How does steam benefit the skin during a facial treatment?

Steam benefits the skin during a facial treatment primarily by opening up the pores, which allows for deeper cleansing. When steam is applied to the skin, it increases the temperature of the skin's surface, causing the pores to dilate. This dilation helps to soften any impurities, dirt, and oils that may be trapped within the pores, making it easier to cleanse the skin thoroughly. As a result, the treatment can effectively remove build-up and promote a clearer complexion.

In addition to promoting deeper cleansing, steam also helps to enhance blood circulation, which can lead to improved skin tone and texture. This warming effect can also increase the efficacy of the products used after steaming, allowing them to penetrate more deeply into the skin.

The other options, while they may refer to aspects of facial treatments, do not accurately describe the primary benefit of steam. Steam is not associated with cooling the skin, tightening the pores, or directly removing excess oils; rather, its main purpose is to facilitate deeper exfoliation and cleansing by preparing the skin effectively for subsequent steps in the facial process.