Any great facial comes with a ritual steam fest, but derms kind of hate them as a general rule of thumb, because they can irritate conditions like rosacea and potentially break capillaries. I've always been a bit torn myself, but I think I found a great compromise.

Amazing aesthetician Tim over at famous hairstylist Sally Hershberger's Face Place, in New York's Meatpacking District, uses an alternative technique. Instead of the more traditional steaming, he just wraps your face in a hot towel, and it's absolutely lovely and relaxing (claustrophobes need not apply). I've always had great results from going there, and Tim is a real peach. P.S. For a good time, try their detoxifying Face Shampoo.

Anyhoo, I'm still wondering if it's good or not. I have heard of some women steaming on their own at home (it's super easy: just heat a pot of water on your stove, hover over it with a towel over your head and the pot, and you've got a $100 facial-level DIY steam moment going on in your kitchen). Do you? And how often? Let's share.