Last updated: October 1, 2026
Quick answer: Dead Sea salt is far more mineral-dense than ordinary sea salt, with magnesium, calcium, potassium and bromide alongside sodium chloride. Used in a scrub or a bath, it exfoliates rough skin and, in a published study on magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt baths, improved skin hydration and barrier function in dry skin.
A true wonder of nature, the infamous Dead Sea lies landlocked in the Middle East between the regions of Jordan and Israel. While it's been dubbed the Dead Sea (because no life can exist there), it's actually not a sea, but rather a salt-water lake. What makes the Dead Sea unique is that the salinity is much greater than that of any other body of water. In fact, according to scientists, the water is nearly 10 times saltier than that of oceans. Along with a very high concentration of sodium chloride, the water is also rich in a number of minerals, especially magnesium, calcium and potassium. This, along with the clean, unpolluted air and pleasant weather provides an invigorating environment that is truly unlike any other in the world.
The Dead Sea's mineral-rich water has drawn visitors to its shores to float and soak in it. Today its salt is one of the most used mineral ingredients in body care. Dead Sea salt carries a complex of 26 Dead Sea minerals, led by magnesium, calcium and potassium, which is why it shows up in scrubs and bath soaks that leave skin feeling smoother and softer.
New to the Dead Sea? Our Dead Sea guide covers the salt, the mud, the water and the 26 Dead Sea minerals in one place.
Dead Sea Salt for Oily Skin
A salt scrub lifts away dead surface cells and excess oil, so skin looks clearer and feels cleaner after you rinse. Use it on the body 1 to 2 times a week on damp skin, and skip any area that is broken or freshly shaved. For oily facial skin, a gentler daily option is a cleansing bar such as SEACRET Mud Soap.
Dead Sea Salt for Rough, Dry Patches
Elbows, knees and heels are where a salt scrub shows the quickest difference. The grains buff away the flaky layer, and skin feels softer once you moisturize. Apply a body lotion or body butter while skin is still damp to keep that smooth feel.
Dead Sea Salt Baths for Dry Skin
A warm soak is the other classic way to use Dead Sea salt. In a controlled study, volunteers with dry skin who bathed in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution had better skin hydration and less roughness than with tap water (Proksch et al., 2005). Dissolve the salt fully in warm, not hot, water, soak for about 15 minutes, the time used in that study, then pat dry and moisturize.
It's easy to understand why salt from the Dead Sea has quickly grown to become one of the greatest sources of raw materials for skincare products. In this day and age, there's really no need to actually make the trek all the way out to the Dead Sea to enjoy a salt skincare routine. Yes, pure, quality Dead Sea salt products can be delivered right to your door.
SEACRET offers a range of cruelty-free products that incorporate pure Dead Sea Salt minerals sourced straight from Israel. Grab a jar of the super popular Salt Scrub for a spa-like exfoliation treatment in the comfort of your own home!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Dead Sea salt and regular sea salt?
Regular sea salt is mostly sodium chloride. Dead Sea salt carries a much higher share of magnesium, calcium, potassium and bromide, which is why it is used in skincare for its mineral content rather than only as an exfoliating grain.
How do you use Dead Sea salt on skin?
The simplest way is a salt scrub: massage it onto damp skin in the shower 1 to 2 times a week, then rinse. Avoid broken or freshly shaved skin, since salt can sting.
Can Dead Sea salt be used on the face?
Coarse salt scrubs are made for the body. On the face, choose a formula designed for facial skin, such as a Dead Sea mud mask.
References
- Goetz, P.W., ed. (1986). The New Encyclopædia Britannica (15th ed.). 3. Chicago: 937.
- Proksch E, Nissen HP, Bremgartner M, et al. Bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function, enhances skin hydration, and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin. Int J Dermatol. 2005;44(2):151-157; PMID: 15689218.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. SEACRET products are cosmetics intended to improve the appearance of skin and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.
