Love the beach but hate the salt? So did I

Sea salt is probably good for your skin — if you take this simple precaution.

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In a Nutshell I'd heard that swimming in the sea would be good for my skin, so why did it feel so gnarly drying off on a beach in Greece last week? Was all that salt sucking the goodness out of my skin? It sure felt that way. If only there was a simple way to enjoy the ocean without feeling like a salt-frosted pretzel for the rest of the day. Well, of course there is, but it's taken me decades to figure it out. More on that below. Before we dive in, here are some more headlines to soak up: • Why you're the boss when it comes to your emotions • What's the best time of day to top up your tan? • New podcast: Can tattoos cause blood or skin cancer? OK, let's dive in. Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Tim Snaith August 9, 2024 • 4 min read

what's got us buzzing Why did nobody tell me about beach showers? I'm back from my vacation, with a wealth of health and wellness information at my newly bronzed fingertips, and I want to settle whether swimming in the sea is good for us or not. ️ On the plus side, seawater contains a variety of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which can have positive effects on our skin. Some studies suggest that saltwater may help ease the symptoms of certain skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. However, some people with eczema find that bathing in sea water is bad for their skin, and have to take extra precautions. ️ Interestingly, recent research has shed light on another possible benefit of sea swimming: relief from menopausal symptoms. A recent study found that cold water swimming may help reduce anxiety, mood swings, and even hot flashes in menopausal women. Nearly half of the women in the study reported improvements in anxiety symptoms after regular cold water swims. ️ However, prolonged exposure to sea salt can have drawbacks. As seawater evaporates from the skin, it leaves behind salt crystals that can lead to dehydration and irritation. That explains the tight, uncomfortable feeling after my swim. ️ It got so bad this year that I decided to try something new — using a beach shower. I always thought they were a little fussy, pointless even. Who cares if you take a little of the beach with you on your journey home? That grungy feeling is all part of the experience, right? ️ How wrong I was. Within seconds of turning the tap, all that salty residue, as well as the sand between my toes was gone. Plus, I felt refreshed and better able to deal with the 100-degree heat. It beats me why it's taken me so long to figure out why so many people use beach showers, but now I know. If you've ever hesitated to join the queue, don't. ️ Given the many benefits of swimming, visiting the beach is a golden opportunity to boost your health and wellness. To minimize any potential skin issues, just remember to: Take a shower after every swim — you won't regret it! Apply a moisturizer post-shower to help lock in hydration. Stay well-hydrated, as salt exposure can increase fluid loss. Of course, individual skin responses to seawater can vary. While some may find it beneficial, others might need to limit their exposure. Pay close attention to your skin's reaction and adjust your habits accordingly. If swimming in the ocean isn't really an option right now, you can still enjoy some of the dermatological benefits at home. Below, find out more about using salty water in your own bathroom. ️ Can salt water really give you beach-fresh skin? 🎤 Over to you: Are you beach shower shy? Share your story with us at wellnesswire@healthline.com, and you might see your experience featured in an upcoming edition! (Please note that we may use your name and response in an upcoming newsletter!)

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Great finds Soothe operator       Aloe Coco Body Lotion Now that you know the pros and cons of sea swimming, you might wonder how to maintain that post-swim glow without the drying effects of salt residue. Aloe Coco Body Lotion could be the perfect complement to your sea swimming routine. Combining soothing aloe vera with hydrating coconut oil and skin barrier-supporting squalane, this lotion helps replenish moisture lost to sea salt exposure and locks in hydration. Whether you're a daily sea swimmer or an occasional beach-goer, this nongreasy formula offers a balanced solution to extend the skin benefits of your seaside experience. SHOP NOW Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health.

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health stories you need What we're reading next 📈 Gen X, Millennials face increased cancer risk. It could be due to higher levels of obesity than previous generations. 😴 Too sleepy to see friends and family? How to stay social even when you're tired. 😎 CBD for sun protection? An initial, small-scale study suggests it can help protect your skin from harmful rays. 🫂 How to be emotionally supportive. Your guide to being there for someone.

That's all for today! We're back after the weekend with Morgan's take on a trending new approach to skin care.

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