 The
beneficial effects of the Dead Sea's raw materials on the skin and their
unique therapeutic and beautifying powers have been recognized since ancient
times. Cleopatra, considered the most beautiful woman in the world, went
to great expense to obtain exclusive rights over the Dead Sea area. At
her command, pharmaceutical and cosmetic factories were built near the
Dead Sea. Their remains can still be seen today at Ein Bokek and Ein Gedi.
Following in the tradition of ancient times, about 50 modern plants now manufacture cosmetics and skin-care products based on minerals from the Dead Sea. Scientists at these plants have developed lines of mineral-rich cosmetic products which are exported all over the world as a Dead Sea Cosmetic products. The use of Dead Sea bath salts at home is an effective way to relax and absorb the minerals of the Dead Sea. Research has proven the efficiency of Dead Sea bath salts in alleviating skin diseases such as psoriasis, by treatment that can be administered at home by using about 2.2 lbs for each bath. It is also highly beneficial for relieving muscle tension or for simply relaxing and enjoying a rejuvenating experience. The uniqueness of many Dead Sea cosmetic lines lies in the key ingredient - mineral mud. Dead Sea mud rich in minerals with similar chemical composition to Dead Sea waters can either be applied to the entire body or just parts, and is also popular as a facial mud masque. Professor Zalmanovitch, a leading American dermatologist, tested the Dead Sea mud masques on thirty women of different age groups and varying skin tones. They found the facial mud masques stimulating, tightening, cleansing and invigorating, leaving the skin with a refreshing glow. The clay's remarkable absorbency reaches deep into the pores, thoroughly cleansing and removing grime which impedes the nourishing process. Through reverse osmosis, minerals from the mud nourishes the skin and restores its vitality. The mineral action also works to tighten the pores, helping skin to look and feel its best. Superfine grains allow for easy application, even coverage and easy removal. Facial mud masques from the Dead Sea come in various strengths of mud and salinity, making them suitable for different skin types including oily, normal and dry skins. The stimulating effect of the Dead Sea mud is so powerful that it should be used gradually until the skin becomes accustomed to the active ingredients. Mud masques for oily skins should be used for up to three times a week, for normal skins twice a week and for dry skins just once a week. An expert should be consulted as to the suitability of masques for each skin type. Dead Sea mud can be used in the convenience of one's s home for the relief of various aches and pains. It can be applied heated to relieve pain caused by joint inflammation and easing morning stiffness. The Dead Sea mud is excellent for softening scaly, dry parts of the body, such as knees and elbows and it is also highly effective for various skin and scalp problems. Used on the scalp, it helps thicken roots enhancing renewed growth. The possible role of Dead Sea minerals on skin smoothing was studied recently. Skin smoothing was tested by applying three preparations ; a - liquid gel with anti wrinkle agents and 1% "Osmoter" , Dead Sea mineral solution b - the same gel with anti-wrinkle agent only and c - a control gel without anti wrinkle agent, on skin smoothing. At the end of the four weeks application period the liquid gel with anti - wrinkle agents, enriched with 1% of a unique Dead Sea mineral rich solution, "Osmoter", had a skin roughness parameter reduction of 40.7% in average. The liquid gel with the same anti-wrinkle agents, but without "Osmoter", showed an average skin roughness parameter reduction of 27.8%. The control gel, without anti-wrinkle agents or "Osmoter", showed a reduction of only 10.4%. These surprising results were found to be superior in comparison with 45 leading cosmetic brands, in smoothing the skin's s surface and reducing wrinkle depth and skin roughness by Dead Sea minerals.  This
finding may allow a declaration of "A Dead Sea's Anti-wrinkle Effect" ,
and since this effect is one of most desired effects from the consumer
point of view, it is quite certain that Dead Sea mineral based products
will continue to be at least as successful in its sales in the future as
they are today.
Part of the many cosmetic articles containing Dead Sea minerals are listed below. Shampoos produced from the minerals of the Dead Sea, condition, cleanse and refresh hair and scalp and are available for dry / normal or oily hair types. There is also a special anti-dandruff shampoo containing unique ingredients from the Dead Sea. Other products include Dead Sea cleansers, Dead Sea nourishing cream, Dead Sea moisturizers, Dead Sea foot cream, Dead Sea hand cream, Dead Sea eye make-up remover, Dead Sea skin toners, Dead Sea astringents, Dead Sea face wash, Dead Sea spot treatment, Dead Sea bath and shower gel, Dead Sea stabilizing ampoules, Dead Sea sun protection creams, and Dead Sea soaps. SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY ON DEAD SEA COSMETICS EFFECTS
Dead Sea Mineral-based Cosmetics-facts and Illusions. Isr J Med Sci 1996; 32 (Suppl 3) : 28-35. Z. Ma'or, S. Yehuda Skin Smoothing Effects of Dead Sea Minerals: Comparative Profilometric Evaluation of Skin Surface. Intl. J. of Cosmetics: 19,105-110; 1997. |
