It doesn’t get much better than the relaxation of a good old-fashioned bubble bath after a long day, so why not make it even better with a few bath salts? Whether you’re interested in soothing a chronic skin condition, like acne or eczema, or ready to take advantage of salt’s natural antibacterial properties, bath salts are an easy addition that won’t dry out your skin like a traditional bubble mixture.
Read below to see what specific salts we recommend including, and the simple bath salt recipes in which you can use them.

Epsom salt is the most ubiquitous of the salts used for bathing. It's affordable and easy to find. Loved by athletes for its ability to soothe sore, tired muscles and reduce inflammation, it also gives your body a natural magnesium boost. Low magnesium can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, and a whole host of other health concerns.

Dead sea salt is another popular variety of bath salt. In addition to magnesium, it's chock full of other minerals valuable for your health, such as potassium and calcium. It's also a natural treatment for the relief of skin conditions such as psoriasis.

Himalayan pink salt is gaining quite a reputation in the culinary world, but did you know it can add some healthy glamour to your next bath? This attractive salt contains over 80 trace minerals. It also adds natural visual appeal if you want to give your homemade bath salt as a gift!

Another ingredient that can take your homemade bath salts to the next level is colloidal oatmeal. You can add a handful to your recipe to help naturally relieve and soften dry, itchy skin.

This next ingredient is one you probably have in your kitchen already! Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can not only soothe itchy skin, but also boost your salt's natural ability to draw out toxins from your body.

You can also add choose to add an oil to make your bath salts even more moisturizing. Coconut, sweet almond, and grape seed oils are all great options that will leave your skin feeling silky, but be careful when using them--they make more than the salt slippery!

Finally, essential oils can do more than just make your tub time smell divine! Try adding lavender essential oil for a stress-relieving soak, a citrus oil such as orange or lemon for a quick pick-me-up, or a floral oil like rose, jasmine, or ylang ylang for a more sensual experience.

Loving these ideas? Check out the recipes below to see how you can put them all together.
Easy Homemade Bath Salts

• 1 cup total of your choice of salts
• 1/4 cup moisturizing ingredient of your choice (colloidal oatmeal oran oil such as coconut)
• 10 drops essential oils

Mix all ingredients thoroughly, breaking up any clumps in the salt as you go. A small, non-metal spatula is great for this! Store in a tightly covered glass or plastic jar in a cool, dry location. Use within 6 months (if you included oil). Makes enough for 3-4 baths.
Very Basic Detoxifying Bath Salt

• 1 cup of your desired salt or blend of salts (Dead Sea salt is an excellent choice for this one!)
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 10 drops essential oil (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly, breaking up any lumps in the salt as you mix them. Store in a covered glass or plastic container in a cool, dry location. Use a generous amount per bath.
Love the idea of using a mix of ingredients to create a soothing experience, but not into making them yourself? Check out our Cosmetic, Skin Care & Bath & Body Care categories for all of the benefits and none of the work.
Sources:

• https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/#h5
• http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/understanding-psoriasis-treatment?page=3
• http://wellnessmama.com/4513/magnesium-salt-baths/
• http://www.livestrong.com/article/340134-detox-bath-baking-soda/