What is the maximum distance the facial steamer should be positioned away from the client?

The correct answer indicates that the facial steamer should be positioned a maximum of 18 inches away from the client to ensure safety and effectiveness. Maintaining this distance helps to avoid the risk of burns or discomfort from the steam's heat, while still allowing the therapeutic benefits of the steam to penetrate the skin effectively.

At this distance, the warm, moist air can help to open up the pores, hydrate the skin, and prepare it for further treatments, such as exfoliation or masks, without overwhelming the client. Steam that is too close may create an overly intense heat, leading to potential skin irritation, while being placed too far apart may diminish the steamer's efficacy, failing to deliver adequate moisture or warmth.

Positions too far beyond this maximum, such as 24 or 30 inches, reduce the benefits associated with the steamer, making it ineffective for its intended purpose. Therefore, 18 inches strikes the right balance for effective facial treatment, providing both comfort and the physiological benefits of steam.