BEAUTY

LIVING Beauty Salt of the

Earth

BY MELISSA SHABINSKY @melissashabinsky

Simple at-home, self-care treatments are not to be taken with a grain—but rather—a cup of salt! (Chemically speaking, Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate which, when it hits water, breaks down to give magnesium and sulfate ions.)

Not only is it believed that Epsom salt baths can help to increase your magnesium levels, but Epsom salt also boasts a bevy of beauty benefits. It can help soothe muscle pain and aches; provide relief from sunburn and poison ivy; help reduce inflammation; improve circulation; relieve stress and calm skin disorders including acne, rosacea and eczema. Some people even find that it works as a sleep aid, and may help reduce bloating since it works to reduce inflammation.

Whether you use the salts to soak, scrub, soothe or smooth, this all-natural compound is truly beauty’s salt of the earth.

SALT WATER SOAK One cup of Epsom salt can transform your bath water into an instant wellness experience. Not only does it help your body to absorb the magnesium, but a 12-minute soak can also relieve minor aches and pains and soothe sore muscles. Take it up a notch by adding a few tablespoons of oil (I like almond or jojoba oil) and a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus) for the ultimate spa-worthy soak.

RUB SOME SALT INTO IT Slough away dry winter skin with this easy scrub. Simply combine a cup of Epsom salt with 1/2 cup of coconut oil (olive or almond oil work too) and a few drops of essential oil. Before or after you shower, rub the the coarse crystal mixture into your skin. Rinse and follow with a moisturizer. Store in an airtight container.

CELLULITE BUSTER Tackle cellulite by combining Epsom salt, oil and coffee grounds into a paste and rub into skin before your shower. The caffeine is said to help boost circulation and minimize the appearance of cellulite.

SALT BOMBS This is a fun DIY project to keep in a jar by your bath or give as a gift.

Combine 1 cup Epsom salt with 1/3 cup baking soda, 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar, 1/4 cup melted coconut oil and 10–12 drops of essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, rose and orange all work beautifully). Blend dry ingredients in a mixing bowl then pour the coconut oil over and blend until combined. Next, add essential oils. For variations add lavender or dried rose petals. Spoon the mixture into silicone molds and pack firmly. Let dry for 6–8 hours then remove from the molds and store in a jar or sealed bag.

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