Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a naturally-occurring crystal that’s found in a spring in Epsom, England. Contrary to its name, Epsom salt isn’t salt, but a mineral crystal (1).
Epsom salt is best known for it ability to ease sore muscles and cure ingrown toenails, but it also has plenty of uses for beauty and first aid. Luckily, the magnesium in magnesium sulfate is easily absorbed through your skin to treat and prevent mineral deficiency (2).
Not only are they inexpensive, but they’re also quite versatile. Here’s a few interesting epsom salt uses you can do at home.
1. Hair Volumizer
Even the most volumizing hair products can leave your hair feeling heavy and flat after a few hours. Like sea salt, Epsom salt gives your strands a lasting natural bounce to give you the perfect beach waves.
You’ll need:
- One part organic conditioner
- One part Epsom salt
- A small glass bowl
Instructions:
- Mix the conditioner and Epsom salt together in a small bowl.
- Store in a small glass jar with a lid.
- Use in the shower after washing your hair, leaving it in for 20 minutes.
- Rinse and repeat weekly.
2. Sunburn Relief
Sunburns can be a real pain, especially when it comes to keeping down the pain and swelling. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory compounds, Epsom salt and water can be just as beneficial as aloe vera.
You’ll need:
- Empty spray bottle
- 2 tablespoons Epsom salt
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Pour water and Epsom salt together into a spray bottle and shake to combine.
- Spray directly on sunburnt skin as needed, shaking before use.
3. Lip Scrub
If your lips are really dry and you’re not a fan of the stickiness of lip balm, you might enjoy this more abrasive treatment. Plus, it’ll exfoliate your lips and keep them smooth and hydrated.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon Epsom salt
- 2 tablespoons organic raw coconut oil and/or cacao butter
- A small bowl
- A fork or whisk
Instructions:
- Whip the Epsom salt and oil/butter together in the bowl.
- Store in a small travel-size tin.
- Apply the combination to your lips in a gentle circular motion.
- Use as needed.
4. Bug Bite Relief
If you forgot the bug spray at home or you got caught by surprise by a pack of pesky critters, pour yourself an Epsom salt bath. The itch will be gone in no time! If you don’t have a bathtub, try this instead!
You’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons Epsom salt
- 1 cup warm water
- Washcloth
- Medium bowl
Instructions:
- Combine water and salt and mix well to dissolve all the crystals.
- Dip a clean washcloth into the solution and apply to the bug bite as needed.
5. Bee Sting Remedy
For bee stings, replace the hot water with cold to help keep the swelling down.
You’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons Epsom salt
- 1 cup cold water
- Washcloth
- Medium bowl
Instructions:
- Combine water and salt and mix well to dissolve all the crystals.
- Dip a clean washcloth into the solution and apply to the sting as needed.
- If you experience shortness of breath or dizziness after, seek emergency medical attention.
6. Sore Muscle Mix
Epsom salt contains magnesium, which soothes sore muscles and improves nerve impulse.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon Epsom salt
- 1 cup hot water
- Medium bowl
- A clean washcloth
Instructions:
- Dissolve the Epsom salt in the bowl of hot water and let it cool in your freezer.
- Clean and dry the affected area.
- Use the cloth to apply the cold mixture as needed.
7. Pedicure Soak
Exfoliate sore callused feet with this simple at-home spa treatment. You won’t believe how soft your feet will feel !
You’ll need:
- ½ cup Epsom salt
- Warm soapy water (use a gentle organic soap)
- A foot-sized tub
Instructions:
- Clean your feet and pat them dry so that they are damp but not dripping.
- Pour the soap and water in the tub.
- As they hover over the tub, apply the salt to your feet and gently rub it in for a few minutes.
- Soak for 10 minutes.
- Dry your feet and file down your toenails.
- Soak them again for 5 minutes.
- Dry thoroughly and massage with a bit of coconut oil.
8. Health Soak
Skip the spa and stay at home instead! To make this soothing soak even more relaxing, light a few candles and grab a nice cup of wine or a good book.
You’ll need:
- Bath full of hot water
- 2 cups Epsom salt
- Essential oils (per taste)
- A relaxing atmosphere
Instructions:
- Fill your tub with hot water as you get prepared for your bath.
- Pour in 2 cups of Epsom salts and a few drops of essential oils. Gently stir the water.
- Soak for 30 minutes or more.
- Repeat as often you need.
9. Facial Cream
Facial products can contain toxic ingredients like fragrance and preservatives, so why not make your own at home? This particular recipe with fight dirt and grime and removes dead skin.
You’ll need:
- ½ teaspoon Epsom salt
- ½ teaspoon coconut oil
- A small bowl
Instructions:
- Mix the oil and Epsom salt together in a small bowl.
- Wash your face and pat dry.
- Apply to skin and rub very gently, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Rinse with cold water and pat dry. Skip the moisturizer.
10. Bath Salts
To get the perfect combination of soothing scents and healthful properties, make your own bath salts and customize to your taste. If you made a bit too much, place them in cute glass jars for a fun party favor.
You’ll need:
- 2 cups Epsom salt
- 1 cup pink Himalayan salt
- 30-40 drops of essential oils
- Dried flower petals (optional)
- Small jars
- Medium bowl
Instructions:
- Mix the salts and essential oils together in a medium sized bowl and stir until well combined.
- Add dried rose, lavender or chamomile petals if desired.
- Transfer mixture to small jars. Top them off with a cute ribbon and decorative tag.
- Use as desired.
11. Splinter Treatment
To push out a foreign invader from your skin, soak the affected area with a bit of Epsom salt water and get your tweezers ready!
You’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons Epsom salt
- 1 cup cold water
- Cotton washcloth
- Medium bowl
Instructions:
- Dissolve the salt in a bowl of water, stirring regularly.
- Soak the cotton washcloth in the mixture and apply to affected area.
- Repeat until the swelling subsides.
- Place pressure around the wound and us