Salt water may benefit skin health and appearance. Limited research has found seawater may have an exfoliating effect on the skin, making it look and feel smoother. Seawater is also rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the skin.
The skin is exposed to irritants daily, including the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, pollution, allergens, and pathogens like bacteria. These factors damage the skin and can change skin color, texture, and hydration.
More research is needed to determine if topical salt water treatments are effective and safe. People with sensitive skin may not tolerate salt water exposure well.
Seawater and deep sea water are rich in minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Deep sea water is pumped from a depth of over 200 meters (about 656 feet) underground. It is more abundant in minerals than surface water. Salt water mixtures made from boiled water and salt also provide some minerals, but less than seawater.
Provides Nutrients
Your skin can absorb certain nutrients from salt water, potentially increasing your levels. Seawater and deep sea water are rich in magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, strontium, zinc, sulfides, and bromides. You can also make a salt water mixture by combining boiled water with Epsom salt, a natural compound made from magnesium sulfate.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that has many skin benefits and may have anti-inflammatory effects. One study found that soaking in water mixed with Epsom salts may increase the body’s magnesium levels in the blood. However, the researchers noted that the body absorbs more magnesium through oral supplements.
Exposing the skin to the minerals in seawater may reduce inflammation and signs of aging. It may also improve the skin’s barrier repair. More research is needed to determine if the skin can absorb significant levels of minerals from seawater.
Offers Relief for Skin Conditions
Some studies have found that soaking in salt water may benefit people with chronic (long-term) skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. People with eczema may benefit from exposure to deep sea water because of its mineral content. One research review found that deep sea water treatment may reduce inflammation, swelling, skin cracking, dryness, and itching.
Deep sea water may also improve skin symptoms in people with allergies. The minerals in deep sea water may reduce the allergic response in the skin and prevent inflammation. One review found that sitting in a salt bath before light therapy may improve treatment outcomes in people with psoriasis. More research is needed to determine if salt water is a safe and effective treatment option for skin conditions.
Removes Dead Skin
Soaking in salt water may have an exfoliating effect on the skin. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells. Dead skin cells built up on the skin’s surface can lead to dryness, dullness, and acne. Grains of salt in salt water may work as mechanical exfoliants to slough off dead cells. You can also buy salt scrubs over the counter (OTC).
Salt grains may be irritating, especially for people with sensitive skin types.
Improves Texture
Exposure to salt water may improve skin texture. One study found that using a face serum with salt water may stimulate skin cell renewal. Improved skin cell turnover improves the look and feel of the skin. Study participants who used a facial serum with magnetized saline water reported improved hydration, less redness, and reduced inflammation in their skin.
You can incorporate salt water into your skincare routine in several ways. For instance, you can gently rinse your face with a salt water mixture before cleansing.
You can also use a skin care product that contains salt water, such as a serum, soak, or scrub. Test the salt water treatment on a small area of skin to ensure it doesn’t irritate your skin. Then, use the product as instructed on the label. Salt water can dry out skin, so avoid using it every day.
Consider talking to a dermatologist before making changes to your daily regimen. A dermatologist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions. They can perform regular skin checks and answer questions you have about the benefits and risks of salt water.
Ask your dermatologist for recommendations if you want to use salt water as an exfoliant. Course salt granules can cause skin tearing and irritation. Never scrub your face with salt water, and avoid using salt water on sunburnt or irritated skin.
Salt water may improve acne, but more research is needed. Salt water has an exfoliating effect on the skin, so it may reduce the chances of developing acne. Dry skin cells can plug pores and lead to pimples. Exfoliating treatments remove dead skin cells, which may help reduce acne and lead to smoother skin.
Talk with your dermatologist before trying salt water for acne. If your skin is already red or inflamed from acne, salt water may cause more irritation.
Using salt water on your skin can be irritating and may lead to redness and inflammation. People prone to acne, dryness, or a chronic skin condition like eczema or psoriasis may experience worsening symptoms due to irritation from salt water.
Keep in mind that homemade salt water does not have the same benefits as ocean water or deep sea water. The mineral content is different, and this may affect the benefits.
Stop using salt water if you develop any signs of irritation, such as dryness, flaking, redness, or itching. Make an appointment with your dermatologist to discuss your skincare goals and safe treatment options.
Salt water may improve skin texture and appearance by providing hydrating and exfoliating effects. Other ways to improve the look and feel of your skin include:
- Moisturizers: Use a gentle moisturizer once or twice daily to keep your skin hydrated and to prevent dryness, dullness, and flaking.
- Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen every day to reduce UV damage and prevent signs of aging.
- Chemical exfoliation: Topical serums that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) dissolve and remove dead skin cells to leave the skin looking brighter and smoother.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C serums protect the skin from environmental irritants like pollution and improve wrinkles and discoloration.
- Hyaluronic acid: This natural substance gives the skin its elasticity and can improve the look and feel of the skin. It is available as a supplement or topical treatment.
- Retinoids: Retinol and other types of retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that stimulate skin cell turnover and boost collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Salt water is water that contains salt and includes homemade salt water, ocean water, deep sea water, and water mixed with Epsom salt. Salt water may be beneficial for skin but more research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety. There are currently no recommended salt water regimens for the skin.
Salt water from the ocean or underground is rich in minerals and may provide the body with magnesium. It may also have an exfoliating effect on the skin. Talk with your dermatologist before starting a new salt water skincare regimen.
