Does Salt Water Help Acne?

Ocean dips, mineral baths, and salt-infused toners have long been praised for their skin-soothing benefits - but is salt water actually good for acne?

In 2025, the trend is back. Social feeds are full of people claiming sea water clears their skin. Others say it leaves them red, dry, and flaking. So what’s the truth?

In this article, we explore how salt water really affects acne-prone skin - including dermatologist opinions, science-backed benefits, and how to use it safely (if at all).

What Is Salt Water in Skincare?

Salt water in skincare usually refers to mineral-rich water containing sea salt or Dead Sea salt - both of which are naturally packed with magnesium, zinc, potassium, and other trace minerals. Skin considerations from Vogue

It’s found in:

• DIY facial toners

• Ocean-inspired mists

• Clay mask mixes

• Detox bath rituals

These minerals may help balance oil production, lightly exfoliate, and support healing. Some sources, including Vogue, say the salt in ocean water helps absorb excess sebum and reduce bacteria on the skin’s surface - particularly in humid or oily skin conditions.

But not all salt is created equal. Table salt (sodium chloride) lacks these minerals and may irritate the skin. And just because it’s “natural” doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone.

Potential Benefits of Salt Water for Acne

Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Effects

Salt has natural antibacterial properties - and some dermatologists confirm it may help reduce levels of acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) on the surface of the skin.

According to dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, quoted in Vogue UK, sodium chloride “has antimicrobial properties and may help lower levels of acne-causing bacteria,” especially when it comes from mineral-rich Dead Sea sources.

Still, this doesn’t mean salt water should replace clinically proven acne treatments — especially if your breakouts are moderate to severe.

Reduces Inflammation and Redness

Minerals like magnesium and potassium found in sea salt are known to have anti-inflammatory effects. InStyle reports that salt water may reduce inflammation and redness in mild breakouts - particularly after sun exposure or sweating.

For some people, this means a brief dip in the ocean might leave their skin looking calmer and more balanced. But the effect is usually short-lived and doesn’t address deeper causes.

Acts as a Mild Exfoliant

Salt water acts as a gentle physical exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. But dermatologists at Byrdie warn: overusing salt - especially scrubbing with it - can damage the skin barrier and lead to dryness, irritation, or peeling.

If you’re going to try it, think of it as a once-a-week addition, not a daily habit.

Mineral Boost from Sea & Dead Sea Salts

Sea salt and Dead Sea salt are rich in over 20 trace minerals. Magnesium, zinc, calcium, and sulfur in particular are known to:

• Regulate oil production

• Soothe inflammation

• Speed up skin healing

In the right balance, these can support clearer, more resilient skin. But the key is moderation - too much salt can pull moisture from the skin and cause irritation.

Dermatologists Weigh In

Mild Benefit for Mild Acne Only

Most experts agree: salt water may help with occasional mild breakouts, but it’s not a long-term solution. What the Dermatologists say

As reported in InStyle, dermatologists confirm it might dry out a pimple or calm oiliness - but it won’t resolve deeper issues like hormonal acne, clogged pores, or chronic inflammation.

Risk of Irritation and Disrupted Skin Barrier

Salt is drying. Overuse strips the skin’s natural oils, leading to a compromised skin barrier. According to Byrdie, this can increase transepidermal water loss (TEWL), leaving the skin red, sensitive, and more prone to breakouts over time.

This is especially risky if you’re using actives like retinoids, AHAs, or benzoyl peroxide.

How to Use Salt Water Safely for Acne

Use Sea or Dead Sea Salt Over Table Salt

Refined table salt lacks the mineral content that gives natural sea salt its skin-soothing properties. It also often contains iodine or anti-caking agents, which may irritate the skin. 

According to Verywell Health, using sea salt or Dead Sea salt instead of table salt can help minimise irritation while still offering trace minerals like magnesium and calcium that support skin healing and oil balance (verywellhealth.com).

Choose instead:

• Dead Sea salt

• Celtic or sea salt

• Pink Himalayan salt (in moderation)

These options offer trace minerals that support skin function - but they should still be used with care. Benefits of Salt Water

Apply Sparingly - as Splash, Toner, or Mask

DIY salt water toner:

• 1 tsp Dead Sea salt

• 1 cup warm filtered water

• Mix and store in a clean spray bottle

Spritz lightly onto clean skin or apply with a cotton pad. You can also mix a small amount into a clay mask for occasional use.

Limit to Once or Twice a Week, Follow With Moisturiser

Salt water should be used no more than 1–2 times per week. It’s not meant for daily application. 

Follow with:

• A hydrating, fragrance-free moisturiser

• A barrier-supporting oil or serum

• Avoid other exfoliants or actives the same day

If your skin feels tight or irritated afterward, discontinue use.

When Not to Use Salt Water

Salt water can sting or worsen already-compromised skin. Avoid if you have:

• Eczema or rosacea

• Dry, peeling skin

• Open acne lesions

• Post-procedure skin (retinoids, peels, lasers)

Better Alternatives for Acne Treatment

Dermatologists still recommend:

• Salicylic acid – to unclog pores

• Benzoyl peroxide – to kill acne-causing bacteria

• Retinoids – to boost cell turnover and reduce oil production

These ingredients are proven in clinical trials and remain the gold standard for moderate to severe acne.

Salt water can be a complementary tool - but it won’t replace the fundamentals.

Conclusion: Use With Caution & Complement Proper Care

Salt water may offer mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects for occasional breakouts - but it’s not a cure.

Used sparingly, with the right salt and a good moisturiser, it might help calm the skin short-term. But if you’re struggling with chronic acne, the better approach is a mix of targeted skincare, stress management, and internal support.

For long-term results, support your skin from within with daily nutrients that nourish your gut and lower inflammation. Our Skincare Greens blend was developed for exactly that.

Ready to simplify your skincare routine? → Start your skin-from-within journey now