Saltwater Compresses for Skin Allergies: Preparation, Application, and Precautions

How to Use Saline Compresses for Eczema/Psoriasis Relief

Preparation

• 1 teaspoon non-iodized salt (sea salt, kosher salt) + 1 cup (240 mL) warm water (distilled or boiled/cooled).
• Stir until fully dissolved. Solution should be isotonic (~0.9% NaCl).

Application

1. Cleanse area gently with mild, fragrance-free cleanser; pat dry.
2. Soak clean gauze or soft cloth in solution; wring excess.
3. Apply as wet compress to affected area for 5–10 minutes.
4. Repeat 2–4 times daily during flares.
5. Follow immediately with fragrance-free moisturizer (occlusive preferred).

Mechanism

• Reduces edema via osmotic draw.
• Cleanses crusts, scales, bacteria.
• Soothes itch and inflammation.

Precautions

• Avoid on open, weeping, or infected lesions without clinician guidance.
• Do not use table salt with iodine/anti-caking agents.
• Discontinue if irritation worsens.
• Not a substitute for prescription topicals (corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, biologics).