam in Istanbul. The Hurrem Sultan Hammam offers its guests a chance to experience the healing benefits of herb-infused steam under the masterful strokes of skilled massage therapists. Let the warmth of the steam therapy wash away your stress. Book your session today!
