Everything You Wanted to Know About Hair Steaming

You might be looking for ways to pamper yourself more often (and who isn’t?). You might consider hair steaming if you’re looking for more ways to do it. You might have missed this hair treatment, even though it has been used in salons for years. There are many benefits to steaming your hair, whether you go professional or DIY. Two experts were tapped to discuss why hair steaming should be part of your daily wash routine.

What is HAIR STEAMING?

This is exactly what it sounds and does: steaming your hair and scalp. Your conditioning treatments can penetrate deeper into your hair and scalp thanks to the moist heat. Any moisturizing ingredients in your favorite masks will be absorbed better.

This treatment is beneficial for all hair types, but it’s particularly effective for natural gals. “Hair steaming can be used on all hair textures, but is most effective when deep conditioning natural hair,” Carlisha Duffey, stylist, owner of Southern Girl Natural Hair Studio, Topeka, Kansas, says.

It’s possible. But is it actually good for your hair?

Yes, and yes. Duffey says that these treatments are great for natural hair, as curly hair is more susceptible to losing moisture. “Deep conditioning using steam gives a client’s hair and scalp the best chance at moisture retention, strength and conditioning–particularly if the hair requires more protein.” Still not convinced? These are just a few of the many benefits of hair steaming.

1. It hydrates *and* absorbs moisture. This is the main advantage of hair steaming. Tish Clark, a stylist at Phormula 708 Studio in Sola Rochester Hills, Michigan points out that steaming adds moisture to hair and scalp when it penetrates the hair shaft. It is especially helpful in areas that are dry or lacking moisture.
2. This treatment softens and smoothens hair. This treatment makes frizzy and brittle hair stronger, which results in a better curl definition.
3. It encourages hair growth. Both stylists agreed that steaming promotes blood circulation and healthy blood flow. It improves the elasticity of hair to prevent breakage or split ends in the future.
4. It can improve scalp health. Steam allows for deeper cleaning. This steam helps to remove product buildup, dirt, and oil from your hair. This is a great option for those with greasy scalps or chronic dandruff.

How is it done?

Hair steaming is usually done in a salon under a hooded steamer. There are some methods and tools that you can use at home.

• A heat steamer. A heat steamer is similar to a facial/clothes/hair steamer but for your hair. Clark prefers a tabletop or hooded steamer, which Clark recommends. A hooded steamer is my favorite because it covers the entire head. She says that the table-top steamer produces more steam and is better for detangling hair. If you don’t have the space or money to steam your hair at home, you can use a handheld model.
• A warm towel. Apply a treatment and then wrap a towel around your head for 10 minutes.
• A deep conditioning cap. A deep conditioning cap. Clark claims this is the best at-home treatment option because the steam penetrates hair and scalp very well. A cap can be a great alternative to a hooded Steamer if you get restless and want to move around freely.
• Steam your shower. This is the simplest, but also the most efficient. This will steam your hair but not to the same extent as other options.

How to steam at home?

Here are four easy steps to help you achieve healthier and more hydrated hair after you have chosen your preferred method of steaming.

1. Use a hydrating shampoo. You want to make sure your hair is completely clean before you steam it. You can wash your hair as you would normally and then rinse it off thoroughly before moving onto the next step.
2. Use the treatment you choose. Duffey suggests consulting a stylist to ensure that the hair steaming process works to its full potential. This can vary depending on your hair’s needs. You might need a hot oil treatment or a hair mask, and/or deep conditioner. Our routine includes Mielle Organics Babassu Oil & Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Therapy. In case you aren’t sure, Curls Blueberry Mint Tee Scalp Treatment and Mint Deep Conditioner are also available. Wrap your hair in a bun and secure it with hair clips.
3. Start hair steaming. According to how damaged or dry your hair is, both stylists suggest steaming for between 20 and 30 minutes. Do not steam for more than 30 minutes. Clark warns against steaming for longer than 30 minutes. This can cause over-moisturizing or over-exposure of heat.
4. Rinse off the treatment and then apply a regular conditioner. After you have finished your steam and wash, continue with your normal routine.

Steaming hair should only be done occasionally. Overdoing it can cause more damage to your hair because you are either exposing your scalp too much heat or getting too much moisture. According to your hair texture and type, we recommend steaming bi-weekly or every other month.

Hair steaming is a great option if you have dry or damaged hair. People with low porosity, color-treated or relaxed hair may benefit from steaming their hair. This helps to hydrate your hair and makes it look healthier.

Before you try the service, consult a dermatologist.