I recently found out about the childlike wonder of bath salts on TikTok when my FYP was surprisingly barraged by ‘bath salt influencers’ reviewing and commenting on their favorite scents and their their bath time rituals.
But if you’re like me, you have to have asked yourself, “What’s all the hype about?” This article will break down everything you need to know about bath salt—from their surprising benefits to its potential drawbacks. But first,
What Are Bath Salts?
Bath salts are crystalline mineral substances that dissolve in bathwater. These salts offer a wide array of benefits for your skin and overall well-being. It’s common ingredients include Epsom salt, Himalayan salt, and essential oils but each type of salt has unique properties that makes them a versatile addition for one’s self-care routine.
Benefits of Bath Salts
While some individuals (cue: me) may be satisfied solely by the fizzyness and smells released when these salts are dissolved in water, they also hold other benefits, some of which will be highlighted in this article.
Physical Benefits:
- For Muscle Relaxation: Epsom salts (One of the common ingredients for making bath salts) contains magnesium which helps to relax muscles and relieve tension. This means that bath salt are perfect for use after a workout.
- For Skin Care: Having a bath with this salt helps to exfoliate and soften the skin, making it smooth and refreshed.
- For Detoxification: Some bath salt such as Himalayan salt, are known for their detoxifying properties, which helps to cleanse your body of impurities.
Mental Benefits:
- Helps Relieve Stress: The calming, soothing scents of the essential oils used in making some bath salts, such as lavender can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Helps Improve Sleep: A warm bath with bath salt can promote better sleep by relaxing ones body and mind.
Drawbacks and Considerations
While bath salt offers it’s fair share of benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind before use:
- Skin Sensitivity: Some ingredients might cause irritation for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies. To avoid probable skin irritation, ensure to do a patch test first.
- Using bath salts too frequently can cause skin dryness or irritation therefore, moderation is key.
Guide to Using Bath Salts
1. First, fill your bathtub with warm water. Add about 1-2 cups of bath salt, depending on the size of your tub.
2. Next, soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes at the least, to allow the salts to work their magic.
3. Finally, after bathing, rinse off with fresh water and moisturize your skin to lock in hydration.
Conclusion
Whether the plan is to relax after a long school/work day or to give your skin some quick lovin’, bath salts are a must-try as they offer a range of benefits for both your body and mind.
