Make your own sensory relaxing facial steam

This pampering session is good sensory experience for a moment of calm and relaxation and can be tailored to your own tastes easily.

If you have an electric facial steamer- great (just make sure to check the instructions before adding anything to it), but if not, a bowl with hot water also works well.

A big bowl filled with steaming water and dried herbs are on the table next to some bottles of essential oils.

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting. 

Who is this for

This is a crafting activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a sensory activity that helps people explore personal choice while supporting independence in the activity.

How to do this activity

What you’ll need

A table top is shown with a bowl, some essential oils and a selection of dried herbs and flowers. / --
  • Flat bottomed bowl or facial steamer
  • Essential oils
  • Dried flowers or herbs
  • Hot water
  • Towel

Safety note: this session involves hot water, please take the necessary precautions. If using a bowl, pick one that is flat bottomed and harder to knock over.

A table top is shown with a bowl, some essential oils and a selection of dried herbs and flowers.

Step 1

Gather some dried herbs or flowers and essential oils. Spend some time exploring the different textures and smells and pick some favourites.
A hand is pouring some essential oils into a bowl

Step 2

Pour some hot water into a flat-bottomed bowl. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oils.
A hand is adding some dried herbs.

Step 3

Add some pieces of your chosen dried flowers and herbs.

Step 4

Sit or stand with your face positioned over the bowl. Enjoy for as long as you wish, inhaling the smells and enjoying the heat on your skin.

Top tips

  • Place the towel over your head to create a tent over the bowl, to keep the heat in longer.
  • Feel free to mix and match essential oils and dried/fresh botanicals.
    • Lavender, chamomile or rose is good for sensitive skin calming and relaxation. Rose or sage is good for oily skin
    • Lemon peel is good for cleansing and brightening skin, and is energizing
    • We suggest good quality camomile tea with a few drops of lavender essential oil before bed, and in the morning, fresh lemon peel with green tea.