Epsom Salt Bath Benefits: What the Evidence Says
Epsom salt bath benefits checked against the evidence, with a simple bath checklist and safety notes. See what is known and what is only proposed.
Key takeaways
What Epsom salt baths are
Epsom salt baths mean soaking in a tub with Epsom salt added. This guide looks at the claims about these baths and what the sources say. For more topics, see all body care guides.
One US label presents Epsom salt as a soaking aid for minor sprains and bruises.3 It says to sprinkle the salt into warm, running bath water.3
What the research says
The evidence is thin. A dermatology review says no study exists on Epsom salt bathing for skin.1 That is unlike Dead Sea salt bathing, so evidence for Epsom salt baths is lacking.1
How Epsom salts might act on skin is not known.1 It is only thought that they may help repair the skin barrier.1 They are also said to help with scale removal and softening of the skin.1
Researchers describe absorbing magnesium through the skin from foot baths as an idea. They note that strong clinical evidence for such baths is limited.4
How to take an Epsom salt bath
Here is a simple checklist based on the sources.
- Use warm water that is comfortable, not too hot.2
- One review describes 2 cups of Epsom salt in a tub of water.1
- The same review gives a maximum soak of 15 minutes.1
- A hospital page on a skin condition suggests soaking 10 to 20 minutes.2
- Pat your skin dry and moisturise afterward.2
- Limit salt soaks to two to three times a week, since too much use can dry the skin.2
The 10 to 20 minute and weekly limits come from a page about a childhood skin condition. They may not apply to everyone.
Who should be careful
The label says people with diabetes should not use hot or warm soaks unless a physician advises it.3 Talk to a health professional first if this fits you.
The label also says to stop use and see a doctor if relief is not prompt or there are signs of infection.3 Bath salt should not be swallowed.
Frequently asked questions
Do Epsom salt baths soften the skin?
Epsom salts are said to help with scale removal and softening of the skin.1 This is only proposed, and no study of Epsom salt bathing for skin exists.1
How long should an Epsom salt bath last?
One review gives a maximum soak of 15 minutes.1 A hospital page for a skin condition suggests 10 to 20 minutes.2
How often can you take one?
A hospital page advises two to three times a week at most, because excessive use can dry the skin.2
Should the water be hot?
No. Keep the water comfortably warm, not too hot, to avoid drying your skin.2