Salt water isn’t exclusive to the ocean—applying it to your skin could actually be beneficial! Washing your face with salt water can clean pores by brushing away dead cells (exfoliating), heal some skin ailments, and even slim down lines.¹ That being said, don’t go splashing salt water all over your face just yet. Salt water isn’t suitable for everyone. Some individuals may find that it’s too abrasive, and it may worsen some skin issues.
How Salt Water Can Help Your Skin
1. Acts as a Natural Exfoliant
Your outer layer of skin (the epidermis) consists of four layers. New skin cells are produced far in and work their way up to the surface over a period of approximately 30 to 40 days. When they get to the top, they die and gradually flake off (desquamation).²
Salt water works like a gentle scrub, physically removing these dead skin cells without harsh chemicals.¹ The result? Smoother, softer, and brighter skin because you’re revealing the fresh, younger skin underneath.
2. May Help with Eczema
Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) makes skin dry, itchy, and scaly.³ Some research suggests that rinsing with salt water could help calm these symptoms.
The study revealed that mineral-rich salt water containing magnesium, calcium, potassium, selenium, and zinc controlled eczema and even prevented skin from cracking. The researchers believe this is because salt water decreases inflammation and improves the natural barrier function of the skin.¹
3. Might Alleviate Psoriasis Symptoms
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that results in thick, colored spots (red, pink, gray, or purple, depending on your complexion) coated in white scales. The spots mostly occur on the scalp, face, knees, and elbows.⁴
For decades, psoriasis patients have been soaking in saltwater baths (particularly from the Dead Sea) to calm their skin. Science backs them up—one study discovered that immersing themselves in mineral-rich salt water, particularly with UVB light therapy, decreased psoriasis symptoms. Researchers think the light and salt combine to soothe inflammation, regulate the immune system, and enable skin to hold onto moisture.⁵
4. May Reduce Signs of Aging
Ever wonder why spas love saltwater treatments? It could be because salt water may help with wrinkles, dark spots, and other signs of aging.⁶
How does it work? Researchers think salt water helps by:
- Reducing skin inflammation
- Gently exfoliating dead skin cells
- Helping skin stay hydrated⁶
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to keep your skin looking fresh, salt water might be worth a try.
5. Can Help with Mild Acne
Salt water has two great advantages for acne skin:
- It’s anti-inflammatory (which means less red, angry pimples).
- It could be antibacterial too, and help clear out acne-causing bacteria.¹
And because it exfoliates, it removes dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause breakouts.⁷
But watch out! Salt water can also be drying and irritating, and this could worsen acne for some individuals. If unsure, consult a dermatologist before attempting it.
Potential Side Effects of Salt Water for Skin
Despite salt water being beneficial, it is not flawless. Salt can interfere with your skin’s natural protective shield, and this could result in:⁸
- Dryness & flakiness – Excess salt can dry out your skin.
- Worse acne or eczema – Sensitive skin may react worse to salt water.
- Slower healing & increased risk of infection – If you have open skin or cuts, salt water may sting and heal slower.
- Redness, itching, or swelling – Some skin just doesn’t tolerate salt.
- Increased sun sensitivity – Salt water could cause your skin to burn more readily in the sun.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Use Salt Water?
Salt water may be most suitable for individuals with:
- Oily skin – It can strip away excess oil.
- Challenging, non-sensitive skin – If your skin is not easily irritated, you may tolerate salt water.
However, you may need to steer clear of it if you have:
- Extremely dry skin – Dryness can make salt worse.
- Severe eczema or acne – It may irritate further.
- Open wounds or cuts – Salt water will sting and delay healing.
The smartest thing to do? Do a small patch test first. If your skin becomes tight, red, or itchy, discontinue use.
How to Wash Your Face with Salt Water the Correct Way
There’s no formula, but here’s how to safely give it a try:⁵
- Mix a saltwater solution – Combine approximately 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt with 2 cups (500 ml) of boiled water. Allow it to cool before use.
- Pick your salt carefully – Salts vary in minerals:
- Epsom salt = Rich in magnesium
- Sea salt = Trace minerals
- Table salt = Fewer minerals, yet effective
- Begin slowly – Use it at most twice a week to assess how your skin tolerates it.
- Be gentle – Don’t scrub! Just dab it on with a cotton ball or spray lightly.
Additional Skincare Tips for Healthy Skin
Want to keep your skin at its best? Follow these easy steps:⁸
- Use a gentle cleanser – Harsh soaps strip your skin. Use mild, fragrance-free ones instead.
- Wash with your hands – Washcloths and sponges are too rough.
- Moisturize after washing – This seals the water in.
- Don’t overwash – Morning and night twice a day is sufficient.
- Wear sunscreen daily – SPF 30+ for wrinkles and sun protection.
- Stay hydrated – Drink water, and restrict alcohol/caffeine (they dehydrate you).⁹
- Manage stress – Stress can bring out eczema and psoriasis. Practice yoga, meditation, or relaxing baths.
- Don’t smoke – Smoking accelerates aging and damages skin healing.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you see any of these, it’s time to visit a skin doctor:⁴³
- Persistent eczema or psoriasis
- Pain, fever, or infection signs
- Spots or moles that change color, size, or bleed
- Skin issues impacting your daily activities
Final Thoughts
Salt water has been utilized for centuries to aid in skin health, and recent studies validate some of its uses—such as exfoliation, soothing eczema and psoriasis, and even combating signs of aging. However, it’s not a miracle worker, and it may not be effective for everyone. If you’re curious about trying it, do it gradually, observe how your skin responds, and discontinue if it irritates. And when in doubt, consult a dermatologist!