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Many people use Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) topically to soothe aching muscles, relieve tension, and treat skin conditions like acne. Magnesium is an element in your body and a nutrient you can get from many foods. Magnesium is important in your bones and for healthy muscle, heart, and nerve function.
While there is little evidence that the magnesium found in Epsom salt can be absorbed through the skin, anecdotal evidence indicates that Epsom salt may provide relief from certain skin conditions and other ailments.
Acne is a skin condition marked by pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. It occurs when oils, dirt, and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. Some people use Epsom salt to reduce the swelling and inflammation of acne.
Here are five methods of using Epsom salt for your acne that you can do at home:
1. Epsom salt facial soak
- Dissolve 2 to 3 teaspoons of Epsom salt in 2 cups of warm water.
- Soak a washcloth in this solution.
- Place the washcloth over your face until the washcloth cools. Avoid covering your eyes to protect them from stinging.
- For the most comfortable application, fold the washcloth in half and drape it over a section of your face while you’re sitting or lying down.
- Ring out the cloth and repeat the above steps to treat other areas of your face.
- Rinse your face completely with warm water.
2. Epsom salt spot treatment
- Dissolve 2 to 3 teaspoons of Epsom salt in 2 cups of warm water.
- Wet a cotton ball or clean cloth with the solution and dab onto problem areas.
Whether you use Epsom salt as a spot treatment or as a soak, make sure to rinse off completely with warm water.
3. Epsom salt exfoliation
The coarse texture of Epsom salt may help exfoliate skin by removing dead skin cells and loosening blackheads.
- Mix Epsom salt with an oil, such as olive oil or almond oil, to form a loose paste.
- Gently apply the mixture as an allover facemask, or, use only on acne-prone areas. Work the paste onto your skin very delicately, using circular motions, for several minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
4. Epsom salt mask
You can mix an avocado with Epsom salt to make a facial mask. Avocados are full of water so they make a great moisturizing base for facemasks.
- Whip or mash a ripe avocado until it’s smooth.
- Stir in the Epsom salt until it forms a thick consistency.
- Spread thinly on your face and let dry, around 20 to 30 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
5. Epsom salt bath for body acne
Body acne can occur on areas of the body like your back, chest, and shoulders. You can use any of the above methods on these areas, but an easier way to use Epsom salt for body acne might be an Epsom salt bath. Try pouring one cup of Epsom salt into a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes. Rinse off with mild soap and warm water.
The benefits of Epsom salt for treating acne on the face and body are largely anecdotal. Topical use of Epsom salt is considered safe for most people. However, Epsom salt can leave a drying, uncomfortable residue on your skin, if not washed off completely.
It’s also possible to be allergic to Epsom salts. If you experience an adverse reaction such as hives, rash, swelling of the lips or tongue, or trouble breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
You may achieve better results in reducing breakouts by using over-the-counter products made for treating acne, or prescription medications.
There are also natural methods that can work for reducing acne and improving the health of your skin in general. These include at-home methods for treating oily skin and foods or vitamins you can add to your diet.
Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is a chemical compound comprised of magnesium, oxygen, and sulfur. Magnesium is a nutrient that the body needs for multiple functions. These include regulating blood sugar, stabilizing blood pressure, controlling muscle, and conducting nerve function. People get magnesium mostly through food or oral supplements.
Using Epsom salt for acne may help alleviate inflammation and reduce swelling. It may also help to exfoliate dead skin and loosen blackheads. The value of using Epsom salt for acne has not been scientifically proven, but many people swear by it. Since topical use of this product is safe for most people, it may be worth experimenting with, particularly if your acne is mild or occurs infrequently.
FAQs
Is Epsom salt good for acne? ›
Using Epsom salt for acne may help alleviate inflammation and reduce swelling. It may also help to exfoliate dead skin and loosen blackheads. The value of using Epsom salt for acne has not been scientifically proven, but many people swear by it.
What are the negative effects of Epsom salt? ›However, certain people should avoid drinking Epsom salt solutions. Consuming Epsom salt can lead to side effects, including diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and muscle weakness. Epsom salt is available to purchase in stores and online.
What Epsom salt is best for acne? ›Doctors do not recommend using Epsom salts for acne. Applying Epsom salts to the skin may not cause harm, but they are unlikely to offer any benefits, either.
Can I wash my face with Epsom salt water? ›Use as a Facial Wash
Massage your face skin with a mixture 1/2 teaspoon of Epsom salt and cleansing cream. After a cold water rinse, pat your skin dry. This has a deep-pore cleansing effect.
