Sea salt is everywhere, but the staple isn’t just cherished by chefs and scientists. It’s adorned by dermatologists and people everywhere, with its healing properties dating back to skincare routines used in ancient Egypt.
Packed with minerals like magnesium and calcium, the natural benefits of sea salt deserve a spot outside of our oceans, kitchens and history books.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, magnesium salts can enhance skin hydration, while calcium is critical in the healing and regenerating of skin cells. With magic-making ingredients like these, research shows that regularly taking care of our skin is necessary to maintaining its radiance and resilience — as if we, and the other consumers who contributed to the global skin care market’s near $137 billion revenue in 2020, didn’t know that.
Grab the shaker and head to the self-care station. It’s time to sprinkle in some sea salt and restore your skincare routine in three steps:
Soften and Scrub
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, exfoliation removes dead skin cells fromthe outer layer. The proven process gets down to the nitty gritty, leaving skin to appear smoother, feel softerand look brighter. Sea salt scrubs serve as natural exfoliators and detoxifying agents. The tiny yet toughtexture digs through dead skin to reveal a beautiful base and clearer complexion.Rather than wallowing in a mound of sea salt (or anything, for that matter), select a scrub that suits personal preferences and skin sensitivities. Gentle yet effective products decorate shelves everywhere, but self- made batches of this self-care step also ring true.Feeling crafty? Combine 1 cup of sea salt with 1⁄4 cup of carrier oil. Feeling extra? Add essential oils or natural ingredients, like lavender or coffee grinds, to the mix. Then, exfoliate and enjoy the unique smoothness of sea salt.
Tone and Glow
Skincare experts say toners can help rid skin of excess residue and purify parts missed in the exfoliation phase. In addition to repairing skin barriers, toners can calm the skin with anti-inflammatory agents.To channel the salty sensation of a refreshed face after a swim in the ocean, opt for a toner that’s gentle, hydrating
and infused with sea salt. For oily or acne-prone skin, seek additional ingredients like salicylic acid and retinol that help battle bacteria and blemishes. Put the toner on a cotton pad and apply it to the face. As the sea salt helps to draw toxins out, it’s sure to put the good stuff (magnesium, potassium and more minerals) back in.
Hydrate and Heal
Drinking seawater is dangerous for people, but using a moisturizer with sea salt is life- changing for skin. Dermatologists find that sea salts rich in calcium and magnesium can improve the skin’s hydration by strengthening its barrier.In allowing moisture to better absorb and stay put, salt-infused moisturizers aid the skin’s water balance. This gives a natural glowing effect, not to mention some much-needed hydration that’s essential to repairing damaged skin, preventing premature wrinkles and staying healthy.
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