Health Benefits In Psoriasis
Not everyone can visit the Dead Sea to soak in its waters and reap its psoriasis-relief benefits. However, it is still possible to get a similar effect using various products made from the salts of the Dead Sea.
Some benefits of using Dead Sea skin products for psoriasis include:
Exfoliation: Dead Sea salts are grainy, and they are loaded with calcium and sodium. That makes them perfect for removing thick dead skin and grime and bacteria that might be in the scales of dead skin.
Anti-inflammatory benefits: The red, flakey plaques and joint pain associated with psoriasis are a result of ongoing inflammation. And an important health benefit of Dead Sea salts is that they are rich in anti-inflammatory agents, including zinc and bromide. This means they can help with reducing inflammation throughout the body.
The anti-inflammatory properties of these salts may also promote blood circulation to infuse fresh oxygen throughout skin cells to lower the inflammation responsible for skin pain, redness, itching, and other psoriasis skin symptoms.
Moisturizing effect: Magnesium, potassium, sodium, and calcium in Dead sea salt can promote moisture in the skin. This is important because dry skin is more susceptible to psoriasis breakouts.
Skin permeability: The minerals present in Dead Sea salts make the skin more permeable, allowing skin creams and moisturizers to penetrate the deeper layers of skin more effectively.
Epsom Salt And Your Metabolism
How does submerging your body in an Epsom salt bath have any real effect on your metabolism? According to Davies, the answer lies in the way magnesium is absorbed transdermally, i.e. through your skin.
Magnesium ions play a critical role in the regulation of metabolism, hormone response, and cell growth in many cell systems,” she explains. While we can of course get magnesium through our diets, Davies notes that a magnesium sulfate bath can give our bodies the top-up that modern lifestyles demand. Especially since many of us may not even be consuming enough magnesium in the first place.
Our modern lifestyles mean that we have an increased requirement for magnesium, as we are often stressed, which uses up magnesium, and maybe eating too much sugar, which again increases the bodys demand for magnesium as that sugar has to be processed, notes Davies. A lack of magnesium also leads to inflammation in the body, and this inflammation also has a direct effect on your metabolism.
Dead Sea Salt Vs Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a popular home remedy for sore muscles and aching joints. Some people also use it as a treatment for psoriasis. Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, which can also hydrate the layers of the skin.
However, there is a lack of evidence that the magnesium in Epsom salt can penetrate the skin and provide the same benefit as Dead Sea salt.
A 2017 review examined Epsom salt and Dead Sea salt studies to see if the magnesium present could penetrate the skin. The review found one study where Epsom salt could increase blood magnesium levels, but this was not published in a scientific journal.
Another study mentioned in the review asked participants with psoriasis to bathe daily in the Dead Sea over 4 weeks. Blood tests revealed increased levels of electrolytes and magnesium, suggesting that the Dead Sea salt minerals were able to penetrate the skin.
risk when using Dead Sea salt for treating psoriasis. It is also useful for washing hair, cleansing the face, and soaking fingers or toenails to alleviate fungus.
It is not for oral consumption, as the minerals and magnesium give Dead Sea salt a bitter taste. Product manufacturers typically remove the elements that cause a bitter taste when using Dead Sea salt in foods.
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How Does Epsom Salt Draw Out Infection
How can Epsom salt be a good remedy and treat infections firmly? In water, Epsom salt starts dissolves to magnesium and sulfate. Our skin has a wide-ranging ability to absorb the constituents of the salt through the feet. It tends to remove all the toxic substances from the bloodstream.
Our body requires magnesium to produce energy, and the absorption of this salt increases the amount of magnesium in the system. Hence, providing enough energy. The inflammatory pain goes away causing an increment in the muscle function.
You can use Epsom salt to soak your feet by following the steps below
What To Do After A Bath
Pat your body mostly dry with a towel. Leave a little moisture on your skin.
Within 5 minutes after your bath, put on a moisturizer to seal in the wetness. Use a fragrance-free cream or thick ointment. If you donât mind the greasiness, you can use petroleum jelly. If you donât have a heavy moisturizer, itâs OK to use a lotion.
Lindsey Bordone, MD, assistant professor of dermatology, Columbia University Medical Center .
Latanya Benjamin, MD, associate professor of pediatric dermatology, Florida Atlantic University.