“Epsom salt may be helpful for acne by helping slough off dead skin cells that can clog pores,” Dr. Hollmig explains.
Is Epsom salt good for skin problems? ›Epsom salt bathwater can soften rough, dry skin, and exfoliate dead skin cells. It may also soothe skin affected by skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. It is a good idea to check with a doctor before soaking in Epsom salt if a person has a skin condition, as it may make the symptoms worse.
When should you not soak in Epsom salt? ›The risks of using an Epsom salt foot soak are minimal. For most people, it may be worth a try. But there are a few instances when it is best to avoid using a foot soak, including when a person has diabetes or has open sores on their feet.
Is Epsom salt antibacterial? ›Epsom salt is also an effective natural face cleanser, containing antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties, making it a fantastic choice to treat acne.
Does Epsom salt pull toxins out of your body? ›Flushes toxins A detox bath with Epsom salt may help your body flush out toxins more quickly and efficiently, supporting better overall organ function. Pain relief for headaches, cramps, and spasms Epsom salt may relieve the pain from headaches, cramps, and spasms by relaxing your body and your nerves.
Why does salt water clear acne? ›Acne could benefit from the exfoliative, pore-cleansing effect of ocean water – specifically, magnesium-based ocean water. Theoretically, the salt can draw out oils from the skin and dry out pimples.
Does putting salt on acne help? ›
It can help absorb excess oil: According to Gohara, this, coupled with potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, is why it could theoretically be beneficial for acne-prone skin. "The salt absorbs excess oil, which is often a problem given that sebum is an acne precursor," she explains.
How do you use salt for pimples? ›Salt helps to cleanse pores deeply, balance oil production and thwart bacteria that can instigate breakouts and acne. Try it: Mix one teaspoon sea salt with four ounces of warm water in small spray bottle until salt is dissolved. Mist on clean, dry skin, avoiding eyes. Use daily or twice daily.
Does Epsom salt help face wrinkles? ›Epsom salt is high in antioxidants that prevent premature aging. Making your own lotion will help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Combine your moisturiser of choice with Epsom salt and apply. You'll be left with silky-smooth and supple skin.
Should you rinse skin after Epsom salt bath? ›An Epsom salt bath may relieve pain and discomfort, relax the muscles, and provide stress relief. All you need to do is dissolve about 300 to 600 grams of Epsom salt in the bathtub and sit in it for around 10 to 20 minutes. Make sure to rinse afterward to get rid of excess salt on the skin.
What does Epsom salt do for hair? ›Epsom salt may be a good addition to your hair care routine. It may add volume to oily hair types, and definition to dry hair types. Its magnesium might also nourish and strengthen your hair and scalp.
Is Epsom salt good for skin inflammation? ›Skin inflammation or irritation
You can also use Epsom salt or sea salt to treat skin irritation and inflammation. To make bath salts to relieve itchy and irritated skin: Use 1 cup of Epsom salt, sea salt, or table salt for a standard-size bathtub.
To control hormonal acne, dermatologist Dr Kiran Sethi suggests supplementing with magnesium. It lowers cortisol production, which then helps reduce acne by stabilising hormonal imbalances in the body.
Can too much magnesium cause acne? ›Conclusion: There was a significant difference between magnesium levels and the severity of acne vulgaris, and there is a moderate positive correlation between magnesium levels and the severity of acne vulgaris, which means that the higher the magnesium level, the more severe the degree of acne vulgaris.
What can I put in my bath for acne? ›Epsom Salt Bath
Adding one to two cups of epsom salt to a hot bath can soothe acne thanks to inflammation and irritation-reducing magnesium.
Epsom salt, which has a different chemical and ionic makeup from table or sea salt, has an incredible moisturizing effect on dry skin, helping you to both exfoliate dead skin cells on top and soften the layers of skin beneath the surface.
Can you soak in Epsom salt everyday? ›
How often should you take Epsom salt baths? If you are experiencing physical pain or emotional stress on a daily basis, soaking every night could be helpful, say our experts. Otherwise, Smith suggests taking these salt-infused baths three to five days a week.
Can you use soap after Epsom salt bath? ›Aim to soak for at least 12 minutes, and DO NOT USE SOAP. Soap will interfere with the action of the salts.
Which Epsom salt is best? ›- Best Overall. Asutra Magnesium Chloride Bath Flakes. ...
- Best Budget. Solimo Solimo Epsom Salt, Eucalyptus. ...
