Home spa - fennel-chamomile facial steam

This is a particularly effective remedy for rough, chapped skin, says esthetician Stephanie Tourles, author of The Herbal Body Book: A Natural Approach to Healthier Hair, Skin and Nails (Storey, 1994)."Fennel and chamomile are so gentle. Fennel is especially nourishing for dry skin because it makes the skin very soft afterward." Those with acne should avoid this because the steam will aggravate their skin.

What you need:

3 cups water
Medium-size pot
3 to 4 tsp. total fennel seeds and
dried chamomile flowers
Large towel

Clean skin first, removing any traces of makeup. Bring water to a boil, and remove pot from heat. Add herbs, cover with a lid, and steep for 5 minutes. Remove lid, and set pan on a stable surface. Lean head no closer than 10 to 12 inches over pan, and pull the towel over your head and pan to make a tent. Steam for 5 to 10 minutes, opening tent if you get too hot. Rinse face with tepid water, then splash with cool water. Moisturize. The remaining tea will keep in the refrigerator for a few days; use it as a toner after cleansing.

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