The salt water from the deep sea contains many beneficial minerals, vitamins, and acids. Some commonly found minerals in salt water include potassium, magnesium, and sulfur, among others (1). Due to these nutrients, many ancient civilizations have used salt water to manage skin conditions. Salt water benefits the skin, and its healing properties make it a crucial ingredient in many relaxing and skin care treatments like balneotherapy and thalassotherapy (2), (3). Saltwater from the sea is also said to have a similar chemical composition to the body’s blood plasma. Therefore, it helps the body cells function well and restores cells that are not performing to their potential. However, there is not much scientific evidence to prove the same.
Benefits Of Salt Water For Your Skin
While salt water is hailed to be great for your skin, it is important to note that not a lot of scientific research or evidence exists to prove these benefits. All of these claims are based on anecdotal evidence. Here is what salt water claims to offer if you add it to your skin care regimen.
1. May Relieve Skin Conditions
Salt water from the sea contains various minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, etc., all of which are said to have healing effects on dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis (1). People with dry skin must be careful when using salt water as it can dry out their skin even more. The best way to go about using it on dry skin is to follow it up with a moisturizing cream.
2. May Eliminate Acne
Acne is caused by a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (4). The salt in salt water has antimicrobial properties that may help fight this acne-causing bacteria.Salt water is said to absorb the bacteria present in your skin, unclog your pores, and shrink them. It is also claimed to help detoxify your skin, reduce acne breakouts, and generally keep your dermis healthy.
3. May Heal Blemishes
Salty water from the sea contains many minerals, including drying agents like sulfur (1). These minerals are commonly used in anti-blemish skin products. If you have acne and blemishes, taking a dip in the sea may be a good idea. A combination of the sun’s rays with salt water may help heal your blemishes. That said, if you decide to take a dip in the sea for your skin health, do not forget to put on a generous amount of sunscreen. Apart from taking a dip, you can also bring in some seawater home in a bottle. Use it as a cleanser in your existing skin care routine.
4. May Heal Wounds
Salt water from the deep sea (over 200 m of depth) has been found to heal wounds in a research setting (1). However, its application in real life for the same is not well-researched.
5. Acts As A Facial Toner
Salt water is an excellent facial toner. Applying salt water on your skin helps shrink your pores and removes oil from them, giving your skin a refreshing feel. To use salt water as a facial toner, pour it into a bottle with a spray nozzle. The best time to use your salt water toner is after washing your face and before you apply makeup. This will ensure your skin remains oil-free and fresh throughout the day!
How To Use Salt Water For Skin
Salt is easily found in all households, and salt water is easy to prepare. Here are some ways you can use salt water to enjoy skin benefits:
1. Anti-Inflammatory Mask
If you want to reduce the redness and irritation on your face, here’s what you need to do:
2. Exfoliating Scrub
Salt and salt water are both excellent exfoliators that help remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Salt water from the sea contains minerals that restore your skin’s hydration levels. You can make salt water at home or use salt water from the sea to prepare this scrub: Mix a quarter cup of salt and some water or use a cup of seawater.
3. Comforting Salt Bath
Using salt water to take a bath is comforting. Salt water removes excess oil from the skin, dirt, toxins, and dead skin cells from all over the body. Taking a salt water bath can help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated after a tiring day. Just add 2-3 cups of sea salt to a bathtub of water and step in for a relaxing experience.
4. Facial Toner
Toner is an integral part of your daily skin routine. The main goal of the toner is to remove any excess oil from the skin, unclog the pores, and tighten them. You can prepare your own salt water-based facial toner at home: Spray this toner on your face before applying makeup. Wipe the excess away with a clean cotton pad.
5. De-Puffer For Eyes
Your eyes can speak volumes about your mood and health. Unfortunately, puffy eyes and dark circles can add to your existing skin woes. Salt water is claimed to de-puff your eyes with its anti-inflammatory properties. Wondering if there are any side effects of using salt water on the skin? Find out in the next section.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Salt Water On Skin?
As with any other substance, using salt water on the skin has some adverse effects. Though salt water is beneficial for those with dry skin, it can also dry out the skin further. Therefore, it is important that they follow it up with a hydrating product to prevent the skin from drying out excessively. If you wish to take a dip in the sea for its skin benefits, it is essential to use sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Salt water can be very abrasive on your skin. Therefore, make sure you wash it off thoroughly and always use a moisturizer after swimming in the sea or taking a salt water bath. Can I use salt water on my face daily? You may use salt water on your face daily. However, it may have an abrasive effect so take care to rinse the skin thoroughly afterwards. In addition, salt water may dry out dry skin even further, so those with naturally dry skin should use it with caution and less frequently. Does salt water brighten skin? Salt may act as an exfoliant and help clear skin of dead cells, dirt and buildup. Hence it may help make the skin appear brighter and more radiant.
