“Salt acts as a mechanical exfoliant and scrub, removing dead skin cells. This leaves the skin feeling smoother, softer, and brighter. Through osmotic actions, salts absorb toxins and draw out dirt and oil. Improved pore size is another benefit,” says Amin.
"Washing with salt water can help to reduce excess oil, making it a good option for those with oily skin," explains Garshick. Leaves the skin brighter and smoother: By exfoliating away dead skin cells, salt water may act as a mechanical exfoliant, which will leave the skin brighter and smoother, says Garshick.
Salt water naturally absorbs bacteria in the skin. It also tightens the skin to reduce pores, and sucks pore-clogging oil and toxins out of the skin. Eventually, this action helps to reduce breakouts and you get clear and glowing skin.
Washing your face with salt water can be harsh and irritating, according to Shirazi, who warns that overuse can compromise your skin barrier. “This can worsen some skin conditions like acne and eczema, or potentially cause hyperpigmentation and scarring as a result.
Acne could benefit from the exfoliative, pore-cleansing effect of ocean water – specifically, magnesium-based ocean water. Theoretically, the salt can draw out oils from the skin and dry out pimples. That said, ocean water and a made-at-home mixture of sea salt and water and very different things.
“Ocean water contains high levels of salt, which has a drying and exfoliating effect on the skin. There are anecdotal reports of ocean water clearing up skin conditions like acne. The salt helps remove excess oil from the skin to dry out pimples,” Dr. Zeichner confirms to Teen Vogue.
Salt water is a powerful acne medication that works by cleansing the cells and reducing the bacteria – while keep the skin pH levels intake. Salt water straight from the ocean is one of the best ways to take advantage of this because its natural and rich in minerals.
Salty Foods
Iodized salt, which is the kind that you usually sprinkle onto your food, can also aggravate your skin more and cause breakouts.
Saltwater itself is not bad for your skin, but constant exposure to a combination of salt, sun and sand can irritate and dry out skin, especially for those with a history of dry skin or other issues like eczema.
You may use salt water on your face daily. However, it may have an abrasive effect so take care to rinse the skin thoroughly afterwards. In addition, salt water may dry out dry skin even further, so those with naturally dry skin should use it with caution and less frequently.
No, salt applied to the skin does not penetrate into the epidermis. This is not possible for two reasons. The first is that the top layer of the epidermis is composed of dead skin cells, which cannot actively pick up salt.
Saltwater may benefit the skin because it contains minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, and may have antibacterial properties. Deep sea water may help certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, although this may be due to the high nutrient content rather than salt.
Facial toner. Nix excess oil and prevent acne with salt's antimocrobial benefits. Try it: Mix one cup of warm water with one tablespoon of sea salt and a pinch of epsom salt until both have dissolved. Use a spray bottle to mist onto skin or swipe it on using a cotton pad.
Many people use Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) topically to soothe aching muscles, relieve tension, and treat skin conditions like acne.
It can help absorb excess oil: According to Gohara, this, coupled with potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, is why it could theoretically be beneficial for acne-prone skin. "The salt absorbs excess oil, which is often a problem given that sebum is an acne precursor," she explains.
A natural exfoliant that is safe for your skin
The reason why table salt is a good alternative is that it's fine enough to get into your pores without tearing your skin. Salt is a natural exfoliant that sloughs off dead skin softens your skin, and restores hydration.
Sea salt helps combat the overproduction of oil, leading to clogged pores. It also absorbs toxins, including acne-causing bacteria, and works to treat those pesky dark spots pimpled leave behind.
Microdermabrasion: A dermatologist uses a specialized instrument to “sand” your skin. Removing the top layers of your skin frees the clogs that cause blackheads. Chemical peels: Chemical peels use a mild chemical solution to remove layers of skin and reduce blackheads.