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Is Salt Water Good For Your Skin? Things you may not know

Soaking in the special sea water is not just for relaxing, it also makes you healthier. People have used saltwater for a long time to deal with different health issues. The minerals in saltwater are good for your body, help with digestion, and reduce inflammation. There’s a belief among some people that saltwater can enhance the appearance of your skin. Keep reading to learn more details, you might be surprised by the info below.

The Benefits Of Salt Water for skin

Helping treat eczema

Water from the deep sea might help with certain skin problems like eczema. This kind of water is more beneficial than other types because it’s very pure and has a lot of nutrients.

Deep ocean water, found in dark and less sunlit areas, has few bacteria and phytoplankton. This means it keeps a lot of nutrients like magnesium, calcium, potassium, chromium, selenium, zinc, and vanadium.

One study published in the International Journal of Dermatology (2020) discovered that using deep seawater improved symptoms in people with atopic eczema dermatitis syndrome (AEDS). This includes things like reducing inflammation, healing cracked skin, decreasing swelling, preventing dry and itchy skin, and reducing water loss from the skin, as well as reducing the thickness of the outer layer of the skin.

Salt water help acne

Does salt water help acne? Yes, If you’re dealing with acne, using salt water can be a good idea. Salt has this amazing power to fight off bacteria hanging out on your skin, which is super helpful when it comes to acne. It’s like having a natural superhero looking out for your face! But here’s the thing, what works wonders for one person might not be as effective for someone else. So, if you’re struggling with a bunch of acne, it’s a wise move to have a chat with a doctor. They can help figure out the best plan for your skin and give you advice on how to tackle those pesky pimples.

Make Your Skin Less Allergic

Salt water may also make the skin less susceptible to allergies. When you use salt water, it helps create a protective shield on your skin, making it less susceptible to allergies. Salt acts like a gentle protector, blocking irritants and reducing the risk of your skin becoming irritated. So, if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, a little salt water can be a simple but effective way to help your skin strengthen its defenses against irritants potential reaction. Just be sure to use it in moderation, as too much salt can have its own downsides.

May help treat psoriasis

Folks dealing with psoriasis can swim and bathe normally, and it can actually be good for them. Sea salt has some special things like iodine, sulfur, calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and bromide. These things can slow down how fast your skin loses water, making psoriasis-related skin issues better. Sea water also has bromine and zinc, which help keep your skin moist, improve its strength, make it more elastic, and protect it better. But don’t swim for too long, because sea water has more salt than what’s normally in our bodies. That extra salt might make skin problems worse if you stay in the water for too long. Always check with a doctor to be sure what’s right for you.

Exfoliates the skin

Cleaning up your skin is what exfoliation does – it clears away the old, dull skin cells to let the fresh ones shine. Sea salt is like a superhero for your skin, helping to reduce oiliness, fight off germs, and remove those dull, dead skin cells really well. It’s like a mini spa treatment you can do at home! So, if you want to save money and are unsure about using fancy exfoliating creams, sea salt is a great way to keep your skin looking bright and smooth. Just don’t scrub too much, as it can be a bit tough on your skin.

Side effects of salt water on skin

May dry the skin

Salt water has a drying effect on the skin because it absorbs moisture. This can leave your skin feeling dry, tight, and even a little flaky. Loss of moisture can aggravate existing skin problems and lead to discomfort. It’s important to pay attention to this effect, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Using a moisturizer or lotion after saltwater exposure can help replenish lost moisture to restore your skin’s health.

Skin barrier damage

Salt water can disrupt the natural barrier that helps protect your skin. When this barrier is broken, it opens the door for infection and irritation to bother your skin. So while salt water may be fun, you should know that it can make your skin more susceptible to problems. Skin care after saltwater bathing is essential.

Stinging and burning

Saltwater might make your eyes, nose, and any cuts you have feel stinging and burning. It can be a bit uncomfortable, so it’s good to be cautious, especially if you have any open wounds. If you get saltwater in your eyes, it’s a good idea to rinse them with fresh water to feel better.

How do you use salt water in a skin care routine?

Saltwater can be a surprisingly versatile tool in your skincare routine, offering various benefits for different skin concerns. Here’s how to make salt water for skin:

As a toner

Incorporate the salt water mixture into your skincare routine as a toner after cleansing. Whether you prefer a spritz or applying it with a cotton pad, this step effectively clears away excess oil and dirt, leaving your skin refreshed and ready for further care.

As a mask

People often use masks to glow skin, try a mask with just two ingredients: sea salt to gently exfoliate and honey to brighten the skin.

