Beaches can supply us with a satisfyingly serene setting for a relaxing afternoon and offer calming blue waters that lure us in for a refreshing dip when we need an escape from the sun’s sultry rays.
But did you know that sea salt water may supply advantages beyond relief from the sizzling summer heat?
It’s true. In fact, saltwater can work wonders for your skin barrier. However, not all saltwater is created equal. Before you whip out the salt shaker for a homemade concoction, let’s dive into the potential perks of saltwater on your skin to determine if more time in the ocean water is what your skin needs.
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3 Benefits of Salt Water for Skin
It’s the question of the hour: Is salt water good for your skin?
In a word, yes—but its effects can vary depending on the amount and type of saltwater you use [1].
For example, if you create an at-home remedy of salt and water, the tiny salt particles will act as a gentle physical exfoliant to help remove dead skin cells, paving the way for new skin cells to come to the surface. However, this homemade exfoliant won’t have the same mineral content as salt water derived from the source—the ocean [2].
Sea water that comes from a depth of 200 meters or deeper [3] (a.k.a., deep sea water) may offer more rewarding benefits than an at-home blend. That’s because deep sea water (DSW) retains a lot of the nutrient-dense minerals our skin craves, including [4]:
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Selenium
- Chromium
- Zinc
- Vanadium
Below are some of the salt water benefits (and its plethora of minerals) that may be able to help treat various skin conditions.
It May Combat Eczema Symptoms
Living with skin issues eczema presents its own set of challenges—itchy and painful dry skin, and flare-ups when you least expect them [5]. Fortunately, salt water may prove to be an effective treatment for some of eczema’s uncomfortable symptoms.
One of the minerals found in DSW, zinc, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties [6]. People have used it as a natural healing tool for centuries [7]. Because DSW holds trace amounts of zinc, it could have a positive impact on inflammation caused by eczema.
During a recent study, people with atopic eczema dermatitis were treated with deep sea water. The results showed that the water alleviated some of their eczema-related symptoms, including [8]:
- Inflammation
- Cracking in the skin
- Thickness in the outer layer of the skin
It May Alleviate Skin Allergies
Research has shown that DSW may play a role in reducing allergic responses in the skin [9]. The minerals in DSW may lessen the symptoms associated with skin allergies by lowering the release of histamine (the substance that triggers allergic reactions) [10]. If you’re able to stop the production of histamine, you stand a better chance of staving off unwanted symptoms of skin allergies, like itching.
It Can Exfoliate Your Skin—and May Help Avoid Breakouts
Without the occasional exfoliant, your skin could create a build-up of dead skin cells [11]. An excess of cells and oils can block your pores and cause future acne breakouts and blemishes [12]. So, whether you’re wading in the calm blue ocean water or curating a remedy at home, salt water can help acne and exfoliate the dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin.
The result? New, healthy cells in their place.
But if you’re interested in a tried and true exfoliant that also acts as a cleanser and toner, why not opt for a personalized facial cleanser instead? With PROVEN, you can get a cleanser, toner, and exfoliator all in one easy-to-use product, with ingredients tailored to your skin’s unique needs.
Your Personalized Skincare Solution is Waiting For You at PROVEN
While you may not be diving into the deep sea in search of this coveted mineral-filled saltwater anytime soon, with the right skincare products at your side, you won’t have to.
At PROVEN, we take every aspect of your skin into consideration to develop personalized skincare routines. Using our skincare database and natural, science-backed ingredients, we can formulate the perfect three-step skincare solution for your skin’s unique needs. Whether you’re the owner of dry skin, acne-prone skin, or have a combination of challenges waiting to be addressed, we’ll curate a daily cleanser, moisturizer, and night cream with personalized ingredients to help improve your skin’s overall health and complexion.
Take the first step by completing our three-minute skincare quiz to find your perfect formula.
