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Plus, how to use a face steamer at home.

Some might say that blackhead removal videos are satisfying to watch, but truly, dealing with blackheads is not a fun time. It's a challenge figuring out how to remove deep blackheads that just won't go away, but dermatologist Dr. Stacy Chimento, M.D. of Riverchase Dermatology says a good facial steamer might just help.

Yes — for some skin types. "If your main concern is acne, you don’t have rosacea or eczema, and your skin isn't too sensitive," says Dr. Chimento, then a steamer is for you. According to Dr. Chimento, facial steaming is a good option for patients with oily, acne-prone skin or deep-rooted blackheads because water vapor from a facial steamer helps accomplish two things:

But if you don't have acne, it's probably better to skip a facial steamer — especially if you suffer from dry skin, sensitive skin, or rosacea. "The heat from facial steaming can lead to dilation of blood vessels, causing flushing, increased inflammation, and worsening of conditions like rosacea," Dr. Chimento explains. This is because hotter temperatures and hot water strip more natural moisturizers from the skin than cooler temperatures. For your best bet, consult your dermatologist first.

Putting hot steam near your face can be intimidating, we know. Here's what you need to know before getting started:

While the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab tests thousands of skincare products and devices each year, we have yet to formally test facial steamers in the Labs. Our product pros instead vetted eight picks from thorough product expertise, research, and rave online reviews, plus dermatologist suggestions. We considered factors like price, value, and feedback on ease of use and performance. So if you want to get rid of nasty blackheads or maybe treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at home, check out the best facial steamers of 2021:

The brand says that this steamer generates nano-ionic steam as a result of mixing heat with an ultra-sonic vaporizer. The five piece set includes the NanoSteamer, power cable, storage pouch, and bonus blackhead extractor kit. The facial steamer's price is pretty decent for the device of its kind, which is probably why it has a cult following of 15,000 Amazon reviews. Along with beauty use, it's said to also be a pretty good humidifier.

Conair is a budget-friendly beauty brand that has performed well across categories, including skincare. This facial steamer sauna system includes one warm facial steamer, a nasal cone for targeted steaming for blackheads on the nose, and an exfoliating brush with two interchangeable heads — all for $40. Reviewers like that you can set the timer between three and 15 minutes, though some wish the machine produced more steam.

This little facial steamer is currently Amazon's #1 seller for facial steamers with a boasting 4.2 star rating. "I bought it with the intention of using it before face masks to make them more effective, and got the added bonus of my sinuses feeling so much better!" says one reviewer. Also included is a cute headband to pull your hair back and four blackhead removing instruments.

This Panasonic pick is top-searched across the web and offers a quicker treatment that steams your skin for six minutes. Reviewers like that it's lightweight and portable, though some say it's pricey considering the shorter steaming time.

The brand is known for its luxurious quality (and prices), and this professional facial steamer is one to impress. It features a wide nozzle for full steam coverage and micro-steam technology that's supposed to soothe your skin in as quickly as nine minutes. "It improves the effectiveness of my serums and it is just such a luxurious and relaxing way to do skincare," says one happy reviewer. "It's a worthwhile investment."

Several sources and search results point to Vanity Planet's Aira facial steamer, which is bundled with the brand's popular Raedia exfoliating brush. The Aira includes a large, 85 milliliter water tank and when paired with the included Raedia brush, can help effectively remove dirt and buildup. "I feel like my face is cleaner after using both products," says one reviewer.

Kingsteam says its facial steamer stands apart from others because of its advanced PTC (positive temperature coefficient) ceramic heater, which produces "abundant and consistent hot mists in seconds." The steamer also includes a UV light that claims to sterilize the steam, plus an extendable arm and rotating sprayer so you can lay down while steaming.

If you're looking for an ultra-fine cooling mist, this handheld steamer spray emits a 0.3 micrometer mist that absorbs quickly into the skin. The 30 milliliter water tank is said to have the capacity for more than 10 sprays, which can be enough to last you a full day. Some cosmetologists also say they like using the facial mister for curing the adhesive on eyelash extensions, which makes it great for multi-purpose use.