Admit it, out of all the things that could be considered a great beauty product mud is the least likely to be on your mind and we don’t blame you. But as many beauty fads come and go, mud definitely seems to be enduring so is the benefits you get from slathering it on your skin true? We’re here to convince you that mud should definitely be a skincare staple.
From the Dead Sea
Located in the Middle East, the Dead Sea is considered the lowest point on earth. Its geographical features—being surrounded by mountains and the fact that it is the lowest body of water on earth makes it a perfect location for minerals to collect from almost everything from silt to sand.
It’s no wonder people flock to the site every year to relax and rejuvenate their skin since the waters are rich in minerals like magnesium, potassium, and sodium. The Dead Sea’s mud, in particular, holds renown for its medicinal benefits from treating a range of skin diseases to bringing life to tired skin. Here’s just a handful of benefits Dead Sea mud holds:
Improves psoriasis
Dead Sea mud is excellent for treating psoriasis according to a study conducted in 2012 that found that high concentrations of salt and other minerals in the mud can decrease its symptoms and alleviate pain and discomfort. It's most readily used as a cold compress when psoriasis flares up so if you have psoriasis, please feel free to give it a try.
Reduces skin impurities
If your skin is plagued by multiple problems, it’s most likely due to the fact that it has a ton of impurities clogging it up. Dead Sea mud can help by penetrating deep into your skin’s layers and removing it. Studies have also shown that using Dead Sea mud can improve skin elasticity and functionality making it healthier.
Treats acne
According to a study in 2006, Dead Sea mud has been found to have antimicrobial properties that prevent pimple-causing bacteria. It’s no wonder Dead Sea mud has been used since biblical times to soothe and treat breakouts.
Softens the skin
Dead Sea mud is amazing to have if you’re suffering from really dry skin as it has natural and absorptive properties that deeply penetrate the skin to give much-needed nourishment all while loosening up dead skin cells leaving the skin smooth and silky to the touch.
Improves fine lines and wrinkles
Aside from its cleansing properties, Dead Sea mud is also great for gently drying out and removing clogged pores allowing them to tighten and shrink. So if regularly used, fine lines and wrinkles won’t be a problem.
Drives nutrients deep into the skin
We’ve mentioned that Dead Sea mud has penetrative properties but we haven’t told you the amazing things it does to your skin while it’s on there. First, it soaks up all contaminants, oils and debris that’s hiding under your skin giving it a gentle and thorough clean. Second, if combined with nutrients like calcium and magnesium it could drive much-needed nourishment for the skin. Think about that while you’re considering adding mud to your skincare routine.
Rejuvenates tired and dull skin
Finally, mud is a great way to heal and rejuvenate your skin. Especially if it’s Dead Sea mud used since it contains iron oxide and silica which help heal burst capillaries which invigorate and even out skin tone.
How to use
Quick tips
Moisturize your eyes before applying mud on the face
The skin under your eyes is very thin and delicate so consider using a moisturizer underneath before applying a mud mask to combat the drying properties of the Dead Sea mud.
Don’t wait until it's completely dry and flaky
Waiting until a mud mask is completely dry on your skin is a huge mistake to make as it sucks the life out of it! We recommend you wait until the mask is tacky and firm to the touch before rinsing it off that way your skin isn’t irritated because of the dryness of your face.
Tone and moisturize immediately after using mud
Again, this is just a precautionary measure as the mud can be a bit drying. Replenish lost moisture and nutrients immediately by toning and moisturizing as it is readily absorbed by the skin.
Recommendation
Experience the wonders of the Dead Sea with Aqua Mineral’s Dead Sea Mud and Mud Soap. Find more about the products here.
Sources
Katz, U., Shoenfeld, Y., Zakin, V., Sherer, Y., & Sukenik, S. (2012, October). Scientific evidence of the therapeutic effects of dead sea treatments: A systematic review. Retrieved July 29, 2019, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22503590
Ma'or, Z., Henis, Y., Alon, Y., Orlov, E., Sørensen, K. B., & Oren, A. (2006, May). Antimicrobial properties of Dead Sea black mineral mud. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16700781
Proksch, E., Nissen, H., Bremgartner, M., & Urquhart, C. (2005, February). Bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function, enhances skin hydration, and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15689218