Bath salts are a water-soluble, crystalline substance, which has therapeutic properties for soothing sore muscles and detoxifying the skin. Soaking in the tub with bath salts can relax your mind and body to alleviate stress. When used as body scrubs, it also helps to hydrate and exfoliate the skin. If you've been wanting to update your self-care essentials, bath salts are worth the try.
By adding bath salts to your routine, you can enjoy a spa-like experience from the comfort of your home. In this article, we prepared a buying guide—with comments and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan—and a list of our recommended bath salts, which you can purchase online.
Quick List - Top Bath Salts
A Bonne
Exfoliates, Whitens, and Softens Skin With Natural Spa Salt and Pure Milk
Luxe Organix
A Gentle, Exfoliating Salt Scrub Featuring Moisturizing Properties
Watsons
Purify Your Skin With This Brightening and Moisturizing Salt Scrub
Dr Teal’s
Contains Epsom Salt and Lavender for Muscle Relief and Better Sleep
Graduated Dermatology Residency from the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan is a Fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society. She is the co-founder of Pandapatan Dermatology Clinic in Marawi City. She is also a part-time faculty of Xavier University-JPRSM in Cagayan de Oro. She is passionate about skin health and skincare, and dreams of world peace.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
When choosing bath salts, focus on key factors like main ingredients, preferred scents, and intended use. This guide will help you make an informed decision for a personalized and indulgent bathing experience.
There are two ways on how you can enjoy the benefits of bath salts - through soaking solutions and body scrubs.
First, you can opt for a soaking solution. This is a looser version of bath salts where you can simply sprinkle a handful or 2-4 cups of grains into your tub or basin and then add warm water. Wait until the bath salts dissolve and let your skin soak in the mixture for at most 15 minutes.
Aside from relaxation, soaking in salt baths can also restore your skin’s protective barrier to keep it moisturized. You can also use bath salts for a DIY foot spa at home to get rid of unwanted smell and toenail fungus.
Soaking solution salts for whole body baths or foot baths will give relaxation benefits if used correctly. Soaking should not be more than 15 minutes. If it's your first time to have a salt bath, do a patch test first: soak your forearm with the salt bath for 15 minutes, then wash off, and observe for itchiness or rashes, do this 3 times.
Meanwhile, you can use bath salts in a body scrub form to exfoliate your wet skin in the shower. This way, you can concentrate on specific body parts, for example – the elbow, neck, underarm, or knees that need extra conditioning or hydration. Salt body scrubs allow you to gently remove dead skin cells to achieve softer and smoother skin.
Salts have rough edges, too, once viewed under a microscope. Salt scrubs are best used in areas of the body that have more resilient, thick skin, such as palms, soles, knees, and elbows. Opt for salt soaks for the rest of the body. Should you really want to use salt scrubs, opt for very fine granules, and do this only once every 2 weeks.
There are 3 common types of bath salts based on their active or main ingredient and their corresponding benefits. While most bath salts offer the same aromatherapy, certain bath salts are intended for treating a specific health condition.
However, take note that some bath salts can cause allergic reactions. Be extra careful in selecting the right bath salt and make sure that it is compatible with sensitive skin. Also, refrain from using bath salts if you have an open wound.
Epsom salts, otherwise known as magnesium sulfate, are best for relaxation. After a jam-packed schedule of physical activities, soak your tired muscles in a warm bath with Epsom salt. This can reduce muscle soreness and relieve cramps.
Also, the higher magnesium level in Epsom salt baths help in inducing better sleep and reducing stress. Epsom salts are also popular for detoxing—the sulfates in Epsom salts are said to flush toxins and heavy metals from the skin.
Epsom salts are the heptahydrate form of magnesium sulfate and have had good testimonies for muscle soreness and cramps. Studies, however, did not show effective skin absorption into the bloodstream. The benefits, therefore, of Epsom salts remain in the superficial skin level mostly. One study found it to positively influence epidermal proliferation and enhance skin barrier repair.
Dead Sea salt, meanwhile, is perfect for soothing dry skin, especially in certain inflammatory diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, allergic reaction, dry and aging skin. It helps in relieving symptoms such as roughness, skin redness, and itchiness by hydrating the skin. It is also known for alleviating rheumatic arthritis, for example, reducing stiffness and promoting hand-grip strength.
The Dead Sea water contains 3.5x more magnesium compared to the other seas and oceans on Earth. The hydrating claim is due to epidermal proliferation and enhancement of skin barrier, same as Epsom salts.
Bath salt soaks from the Dead Sea are reported to be beneficial to those with skin barrier issues such as eczema and psoriasis—when used appropriately. Appropriate use means to use only if not allergic (do a patch test first), only 15 minutes per soak, and best if under a physician's guidance. For those without skin barrier issues, this is beneficial for skin health maintenance, also if used appropriately.
Himalayan salt is easily distinguished because of its pinkish color. It is recommended for improving the quality of skin—it cleans and purifies the pores to make your skin more supple. It is mined from the Himalayas.