National Psoriasis Foundation: âPsoriasis Causes and Triggers,â âHerbs and Natural Remedies,â âOver-the-counter Topicals,â
Journal of Drugs and Dermatology: âAnti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin,â âMechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice.â
American Academy of Dermatology: âWhat Psoriasis Treatments Are Available Without A Prescription?â â8 Ways To Stop Baths And Showers From Worsening Your Psoriasis.â
Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism: âScientific evidence of the therapeutic effects of dead sea treatments: as systematic review.â
Dermatology and Therapy: âEfficacy of a Topical Formulation of Sodium Bicarbonate in Mild to Moderate Stable Plaque Psoriasis: a Randomized, Blinded, Intrapatient, Controlled Study.â
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Using Epsom Salt In Your Bath
What Is Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is an inorganic salt, a mineral compound consisting of Magnesium and Sulfate.
Epsom Salt = Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate = MgSo4.7H20
The anhydrous Epsom salt is hygroscopic in nature and readily absorbs moisture from the environment. On the other hand, the hydrous form is more stable and can be weighed and used with ease. Hence, the hydrous form is generally used. It is available in white granules form.
It is naturally occurring as well as chemically produced. In general, there is a belief that natural stuffs are always better than synthetically produced. Epsom salt is a pure mineral compound with two elements- magnesium and sulfate. There is not enough scope of any adulteration here. Hence, if it is produced by adhering to the standard norms, the commercially manufactured Epsom salt would be as effective as the natural one.
Why it is called Epsom salt?
Epsom is a town in Surrey, England. The original compound, Magnesium Sulfate was first identified in the saline springs at Epsom town. Thats why it is known as Epsom salt.
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Is Epsom Salt Suitable For Infants/children
Generally, sodium is dangerous for infants or children. But Epsom salt is not like the common table salt. It is magnesium sulfate and does not contain chloride or sodium that can be harmful to children. Many can attest to Epsom salt actually helping their child outgrow eczema in the long term.
There is no problem bathing your infant or children with Epsom salt. Washing them twice every week can help to calm and soothe your baby. The salt contains magnesium which isnt present in most of the food we eat. So it is okay to get it from another source.
Rinsing After Soaking Bath
After soaking, I have recommended rinsing before using the towel to pat your skin dry. Now, it is a debatable issue. Some people would say that rinsing the salt off your skin can reduce the effectiveness and on the other hand, some people have the opinion that soaking bath brings toxins at the surface of your skin and it is better to get rid of them by a light shower/ rinse.
Confused?
Let me put it this way- it is a completely personal choice. I crawled through numerous discussion forums and articles on the Internet. I couldnt freeze out a single opinion on this issue. Some people would say that Epsom salt leaves their skin chalky and dry and hence, they prefer to rinse. Others would say that they dont feel uncomfortable at all with this minor skin dryness and they love going into bed after their soaking bath for a relaxing sleep.
So, what I have been able to conclude is- If you are taking a soaking bath in the night with no other work left except sleep, you may avoid the rinsing step and enjoy your sleep with a little salt still on your skin .
If you are taking the bath in the morning or any other time and you have to carry on with your daily tasks, then you may opt for rinsing to avoid any feeling of skin dryness.
But the bottom line is- rinsing would not cause much difference. This little left over salt would neither increase the healing effect nor it is going to keep the toxins attached to your skin. So, take your shot and follow whatever makes you comfortable.
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What To Keep In Mind When Using Epsom Salts For Eczema
Talk to your dermatologist before trying Epsom salts for eczema. The doctor will be able to determine whether the product is right for you and if it may potentially worsen your symptoms.
Once youve gotten your dermatologists go-ahead, keep a few things in mind before using Epsom salts. As the Cleveland Clinic advises, Epsom salts should only be used externally. Consuming the salt can cause potentially dangerous side effects like severe diarrhea, which may lead to dehydration. Avoid using Epsom salts on skin that is broken, inflamed, or infected, as this may worsen the irritation and cause discomfort.
List Of Additives For The Soaking Bath
- Baking soda Baking soda reduces itching- 2 to 4 teaspoons would be enough.
- Essential oils Essential oils, when added, can enhance the soaking experience in many ways- cleansing, relaxation and refreshment. For example:
- Eucalyptus and Grapefruit oil for cleansing
- Lavender and lemongrass oil for relaxation
- Mint and Rosemary oil for refreshment and energy
It is a personal choice- to use a single essential oil or a blend of essential oils. Just add a few drops.
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Benefits Of Epsom Salt
Various beauty experts suggest the use of Epsom salt as a face cleanser to exfoliate dead skin and remove blackheads. Epsom salt gives volume and texture to your hairs when you mix it in equal parts with hair conditioner.
Celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow reportedly enjoys Epsom salt soaking baths to maintain a flatter tummy. Life coach Janey Holliday explains that soaking in Epsom salt bath draws toxins and excess water through the skin to reduce water retention. It can help you to get a streamline figure. Body brushing before soaking bath can enhance the cleansing effect because it removes dead skin layers, increase blood circulation and open skin pores.
Soaking in a warm Epsom salt bath can help reduce muscles ache, swelling and soreness. This soaking bath has a sedative effect on the nervous system- improves sleep quality and relaxation.
Being a natural deodorizer, use of Epsom salt for foot bath is also very popular. It makes your foot soft, ache free and fresh smelling.
Benefits Of Epsom Salt Bath
There are multiple Useful benefits of using Epsom water soak for the treatment of infections, and in general, soaking helps in opening up the passages that have clogs. Its most significant accomplishment is that it can give immediate relief and relaxation from the aches. Due to the dilation of the blood vessels, the tissue becomes permeable and tends to become a significant passage for the transfer of immune cells. It reduces the chance of getting an infection.
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Best For Dry Skin: Coconut Milk
During the colder months, hot baths can have drying effects on your skin, but that doesnt mean that a soothing soak is out of the question. Dr. Chimento suggests finding a milk-based soak derived from coconut milk or a milk protein that can help nourish and hydrate the skin as you relax. With all-natural fragrances from plant-based, organic, and food-grade ingredients that blend together and make your whole bathroom smell like a tropical oasis, this soak in particular is perfect for winter dry skin.
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Go For A Gentle Cleanser
Joshua Zeichner, M.D.., New York City-based dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, recommends you look for a moisturizing beauty bar or body wash, not a soap. True soaps have an alkaline pH and can disrupt the outer skin layer leading to dryness. His pick: Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash, $6, target.com, which, he says, contains the same types of hydrating ingredients found in traditional moisturizers.
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How To Take An Epsom Salts Bath
The water should be very warm — not hot, but comfortable to the touch. Add the Epsom salts while the water is running to help them dissolve.
For a standard-sized tub, use the amount suggested on the package, usually 1 to 2 cups, or the amount recommended by your doctor. Don’t use Epsom salts in a hot tub, whirlpool, or other tub with jets unless the manufacturer says it’s OK.
Keep the part of your body that hurts in the water for at least 12 minutes. Just relax.
Check with your doctor about how long and how often you should soak. You may need to do it just once for an ingrown toenail, or every day if you have arthritis pain.
Indoor Bathing In Salt Water Followed By Exposure To Artificial Ultraviolet B Light For Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Review question
We reviewed the evidence about the effect of indoor bathing in salt water for adults with chronic plaque psoriasis followed by artificial ultraviolet B light treatment. We evaluated two different comparisons: 1) Salt bath with UVB versus other treatment without UVB eligible comparators were exposure to psoralen bath, psoralen bath + artificial ultraviolet A light, topical treatment, systemic treatment , or placebo . 2) Salt bath with UVB versus other treatment with UVB or UVB only eligible comparators were exposure to bath containing other compositions or concentrations + UVB or UVB only. The degree of severity of psoriasis can be measured by the psoriasis area and severity index . Improvement can be indicated by a reduction of PASI. We requested at least a 75% reduction in PASI-75 score to evaluate a potential beneficial effect. To evaluate a potential harmful effect, we chose treatment-related side effects severe enough to stop treatment.
Background
Chronic plaque psoriasis is a skin disease characterised by red-coloured lesions with silvery scales. Bathing in the Dead Sea and exposure to the sun may improve the lesions but may not be practical for most patients. Artificial salt bath and exposure to UVB could simulate the natural exposure.
Study characteristics
No study reported our secondary outcomes. The duration of trials in total ranged between at least two months and up to 13 months. Outcomes were assessed at the end of treatment.
Key results
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Not All Epsom Salt Is Created Equal
Epsom salt can be bought at supermarkets, pharmacies and even your local DIY, garden or farming stores, where its sold for agricultural purposes. To make sure its safe, you should buy the pharmaceutical grade type that has a drug facts label or says USP on the bag.
Ive tried many different types but like Epsoak and Dr Teals the best.
The Epsoak one comes in a massive bulk bag that comes in at 19lb , which I would say is enough for around 20 baths if you use a good amount. You can tell when you open the bag that its premium quality by the grains of Epsom salt. Theyre all medium grain size, which helps it to dissolve quickly, and are unscented and free from any additives.
Next is Dr Teals. This is the special kind that I use for those occasions when I need a relaxing soak to fall asleep. It comes in two bags that measure up to 6lb in total and the Epsom salt is infused with lavender essential oils. Its the perfect option if you want to have a quick soak in the evening before passing out like a log.