Little evidence exists to show that salt water can help ease eczema symptoms. However, anecdotal evidence suggests it may help some people.

As with any remedy, it’s important to monitor your skin closely to see how you react.

The reason salt water may help soothe eczema is due to the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and skin-barrier supporting properties. Salt contains many minerals that are thought to play a role in these benefits.

However, this does not apply to table salt, which loses the minerals during processing.

It’s a good idea to check in with a doctor or dermatologist before using salt water on your skin condition, particularly if it’s severe.

Salt water may irritate some people’s skin. You’ll want to be careful when trying it for eczema and carry out a patch test on a small area first.

Salt acts as a mechanical exfoliant and may be too harsh for sensitive or damaged skin. Though the minerals in salt water may support your skin barrier, the exfoliant effect of the salt could have the opposite effect.

It’s important to use salt water with caution, starting with a low dilution first to see how your skin reacts. Take care not to soak for too long to avoid overdrying your skin. After bathing, rinse the salt water off with plain water and apply your usual moisturizer.

If your skin becomes irritated, rinse off, moisturize, and avoid further use of salt water.

A dermatologist can help you determine how best to treat your eczema.