Put about an inch of water in the bottom of a large pot and bring to a boil. Alternately, if using a bowl, boil water in a tea kettle or pot and pour into the bowl.

Fold a towel in half and place it on a sturdy, heat-proof, flat surface like a counter or table.

Place the pot or bowl on top of this towel.

Remove the lid and check the temperature of the steam to make sure it isn’t too hot for your face.

Lean over the pot and cover head with a towel to create a tent, letting as little air escape as possible.

Slowly breathe in the steam for up to 10 minutes. I find it helpful to try to breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth at first and then eventually try to breathe in and out through the nose to loosen congestion. If needed, let any mucus fall into the pot (yes, I know it is gross, but the pot can be washed!).

When finished, pour out the liquid and herbs in the pot (never reuse!) and thoroughly wash the pot. For skin benefits, I also like to wipe my face with a 50/50 mix of apple cider vinegar and water after a face steam to tone skin and remove anything that has loosened from the pores.