You might not often think about opening up the cuticle layers of your hair follicles, but perhaps you should — especially if winter has left your hair feeling dry, brittle, and lackluster. Steaming your hair is gaining popularity, and it might be just what you need to restore moisture, shine, and manageability to your locks.
Hair steaming, a salon treatment that’s making its way into at-home beauty routines, is said to provide deep hydration and enhance hair elasticity. “Steaming creates a humid environment that hydrates dry hair and improves elasticity, reducing brittleness and promoting overall hair health,” explains stylist Kim Kimble. Celebrities like Tracee Ellis Ross have also hopped on the steaming bandwagon, launching at-home steamers for users who want a spa-like experience from the comfort of their own home.
How Steaming Works and Who Benefits
Steaming works by applying moist heat to your hair, which opens the cuticle layer and allows hair products like conditioners or hair masks to penetrate deeper. It’s particularly beneficial for people with low-porosity hair, a hair type that tends to resist moisture. Low-porosity hair is common among individuals with natural curls, especially Black hair, and it often causes products to sit on the surface rather than absorb deeply. If your hair repels water or takes longer to get wet, you may have low-porosity hair.
People with coily, curly, or dry hair types tend to see the most noticeable benefits from hair steaming. It can help define curls, make styling easier, and even improve circulation to the scalp. “For those dealing with dandruff or buildup, steam improves circulation and softens debris,” Kimble notes. However, it’s not only for curly or coily hair types — anyone with dry, brittle hair could see positive results from this treatment.
The Process of Hair Steaming
During a salon hair-steaming session, your stylist will start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Then, they’ll apply a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask before placing you under a steam machine. The steam, which is typically set to around 100°F (much lower than blow dryers or hot tools), is applied for about five minutes to an hour, depending on your hair’s condition and your treatment goals.
Once the steam treatment is finished, your stylist will rinse and style your hair as usual. For best results, you’ll need to follow up with a regular deep conditioning routine — at home or in the salon — to maintain the moisture and hydration.
Who Should Avoid Hair Steaming?
While hair steaming is widely popular, it may not be right for everyone. Those with fine or oily hair might want to skip this treatment, as excess moisture can weigh down hair and cause it to look greasy. People with specific scalp or hair conditions should consult a professional before trying hair steaming, as it could worsen some conditions. Pregnant individuals should also seek medical advice before using a steam treatment.
How Long Do Results Last?
The longevity of the benefits depends on the current health of your hair. For extremely damaged hair, the effects may last only a few days, while individuals with healthy hair could see improvements for up to two weeks. The key to lasting results is consistent hair care and follow-up treatments.
Cost of Hair Steaming
Hair steaming is often offered as an add-on service in salons, with prices ranging from $50 to $350, depending on the location and the services provided. “I charge $75 for a steam treatment with a deep conditioner,” says stylist Erin Caltabiano. However, if it’s an add-on to another service, it could cost as little as $40.
DIY Hair Steaming Hack
If you’d rather not splurge on salon treatments or pricey at-home steamers, there’s a simple hack you can try at home. To create a makeshift steam treatment, apply conditioner to your hair, then put on a shower cap. Next, wet a face cloth, microwave it for two minutes, and place it over the shower cap. Put a second shower cap over it, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Finish by rinsing your hair with cold water and styling as usual. You’ll enjoy softer, more manageable hair without spending a fortune.
Conclusion
Hair steaming is quickly gaining popularity for its ability to hydrate and restore dry, brittle hair. Whether you’re looking to define your curls or just improve your hair’s health, steaming can be a valuable addition to your hair care routine. If you have low-porosity hair or dry hair types, this treatment might be especially beneficial, but be sure to check with a stylist to ensure it’s right for you. Whether done in the salon or at home, hair steaming can leave your hair feeling refreshed, hydrated, and looking its best.
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