Sea Water Eczema Relief
Lots of people with eczema wonder if swimming in the ocean could help their skin. Some say the sea water gives them eczema relief from itching and redness. Others find it dries or stings their skin, especially if it’s cracked or broken. Here’s what you need to know, in simple terms.
Why Sea Water Can Feel Good for Eczema
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Minerals at work: Sea water isn’t just salt (sodium chloride). It’s full of magnesium, calcium, potassium and more.
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Magnesium to the rescue: Magnesium can reduce swelling and calm irritation. It may also fight off some germs that make eczema worse.
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Mild antiseptic: The saltiness itself can help keep bad bacteria and fungi from growing on broken skin.
Some small studies back this up:
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Animal research long ago hinted that ocean water might prevent eczema-like rashes.
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A 2016 study found that people with eczema who soaked in ocean water had less inflammation, fewer thick patches from scratching, and fewer cracks in their skin.
Why Sea Water Can Also Cause Trouble
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Dryness and stinging: If your skin barrier is already damaged, salt can sting and dry you out even more.
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Pollution risk" Swimming in dirty or polluted water raises your chance of infection. A 2021 study warned about that.
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Other irritants: Swimsuit fabric, leftover laundry soap on your suit, even rubber in swim caps or goggles can trigger flares.
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Wet clothes hazard: Staying in a wet swimsuit for too long can make eczema flare-ups worse.
Everyone’s skin reacts differently. What soothes one person can irritate another.
The Role of Magnesium—Good or Bad?
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In the ocean and Dead Sea salt: Magnesium helps tighten your skin barrier, lock in moisture, and calm inflammation.
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In tap water (hardness): High magnesium plus calcium in tap water can actually strip oils from your skin, raise its pH, and let bacteria thrive. So the same mineral can help or harm, depending on its mix and source.
Easy Tips for Ocean Swimming with Eczema
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Skip swimming during flares or when your skin has open cracks or sores.
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Apply a barrier cream (like petroleum jelly) on any raw spots before you swim to cut down on stinging.
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Wear gentle swim gear. Choose silicone over latex or rubber, and rinse your suit well after washing.
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Rinse off right away with fresh water when you’re done swimming.
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Change out of wet clothes as soon as you can.
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Pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Don’t rub.
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Moisturize before and after swimming to keep your skin barrier strong.
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Use eczema-friendly sunscreen if you’ll be in the sun.
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Stay hydrated. Drink water before and after your swim to help your skin stay healthy.
The Bottom Line
A sea swim can be a soothing treat for some people with eczema, thanks to its mineral mix. But it can also sting, dry out, or infect sensitive skin, especially if the water is polluted or you stay wet too long. Pay close attention to how your skin reacts. If you’re unsure, talk to your dermatologist before taking the plunge.