Salt Saunas: Benefits Of Salt In Spa Treatments

Think your spa has experienced every trend? It's time to explore the latest in wellness: salt halotherapy (or salt therapy). For spa professionals, introducing salt saunas could set your services apart. But it's not just about following trends; understanding the real benefits of these salt-infused retreats is crucial. Do they offer true value to your Clients, or are they just a passing fad? Along with these newer therapies, we'll also discuss scientifically proven salt treatments, like salt scrubs, to give you a comprehensive view. Let's dive in to find out more about "salty" sanctuaries.

What Is Halotherapy?

Halotherapy, commonly known as salt therapy, is a wellness practice that involves breathing air infused with fine salt particles. Its roots can be traced back to the natural salt mines and caves in Eastern Europe, where European monks first observed that patients treated in salt caverns experienced faster healing. But the most pivotal moment in the history of salt therapy occurred in the 19th century when Polish physician Felix Boczkowski noticed that miners working in the salt mines had remarkably good respiratory health, despite their dusty work environment. This led to the hypothesis that inhaling salt-infused air had beneficial health effects, inspiring the contemporary concept of salt saunas and the opening of the first health facility in a salt mine in 1839. 

In a salt sauna, or halotherapy chamber, the concept of inhaling salt-infused air is recreated in a controlled environment. There are two main types of salt saunas:

Active Salt Rooms

These rooms are equipped with a device called a halogenerator. This machine grinds salt into fine particles and disperses them into the air of the room. This method is more active in that it artificially creates the salt-infused atmosphere found in natural salt caves.

Passive Salt Rooms

Passive salt rooms are more about replicating the aesthetics and feel of a natural salt cave. They don't use a halogenerator but are instead decorated with various types of salt, like Himalayan pink salt. The ambiance is set for relaxation and meditation, offering a serene environment that resembles the natural salt caves. 

What Are The Benefits Of Salt Saunas? 

The principle behind both types of salt saunas involves breathing in air that is saturated with tiny salt particles. Functional medicine specialist Melissa Young, MD tells Cleveland Clinic that there is not a “mountain” of scientific facts but a lot of anecdotal evidence. “Sometimes, it can be frustrating that there aren’t enough well-designed studies looking at a particular treatment or the different study outcomes can be conflicting,” explains Dr. Young. “But that doesn’t mean there isn’t a potential benefit to that treatment.” 

This treatment has been associated with several health benefits:

• Skin Rejuvenation: Regular exposure to the unique microclimate within a salt sauna has been said to promote healthier, more radiant-looking skin.
• Stress Reduction: The tranquil environment of salt saunas is ideal for relaxation and is said to help reduce your stress levels.
• Respiratory Health: Inhaling salt particles is thought to thin mucus and improve lung function, potentially helping people with respiratory conditions.
• Skin Health: Salt's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties have been said to soothe the look of inflamed skin. 
• Improved Circulation: There are suggestions that salt therapy can enhance blood circulation.

While the scientific evidence for the health benefits of salt saunas remains limited, Himalayan salt stone massage has emerged as a rejuvenating practice that spa professionals can confidently offer to their Clients. Keep reading to find out the benefits. 

Scrubs & Other Salt Treatments

In the realm of skin care, salt serves as an effective exfoliating agent to buff and polish the skin for a smoother-looking appearance. Salt scrubs are renowned for their gritty particles, making them ideal for smoothing tougher skin areas like the feet and elbows. During facials, it's used to gently polish the complexion, and in body treatments, it helps to smooth and rejuvenate the skin while promoting relaxation and improved circulation. 

At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we recommend our Stone Crop Revitalizing Body Scrub that transforms into a luxurious, creamy foam. It is formulated with mineral-rich sea salt and hydrating stone crop to illuminate and refine your Client’s skin. 

While the health benefits of salt saunas may still be under scientific scrutiny, the effectiveness of salt scrubs used in treatments (like Himalayan salt massage therapy) is well recognized. A Himalayan salt stone massage is a unique therapeutic experience that utilizes the natural properties of Himalayan salt, a type of rock salt rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium and potassium. This salt, known for its distinctive pink hue, is extracted from the Himalayan Mountain range stretching across several South Asian countries. Estheticians strategically place warm stones on various body points, including the legs, back and feet and gently glide them over the skin. This massage not only offers the physical benefits of exfoliation and pain relief but also enhances the emotional well-being of your Clients, making it a valuable addition to your spa's treatment menu. 

Can Everyone Enjoy Salt Treatments?

While salt saunas and salt treatments can be a beneficial wellness treatment for many, they are not universally suitable as they depend on individual health conditions and personal tolerance. It's always recommended that your Clients consult a healthcare professional, especially for those with specific health conditions, before trying new wellness treatments. 

Who Should Avoid Salt Saunas?

Those with: 

• High blood pressure
• Heart conditions or cardiovascular concerns
• Respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchitis
• Skin conditions or open wounds
• Claustrophobia or anxiety
• Compromised immune systems
• Those who are pregnant
• Those who tend to experience dizziness

Who Should Avoid A Himalayan Salt Stone Massage?

Himalayan salt massages are best avoided for those with:

• Severe skin conditions
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease

Should I Implement A Salt Sauna?

Implementing salt saunas in your spa can be an intriguing and potentially beneficial addition to your spa, but there are several factors to consider for a successful integration.

Challenges & Considerations

When considering adding salt saunas to your spa, there are several key aspects to think about:

• Space Requirements: Assess the space needed for installation. Salt saunas require a dedicated area that can accommodate the sauna structure while also ensuring comfort and safety for users.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the salt sauna. This includes cleaning the salt surfaces and managing the humidity levels to prevent corrosion.
• Cost: Consider the initial investment, which includes the sauna unit, salt walls or blocks and any additional features like a halogenerator.
• Training For Spa Staff: Your staff should be well-trained in halotherapy, including its benefits and ideal candidates. Operational training on safe sauna management and maintaining optimal conditions is also crucial.

Remember, the success of integrating a salt sauna into your spa hinges on well-informed planning, strategic execution and clear communication with your staff and Clients. Consulting with seasoned professionals in this field can offer invaluable insights and guidance.

Are you considering adding this service? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below or find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner here.