A deep-dive on the benefits of ocean water on skin
Posted on June 29, 2021 Written by: 100% PURE ®
The magic of vitamin D and vitamin sea: the duo that makes beach days feel restorative for your mind and body. But prolonged sun exposure can wreak havoc on your skin, and saltwater can have its own set of pitfalls if you’re not careful.
No need to skip fun in the sun, though; we’ll dive deeper into the effects and benefits of saltwater on skin, and how to replenish the complexion after beach day is done.
Ever notice how smooth and soft your skin feels after a dip in the ocean? Or how sea water seems to quickly heal a skin abrasion or pesky pimple? That’s because the deep blue sea contains a cocktail of nutrient-rich minerals and amino acids that can benefit the skin.
In addition to salt, ocean water also contains dozens of naturally occurring minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and zinc. These marine minerals have the ability to heal, detoxify, cleanse, exfoliate, and retain moisture.
A dive under the sea can also help ward off acne-causing bacteria and blemishes, thanks to naturally occurring antibacterial and antimicrobials. Sea water includes vital amino acids and other wound-healing mineral salts like sodium and iodine. So while there are certainly plenty of wild ingredients in the ocean, there are plenty that can offer benefits for skin, health, and beauty.
For many, a fun-filled day at the beach is the ultimate summer getaway. The sand and surf does the mind and body good! If you need another reason to hit the shore, consider the many benefits of salt water on skin for a glowing complexion. Let’s unpack these potential benefits!
#1. May help with acne
Salt water may be able to absorb bacteria from the skin. This can naturally help to remove harmful bacteria, and reduce the longevity of breakouts.
#2. Can treat certain skin conditions
Thanks to its plethora of healing minerals, swimming in the sea may help reduce painful rashes and improve skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.
#3. Replenishes skin
A hot day at the beach is no match for a refreshing dip in the ocean. Sea water contains electrolytes, which replenish lost minerals created through sweat.
#4. Fortifies dry skin
Magnesium-rich seawater may improve moisture retention in the skin, making it less prone to dryness and sensitivity.
#5. Exfoliates
As a natural exfoliant, salt water effectively sloughs off dead skin cells and draws out impurities for clearer, smoother skin.
#6. Tones the complexion
The ocean contains elements that can help to shrink pores, remove excessive facial oil, and regulate the skin’s pH.
#7. Rejuvenates
Salt water aids in skin cell turnover, making skin feel softer and smoother while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
#8. Strengthens
Ocean water contains many skin-loving vitamins that are essential for healthy cell activity and turnover. The skin’s barrier is left stronger and firmer.
As with anything, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing – and using ocean water for skin is no exception. Saltwater in moderation is not bad – and may even be beneficial – for your skin. But overexposure can be irritating and drying, especially for those with preexisting dry skin conditions.
To stay protected from ocean bacteria, avoid swimming with open wounds. Same goes with the salt’s exfoliating effect, which can tip over into redness and irritation, along with potential outdoor photodamage that can also contribute to dehydration and irritation.
Keep yourself safe from skin irritation by taking precautions. Take frequent breaks from swimming, to avoid drying out your skin or further exasperating other skin issues. Once you’re done, locate the public showers and rinse off ocean water as soon as you can. Be sure to apply a moisturizer to replenish and keep your skin from getting too dry. Finally: always wear adequate SPF before going outside, and reapply after swimming or sweating!
- Tags: Bath Body Hair, June-2021
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The information in this article is for educational use, and not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as such.
