If you’ve ever visited the Dead Sea or seen pictures of people floating in it, then you have a rough idea of how saline its waters are: enough to support even the most timid swimmer without them having to move a muscle. Indeed, the Dead Sea is an unrivaled natural phenomenon, formed about two million years ago and containing a salinity of about 34.2%. This high salt content is the reason for why people call it a “sea,” when it is, in fact, a lake without any outlet to the ocean.
There is evidence that Queen Cleopatra of Ancient Egypt had a personal spa built on the Dead Sea over 2000 years ago, recognizing the therapeutic and hydrating benefits of its waters. In recent years, skincare companies have brought the benefits of the Dead Sea to a worldwide audience, distilling its salts and minerals for use in a wide range of cosmetic products.
As you can imagine, these salts and minerals are perfectly suited for scrubs and bath salts, but you can also find them in moisturizers, eye creams, cleansers, and more. For example, Herbacin’s Dead Sea Salt Balm is designed to treat heavily stressed or reddened skin. It soothes itching and stimulates the skin’s metabolism, all without the use of parabens, mineral oils, artificial coloring, or added fragrances.
So what is the secret of Dead Sea salt? Well, there are many! Let’s start with its composition.
Dead Sea salt derives its magic from a specific combination of minerals that makes it unique from oceanic salt. These minerals include:
●Magnesium: Contributes to skin hydration and reduces inflammation
●Sodium: Locks moisture into the skin, supporting hydration
●Calcium: Strengthens the skin barrier and naturally moisturizes
●Potassium: Cleanses the skin
●Sulfur: Features antimicrobial properties and helps remove dead skin cells
●Zinc: Helps synthesize collagen and reduce inflammation
These minerals work in tandem to create an exceptional skin care experience. Locals and tourists alike visit the Dead Sea in droves every year; in fact, it is estimated that it receives 800,000 visitors annually. It is common to see people applying mud all over their bodies, and there are even natural hot springs in which visitors can soak. But even if you cannot visit the Dead Sea in person, you can still experience its benefits by purchasing a product that harnesses its outstanding mineral composition.
When using these products, be sure to read the instructions thoroughly. Because of the high salt content of Dead Sea salt, it is often advisable to refrain from applying products near the eyes, mouth, or on recently shaved areas. Because these minerals are so potent and effective, you may also need to use Dead Sea products at a different frequency than other skincare products of the same type.
However you choose to enjoy the benefits of Dead Sea salt, know that you are in for a one-of-a-kind skin care experience!