Psoriasis and eczema are skin conditions that can cause red, itchy scales or patches. While there is no ‘cure’ for either condition, there are many naturally healing treatments available to help alleviate the symptoms and bring physical and emotional relief.
An ancient spa healing treatment that has gained popularity in recent year is salt water bathing - but does it actually work? Let’s explore how bathing in salt water, and in particular Dead Sea Salt water, might benefit psoriasis and eczema.
Dead Sea Salt water is full of minerals like magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium, which have been known to have a positive effect on the skin when used in topical products (products that are put directly onto the skin, such as bathing salts and lotions).
The minerals in salt water can help reduce inflammation, improve hydration levels in the skin and even help remove dead skin cells, via natural exfoliation.
These benefits, combined with the stress-relief felt when taking part in regular acts of self-care, have been proved to be highly effective for those with skin prone to psoriasis and eczema.
From over 40 years of treating clients with dry skin conditions, we have found that for many clients, soaking in Dead Sea salts 3 times a week has improved both psoriasis and eczema symptoms after just 2 weeks.
In addition to the mineral content in Dead Sea salts, other components like bromide were found to be beneficial for reducing stress and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
While Dead Sea salt water may be beneficial for some people's skin conditions, it is important to note that salt water is not a ‘cure’ for everyone.
To treat psoriasis and eczema holistically, we also recommend speaking to your doctor, dermatologist or naturopath. Any products applied directly to the skin should be chosen carefully.
It is important to use a very mild exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells but not cause additional irritation. The Sea Magik Mild Exfoliant can be used on the face or body once or twice a weekly, to naturally remove dead skin cells.
Using a natural product to wash the skin, such as Black Mud Soap, can minimise irritation and dryness caused by harsh body washes and shower gels. Also, due to the high concentration of minerals in Dead Sea salt, you should rinse skin after bathing and follow with a good moisturiser.
From our Sea Magik range we recommend a Dead Sea Moisturiser for the face, such as Rich Moisturiser and a healing balm such as Sea Magik Natural Skin Softener that can be used for extreme dryness on the body or face.
Salt water may be an effective treatment option for skin prone to psoriasis and eczema; however, it is important to look at your whole body care routine to ensure you aren’t using any products that could irritate the skin.
Bathing in Dead Sea Salt may not completely replace other forms of traditional treatment such as topical creams or light therapy prescribed by your doctor, however it can complement these treatments.
Additionally, if you opt to use salt water as part of your skincare routine, be sure to moisturise skin well after bathing.
For best results when using sea-based treatments for very dry skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, always consult your doctor first before beginning any new skincare routine.