Thus, it is free of pollutants and is considered the purest variant among bath salts. Himalayan salt baths can also help treat acne on breakout-prone areas such as the shoulders and the back.
The pink Himalayan Salts are basically like table salt—composed of Sodium Chloride with trace elements of calcium, iron, zinc, chromium, magnesium, and sulfate. When used as a bath soak, it has the same benefits as table salt: sloughs dead skin cells away and removing grime. Its anti-acne benefits may be due to salt's antibacterial nature. But its antibacterial claims are not as better as the gold-standard antibacterials approved for body acne.
Of course, you can use bath salts just for relaxation. In this case, go for brands with larger grains because it will take longer to dissolve in the water – hence, you get to enjoy a lengthier bath time. On the other hand, if you’re planning to use bath salts for exfoliating or detoxing, select a smaller grain variant, mostly found in salt body scrubs.
Large coarse grains are lovely for bath soaks, not for scrubbing. Finer grains should be chosen for scrubbing the feet, hands, knees, and elbows. Remember to scrub gently and briefly on these areas. Avoid using the scrubs on other parts of your body as it may cause abrasions, irritations, and infections.
Most bath salts are infused with herbs and essential oils to bring the spa experience to the next level. Take this opportunity to select a scent that is most calming for you. For example, lavender and eucalyptus are popular choices for relaxation and relieving stress. Also, certain scents are more compatible with a specific skin type.
For instance, rosemary and peppermint are ideal for dull and tired skin because these bath salts have a menthol component. Meanwhile, lavender is also good for stressed and oily skin. Lastly, orange bath salts provide extra hydration for dry and flaky skin. You may also go for an unscented variant. This way you can either enjoy a plain bath salt or concoct a customized aroma by using your own essential oils.
Scented bath salts may be used by those who are not allergic to essential oils. For those allergic to these oils, opt for the unscented ones. If you do not know if you are allergic to the essential oils mixed in your bath salts, do a patch test first.
Soaking solution and salt body scrubs should only be used once up to thrice a week to avoid over-exfoliating. Otherwise, this can lead to inflammation and skin rashes. Consider using a salt body wash as a good middle ground. On days where you only have enough time for quick showers, this bath product can also be handy.
With a salt body wash, you can gently exfoliate your skin every day, leaving it soft and smooth. It is also a nice alternative if your favorite bath salt goes out of stock—especially when it’s a bestseller or a cult favorite.
Salt body washes may also give the benefits of salt scrubs and soaks. You should also do a patch test by washing your hands and feet with them first. If no skin reactions occur after 3 washes, you may proceed with using them on the rest of your body.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Net Weight | Salt Type | Scented | |||||
1 | A Bonne Spa Milk Salt With Twister Cap|350g - A014 | ![]() | Exfoliates, Whitens, and Softens Skin With Natural Spa Salt and Pure Milk | Body Scrub | 350 g | Sodium Chloride | ||
2 | Luxe Organix Niacinamide + Alpha Arbutin Velvet Salt Scrub |300g | ![]() | A Gentle, Exfoliating Salt Scrub Featuring Moisturizing Properties | Body Scrub | 300 g | Dead Sea Salt | ||
3 | Watsons Milk & Salt Scrub With Whitening Collagen |600g | ![]() | Purify Your Skin With This Brightening and Moisturizing Salt Scrub | Body Scrub | 600 g | Sodium Chloride | ||
4 | Dr Teal’s Soothe & Sleep Pure Epsom Salt Soak With Lavender | ![]() | Contains Epsom Salt and Lavender for Muscle Relief and Better Sleep | Soaking Solution | 1360 g | Epsom Salt | ||
5 | Pretty Secret Firming Salt Scrub |Coffee | ![]() | Prep for Any Special Occasion With Effective Salt Scrub | Body Scrub | 250 g | Sodium Chloride | ||
6 | Fresh Skinlab Tomato Glass Skin Vitamin C + Arbutin Moisturizing Cream Salt Scrub | ![]() | Combat Dark Spots Using This Salt Scrub With TheraGlass Complex | Body Scrub | 300 g | Sodium Chloride | ||
7 | BodyXpert Spa Garden Epsom Salt Brighten and Exfoliate | ![]() | Versatile Soaking Bath Salt for an At-Home Spa Experience | Body Scrub and Soaking Solution | 50 g | Epsom Salt | ||
8 | AHAVA Natural Dead Sea Bath Salt | ![]() | Relieve Muscle Tension and Pain With Dead Sea Salt | Soaking Solution | 250 g | Dead Sea Salt | ||
9 | Belfour Whitening & Moisturizing Milk & Salt Scrub Calamansi Extract |350g | ![]() | Enriched With Calamansi Extract to Boost Your Natural Glow | Body Scrub | 350 g | Sodium Chloride | ||
10 | Majestic Pure Himalayan Salt Scrub w/ Lychee Oil Complex and Sweet Almond Oil | ![]() | Exfoliate and Detoxify Skin Using This Himalayan Salt Scrub | Body Scrub | 283 g | Himalayan Pink Salt |
A Bonne Spa Milk Salt provides a rejuvenating spa experience in the comfort of your home! Infused with natural spa salt and pure milk, this scrub diligently eliminates dirt deposits and dead skin cells. As a result, you'll unveil a refreshed and radiant complexion.
