Sea water is water obtained from the sea or from inland bodies of saltwater. Sea water contains many vitamins, amino acids, and minerals like magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and sodium chloride (salt). Both magnesium and sulfur are particularly helpful for treating acne. Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve the swelling and inflammation that typically occurs with blemishes. Sulfur is a natural antiseptic drying agent that penetrates deep into the pores to kill the bacteria responsible for acne. The other vitamins, amino acids, and minerals in sea water can help to replenish the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF). The NMF is an expansive group of substances including amino acids, PCA, lactates, sugars, salts, urea, and peptides. All of these substances work together to keep the skin’s surface intact, supple, and hydrated. The NMF can become depleted as we age, and also from routine exposure to sensitizing ingredients like drying cleansing agents and denatured alcohol. The result is visibly dry, tight-feeling, flaky skin. Since the components of sea water are similar to the skin’s NMF, it is thought that topical application of this ingredient may help to restore the NMF, leading to soft and hydrated skin.