Arizona Esthetics State Board Practice Exam

The use of a steamer during a facial primarily helps with what?

1. Cooling the skin

2. Hydrating the skin

3. Softening the skin

4. Exfoliating the skin

The correct answer is: Softening the skin

The use of a steamer during a facial primarily assists in softening the skin. Steam increases the temperature of the skin's surface, which causes the pores to open up and helps to loosen dirt, oil, and debris trapped within. This makes it easier for the esthetician to perform extractions and allows for better penetration of subsequent treatments and products, such as masks or serums. The warmth of the steam creates a more conducive environment for product absorption and enhances the overall effectiveness of the facial treatment. While it can have some hydrating effects, as the steam adds moisture to the skin, its primary role is to facilitate the softening of the skin and the opening of the pores, leading to a deeper, more effective cleansing process. Other options like cooling or exfoliating do not capture the main functional benefit that steaming provides in the context of a facial treatment.