I’m a huge fan of natural sea salt and magnesium. Salt isn’t just important for flavoring food; it’s also becoming a popular ingredient in skincare products for healthier skin. This simple recipe mixes magnesium with a saltwater solution to create a sea salt spray that nourishes the skin.
Sea salt and saltwater have been used in beauty treatments and skin therapies for ages. There’s even a name for it: thalassotherapy, which refers to the therapeutic use of saltwater. If you have sensitive, acne-prone, or dry skin, saltwater might offer some benefits. Many people notice fewer breakouts, clearer complexions, and better skin texture after applying salt to their skin. Salt scrubs and salt baths are popular methods to integrate this into your skincare routine. I personally like a gentle sea salt spray since it stays on the skin to continuously nourish it.
So, what’s so special about ocean water for the skin? Well, saltwater’s natural antimicrobial properties can help fight off acne-causing bacteria. It’s also loaded with trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. If you’re using Dead Sea salt, you’re getting even more minerals, like higher amounts of chloride and bromide salts.
Salt scrubs are another way to enjoy the benefits of sea salt. They help scrub away dead skin cells, boost collagen, and can assist with blackheads. However, they can be a bit too rough for your face, so it’s best to use them as body scrubs. A saltwater spray for the skin offers similar exfoliating benefits without being too harsh.
While saltwater is trending in the skincare world, it might not work for everyone. If your skin is dry or you have certain conditions, it might feel irritating. However, many find that the minerals in salt are soothing and healing for irritated skin. If you’re unsure, it’s wise to do a patch test before applying it all over your face.
Some dermatologists advise against washing your face with saltwater, but I think that’s a bit extreme. Cultures have used it for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years, and numerous studies highlight its benefits. For example, a 2005 clinical trial showed that bathing in the Dead Sea helped improve psoriasis symptoms by nearly 76%. Another study in 2007 reported over a 95% improvement for psoriasis patients. The effects lasted up to 23 to 33 weeks after treatment. Studies also confirm saltwater’s benefits for eczema, with reduced inflammation and less skin cracking, and some report it helps with dandruff and reducing scalp buildup.
One of the most common uses for saltwater is for oily skin. When the skin produces too much oil, pimples and breakouts can occur. Saltwater can help because it’s drying and healing, making it suitable for oily skin. Plus, its antimicrobial properties fight off harmful bacteria.
However, you shouldn’t overuse saltwater, especially if your skin is on the normal to dry side. Following up with a moisturizer can help keep your skin hydrated. Some recommend starting with a saltwater cleanser or toner just a few times a week.
While it’s easy to mix tap water with table salt for a DIY approach, this isn’t the same as using real sea salt. I prefer using filtered or distilled water with mineral-rich sea salt or Himalayan salt. Finely ground versions dissolve more easily. Adding Epsom salts or magnesium flakes enhances the magnesium content, boosting skin benefits.
Besides its beauty benefits, this sea spray leaves your skin feeling fresh and light. It can be used as a facial toner or all-over nourishing skin spray. If you’ve never tried using salt on your skin, I’d really recommend giving this simple and affordable recipe a shot!
You can also add soothing herbs like calendula, lavender, and chamomile. Brew them into a tea, strain, and then mix in the salt. This can last about 1-2 weeks in the fridge. If you want a more shelf-stable version, consider adding hydrosols: dissolve the salt in hot water, let it cool, and then mix in the hydrosol.
