Why use a hair steamer?
As mentioned above, the benefits of steaming hair are multiple. Using a powerful combination of heat and water to create steam, hair streamers infuse the hair with moisture. The steam raises or opens the hair cuticle, which in turn allows each strand to better absorb water and any conditioning products. This improves hair flexibility, strength and ease of styling. It can provide a boost for straightening or help define curls. So, is steam good for your hair? To recap, the benefits of steaming hair include:
- Allowing better absorption of water & haircare products
- Improving hair flexibility
- Increasing hair strength
- Facilitating hair styling
How to use a hair steamer
Hair steamers exist in hooded, handheld, or cap versions. When it comes to how to steam hair at home, you’ll likely be using a handheld steamer. No matter the model, the benefits are the same. One way to get your steam on would be to go to a salon where they offer hair steaming services. Another would be to get a high-quality hair steamer for home use. We love the L’Oréal Professionnel SteamPod series – these tools use patented steam technology for results that are 2x smoother, with up to 95% less damage.* Each of the different models has its own advantages and may be better suited to straight, wavy or curly styles.
*Breakage measured from repeated combing after 15 passes of SteamPod4 on bleached type V hair. Compared to SteamPod4 without steam & comb.
The ultimate hair steaming routine
For an at-home steaming routine, you’ll want to simplify things. Here are a few simple steps to follow when it comes to how to steam hair at home.
Wash hair.
To get started, and before you even plug in your hair steamer, shampoo and condition your hair. You want to start with nicely moisturized strands.
Apply a deep conditioner.
Once your hair is squeaky clean, apply a deep conditioner to really hydrate your hair. Be generous, and always work from lengths to crown.
Steam.
Now it’s time to turn up the heat. Use your hair steamer. Depending on the length and texture of your hair this may take 15 - 20 minutes. Try not to apply the steam for much longer than that.
Rinse.
After the steaming process is complete, use lukewarm water to rinse the product out of your hair.
Apply serum.
Finally, to lock in all that good moisture, apply a nourishing, protective serum of your choice.
Style.
This step is totally up to you. Style your hair as you wish. And that’s it for how to steam hair at home.
How often to use a hair steamer
If you’re ready to integrate hair steaming into your routine, we are right behind you. That said, you don’t want to use a hair steamer every day. While it can contribute to hair health, overexposure to steam can lead to certain issues. For example, excessive steaming can increase hair porosity and breakage, especially in chemically-treated hair. So to play it safe, and to enjoy all the benefits of hair steaming, use a hair steamer in moderation. Consider a weekly or bi-weekly steam treatment.
Congrats, you’ve graduated from our hair steaming masterclass. Full steam ahead to hydrated hair!