Fact or fiction: Can salt water help acne?

Of course, you’re the expert on your own skin. What your skincare routine looks like is up to you! Everyone’s skin is unique—but the best way to get advice is to talk to your healthcare provider. If you’re interested in adding salt water to your skincare routine, our experts recommend discussing it with your dermatology provider first.

If you’re struggling with acne, you may have heard that salt water could be a helpful addition to your skincare routine. But is there actual scientific evidence to support its effectiveness? We asked our experts to examine the potential link between salt water and breakouts, explore the potential benefits and side effects, and provide tips on incorporating salt water into your skincare routine if you’re interested in trying it out. It’s long been thought to have potential wound-healing properties, but can salt water help acne? Here’s what we know so far.

Is salt water for acne just a social media trend?

Washing your face with salt water for acne is a trend that’s been making waves on TikTok, but is it just a fad, or does it actually work? Unfortunately, the jury’s still out on this one. While some claim soaking in salt water or using it as a facial toner helps clear up acne, currently, there’s not enough scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, dermatology providers caution that the high salt content of salt water may actually be drying and potentially irritating to your skin, possibly making your pimples worse instead of better. So, while a dip in the ocean might feel refreshing, using salt water for acne may not be the best solution.

Potential benefits of salt water for skin 

Salt water may have some benefits for your skin, and it’s easy to see why it’s been gaining popularity as a natural skincare solution. Here are a few ways salt water may potentially benefit your skin:

It may be exfoliating

Salt has natural exfoliative properties, meaning it may help improve the texture of your skin by helping remove dead skin cells. This may boost the overall appearance of your complexion. In fact, many homemade facial scrub recipes use salt as an exfoliating ingredient.

It may help keep wounds clean 

Salt may have antimicrobial properties¹ that can help kill bacteria and other germs that may cause infections, which may help prevent infections by helping keep wounds clean. Wounds are commonly rinsed with salt water to remove dirt and debris, helping prevent infection.² Salt can also be especially helpful in speeding up the healing process of cuts, scrapes, and other minor wounds. A recent study showed that soaking 7% of table salt concentration may significantly accelerate the wound healing process.³

It may help reduce acne and inflammation 

Is salt water good for acne? While there’s little in the way of scientific research to support this claim, you may have gone swimming in the ocean and noticed that your skin seems to look better afterward. This isn’t uncommon, and it may be due to salt water’s drying properties, which can be good for oily skin.⁴

3 ways to incorporate salt water into your skincare routine 

Since salt water has been gaining popularity as a natural skincare solution, you may have seen a few different ideas on how to use it on social media. Here are a few ways you can incorporate it into your routine:

As an exfoliating scrub

Mix a small amount of salt with water to create a DIY exfoliating scrub. Gently rub the mixture onto your skin in a circular motion. Rinse off with warm water and follow up with a moisturizer. That said, physical exfoliation with scrubs tends to be too harsh for daily use, and our providers typically don’t recommend this often.

As a toner

If you’re on TikTok, chances are you know salt water toner is a popular skincare DIY! To try it out, mix a few teaspoons of salt with a cup of water. Dip a cotton pad into the mixture and swipe it over your face, avoiding the eye area. Rinse it off with warm water and follow up with your usual skincare routine. You can also put the toner in a spray bottle. 

As a wound treatment

If you have a minor cut or scrape, you may be able to use salt water as a natural disinfectant. However, it’s important to speak with a medical professional before trying this, as salt water may not be appropriate for all wounds.

Expert-recommended skincare products that contain salt water 

Interested in salt water's potential benefits but not into the DIY thing? You’re in luck—several skincare products are available that contain salt water. When choosing a product containing salt water, always read the label to ensure it’s appropriate for your skin type and concerns. As always, it’s a good idea to consult your dermatology provider if you have any questions. Here are a couple our dermatology providers recommend:

• AHAVA Liquid Dead Sea Salt: This body gel contains a blend of mineral-rich Dead Sea salt and water to help reclaim your skin’s moisture. It’s formulated to help hydrate, rejuvenate, and smooth your skin. 

• Osea Sea Minerals Mist: This hydrating facial mist is formulated with a proprietary blend of nutrient-rich seaweed to help tone, cool, and refresh your skin. It’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up throughout the day or as a finishing step in your skincare routine—and it’s vegan!

Potential side effects of using salt water on skin

While salt water may have some potential benefits for the skin, it’s essential to be aware of the possible side effects as well. Here are a few potential downsides to consider before incorporating salt water into your skincare routine:

• It may cause dryness: Salt water may be drying for your skin, primarily if you use it excessively or when you’re not adequately hydrated. If your skin is naturally dry or sensitive, salt water may not be the best choice for you.

• It may cause irritation: Salt water may irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or a skin condition like eczema or dermatitis. 

• It may over-exfoliate: If you’re using salt water as a scrub and rubbing it aggressively on your skin, you may be at risk of over-exfoliation. This may lead to redness, inflammation, and even breakouts. Be sure to use a gentle touch and follow up with a moisturizer to help balance any drying effects.

Overall, it’s important to be mindful of how your skin reacts to salt water and to use it in moderation. If you’re experiencing any adverse effects, it’s best to discontinue use and consult one of Curology’s dermatology providers for personalized skincare recommendations.

Curology is on your side

If you’re considering making changes to your skincare routine, our experts recommend consulting a dermatology provider first. Medically backed treatment can help alleviate specific concerns, including signs of aging, acne, and rosacea.

Founded in 2014 by a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. David Lortscher, MD, Curology is a skincare service offering products made with clinically proven and effective ingredients, including those that treat fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Curology helps take the guesswork out of your skincare routine—our licensed dermatology providers work with you to examine your skin, assess your skincare goals, and create a custom treatment plan for you, complete with a personalized prescription formula to address your skin concerns. Our formulas contain mixes of active ingredients like tretinoin, azelaic acid, and niacinamide, which are clinically researched to offer the efficacy your skin needs.

Signing up is easy. Just answer a few questions and snap some selfies to help us get to know your skin better. If Curology is right for you, we’ll pair you with one of our in-house medical providers. They’ll guide you on your skincare journey and answer any questions you may have.

P.S. We did the homework so you don’t have to:

1. Wijnker, J.J., et al. Antimicrobial properties of salt (NaCl) used for the preservation of natural casings. Food Microbiol. (2006).

2. Badia, J.M., et al. Saline wound irrigation reduces the postoperative infection rate in guinea pigs. J Surg Res. (1996).

3. Samidah, S., et al. The effectiveness of 7% table salt concentration test to increase collagen in the healing process of wound. Gac Sanit. (2021).

4. Lennihan, R. A Salt Lotion for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris. Arch Dermatol. (1972).

Meredith Hartle is a board-certified Family Medicine physician at Curology. She earned her medical degree at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, MO.

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Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Meredith Hartle, DO