Q: I would like to know the true advantages or benefits of steaming. I have heard that steaming is good for breathing, burning fat and reducing stretchmarks. On the contrary, I’ve read too much steaming ruins body tissue. Is steaming a benefit?

A: Yes, steaming can be great for your complexion and for your bod (and has loads of helpful health benefits too). Expert skin care therapist and director of the Delaire Graff Estate Spa (www.delaire.co.za), Taffryn Kinsey has this advice to give you: "Wet heat opens the pores of your skin to aid body detoxification by eliminating toxins. The combination of heat and humidity may also aid stress relief, body cleansing as well as soothing aching muscles or arthritis. But like most things in life, anything in excess isn’t good for you."

Taffryn’s best advice is to enjoy a steam once to twice a week for the following benefits:

  • Rejuvenating, deep cleansing and hydrating the skin,
  • Boosting your immune system and promoting antibody production
  • Enhancing the respiratory system,
  • Reducing stress and the appearance of wrinkles,
  • Relaxing and soothing mind and body,
  • Relieving stress and relaxing muscles,
  • Increasing body metabolism
  • Keeping mucous membranes from excessive drying
  • Siding against cellulite

And…you can also enjoy a daily steam if you need to tackle certain health issues until you’re feeling well again:

  • Relieving the discomfort of asthma, allergies and arthritis
  • Relieving throat irritation by moistening the air
  • Relaxing muscles and relieving coughing
  • Relieving inflammation and congestion of upper respiratory mucous membranes
  • Loosening secretions and stimulating the discharge of mucous from the throat and lungs (natural expectorant)