Is Epsom Salt Effective In Treating Acne?
Using salt water for skin, including Epsom salt, has many benefits. While there is no scientific evidence suggesting Epsom salt’s efficacy in treating acne, it may still be beneficial for acne management by supporting your skin in several ways. Advocates of Epsom salt argue that it:
Soothes your skin by exfoliating dead skin cells and is beneficial in improving the skin texture. It also relieves conditions, such as eczemai A common skin condition, usually found among children, that causes inflamed, dry, and itchy skin and weakens skin’s barrier function. and psoriasisi An autoimmune skin disease that causes rashes and itchy skin, usually on the knees, scalp, elbows, and trunk. .
Helps relieve stress by relaxing your muscles and soothing your senses. It is said that the magnesium in Epsom salt penetrates your skin and helps raise the magnesium levels in your body, which is crucial for minimizing stress. However, there is no study that claims that magnesium can penetrate your dermal layers.
Reduces pain, especially pain caused by inflammatory conditions, such as gout and arthritis. People with these conditions experienced a reduction in discomfort and soreness after taking Epsom salt baths.
Reduces acne, including blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Acne is caused when dirt, dead skin cells, and sebum clog your skin pores and cause inflammation. Many people use Epsom salt as a spot treatment to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Jennifer Fix, a YouTuber, shared how Epsom salt helped her combat body acne. She said, “The first two weeks that I started taking those Epsom salt baths, I definitely noticed a slight difference. Eventually, it really did help me a lot (i).” The absence of proof does not mean that Epsom salt does not work at all. A significant number of people have used Epsom salt and swear by its benefits. Epsom salt is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It has been used for centuries to promote sleep, relaxation, blood circulation, and detoxification. If you want to use Epsom salt to treat acne, you can try these easy home remedies.
Ways To Use Epsom Salt For Acne
1. Epsom Salt And Water Facial Soak
2-3 tablespoons Epsom salt 2 cups warm water 1 washcloth
2. Epsom Salt And Avocado Face Mask
Avocado does not treat acne, but it is an excellent base for any face mask. When used with Epsom salt, it has a soothing effect on your skin.
½ avocado (mashed) 1 tablespoon Epsom salt
3. Epsom Salt And Honey Face Mask
Honey has antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The high sugar content in honey prevents bacterial activity, which is why it is widely used to treat many skin conditions (1). When used along with Epsom salt, honey makes for an excellent face mask and an exfoliation agent.
2 tablespoons Epsom salt 2 tablespoons organic honey (you may use Manuka honey, if available)
4. Epsom Salt And Virgin Coconut Oil Face Mask
Virgin coconut oil soothes and moisturizes your skin and relieves many skin conditions. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and it helps improve the skin barrier function (2). The therapeutic properties of virgin coconut oil, along with Epsom salt, can help reduce acne inflammation. Note: If you have oily skin, avoid using coconut oil or consult a dermatologist before using it on your skin.
2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil 1 tablespoon Epsom salt 2-3 drops of any essential oil (optional)
5. Epsom Salt And Oatmeal Face Mask
Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats boiled in water) is widely used in dermatology for soothing various topical issues. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that can soothe irritated skin (3). This face mask can calm acne and feel soothing on your skin.
½ cup oats (ground and boiled) 1 tablespoon Epsom salt 1 teaspoon honey Water (use it to achieve the desired consistency)
6. Epsom Salt And Olive Oil Face Mask
Extra virgin olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties as it contains a compound called oleocanthali A chemical compound in extra-virgin olive oil that is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. (4). Thus, it might help in reducing inflammation around the acne.
2 tablespoons Epsom salt Extra virgin olive oil (use it to achieve the desired consistency)
7. Epsom Salt, Turmeric, And Milk Face Scrub
Milk contains lactic acid that improves skin texture and makes it smooth (5). Turmeric has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties (6). These properties keep your skin healthy and minimize acne and other types of inflammation.
¼ cup milk cream (scoop out the cream from full-fat milk) ½ teaspoon turmeric 1 tablespoon Epsom salt
8. Epsom Salt And Baking Soda Bath
There is no scientific proof that baking soda is good for treating acne. However, many people have used it on their face and experienced positive results. This is because of the exfoliating effect of baking soda. You can make natural bath salts with a combination of baking soda and Epsom salt. Caution: Avoid this remedy if you have sensitive skin.
¼ cup baking soda ¼ cup Epsom salt 2-3 drops of any essential oil (optional)
Side Effects Of Epsom Salt
If you are allergic to sulfur, Epsom salt may cause an allergic reaction. You may experience:
Nausea Skin irritation Vomiting Drowsiness Rashes Hives Swelling of lips and tongue
Also, soaking in an Epsom salt bath for a prolonged period (more than 30 minutes) may cause dehydration. It is always better to take precautions beforehand to avoid any side effects. Do an allergy test beforehand to check if you are allergic to Epsom salt. Is Epsom salt antibacterial? Anecdotal evidence suggests that Epsom salt functions as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. However, more research is required to prove the same. Consult a doctor about your treatment options before using this remedy. Which is better: Himalayan salt or Epsom salt? Both Himalayan salt and Epsom salt offer a number of benefits. Both kinds of baths will help you have a relaxing experience. It is up to you to determine which salt best meets your requirements. Does Epsom salt make skin glow? No, Epsom salt doesn’t make the skin glow. However, it acts as an exfoliant that can aid in the removal of dead cells which may give a glossy appearance to the skin. A consistent skincare regime and healthy eating are must to get glowing skin. Should you rinse skin after Epsom salt bath? Yes, it is necessary to rinse after an Epsom salt bath. It helps in getting rid of the excess salt on the skin. Can you use Epsom salt for acne scars? Epsom salt may not be beneficial for acne scars. There is a possibility that it may irritate the skin further. Hence using prescribed acne scar creams can help in managing these scars. Can Epsom salt be used for other skin conditions? Although there is no scientific evidence regarding the use of Epsom salt for skin conditions, as per anecdotal evidence it can be used in the management of eczema and psoriasis. Is Epsom salt good for skin infections? Although there is no evidence on the effectiveness of Epsom salt for skin infections, anecdotally it is said that it may help manage fungal infections by drawing out the infection. However, caution is advised as at times it may irritate the skin.
Illustration: Epsom Salt For Acne: Is It Really Effective?
Harness the power of epsom salt to combat acne in this informative video. Discover effective ways to incorporate this natural remedy into your skincare routine. Watch now and achieve clear, radiant skin.
