Using Epsom Salt for Hair: Heres what You Must Know

  • Is It Safe To Use Epsom Salt For Hair?
  • How To Use Epsom Salt For Your Hair

Is It Safe To Use Epsom Salt For Hair?

Yes, it is safe to use Epsom salt for your hair and scalp. It is a naturally occurring chemical compound made of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate.

According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel, Epsom salt or magnesium sulfate does not have any toxicity concerns. They concluded that accidental inhalation of Epsom salt in the form of sprays and topical application on skin and hair does not cause any adverse health hazard and is non-irritating (1).

Epsom salt is very different from regular table salts and sea salts as it has a different chemical structure. It is termed “salt” because of its texture and salt-like appearance. It is traditionally used to manage sprains, muscle pain, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. While none of its benefits are scientifically studied, anecdotal evidence claims that Epsom salt is beneficial in addressing these ailments.

Epsom salt is widely used as a hair volumizer and hair and scalp spray. The possible reason is that Epsom salt removes oil from the hair and scalp, reducing greasiness. Salt sprays also impart texture to the hair, adding natural waves and giving the strands a slightly crunchy texture.

Anecdotal evidence claims that Epsom salt sprays may also help curb dandruff. Dandruff is caused by Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that feeds on the sebum and lipids on your scalp. Epsom salt may reduce the excess grease, managing the proliferation of the fungus. That is one possible explanation for why it may work, although there is no scientific data to support this claim.

If you want to give it a try and see whether it works or not, here are a few ways you can incorporate Epsom salt into your hair care routine.

How To Use Epsom Salt For Your Hair

1. As A Volumizer

This is perfect for oily, dry, and curly hair. It will add volume and texture to the hair and define the curls without stripping excess moisture from your locks.

You Will Need

  • 1 cup of Epsom salt
  • 1 cup of sulfate-free hair conditioner

Method

  1. Mix the two ingredients.
  2. Apply this mixture to your hair after shampooing.
  3. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Rinse well with room temperature water.
2. Clarifying Solution

If you use hair styling products, you can use this Epsom salt solution to remove excess product buildup and clarify your locks and scalp.

You Will Need

  • 1 gallon of water
  • 1 cup of Epsom salt
  • 1 cup of lemon juice (diluted)

Method

  1. Mix all the ingredients.
  2. Cover this concoction and keep it aside for 24 hours.
  3. After a day, wash your hair with the solution.
  4. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
  5. Rinse well and condition your hair.
3. Epsom Salt Scalp Scrub

Epsom salt has a rough texture. It can help remove excess oil and dry flakes from the scalp to manage dandruff.

You Will Need

Method

  1. Massage the salt into the dry scalp for 2 minutes.
  2. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Rinse your hair well to remove the salt.
  4. Follow up with shampoo and conditioner.
In Closing

There are no studies to prove exactly how well Epsom salt can help the hair healthy. However, empirical and anecdotal evidence suggest its numerous benefits for hair. Epsom salt is quite popular in the hair and beauty community. If you want to see if it works for you, try any of the methods discussed in the article.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Epsom salt hurt your hair?

No. Epsom salt does not hurt your hair or scalp.

Is Epsom salt bad for hair?

No. Epsom salt is popularly used in spas and beauty treatments and is considered safe for your hair.

Does washing hair with Epsom salt make it dry?

Epsom salt has clarifying properties. While using it in moderation may not damage your hair, excessive use of Epsom salt may dry out the hair.

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