As a bath soak

Enhance your bath experience by adding 1/2 cup of sea salt to the water and indulging in a 20-30 minute soak. This simple addition not only promotes muscle relaxation but also works wonders in softening your skin for a soothing self-care ritual.

Foot soak

If you want to prevent dry, cracked skin on your feet, add 1/4 cup of sea salt to a basin of warm water. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. You will feel the softness. 

Saltwater Mist 

Create a saltwater mist by mixing sea salt with distilled water in a spray bottle.

Spritz the mist onto your face for a refreshing and hydrating effect. However, be cautious if you have sensitive or dry skin, as salt can be drying.

FAQ

1. Can I use salt water on my face daily?

It’s okay to use salt water on your face every day, but be careful because it might be a bit rough. After using it, make sure to wash your skin well. If your skin is usually dry, using salt water too much could make it even drier, so be cautious and don’t use it too often.

2. Does salt water brighten skin?

Salt can work like a scrub, removing dead cells, dirt, and buildup from the skin. This might make your skin look brighter and more glowing.

3. Can salt water darken skin?

No, it is not true that salt water darkens the skin. On the contrary, It exfoliates and helps brighten the skin.

4. How does salt water affect the pH balance of the skin?

Salt water has the potential to alter your skin’s pH balance. While the minerals in saltwater may be helpful for calming skin irritation and acne, it can worsen dry skin. The skin naturally has an acidic pH ranging from 4.5 to 5.5, and using skincare products that are too alkaline can dry out your skin, causing irritation and increasing the likelihood of breakouts.

5. Is salt water good for your hair?

Yes, salt water can have both positive and negative effects on hair. While salt water can add texture and volume to hair, it may also lead to dryness and increased vulnerability to damage. It’s essential to balance exposure and consider hair care measures.

Conclusion

Is Salt Water Good For Your Skin? I believe you have the answer to this question. Yes, salt water has many benefits, but it also comes with problems for the skin if you don’t know how to use it properly. Listen to your skin to understand its needs, and if you encounter any skincare difficulties, consider seeing a dermatologist. Remember, healthy skin is the result of a comprehensive approach. Diet, adequate water intake and good skin care habits all play an important role. So, immerse yourself in the ocean, enjoy the salty breeze, and enjoy an invigorating experience. Don’t ditch your moisturizer and sunscreen!

DANCE MAKEUP

There’s nothing quite like watching your child light up the stage at an eisteddfod or dance concert. Hair and makeup play just as big a role as the costume, ensuring each dancer looks their best under the stage lights.

For many parents—and even dancers applying their own makeup—creating the perfect stage look can feel overwhelming, especially if makeup isn’t your strong suit.

To help, we’ve put together some essential tips for achieving dance makeup that truly stands out.

First, let’s take a look at a before-and-after photo of the lovely Isabella. Her makeup highlights her features, making them pop beautifully on stage!

Great makeup starts with the right tools! Investing in a good-quality yet affordable brush set can make all the difference in achieving a polished look. Priceline offers budget-friendly options, including Manicare and Models Prefer brushes. For a reliable choice, Real Techniques brushes are among my personal favorites!

Step 1 – Primer

Dancers often wear their makeup for an entire day, so choosing the right products to enhance longevity is essential. Primer plays a crucial role in keeping foundation in place and creating a smooth base for application.

One of my favorite primers is the Laura Mercier Primer, available at David Jones, but if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Face of Australia Primer from Priceline is a great choice for under $12.

For teenagers with oily skin, a mattifying primer helps control shine, especially in the T-zone. I highly recommend the Make Up For Ever Step 1 Mattifying Primer for this.

Don’t forget to prep your lips! Apply a nourishing lip balm like Lanolips or Paw Paw Ointment to keep them soft. Regularly exfoliating with a toothbrush is a simple trick to remove dead skin and keep your lips smooth.

Step 2 – Eyes

I always start with the eyes first, especially for stage makeup, as eyeshadow fallout can get messy. Doing this before foundation allows for easy cleanup and gives the primer more time to settle into the skin.

Prepping the Eyes

  • Apply your foundation over the eyelid and under the eyes to create an even base.
  • Use an eye primer to ensure eyeshadow adheres properly and stays in place. This also prevents smudging and creasing throughout the day.
    • Top picks: Too Faced Shadow Insurance (Mecca Maxima) or Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion.
    • Budget-friendly option: Face of Australia Eye Primer (Priceline, under $9).
  • If you don’t have an eye primer, concealer can work as an alternative.

