Washing your face with salt water may help exfoliate skin (remove dead skin cells), manage certain skin conditions, and reduce the signs of aging. That said, washing with salt water may not be right for everyone’s skin and can worsen some conditions.
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1. It May Exfoliate Your Skin
The outer layer of skin (the epidermis) is made up of four layers. Skin cells constantly form in the deepest layer and move outward throughout their life cycle, dying within 30 to 40 days (a process known as desquamation). Dead skin cells accumulate on the outer layer and eventually flake off.
The salt in salt water acts as a physical (rather than chemical) exfoliant, removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Exfoliated skin appears smoother, softer, and brighter, revealing layers of younger cells.
2. It May Help Treat Eczema
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, scaly skin. Some evidence suggests that rinsing with salt water may help ease these symptoms.
In one study, researchers found that salt water rich in magnesium, calcium, potassium, selenium, and zinc effectively managed eczema and prevented skin from splitting. They attributed this to salt water’s ability to reduce inflammation and support the outer layer of skin that protects and retains moisture, known as the skin barrier.
3. It May Ease Psoriasis Symptoms
Bathing in water with salt has been a longstanding treatment for psoriasis, and some research suggests it may be effective. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes itchy, discolored rashes (gray, purple, red, or pink—depending on skin tone) with white flakes. These plaques often occur on the scalp, face, knees, and elbows.
One study found that bathing in mineral-rich seawater (sometimes from the Dead Sea) was effective for psoriasis, especially when combined with phototherapy (exposure to ultraviolet B rays). Researchers from the study believe the salt and light exposure had an anti-inflammatory effect, modulated immune function, and helped the skin retain moisture.
4. It May Provide Antiaging Benefits
Saltwater bathing is a standard treatment in health and beauty spas because it may help with signs of aging.
There are several potential mechanisms that likely work together to produce this effect. Researchers found that this type of salt water reduced inflammation on the skin, exfoliated skin, and helped skin retain moisture. As a result, incorporating saltwater bathing into your routine may help reduce wrinkles, spots, crow’s feet, or other signs of aging.
5. It May Reduce Mild Acne
Salt water can help reduce inflammation and may possess antimicrobial properties, which can aid in fighting acne. It also works as an exfoliant, helping to slough off dead skin cells that could otherwise clog pores and cause breakouts.
However, salt water can also irritate the skin and exacerbate some cases of acne, so consult a healthcare provider to determine if salt water is suitable for your skin.
Are There Any Drawbacks or Side Effects?
While it's generally not harmful, washing your face with salt water can have drawbacks. Salt can affect the skin's natural barrier, potentially irritating it.
This can lead to:
- Dry or flaky skin
- Increased or worsening acne, eczema, or psoriasis symptoms
- Increased risk of infection, delayed wound healing
- Irritation, itchiness, and swelling
- Sensitivity to sunlight
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Who Should Wash With Salt Water?
Washing the face with salt water may not be for everybody. It may be better suited to those with more oily skin because it leaches out skin oils and can affect the skin barrier.
It’s also been known to worsen skin conditions like acne or eczema. If you try to wash with salt water, pay attention to how your skin responds and stop using it if it gets very dry or conditions worsen.
How to Use Salt Water on Your Face
There’s no set way to wash your face with salt water; using it can take trial and error. Here’s what may help:
- Make a solution: Add salt to boiling water and allow the solution to cool gradually. Exact concentrations vary, but most studies used 5 grams (g) of salt (a little over 1 teaspoon) to 500 milliliters (about 2 cups) of water.
- Types of salt: Choose your type of salt, taking note that different types contain different minerals; for example, Epsom salts are higher in magnesium, whereas table salt generally has fewer minerals than sea salt.
- Start small: Wash your face with salt water no more than twice a week to see how your skin responds. Washing too much or too often can dry out skin or exacerbate skin conditions.
- Don’t scrub: Be gentle with your face when using salt water or salt products to help protect against irritation. Lightly wipe, dab with a cotton ball, or use a spray bottle when applying the salt.
Skin Care Tips
Certain lifestyle habits and adopting a skin care routine can go a long way in preserving your skin's health and appearance. Here's a quick rundown of skin care basics:
- Gentle cleansers: Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol in facial cleansers. Use gentle, nonabrasive cleansers to support the skin barrier.
- Use your hands: Since washcloths and sponges can irritate the skin, apply cleansers using your fingers, moving then over the skin in a circular motion.
- Rinse and dry: After applying cleanser to your face, rinse with warm water and gently pat your skin dry without rubbing.
- Moisturize: Apply moisturizer to treat dry or itchy skin after washing your face. Be gentle when applying the product to the skin around the eyes.
- Don’t overdo it: Wash no more than twice daily—morning and night—and after sweating, to avoid skin irritation.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking significantly impacts skin health; it increases signs of aging (wrinkles), affects wound healing, and can make certain skin diseases worse.
- Wear sunscreen: Before going outside, apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
- Manage stress: Increased stress can worsen skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Engage in stress management techniques like walking, taking baths, meditation, yoga, or light exercise.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep skin healthy and bouncy; avoid drinks like alcohol and caffeine, which can act as diuretics, removing water and salt from the body.
When to See a Dermatologist
Another key component of caring for your skin is knowing when to get help. See a primary care provider or a dermatologist (skin specialist) if you experience the following:
- Eczema or psoriasis symptoms that persist or get worse, despite treatment
- Fever, irritation, pain, or other signs of skin infection
- Spots on the skin that grow, change color, itch, or bleed
- Symptoms that disrupt your daily activities
