Epsom salts
Benefits: Not actually salts but magnesium sulfate, they’ve long been used as a bath additive to help soothe sore muscles, relieve cramps and loosen stiff joints.
Risks: People with diabetes shouldn’t use Epsom salts as they can dry out the feet, causing cracks that can become infected. Soaking feet in general isn’t recommended for diabetics.
Bath bubbles
Benefits: Besides being relaxing, many of the soaps that create bubbles can help to moisturise and soothe the skin. A lukewarm bath with gentle fragrance-free oils can help with conditions like eczema.
Risks: Some fragrances can include parabens (endocrine disruptors) and phthalates (possible carcinogens). Read the labels to avoid these ingredients.
Salt and sugar scrubs
Benefits: Both are skin exfoliants: salt helps balance oil production and cleanse pores; sugar, a natural humectant, draws moisture into the skin, helping hydration.
Risks: If used too often or too roughly, salt and sugar can irritate dry or cracked skin and worsen abrasions.
© Prevention Australia
First published: 10 Jul 2018
