I didn't buy this as a facial sauna, but as a source of steam when I have a cold or chest infection (I am asthmatic). The wonderful thing about it is that you can sit upright and breathe in steam without the risk of tipping scalding water on yourself. I keep it by my bed and can use it in the night if I need - something you can't do with a bowl of boiling water or even a traditional facial sauna. But do take care not to hold it too close and burn yourself and it is not suitable for children to use unsupervised.