- Best Soothing Epsom Salt. ...
- Best Epsom Salt With Shea. ...
- Coach Soak Muscle Recovery Bath Soak. ...
- Ancient Minerals Magnesium Bath Flakes. ...
- Dr Teal's Foaming Bath With Pure Epsom Salt. ...
- Epsoak Pure Epsom.
As long as there's no discharge, pus or other sign of infection on your toe, you can create a warm water and Epsom salt bath for your foot. You can soak it for 20 minutes a few times a day, these baths paired with a soft massage near the infected area to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
How does salt draw out infection? ›Salt draws water out of the tissues in a process called osmosis- causing a 'drying' effect. When the salt concentration is high enough, salt kills bacteria through effectively sucking the water out of the cell.
Does Epsom salt have healing properties? ›It's thought to soothe tired muscles and reduce swelling. As a medication administered intravenously, it can stave off premature birth and alleviate seizures caused by several conditions, including magnesium deficiency, preeclampsia, and eclampsia. The most popular use for Epsom salt is in baths.
Can you overuse Epsom salts? ›Never use a higher dose of magnesium sulfate than recommended on the package label, or as your doctor has directed. Using too much magnesium sulfate can cause serious, life-threatening side effects. Magnesium sulfate may be used orally (by mouth) or as a soak.
How long does Epsom salt take to work? ›Epsom salt usually produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to six hours. After four hours, the dose can be repeated if you don't get results. But taking more than two doses of Epsom salt daily isn't recommended.
Can salt remove pimples? ›Salt helps to cleanse pores deeply, balance oil production and thwart bacteria that can instigate breakouts and acne. Try it: Mix one teaspoon sea salt with four ounces of warm water in small spray bottle until salt is dissolved. Mist on clean, dry skin, avoiding eyes. Use daily or twice daily.
How to get rid of acne fast? ›- 6 Ways to Get Rid of Pimples Fast. ...
- Apply Ice to the Pimple: ...
- Apply a Paste of Crushed Aspirin to the Pimple. ...
- Use An Over-the-Counter Acne Spot Treatment. ...
- Use Makeup with Salicylic Acid to Conceal Pimples. ...
- Apply a Face Mask for Acne. ...
- Get a Cortisone Injection to Quickly Get Rid of a Pimple.
How does salt get rid of pimples overnight? ›
The simplest way to use sea salt is to wet your skin, put some salt on your wet hand so it sticks, then pat it gently onto your skin. You can leave it for a few minutes or rinse immediately. Just make sure not to scrub too hard—it is too abrasive by itself.”
Does salt water make acne worse or better? ›Washing your face with salt water can be harsh and irritating, according to Shirazi, who warns that overuse can compromise your skin barrier. “This can worsen some skin conditions like acne and eczema, or potentially cause hyperpigmentation and scarring as a result.
How do you get rid of pimples naturally and permanently? ›- Witch hazel. Applying witch hazel to the skin has been shown to fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, which could help prevent pimples ( 37 , 38 ).
- Apple cider vinegar. ...
- Limit dairy intake. ...
- Try a honey and cinnamon mask. ...
- Reduce stress.
Mix together some sea salt with honey, lemon and glycerin. Exfoliate your skin regularly with this mixture, and leave it on your skin for approximately 15 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. The sea salt acts not only as an exfoliant, but it will also help to brighten the skin and remove dark spots.
Does salt remove pimples and dark spots? ›Sea salt helps combat the overproduction of oil, leading to clogged pores. It also absorbs toxins, including acne-causing bacteria, and works to treat those pesky dark spots pimpled leave behind. For an easy blemish buster, mix 1 cup of warm water with 3 tablespoons of sea salt.
How do you calm inflamed cystic acne? ›- Antibiotic creams, gels solutions and lotions to kill bacteria and decrease inflammation.
- Azelaic acid (Azelex®, Finacea®) or salicylic acid to kill bacteria and get rid of excess dead skin cells.
- Benzoyl peroxide to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin.
An Epsom salt bath may relieve pain and discomfort, relax the muscles, and provide stress relief. All you need to do is dissolve about 300 to 600 grams of Epsom salt in the bathtub and sit in it for around 10 to 20 minutes. Make sure to rinse afterward to get rid of excess salt on the skin.
How long are you supposed to sit in Epsom salt? ›Soak for at least 15 minutes. If you're soaking in an Epsom salt bath for aches and pains, make sure not to use water that's too hot.