Glowing Skin Through Heat: Infrared vs. Steam Facials

The pursuit of glowing, youthful skin has led many people to explore heat-based skincare treatments. Among the most popular options are infrared facials and traditional steam facials, both warm the skin, yet work through completely different mechanisms. Understanding how each method supports skin health can help you choose the most effective option for your skincare goals.

Infrared facials rely on red or near-infrared light wavelengths to support cellular repair and rejuvenation, while steam facials work by heating the skin’s surface, opening pores, and increasing hydration. Both approaches offer benefits, but their effects on circulation, collagen activity, and long-term results can vary significantly.

Infrared light penetrates deeper into the skin compared to surface-only treatments like steam, reaching tissues beneath the dermis where blood flow, collagen production, and cellular regeneration take place. Research shows that infrared exposure can help increase microcirculation, supporting oxygen delivery, nutrient supply, and cellular repair¹. Improved blood flow may lead to a more radiant and energised complexion, especially in areas with reduced circulation.

Beyond circulation, infrared therapy may trigger biological responses associated with healing and reduced inflammation² ³. These effects can be helpful for individuals seeking long-term skin improvement rather than just temporary hydration.

This deeper reach also allows infrared exposure to interact with structures responsible for elasticity and firmness, potentially benefiting skin ageing concerns such as fine lines and texture irregularities⁴ ⁵.

If you're looking for a convenient way to incorporate infrared benefits at home, HEALiX Glow Pod are a handheld product that offers targeted infrared wavelengths suitable for facial use. Its design focuses on local collagen-supporting exposure while offering a non-invasive experience that aligns with research-backed mechanisms of skin renewal.

Steam facials have long been a staple in spas and skincare routines due to their ability to hydrate the skin and open pores, making it easier to remove dirt, oil, or build-up from the surface. While the warmth improves comfort and promotes relaxation, scientific research specifically evaluating steam on human skin remains limited.

However, what is widely acknowledged is that steam temporarily increases moisture levels and softens the outermost layer of the skin, which can lead to smoother makeup application and a plumper appearance. Because steam works on the skin’s surface, its effects tend to be immediate but short-term, unlike the deeper cellular responses associated with infrared exposure.

For those who enjoy incorporating heat into their skincare routine, red light and near infrared sessions can offer a relaxing and restorative experience. The gentle warmth supports circulation, encourages muscle relaxation, and pairs naturally with other skincare practices, whether someone prefers steam-based facials or light-based treatments.

Both steam and infrared can enhance your natural glow, but the duration and source of that glow differ.

Steam radiance comes mainly from temporary hydration and pore expansion. The softer texture is often noticeable immediately after a session but can fade once the skin returns to its baseline moisture levels.

Infrared radiance develops gradually through increased circulation, mitochondrial activity, and anti-inflammatory pathway effects, which accumulate with repeated use.

Those aiming for skin rejuvenation, collagen support, or wrinkle reduction may find that red light and infrared align better with long-term skincare goals, while steam can offer short-term comfort and quick visual refreshment.

As with all skincare tools, balance and proper use are essential.

Infrared therapies are generally well-tolerated, though excessive exposure may contribute to oxidative stress or accelerated skin ageing if misused⁶ ⁷. Consistency at controlled intensities tends to be more effective than aggressive treatment schedules.

Steam is also widely considered safe, though overuse may lead to dryness or irritation, particularly in sensitive or rosacea-prone skin types.

Some people find benefits in combining both approaches, using steam for surface cleansing and hydration, followed by infrared exposure to support deeper skin rejuvenation processes. This layered method may help prepare the skin for better product absorption while also supporting the cellular activity linked to improved skin appearance and long-term radiance.

Both infrared and steam facials can enhance the skin’s appearance, but they deliver different outcomes. Steam offers immediate hydration and pore cleansing, while infrared supports deeper biological processes involved in circulation, rejuvenation, and long-term skin resilience.

Whether used independently or as part of a combined skincare routine, heat-based therapies continue to provide powerful yet gentle ways to support a healthy, radiant complexion.

1. Kajimoto O. et al. Effects of Far-Infrared Radiation on Skin Blood Flow and Circulation. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry.

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0781.2006.00208.x 

2. Krutmann J. et al. Mechanisms of Infrared-Induced Skin Aging and Biological Impact on Dermal Cells. Ageing Research Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.2014.03.006

3. Kligman A.M. et al. Infrared Radiation and Skin Aging: Clinical Observations and Photobiological Effects. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0190-9622(89)70034-7

4. Krutmann J. et al. Infrared-Induced Dermal Changes and Molecular Pathways. Ageing Research Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.2014.03.006

5. Kligman A.M. et al. Dermal Penetration Depth and Infrared Wavelength Impacts. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0190-9622(89)70034-7

6. Krutmann J. et al. Safety and Overexposure Risks of Chronic Infrared Exposure. Ageing Research Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.2014.03.006

7. Kligman A.M. et al. Oxidative Stress and Skin Structure Changes from Infrared Radiation. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0190-9622(89)70034-7