If you followed Met Gala coverage this past May, you may remember actress Jessica Biel going viral for having a bath with 20 pounds (9kg) of Epsom salts the night before attending the fashion extravaganza.
She posted this beauty hack on her TikTok, explaining she would soak in a bath full of Epsom salts for 30 minutes, drink lots of water and then have an early night before getting glam the following day.
When asked why she did this on the American talk show, The View, Jessica explained that it was very relaxing and felt great after getting off a flight.
If you’re curious about the wonders of Epsom salts, here is everything you need to know about them.
@jessbiel While the kids are out partying, I am in soaking 🛁 #MetGala ♬ original sound – Jessica Biel
What are Epsom salts?
Epsom salts, in technical terms, are magnesium sulphate. This chemical compound is made up of magnesium, sulphur and oxygen.
There are differences between this kind of salt and other salts like table salt. However, it is similar in structure as it can dissolve in hot temperatures.
While you can consume it, it is very bitter, so it shouldn’t be added to food. It can be dissolved in small amounts with water. We recommend talking with a medical professional to check what quantities are safe and what is the best way to take magnesium sulphate as not all forms of it are safe.
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Benefits of Epsom Salts
Like Jessica Biel, many people use Epsom salts to relax after a long day. However, it has so many other benefits you may not realise.
- Firstly, it relieves pain. From arthritis to bruises and sprains to muscle soreness, Epsom salts’s magnesium content acts as a natural painkiller as it decreases hypersensitivity. While a hot bath can do wonders when you are suffering from any kind of pain, adding Epsom salt will give you benefits beyond the time you spend in the bath.
- It can heal cuts and help skin irritation. The magnesium content helps improve skin barrier function. It can also reduce roughness, making skin smoother.
- Overall, it increases your magnesium levels. Magnesium has multiple benefits, including strengthening your bones, improving sleep and supporting your immune system.
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How to Use Epsom Salts
Taking a nice hot bath with these salts is probably the most therapeutic and common way to benefit from them. If you haven’t done this before, start with a small amount in case your skin has a reaction. Soak in it for about 30 minutes to an hour.
You can also use it for various beauty functions. It can exfoliate if you rub it into your skin with some warm water. You can also include it when making an at-home face mask. It will help cleanse your pores.
They’re not just great for you, but they are also great for your plants. The magnesium helps plants grow and gain a vibrant colour. If you mix a small amount with the water you use to water your household plants, your plants will look healthier than ever.
@clairethenutritionist Can also help with sore muscles and/or joints! 🧖🏼♀️#holisticwellness #epsomsaltbath ♬ SUMMER GIRL – Ian Hugel
Where to Find Epsom Salts
You may not notice it, but Epsom salts are available beyond the fancy bath salts you may get in a gift set. There are many unscented options.
Boots has a 1kg bag for €7.49 that will help with muscle pain in particular. They also have a gel form for €10.49 which is a great alternative if you don’t have a bath.
If you would rather have something that has a nice scent, Holland & Barrett has lavender-scented salts for €4.87. Lavender is also known to help with sleep.
If you’re looking for a cheap and easy at-home solution to your pain or you just simply want to relax, give Epsom salts a try.
Words by Amélie Mahony