The Impacts of Saltwater and Freshwater on Your Skin

The Impacts of Saltwater and Freshwater on Your Skin

5 min read

Salt Water Compared to Fresh Water Impacts on Our Skin


The impact of saltwater and freshwater on your skin can vary due to their different chemical compositions and properties. This blog post will walk you through a comparison of the different impacts that each have on your skin and what the potential outcomes of those are. 


Saltwater 


The first impact that can be a result of your skin benign exposed to salt water would be the drying effect. Saltwater can have a drying effect on the skin due to its high salt content. It can draw out moisture from the skin, leading to dehydration and potential dryness. The second possible outcome from salt water exposure would be exfoliation. The natural minerals in saltwater, such as magnesium and potassium, can act as mild exfoliants, helping to remove dead skin cells and promoting a smoother skin texture. Another outcome could be disinfectant properties. Saltwater has natural antiseptic and disinfectant properties. It can help cleanse the skin and reduce the growth of bacteria, which may be beneficial for certain skin conditions like acne. The potential for irritation and itching is definitely also a potential outcome that could arise from being exposed to salt water. Some individuals may experience skin irritation, itching or redness after prolonged exposure to saltwater, especially if they have sensitive or damaged skin. Lastly, another outcome could be healing properties becoming present. Saltwater has been used for its potential healing properties, particularly in treating certain skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. The minerals in saltwater can help soothe and heal the skin. 


Freshwater 


The first impact that freshwater can have on your skin is hydration. Freshwater generally has a lower mineral content compared to saltwater. It can help hydrate the skin and maintain its natural moisture balance. Next, freshwater can also lead to a gentle cleansing for your skin. Freshwater can serve as a gentle cleanser for the skin, washing away first, sweat and impurities without causing excessive dryness or irritation. Additionally, freshwater can be a very suitable source of water to use for sensitive skin. People with sensitive or dry skin find freshwater more gentle and less likely to cause irritation or exacerbate existing skin conditions. Finally, although there are many positive benefits with freshwater, there is a lack of exfoliation that exists here. Unlike saltwater, freshwater typically lacks the exfoliating properties of natural minerals. Regular exfoliation may be needed to remove dead skin cells to promote skin renewal.



PAUME Takeaways 


Overall, when trying to maintain skin hydration and health, it is important to be informed on the different impacts that saltwater and freshwater have on your skin. Additionally, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and factors such as the duration and frequency of exposure, skin type and overall skin health can influence the impact of saltwater or freshwater on the skin. Additionally, it’s essential to rinse off thoroughly after swimming in either type of water to remove any potential residue that could further affect the skin!