Eyeshadow Application

  • Set the base – Apply a nude eyeshadow over the entire lid.
  • Define the crease – With a small fluffy brush, blend a soft brown shade into the crease and down toward the lash line.
  • Deepen the outer lid – Layer a medium brown/taupe shade on the outer lid, blending well. Gradually build intensity by adding darker brown, then black, ensuring the black remains closest to the lash line. Use a clean blending brush to seamlessly blend the shades together.
  • Brighten the inner lid – Apply a shimmery gold or bronze shade to the inner lid and inner corners to open up the eyes.
  • Highlight the brow bone – Use a pearl shimmer shade just below the eyebrows.
  • Lower lash line – With an angled brush, apply lighter shades toward the inner corner and darker shades on the outer lash line for added dimension.

For a great dance-friendly eyeshadow palette, try the CHI CHI Nudes Palette (Target, under $23) or Models Prefer Nude Palettes (Priceline).

Finishing Touches

  • Clean up fallout using micellar water and cotton buds or a makeup wipe.
  • Line the eyes:
    • Apply gel or liquid eyeliner along the upper lash line.
    • Line the lower lash line, stopping just short of the outer corner, then extend it horizontally for a lifted effect. A pencil liner works well here.
  • Mascara: Coat the top and bottom lashes for added volume.
  • False lashes:
    • Trim strip lashes to fit your eye shape.
    • Apply lash glue and wait about 20 seconds until tacky before placing them on the lid.
    • To create a lifted effect, position the outer corner slightly above the lash line.
    • Press the false lashes into your natural lashes using tweezers or fingers.

For stage-perfect lashes, I recommend Modelrock’s Pick and Mix lashes—affordable at under $2 per pair. Styles 212, 259, and 236 are great for stage performances.


Step 3 – Base

With the eyes complete and the skin prepped, it’s time to perfect the base.

Foundation

  • Use a buffing brush to blend a waterproof foundation into the skin.
  • For stage makeup, choose a shade one to two shades darker than your natural skin tone to ensure your features stand out under bright lights.
  • I used the Atelier Paris Waterproof Foundation on Isabella, but a great alternative is Revlon ColorStay Foundation.
  • Investing in a high-quality foundation is worthwhile, as it lasts longer and eliminates the need for frequent touch-ups.

(For local dance mums and students, I offer color-matching if you’re interested in ordering Atelier Paris foundations.)

Concealer

  • Apply concealer in a V shape under the eyes, down the nose bridge, and on the center of the forehead and chin for a brightened, even complexion.
  • I used MAC Pro Longwear Concealer, but Maybelline offers great budget-friendly options as well.

Blending is key—use a smaller buffing brush or a damp beauty sponge for a seamless finish.

Step 4 – Contour, Blush & Highlight

Once your base is perfectly blended, set everything in place with a translucent powder. A colorless powder is best to avoid altering the foundation shade. I recommend Ben Nye Translucent Powder, available from Scotty’s.

Contour

  • Using a contour powder, apply a line just below the cheekbones and blend upwards (making a “fish face” helps find the right placement).
  • Blend contour along the temples, jawline, and sides of the nose for added definition.
  • I used the Anastasia Contour Palette, but a great budget alternative is Models Prefer Contour Powder from Priceline for just $10.

Blush

  • Use a fluffy brush to apply a rosy pink blush to the cheekbones for a natural flush.
  • On Isabella, I used NARS Deep Throat, but any soft pink blush works well.

Highlight

  • Apply a highlighter to the tops of the cheekbones for a radiant glow.
  • My favorite is The Balm Mary-Lou Manizer, available at David Jones and Sephora for under $30.
  • A great budget-friendly option is the Models Prefer Highlighter, available at Priceline for under $11.

Blending is key—make sure all the products transition smoothly for a flawless, stage-ready finish!

Step 5 – Brows & Lips

Brows

  • Fill in the eyebrows using a brow pencil or an eyeshadow that is one shade lighter than your natural brow color.
  • Apply with an angled brush for precision and blend well for a natural yet defined look.
  • Remember, eyebrows frame the eyes, so shaping them correctly enhances the overall makeup!

Lips

  • Outline the lips with a red lip liner to define the shape and prevent feathering.
  • Fill in the lips with a long-lasting red lipstick for a bold, stage-ready look.
  • Revlon ColorStay is a fantastic option for a vibrant, long-wearing red.

Step 6 – Setting Spray

To lock in the makeup and ensure it lasts under the bright stage lights, finish with a makeup setting spray.

  • Skindinavia Setting Spray is my go-to for long-lasting wear.
  • For a budget-friendly option, the Models Prefer Setting Spray from Priceline (under $15) works well to keep everything in place.

A few spritzes will help prevent smudging, fading, or melting—so your dancer’s look stays flawless from the first step to the final bow!

Let the show begin!!!!!