Sea salt is an ingredient that may be listed on a product as the spanish word “Maris Sal” and also as the french word “Sel Marin”. All three terms refer to salt that is produced by the evaporation of seawater. Sea salt is used as a seasoning in foods, cooking, cosmetics and for preserving food. One of the main differences between sea salt and plain salt is the mineral content; sea salt contains minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. All of these minerals contribute to the health and function of skin.

In skin care products, sea salt functions as an abrasive, humectant, and skin-conditioning agent. Sea salt is used as a gentle abrasive in exfoliating skin care products, such as body and face scrubs. Products that contain sea salt will help to exfoliate the top layers of skin, removing makeup, excess oil, dirt, and other impurities that may have accumulated during the day. Sea salt also balances oil production and inhibits bacterial growth that can cause breakouts. Sea salt conditions and hydrates the skin because it is a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin from the environment.