Moreover, it's enriched with ingredients such as arbutin, kojic acid, and allantoin. Thus, it not only exfoliates but also nourishes, moisturizes, whitens, and softens the skin. Users even love its budget-friendly price and long-lasting quality, making it their favorite bath salt scrub.
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 350 g |
Salt Type | Sodium Chloride |
Scented |
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 300 g |
Salt Type | Dead Sea Salt |
Scented |
Watsons Milk and Salt Scrub is packed with ingredients that provide more than exfoliation. With its unique blend of bath salts, milk, and licorice extract, it offers smoothing, moisturizing, and brightening benefits. It even contains collagen for skin elasticity and plumpness.
Furthermore, reviews emphasize the effectiveness of this salt scrub in brightening and moisturizing the skin. Users also like its delightful milky scent. Although some note the large grain size, many praise the soothing and refreshing feeling after using it.
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 600 g |
Salt Type | Sodium Chloride |
Scented |
Dr Teal's bath salt soaking solution offers a holistic solution for relaxation. It combines Epsom salts with lavender essential oil to promote muscle relaxation, stress reduction, and enhanced sleep. Buyers especially appreciate the enchanting lavender scent, which enhances the overall relaxing sensation.
In addition, its formulation is free of parabens and phthalates. The bath salts also dissolve quickly when added to water, a feature users appreciate. The resealable bag adds convenience, ensuring the bath salts remain secure and long-lasting.
Type | Soaking Solution |
---|---|
Net Weight | 1360 g |
Salt Type | Epsom Salt |
Scented |
If you’re preparing for a special occasion and want your skin to look its best, Pretty Secret Firming Salt Scrub is an ideal choice. It effectively removes dirt and dead skin cells, leaving your skin refreshed and smooth. Enriched with coffee powder, this scrub boasts antioxidant properties that help reduce signs of aging and the appearance of cellulite, giving your skin a firmer, more even tone.
Many users rave about its results, noting that it not only smooths the skin but also has a pleasant fragrance. Users note that it’s perfect for a relaxing bath, they also appreciate that it doesn’t stain tiles. For tighter, brighter skin, this scrub is a fantastic addition to your pre-event routine.
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 250 g |
Salt Type | Sodium Chloride |
Scented |
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 300 g |
Salt Type | Sodium Chloride |
Scented |
Type | Body Scrub and Soaking Solution |
---|---|
Net Weight | 50 g |
Salt Type | Epsom Salt |
Scented |
AHAVA's soaking solution provides a revitalizing skincare experience with mineral-rich crystals directly sourced from the Dead Sea. These salts boost skin moisture levels and induce relaxation for the body and mind. It also contains Osmoter™ mineral essence to recharge, rehydrate, and nourish the skin.
Due to its contents, reviewers remark on how it soothes and calms the skin and muscles. The brand even prioritizes responsible sourcing, employing environmentally conscious practices to safeguard the Dead Sea. Check it out for an authentic Dead Sea bathing experience!
Type | Soaking Solution |
---|---|
Net Weight | 250 g |
Salt Type | Dead Sea Salt |
Scented |
This salt scrub features a nourishing blend of salt, milk powder, and aloe vera. These ingredients offer exfoliation, moisturization, and soothing benefits for the skin. Packed in a handy jar, it provides convenient storage compared to other products in plastic packaging.
Enriched with calamansi and papaya extract, it also brightens your complexion. Moreover, the scrub ensures a delightful treat and a pampering experience with every use. Reviews consistently praise its delightful scent and skin-softening effects, making it an essential addition to their skincare routines.
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 350 g |
Salt Type | Sodium Chloride |
Scented |
Type | Body Scrub |
---|---|
Net Weight | 283 g |
Salt Type | Himalayan Pink Salt |
Scented |
The important things to consider while having a salt bath soak are:
Before you soak your whole body, take note of these tips from Dr. Aznaida as she answers some of the web's most-asked questions.
A cup or two should be enough to use for bath soaks. For scrubs, use an amount adequate to cover the hands, feet, elbows, and knees.
It is ideal to use bath salts once or twice a week only. Use other gentler body cleansers on days in between. Too much salt use on the skin may result in irritation and dehydration.
Enhance your bath routine with these essentials! Dive into articles about bath bombs, body washes, and soaps for a complete self-care experience.
Author: Ayeza E. Mangulabnan
Re-editor: Samantha Tidalgo
Reviewed By: Dermatologist Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: A Bonne|Spa Milk Salt With Twister Cap|350g - A014
No. 2: Luxe Organix |Niacinamide + Alpha Arbutin Velvet Salt Scrub |300g
No. 3: Watsons |Milk & Salt Scrub With Whitening Collagen |600g
No. 4: Dr Teal’s|Soothe & Sleep Pure Epsom Salt Soak With Lavender
No. 5: Pretty Secret|Firming Salt Scrub |Coffee
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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