2021 has welcomed the coining of a whole slew of beauty buzzwords and terms; slugging, mirror skin and fake tan lips are just some of the trends promising a brighter, more radiant visage.
With K beauty and TikTok heavily influencing how we now approach our complexions, some of the newest so-called ‘skincare hacks’ from the internet’s budding amateur dermatologists have – quite rightly – caused some eye-rolling from more established skincare experts.
Today, we’re talking to skincare expert and facialist Ada Ooi about one of the newest, most talked about trends out there; salt water toners.
WHAT IS SALT WATER TONING AND IS IT GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN?
Spritzing your face with a mixture of salt and water has burst onto the skincare scene recently, promising to banish breakouts and acne with a single spray. And though it seeks to mimic the effect of a soothing dip in the ocean, is it really that good for your skin?
Ada argues no.
“Salt water can be overly alkaline and when the surface of your skin is too alkaline it can become sensitive and dry. The efficacy of the effect of salt water on acne hasn’t been properly studied so I would definitely recommend other ingredients before turning to this”
MORE HARM THAN GOOD
Ada explains that while it could potentially be good at minimising mild breakouts, spritzing with salt water could actually do more harm than good in the long run.
This is because salt water could break down your skin hydrolipidic barrier, making it more prone to sensitivity. It can also strip your skin of its natural oils and dry it out, which can actually exacerbate acne as skin stripped of its natural oils goes on to produce even more oils and in turn spots.
As well as this, salt water may interfere with your facial cleanser and other acne treatments, making them less effective.
SO, HOW SHOULD YOU TREAT ACNE?
To treat acne, instead explore products with a moderate concentration of zinc oxide and acids like salicylic acid and lactic acid, while also balancing and protecting skin with hydrants and proteins like hyaluronic acid, plant oil lipids, oat and aloe vera to soothe the redness and sensitivity.
Do not cleanse with a drying cleanser as that would strip the skin’s natural barrier. A holistic formulation would allow not only your acne to heal faster but also any scars to recover better.
SO WHAT WOULD ADA RECOMMEND?
She says that 001 Skincare Zinc & Protein A+ Clarifying Comfort Cream is the ultimate skin comforter. Loaded with calming Zinc Oxide, Sandalwood and Cranberry Oil to address blemishes and irritation, it also contains a complex of proven hydrators and proteins to perform cross-layer moisturising, regulate sebum production, renew cells and repair the skin’s barrier.
