Medicine has made significant progress since ancient times, but there are still instances where ancient knowledge can provide valuable benefits. One such example is the use of saltwater pool baths for managing psoriasis symptoms. When administered correctly, saltwater pools can be an effective tool for reducing psoriasis flare-ups and promoting healing.
If you are struggling with psoriasis, it’s worth considering the benefits of saltwater pool therapy listed throughout this article.
Top 5 Benefits of Salt Water Pools for Psoriasis
Saltwater pool therapy is an effective and convenient way to manage psoriasis symptoms. Here are the top 5 benefits of saltwater pools for psoriasis:
- Gentle Exfoliant: Saltwater is a great natural exfoliant that can effectively cleanse the skin and unclog pores. By doing so, it allows for better absorption of moisturizers and other skincare products that are essential for psoriasis management.
- Scalp Psoriasis Treatment: Saltwater pool therapy not only benefits the body but also the scalp. It can help loosen and remove psoriasis flakes present on the scalp while promoting blood circulation. This reduces the chance of fungal growth, which is a common problem in patients with scalp psoriasis.
- Boosts Mental Health: Saltwater pool therapy can help improve mental health, which is crucial for patients with psoriasis. Many psoriasis patients suffer from depression and other mental health struggles due to the stigma surrounding the condition. Regular saltwater pool baths can help reinforce mental strength and reduce stress.
- Reduces Allergic Skin Reactions: Saltwater pools can help improve the skin’s resistance to allergic reactions by slowing down adverse reactions that lead to allergic responses in the body. Regular saltwater pool therapy can help protect the skin from seasonal changes and other aggressive conditions.
- Increases Magnesium Levels: Saltwater pool therapy can increase magnesium levels, which is beneficial for overall health. Magnesium supports cell function and regeneration, activates better absorption of Vitamin D, and reduces inflammation levels that can contribute to swelling and joint inflammation. Additionally, hydrotherapy exercises can be performed more easily in a pool than on land.
Other benefits of saltwater pool therapy for psoriasis include killing existing bacteria on the skin, breaking down psoriatic plaques, and reducing foreign substances that trigger immune responses. Incorporating saltwater pool therapy into your psoriasis management routine can help you manage symptoms effectively and improve your overall well-being.
Pro tip: Epsom salt can be a great alternative to treat scalp psoriasis as well.
Side Effects of Salt Water Pool for Psoriasis
While saltwater pools have their benefits, they also have some potential side effects that psoriasis patients should be aware of. These side effects include:
- Skin Irritation: Saltwater pools can worsen certain types of psoriasis and cause skin irritation. People with psoriasis on their hands, feet, or genitals may find saltwater pool therapy to be uncomfortable or even painful.
- Corrosive Effects: High concentrations of salt in a pool can act as a corrosive and damage the psoriatic skin even further. This can lead to increased inflammation and even slower healing times.
- Dry Skin: Saltwater pool therapy can cause dry skin, which can lead to cracks and open wounds. This can be particularly dangerous for psoriasis patients, as they are already prone to skin injuries.
- Itchiness: Some people may experience unbearable itchiness when using saltwater pools for the first time. This can be especially problematic for those with unstable psoriasis symptoms, as the increased irritation can trigger a flare-up.
It is essential to consult with a dermatologist before starting any new psoriasis treatment, including saltwater pool therapy. Your dermatologist can help determine if saltwater pools are right for you and provide guidance on how to manage any potential side effects.
How to Use a Salt Water Pool for Your Psoriasis (When Done at Home)
Here are some additional tips for using a saltwater pool for your psoriasis at home:
- Do a Patch Test: Before using a saltwater pool for the first time, do a patch test to ensure that you don’t experience any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of the saltwater solution to a small patch of skin and wait 24 hours to see if any redness or irritation occurs.
- Start Slowly: Start by using saltwater pool baths 1-2 times a week, and increase the frequency gradually as your skin tolerates it.
- Avoid Scrubbing: Avoid scrubbing the saltwater solution on your face, as it may irritate your skin. Instead, use a small amount with a cotton pad.
- Use Fine Salt Granules: Use fine salt granules instead of coarse salt, as coarse salt can be abrasive and irritating to the skin. Never use table salt, as it contains additives that can further irritate the skin.
- Prepare the Saltwater Solution: To prepare your saltwater pool solution, boil the water and add 1 tbsp of salt. Allow the mixture to cool down before using it. Repeat as necessary.
- Moisturize After: After using a saltwater pool, be sure to moisturize your skin to prevent it from becoming too dry.
By following these tips, you can safely use a saltwater pool to help manage your psoriasis symptoms from the comfort of your own home.
Pro tip: If you can swim in ocean waters, they can have a lot of benefits for reducing psoriasis symptoms.
Should You Start Doing Salt Water Pool Baths for Your Psoriasis?
f you have psoriasis, you may be wondering if saltwater pool baths are right for you. The truth is, saltwater has numerous benefits for the skin and overall health, making it a great therapy for psoriasis.
One of the biggest advantages of using a saltwater pool is the relaxation it provides, allowing you to enjoy the benefits while also unwinding. Additionally, salt is known to stabilize mood and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which can be a major concern for people with psoriasis.
Maintaining good mental health is a top priority when dealing with psoriasis symptoms, which can be incredibly difficult to cope with. Natural therapies like saltwater can provide a much-needed respite from synthetic treatments and other medical interventions.
If you decide to try saltwater pool baths for psoriasis, it’s important to do so safely. Start with a patch test to check for any adverse reactions, and use fine salt granules instead of coarse salt or table salt. Avoid scrubbing the solution on your face, as this can cause irritation.
Incorporating saltwater therapy into your routine can be incredibly beneficial for your mind, body, and psoriasis symptoms. So, the next time you have the chance to take a saltwater bath, go ahead and indulge – your skin will thank you for it!
FAQs
Is Swimming in the Ocean Good for Psoriasis?
Swimming in the ocean can be a beneficial natural remedy for psoriasis, as the saltwater and sun exposure can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. The salt in the ocean water can help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, which can help reduce the appearance of psoriasis patches.
Does Salt Water Make Psoriasis Worse?
In some rare cases, salt water can actually make psoriasis worse.
The reason for this is that salt water can be drying to the skin, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms and cause skin irritation. Additionally, some people with psoriasis may be sensitive to the salt in the water and experience an allergic reaction or increased skin irritation.