Easy Uses For Epsom Salts

Here's a natural product that most of us have in our bathroom cupboard.
Traditionally used for baths, this soothing mineral crystal eases pain and draws out impurities. Here are some other ways to gain the benefits of this plentiful and inexpensive product. Tips are courtesy of the Epsom Salt Industry Council.

Add Body to Your Hair
Combine 3 tablespoons of deep conditioner with 3 tablespoons of Epsom Salt. Microwave the mixture for 20 seconds. Work the warm mixture through your hair from scalp to ends and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Promotes body and life in your hair and restores curl to permed hair.

Dislodge Blackheads:
Add 1 teaspoon of Epsom Salt and three drops of iodine to 1/2 cup of boiling water. After the mixture has cooled a bit, dip strips of cotton into the solution and apply to the problem area.

Repeat three or four times, reheating the solution if necessary. Then, gently unclog your pore, and go over the area with an alcohol-based astringent.

First Aid for Splinters, Scrapes and Insect Bites
The concentrated power of a warm Epsom Salt compress draws toxins and sweat away from pores, reducing the swelling of minor bites and scrapes. This drawing action also helps bring splinters to the skin's surface. And a cold Epsom Salt compress can take the sting out of insect bites.

Remove Hairspray and Gel Buildup
Combine a gallon of distilled water, a cup of lemon juice (fresh or bottled), and 1 cup of Epsom Salt. Cap the mixture and let it sit for 24 hours. The next day, pour the mixture into your dry hair and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then shampoo as normal.

Smoother Softer Skin
To cleanse and exfoliate, massage handfuls of Epsom Salt over your wet skin, starting with the feet and continuing up toward the face. Then, pour two cups into a bath of warm water. Lean back and relax. As you soak, the natural action of Epsom Salt helps soften the rough, dry patches of your skin.