When you think of salt water, you probably picture the ocean not your skincare routine. But on TikTok, users are claiming that washing your face with a briny solution can cure acne, calm redness and even improve inflammatory skin conditions.

So is salt water the secret to clearer skin, or just another viral experiment gone wrong? We looked into what dermatologists actually say.

What Is Salt Water Washing?

Salt water is exactly what it sounds like: a mixture of salt and water. While naturally found in the ocean, most at-home versions involve dissolving table salt (not coarse sea salt) into warm tap water. Once cooled, the solution is applied to the face like a rinse or toner.

On social media, the method is praised for its supposed ability to clear breakouts and control oil. But many dermatologists caution that while salt has exfoliating and antibacterial properties, it can also be overly harsh — especially when used incorrectly or too often.

The Potential Benefits

When used cautiously, salt water may offer some short-term advantages:

Clears Acne (Temporarily)
Salt acts as a physical exfoliant, helping remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Its mild antibacterial properties may also reduce acne-causing bacteria.

Reduces Excess Oil
By buffing away buildup and oil, salt water can leave oily skin types feeling temporarily balanced.

Brightens and Smooths
Like any mechanical exfoliant, it can create a smoother, brighter appearance by sloughing off dull surface cells.

May Reduce Inflammation
Certain minerals found in sea salt such as magnesium have anti-inflammatory properties, which could offer relief for some inflammatory skin conditions.

But here’s the catch: the same qualities that make salt effective also make it risky.

The Downsides Dermatologists Warn About

Most dermatologists advise against making salt water a regular part of your routine. Why? Because it’s inherently abrasive and drying. Overuse can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to irritation, redness, flaking and even worsening acne.

Those with dry, sensitive or eczema-prone skin are especially vulnerable to irritation. Even oily or acne-prone skin types should limit use to once or twice weekly at most and never as a standalone acne treatment.

In short, it may help in very specific circumstances, but it’s not a miracle cure.

Are There Safer Alternatives?

If you’re drawn to the oil-balancing or exfoliating benefits, dermatologists suggest turning to proven alternatives like gentle chemical exfoliants, salicylic acid cleansers or dermatologist-formulated toners.

Salt-infused products such as body scrubs, bath salts or professionally formulated facial toners can also provide similar benefits with better pH balance and controlled concentrations making them far safer than DIY solutions.

How Often Should You Use Salt on Your Face?

If you’re determined to try it, limit usage to one or two times per week maximum. Always moisturize afterward to support your skin barrier, and avoid use entirely if you have sensitive, dry or eczema-prone skin.

Better yet, consult your dermatologist before experimenting with any viral skincare trend.

The Final Verdict

While salt water does have legitimate exfoliating and antibacterial properties, the risks often outweigh the rewards. The trend may look simple and natural, but that doesn’t automatically make it safe.

There are countless dermatologist-approved cleansers and exfoliants designed to achieve the same results without compromising your skin barrier in the process.

TikTok may love it. Your skin? That’s another story.