I’m a big fan of natural sea salt and magnesium. Salt is not only essential in food but is also becoming a popular component in skincare products for healthier skin. This recipe combines magnesium with a saltwater solution to create a skin-nourishing sea salt spray.
Sea salt and salt water have a long history of use in various beauty recipes and skin treatments. This application has a specific name: thalassotherapy, which refers to the therapeutic use of salt water. Whether you have sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or dry skin, salt water might provide benefits.
Skin Benefits of Salt Water
Many individuals observe reduced acne, a clearer complexion, and improved skin texture with regular salt usage on their skin. Salt scrubs or bathing with salt are some popular methods to incorporate this into your skincare routine. I also like this gentle sea salt spray as it stays on the skin to continuously nourish it.
What makes ocean water so beneficial for the skin? Since saltwater is naturally antimicrobial, it can help combat acne-causing bacteria. It’s also rich in naturally occurring trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. If we’re considering salt from places like the Dead Sea, it contains a higher concentration of chloride, bromide salts, and other minerals.
I mentioned earlier that salt scrubs are a popular medium to obtain sea salt’s skin benefits. These scrubs assist in exfoliating dead skin cells, boosting collagen, and addressing blackheads. However, salt scrubs can be too abrasive for facial skin, so I prefer using them as body scrubs. You can still attain many of these exfoliating benefits with a saltwater skin spray.
Salt Water For Different Skin Types
While salt water is becoming trendy in skincare, it’s not suitable for everyone. If you have dry skin or certain skin conditions, it may cause irritation. However, many find that the salt’s healing minerals can soothe irritated skin. If uncertain, doing a patch test before applying it all over your face is a good idea.
Some dermatologists discourage washing the face with salt water, but this may overlook its potential benefits. Cultures have utilized saltwater therapeutically for thousands of years, and studies have researched its advantages for musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis and skin issues like psoriasis.
A 2005 clinical trial examined the effects of bathing in the Dead Sea on psoriasis lesions. The study revealed a nearly 76% improvement in psoriasis symptoms. In a similar study in 2007, psoriasis patients saw over 95% improvement in symptoms. Impressive enough, the effects post-treatment lasted around 23 weeks with extended positive impacts for about 33 weeks.
Other studies have explored the benefits of saltwater on eczema, reporting improved inflammation and reduced skin cracking for patients.
Some people also report excellent results in managing dandruff and reducing scalp buildup.
Another study focused on using saltwater baths for EB, a rare yet painful skin disorder causing blisters. EB patients reported 91% less pain and considerable improvements in skin odor and discharge. While most of us won’t experience this condition, it demonstrates the potent effects saltwater can have on skin health.
How Saltwater Benefits Oily Skin
One popular use of saltwater washes is for oily skin. Excess oil production can lead to pimples and breakouts. Because saltwater is drying and healing, it’s ideal for oily skin types. It’s also antimicrobial and can fight pathogenic bacteria on the skin.
How to Use Salt Water for Skin
Using too much saltwater isn’t advised, especially if you have normal to dry skin types. Follow up with a moisturizer for extra hydration after a saltwater spray. Some sources recommend starting with a saltwater cleanser or toner just a few times a week.
Many people create a homemade version by mixing tap water and table salt. However, this doesn’t match the benefits received from bathing in sea salt! I avoid table salt and don’t prefer it for a salt spray either. This spray uses filtered or distilled water (or herbal tea) with mineral-rich sea salt or Himalayan salt. Finely ground salt dissolves more easily.
Don’t Forget the Magnesium
Including Epsom salts or magnesium flakes in my salt spray is essential as they are fantastic sources of magnesium and beneficial for the skin. While sea salt does contain trace magnesium, supplementing it significantly enhances the benefits.
In addition to its beauty benefits, this sea spray leaves skin feeling refreshing and light. It can be used as a facial toner or an all-over skin nourishing spray. If you’ve never tried salt for skincare, this simple and economical recipe could be worth trying!
Sea Salt Spray for Healthy Skin
Salt water for the skin is an ancient tradition! This nourishing spray helps balance the skin with mineral-rich sea salt and magnesium.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cooling Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
Yield: 8 ounces
Author: Katie Wells
- Add salt and Epsom salt or magnesium flakes to water in a small pot. Heat gently and stir until the salt completely dissolves.
- Allow to cool and add essential oils if desired.
- Store in a glass spray bottle in a cool place.
To use: Shake well and spray on a cotton pad to use as a toner or lightly mist skin. I also love using this after swimming!
Add More Herbal Benefits to Your Spray
Soothing herbs like calendula, lavender, and chamomile are great additions. Make a tea with them, strain, and add your salt. This will last about 1-2 weeks in the fridge. For a shelf-stable version, try using hydrosols. Dissolve the salt in 3/4 cup hot water, then add 1/4 cup hydrosol once cooled.
Do you use salt water for skin health? Share your experience below!
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