Skin Conditions: Eczema, Psoriasis,& Epsom Salt
Float therapy is more than just an opportunity to relax. It offers a peaceful environment where your body can rest, your mind can unwind, and your skin can take a break from everyday stressors. Our float tanks contain water saturated with Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), allowing you to float effortlessly while enjoying a calming weightless experience. But what does this mean for your skin, particularly if you experience conditions such as eczema or psoriasis?
Eczema
Eczema is a common skin condition that can cause dryness, itching, irritation, and inflammation. Because eczema affects the skin’s natural moisture barrier, maintaining hydration and managing stress are important parts of everyday skin care.
For some individuals with eczema, floating may provide a relaxing experience, while water exposure can temporarily soften dry, rough patches.
How floating may benefit individuals with eczema:
- Softens Dry, Rough Skin: Soaking in water can temporarily soften ares of dry flaky skin, making them feel smoother.
- Supports a Moisturizing Routine: Applying a fragrance free moisturizer immediatelty after rinsing and showering can help lock in moisture and support the skin’s protective barrier.
- Encourages Stress Relief: Stress is a common trigger for eczema flare-ups. The peaceful environment of a float tank may help promote relaxation.
According to the National Eczema Association, gentle bathing followed by immediate mosturizing can help improve skin hydration and protect the skin barrier. However, concentrated Epsom saltwater is different from a typical gentle bath and may irritate eczema-prone skin, particularly during active flare-ups. We recommend individuals with eczema to consult their dermatoligsit or doctor before floating.
Epsom Slat Floating & Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often causes dry, thickened, and scaly patches of skin. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, proper skin careand stress management can help individuals manage their symptoms.
How floating may benefit individuals with psoriasis:
- Softens Dry, Flaky Skin: Warm-water soaking may temporarily soften scales and rough patched, helping the skin feel more comfortable.
- Promotes Relaxtion: Stress can contribute to psoriasis falre-ups, making relaxtion an important part of overall wellness.
- Encourage Skin Care: Following a float with a gentle shower and fragrance free moisturizier can help maintain skin hydration.
The National Psoriasis Foundation notes that short, warm baths may help soften scales and hydrate the skin. However, these benefits are associated with bathing generally and have not been specifically established for highly concentrated Epsom salt float tanks. While, the Epsom salts may help soften dry spots due to psoriasis, we recommend speaking with your doctor or dermatologist before floating.
Tips for Floating with Sensitive Skin
If you experience eczema, psoriasis, or other skin sensitivities, consider these precautions before scheduling a float:
- Consult your dermatologist before floating, especially if you are experiencing an active flare-up.
- Avoid floating with open cuts, cracked skin, or irritated areas that may sting in saltwater.
- Rinse thoroughly with fresh, lukewarm water after floating.
- Apply fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after showering.
- Exit the float tank if you experience burning, itching, or discomfort.
Relax, Recharge & Feel Your Best
Taking time to care for yourself is an important part of overall wellness. Whether you’re looking to reduce everyday stress, enjoy the sensation of weightlessness, or simply take a moment for yourself, float therapy offers a peaceful opportunity to relax and recharge. While floating is not a medical treatment for eczema or psoriasis, it can be a wonderful way to incorporate relation into your self-care routine when your skin tolerates the saltwater.