Many individuals tend to avoid salt consumption due to its potential to cause bloating and contribute to high blood pressure. However, despite its internal effects, salt can have a plethora of benefits for your epidermis. Whether it's taking a dip in the ocean or utilizing a homemade concoction, salt water can work wonders for your skin. At the Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute (DCSI), our seasoned dermatologists have identified several advantages of salt water for the skin.
A Great Remedy for Various Skin Conditions
Magnesium, calcium, and potassium are all skin-friendly minerals that can be found in sea salt. These minerals are great benefits of salt water since they help combat acne-causing bacteria and skin infections, as well as speed up the healing process. Those with oily skin can benefit from washing using a saltwater solution with its moisture-reducing abilities that can help control excess oil, which often leads to clogged pores. If you have eczema, you can really benefit by using salt water in your skincare routine since magnesium is an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial mineral that alleviates itching and reduces moisture from bacteria and fungi that causes eczema.
Gentle Exfoliant
Besides its “scrubby” element, sea salt acts as a great exfoliant that opens pores for a deeper clean, increases blood circulation, and allows your skin to better absorb moisturizers and other treatments. If you have sensitive skin, salt water should be used for your body instead of the face, where your skin is thinner and more easily irritated.
Acne Treatment
Saltwater has antimicrobial properties that can help to fight bacteria and reduce acne, working as an effective acne treatment in several ways. Saltwater can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. This is because it has a drying effect on the skin, which can help to unclog pores and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells. It's important to note that excessive use of salt water can also have negative effects on the skin, such as dryness and irritation. This means the use of saltwater should not be a part of your daily routine, though you can use it regularly.
Rejuvenating Scrub
If you don’t have sensitive skin and are looking to attain softer skin, incorporate sea salt into your skincare routine. One of the benefits of salt water for the skin is that it aids in skin cell turnover, helping you achieve a softer facial texture.
Improving Circulation
Saltwater can improve circulation in several ways. It contains minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood flow. Also, the act of swimming or soaking in salt water can help to increase heart rate and stimulate blood flow throughout the body. This can help to improve circulation to the skin, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the cells. Improved circulation can also help to promote healing and regeneration of the skin, making it look younger and more vibrant while giving you a glow.
Anti-Dandruff Treatment
You don’t have to use salt water for just your face. You can also use it in your hair. Salt water helps loosen and remove dandruff while stimulating blood circulation for a healthier scalp. Also, sea salt helps keep fungal growth at bay by absorbing excess oil and moisture.
Anti-Inflammatory
Saltwater is a great anti-inflammatory for the skin. It has a drying effect on the skin, which can help to reduce the symptoms associated with inflammation. The minerals that are in salt water have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation. Similar to improving circulation, the act of swimming or soaking in salt water can help to increase blood flow and promote lymphatic drainage, which can help to remove toxins and reduce inflammation.
Learn More With Dr. Wassef of DCSI!
With so many more benefits of salt water for skin, we wouldn’t be surprised if you decide to visit the beach more often! If you’d like to learn more about washing your skin with salt water or if you’d like a professional skin rejuvenation facial, contact our Wellington clinic at 561-426-1791 or Delray clinic at 561-637-0222 today! You can also check out some more of our news articles and blogs that have more information regarding nails, skin, and hair.Infographic added to page March 2021.
