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What are Epsom Salts?

What are Epsom Salts?
Team LF
Writer and expert3 years ago
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Despite their name, Epsom Salts aren't actually what you think of when it comes to "salts." Known to help cure a host of ailments from aching muscles to removing toxins from the body and hailed as the hero ingredient in any beauty regime Epsom Salts are definitely more than your classic condiment. Even Elle Macpherson is reportedly a fan, and when you look as good as Elle, with access to the best products in the beauty industry, we have to trust that they might be a little bit magical.

What are Epsom Salts?

They are a naturally occurring mineral, found in Epsom, Surrey (hence the name!). They are mainly made up of Magnesium, Sulphur and Oxygen which are formed into little crystal like lumps that look a lot like the salt we would put on our food.

This 100% Magnesium Sulphate formula will help to leave your aching muscles and tired bodies, refreshed and relaxed. It will also help to detoxify and reduce bloating so your bodies feels a lot happier and healthier.

What are the benefits of Epsom Salts?

Epsom Salts are used for to heal minor skin conditions and muscle aches. You can use Epsom Salts as a natural home remedy for a number of ailments including:

  • To relax sore muscles
  • To boost magnesium levels
  • To reduce pain and swelling associated with exercise, arthritis and injury
  • To decrease the itchiness and redness of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema
  • To combat tired and swollen feet
  • To reduce sunburn pain and redness
  • To help you sleep by boosting melatonin levels
  • To smooth skin texture when used as a natural body scrub

These are just a few conditions and ailments that Epsom Salts can help to treat, but just having a warm bath with them, with help your whole body to relax in general.

Do Epsom Salts work?

Epsom Salts work by breaking down into Magnesium and Sulphate once immersed in water. It is thought that once dissolved, they absorb through the skins cells to relax and repair mainly using their high Magnesium content. Responsible for regulating a lot of our body functions including blood sugar, bones and protein, Magnesium helps to repair any wounds and soothe aches and pains.

How to use Epsom Salts

Epsom Salts are most commonly used in water where the magnesium releases, or more specifically, in the bath! Add your Epsom Salts to the water and mix in until dissolved before enjoying your relaxing hot bath. Alternatively, If you're looking to target a specific area, such as dry hands or feet, add it to a smaller amount of water before soaking. As mentioned, Epsom Salts also make a fantastic natural exfoliant. Instead of dissolving them, mix them with a small amount of water and scrub in circular, upwards motions on your body.

This has become a cult classic at Lookfantastic HQ! We love its gorgeous scent that reminds us of a spa! Infused with Epsom Salts, alongside Arnica and Lavender, this bath soak is guaranteed to get you relaxed in no time at all.

Shop all Epsom Salt based products on LOOKFANTASTIC.

Team LF
Writer and expert
View Team LF's profile
Our team of beauty experts cover everything from makeup to skincare, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the LOOKFANTASTIC blog, and find all your essentials in one place.
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