There are face sprays, toners, oils, tinctures, lotions, masks, butters, and so much more to improve the health of your skin. Sea salt and magnesium are two ingredients receiving a lot of attention in the beauty world. Although this is relatively new, sea salt and water have a long history of use in various skin and beauty therapies. It even has its own name: thalassotherapy, the therapeutic use of salt water. People with various skin types may benefit from using salt water.
Skin Benefits Of Salt Water
Historically, people who use salt on their skin notice fewer breakouts, clearer complexion, and improved skin texture. Salt scrubs, Epsom salt baths, or salt baths are excellent methods to add to your skin care routine. Using a sea salt scrub on your skin can be a little rough for people with sensitive skin, though. Fortunately, the use of a gentle sea salt spray stays on the skin and helps to nourish it throughout the day.
Why is salt water so great for the skin? Well, it is naturally antimicrobial and can help get rid of acne-causing bacteria. Sea salt is also rich in naturally occurring trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, but Epsom salt, which is in this spray recipe, contains other beneficial minerals. In general, though, salt can help boost collagen production and aid with the removal of blackheads.
Salt Water For Different Skin Types
Unlike other ingredients, salt is not the perfect fit for everyone’s skin type. If you have dryness or certain skin conditions, you may find it irritating. That said, many people with eczema and psoriasis benefit from the healing minerals in Epsom salt. If you are unsure whether or not salt negatively affects your skin, try a patch test before rubbing it all over your face and body.
Now, some dermatologists discourage people from washing their face with salt water. Various cultures have used this practice for thousands of years, though. In fact, studies found that salt water benefits musculoskeletal issues like arthritis and skin problems like psoriasis. A 2005 clinical trial examined the benefits of bathing in the Dead Sea as a remedy for psoriasis. The authors behind the study reported a 76% improvement in psoriasis symptoms. A similar study from 2007 saw a 95% improvement in symptoms.
Other studies examined the effects of salt water on eczema. The studies noted that patients experienced less inflammation and skin cracking. Other people note that salt water is highly beneficial for reducing dandruff. Another study examined the use of salt water baths for EB, a rare and painful skin disorder that causes blisters. EB patients reported having 91% less pain and saw improvements in skin discharge and odor. Salt water may not have the ability to cure diseases, but it may be powerful enough to improve your skin.
How To Use Salt Water For Skin
You don’t want to use too much salt water, especially if you have dry skin. Try to follow up the salt spray in this article with a moisturizer for extra hydration. Some sources recommend that you start with a salt water cleanser or toner a few times a week before using the following spray. Whatever you do, don’t forget to add Epsom salt or magnesium flakes to the salt spray. Either of these ingredients will complement the benefits of sea salt.
DIY Sea Salt Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Epsom salt (or magnesium flakes)
- 2 drops essential oil of choice (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour the water, sea salt, and Epsom salt (or magnesium flakes) into a small saucepan over medium heat. You don’t want the water to boil; rather, you just want to heat and stir until everything is completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool. Stir in the essential oil, if using.
- Pour into a glass spray bottle and store in a cool, dry place.
- Shake well before each use. Spray on a cotton pad and use it as a toner, or you can lightly mist your skin with this spray.
