is seawater really bad for facial skin

[blueberry]

hi,
i have had pimples previously, like 10 years ago, but now they have heeled. my concern now is that frequent contact with seawater will make the scars worst or it will actually help in natural heeling? i've heard so much of both sides stories and im waiting to hear from some of you who have similiar situation.
thx!

[Diver294]

i've heard so much of both sides stories and im waiting to hear from some of you who have similiar situation.
thx!

Hi BB,

I found the following on the web. Hope it helps. (Your best bet is to ask your Doctor)

http://www.medhelp.org/perl6/dermato...chive/184.html

Subject: Saltwater and Skin
Forum: The Dermatology Forum


Topic Area: Acne
Posted by Michael on August 03, 1999 at 10:22:50
Some folks have suggested that applying saltwater or some sort of saline solution to the face and allowing it to dry can not only soothe inflamed skin, but also improve dry skin. It's even been said that doing this may have some sort of anti-bacterial effect (either through killing bacteria or making the environment less hospitable to them). Is there any truth to any of this?

Thanks,

Michael


Posted by Derm M.D. ASR on August 05, 1999 at 11:11:15
Michael:

I don't really know. People often ascribe miscellaneous "healing powers" to salt water. (Nobody ever extols the medicinal virtue of fresh water. As for chlorinated pool water, don't ask . . .) Whether salt water is indeed more moisturizing or whether its putative antibacterial effects are either true or relevant is questionable. (Again, chlorine is inded antibacterial, but noboy ever thinks of it as anything but potentially irritating and harmful, two bum raps in fact.)

Best.

Dr. R

Disclaimer: The information provided in this forum is presented for general educational purposes only. Specific questions you have pertaining to your health should always be directed to your personal physician.

[Rick Murchison]

My opinion is that seawater is good for what ails ye.
Rick

[VanGirl]

I agree with Rick. It seems the salt water is awesome at clearing your skin up (dries it out I think....so maybe don't forget to moisturize that night..). Personally it's the mask and hood that rub against the skin that might stir things up a bit the next day or two.
Cheers & Happy Diving!

[cdennyb]

My daughter had a small (!) problem with little pimples and they totally went away when her and I started diving together, in the ocean. For the winter months we don't go as much and they seem to start back, but after a couple of trips to the beach they're gone again. She uses moisturizing cream and takes really good care of her skin and hair, and the ocean is the only thing that totally took care of those little red pimples.
db & jaimie

[H2Andy]

anecdotal evidence, but i grew up messing around in sea water and never had
pimples. i literally lived at the beach for my first 13 years (in Cuba), and then,
starting at 16, have been here in Jacksonville and went to the beach pretty much
every weekend.

never had pimples or facial skin problems.

[sweetieface]

Within the modeling industry, models are encouraged to take sea salt baths and swim in the ocean whenever possible.

Sea salt is a natural detoxifier and promotes increase in skins elasticity. That's why divers always look so young. :54:

Do a internet search for benefits of salt baths and you will get alot of ads but some very good articles that outline the benefits.

[gfisher4792]

That's why divers always look so young. :54:

You've obviously never seen some of guys I've dove with! LOL

[blueberry]

yeah, it prevents pimples, but im living in tropical country, that makes us more prone in getting freckles and dark spots, isnt it?

[dsgobie]

I'm 21.... And diving has cleared my face up a bit... I do notice some minor breakouts during bad weather spells... But once back in the water ( 2-3 dives a week) all better again.