What Are the Benefits of Sea Salt for Your Skin?

Since our skin is constantly losing a small percentage of collagen each year after we reach our 20s, the skin itself can eventually get thinner, and static wrinkles may develop in certain areas due to dwindling amounts of the protein that makes skin so strong and supple when we’re younger. Facial fillers like Juvéderm^® are what Portland’s Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery team typically recommends for patients who want to temporarily add volume to the center and lower part of the face, where collagen and fat have been depleted.

A popular feature of fillers is that they’re versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including re-shaping the lips and cheeks as well. Along with cosmetic treatments, natural ingredients that contain essential vitamins and minerals are also important for maintaining healthy skin on the inside and outside. 

When our skin is unbalanced, this can lead to all kinds of problems, such as irritation and dryness, so we often need to restore levels of these valuable minerals that are lost during our everyday life to help it function properly again. With this in mind, there’s one overlooked beauty ingredient that has recently become more popular: salt. This tableside staple often has negative connotations, but contrary to what many people might assume, it isn’t all bad. Salt is an accessible ingredient that is one of the basic commodities found in any kitchen, but it might surprise many people to learn that it also has amazing benefits for the skin, hair, and nails. 

Sea salt is rich in minerals that are nourishing for your skin and the rest of your body, including magnesium, sodium, calcium, and potassium. It is known for its detoxifying, healing, cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing properties. Here are some of the ways in which this mineral can improve your skin:

Cleans Out Pores

When our pores get clogged with blackheads, dead skin, dirt, bacteria, and oil, the blockages lead to a dull complexion, worse acne breakouts, and topical products becoming less effective. Sea salt instantly cleanses the pores while also regulating oil production, and it has anti-bacterial and antimicrobial properties, so it’s very helpful for reducing acne flare-ups. A cleanser that contains salt can help to destroy and ward off bacteria. Salt also has anti-inflammatory properties that make it have a soothing effect on the skin. Once the gunk has been removed from the pores, the skin absorbs hydration and nutrients more efficiently. 

Hydrates 

Have flaky, dry skin? When you eat a lot of salt, it causes you to want to drink more water and makes you feel bloated, but salt doesn’t have the same effect on your skin. Sea salt can be mixed with oil to make a great moisturizer. It not only supports the protective barrier of the skin, but also helps it to hold hydration in the deep layers.

Stimulates Circulation

If you have puffy bags around your eyes or dull and tired-looking skin, a sea salt bath can help to revitalize it. In fact, sea salt can also be added to clarifying shampoos to improve blood flow to the scalp, which can give it a volume boost. 

Exfoliates

Much like sugar, sea salt is a gentle, natural exfoliant that is often added to scrubs and masks. However, salt is actually an even better option than sugar because of its antimicrobial properties. It helps to get rid of the buildup of dirt and grime on the face and body while also promoting the growth of new skin to take its place. The texture of your skin will gradually improve over time. Additionally, sea salt helps with restoring hydration and adding nutrients to give you fresher, softer, and revitalized skin. 

Find out more about skincare products and injectable dermal fillers from The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery. Call them at 503-882-0124 or submit a contact form to request a consultation and find out whether fillers are the best option for you.