Epsom Salts
What Is It?
Epsom salts, also known as magnesium sulphate, are a naturally occurring mineral compound composed of magnesium, sulphur, and oxygen. They are widely used in personal care, wellness, and cosmetic formulations for their soothing and muscle-relaxing properties.
INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)
Magnesium Sulphate
Proper Storage & Shelf Life
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and humidity.
Shelf life: Indefinite when stored properly.
Refined Or Unrefined
Typically refined for purity, ensuring no contaminants or unwanted minerals.
Is It Necessary?
Not essential but highly beneficial in bath, skincare, and body care formulations, especially for relaxation, detoxification, and muscle relief.
Texture & Consistency
Granular or crystalline structure. Can range from fine to coarse grains.
Natural Scent Profile
Odourless
Solubility & Compatibility
Highly soluble in water
Not soluble in oils
Compatible with most water-based formulations but may cause graininess in emulsions if not properly dissolved.
Benefits In Your Skincare
Relieves muscle tension and soreness
Helps detoxify the body
Exfoliates and softens skin
Can aid in reducing inflammation
Provides magnesium, which is essential for various bodily functions
PH
The pH of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) in water is typically between 5.5 and 7.0, making it slightly acidic to neutral.
Recommended usage rate
Bath salts: 1-2 cups per bath
Scrubs & exfoliants: 10-30% of the total formulation
Body soaks & foot soaks: 1-2 tablespoons per litre of water
Skincare formulations: Typically 1-5% if used in water-based products
Appearance
White crystalline or granular powder
Strengths
✅Readily available and affordable
✅ Highly soluble in water
✅ Effective in soothing muscles and skin
✅ Non-toxic and safe for most people
Weaknesses
❌ Can draw moisture from the air and clump if not stored properly
❌ Not oil-soluble, limiting its use in oil-based formulations
❌ Can be drying to the skin if used in excess
Alternative Ingredients/ Substitutions
Dead Sea Salt (for additional minerals)
Himalayan Pink Salt (for trace minerals and exfoliation)
Baking Soda (for skin softening effects)
Magnesium Chloride (for a more bioavailable magnesium source)
Best Practices
Dissolve completely in warm water before use to avoid grainy textures in skincare formulations.
Store in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption and clumping.
Combine with other salts like Dead Sea salt for an enhanced mineral bath experience.
Tips & Tricks
Mix with essential oils and a carrier oil before adding to bathwater for a spa-like experience.
Use in DIY bath bombs, scrubs, and soaks for an effective relaxation formula.
Combine with baking soda for a gentle foot soak.
Recommended Starter Amount
500g to 1kg for personal use
5kg+ for small-scale production