ASCP Esty Talk - Episode 333: Summer Splash – How Different Bodies of Water Affect the Skin

Release Date: July 9, 2025

Hosts:

• Alec Cressman: Licensed Esthetician, Reality TV Enthusiast, and Content Contributor for Associated Skincare Professionals (ASCP).
• Maggie Stasik: Licensed Esthetician and ASCP's Program Director.

Introduction to the Episode

In Episode 333 of ASCP Esty Talk, hosted by Alec Cressman and Maggie Stasik, the conversation delves into the intriguing relationship between various bodies of water and their impact on skin health. As summer approaches, understanding how different water environments affect the skin becomes essential for estheticians and skincare enthusiasts alike.

Understanding the Historical Significance of Water in Skincare

Alec Cressman opens the discussion by exploring the etymology of the word "spa," revealing its origins from the town of Spa in Belgium. He explains:

“The Romans... would soak in these [mineral springs] post-battle... They said these waters have healing powers... sanitas per aquam – health through water.”
[03:15]

Maggie Stasik acknowledges the historical context, emphasizing the enduring belief in water's restorative properties.

Ocean Water and Its Effects on the Skin

Alec introduces the topic by highlighting the abundance of ocean water during summer:

“Ocean water is rich in minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium... These help soothe, also provide gentle exfoliation and can support hydration in certain skin types.”
[06:14]

Key Benefits:

• Mineral-Rich Composition: Offers natural antibacterial and exfoliating properties.
• Hydration Support: Beneficial for specific skin types.

Drawbacks:

• Dehydration Risk: Prolonged exposure can strip the skin of moisture, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Environmental Contaminants: Pollutants and bacteria present in some ocean waters can pose risks.

Maggie's Recommendations for Clients:

• Rinse with Fresh Water: Immediately after ocean exposure.
• Rehydrate: Both internally and externally using humectants and occlusives.
• Sun Protection: Consistently apply and reapply SPF throughout the day.

Geothermal Hot Springs: A Mineral-Rich Oasis

The conversation transitions to geothermal hot springs, with Alec sharing a personal experience:

“We recently went to a place near Taos, New Mexico, called Ojo Caliente... I left feeling so good, so recharged.”
[07:35]

Historical Context:

• Ancient Practices: Used by Romans, Native American tribes, and revered in Japanese culture for their healing properties.
• Medical Treatments: Historically employed for muscular, skeletal, and respiratory ailments.

Skin and Body Benefits:

• Mineral Content: Sulfur (antibacterial), silica (soothing), magnesium (calming and barrier support).
• Enhanced Circulation: Higher temperatures improve blood flow and encourage detoxification.
• Mental and Emotional Well-being: Promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and fosters a mind-body reset.

Post-Soak Care Recommendations:

• Hydration: Ensure both internal and external hydration.
• Barrier Repair: Use serums, hydrating masks, and calming botanicals to support the skin.

Chlorinated Swimming Pools: Balancing Cleanliness and Skin Health

Alec provides a brief history of chlorinated pools:

“The very first public pool to use chlorine was Brown University's Colgate Hoyt Pool in 1910... It became a way to prevent waterborne illnesses.”
[11:35]

Benefits:

• Disinfection: Chlorine effectively prevents the spread of waterborne diseases.

Drawbacks:

• Skin Barrier Disruption: Strips natural oils, weakening the lipid barrier and disrupting the microbiome.
• Potential for Breakouts and Sensitivity: Can lead to dryness, irritation, and inflammation, especially in individuals with compromised skin conditions like eczema.

Maggie's Recommendations for Clients:

• Pre-Swim Barrier Cream: Utilize products like squalane or dimethicone to protect the skin.
• Post-Swim Care: Gently cleanse and replenish the skin with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
• Restore Microbiome Balance: Incorporate topical probiotics or soothing botanicals.

Freshwater Lakes and Rivers: Purity vs. Potential Risks

Alec discusses the unique aspects of freshwater environments:

“Freshwater lakes and rivers usually lack the mineral richness that you'll find in ocean or hot springs, making them more neutral in composition.”
[15:00]

Benefits:

• Cooling Effect: Reduces inflammation and soothes the skin, particularly after sun exposure.
• Trace Minerals: Spring-fed or glacial lakes may contain minerals beneficial for the skin.

Risks:

• Water Quality Variability: Presence of algae blooms, bacteria like E. coli, and organic matter can irritate or infect the skin.
• Swimmer's Itch: A rash caused by parasites in warm shallow water.
• Fungal Infections: Especially in stagnant or contaminated waters.

Maggie's Recommendations for Clients:

• Post-Swim Cleansing: Use antibacterial or pH-balancing cleansers.
• Hydrating Treatments: Apply soothing and hydrating products after exposure.
• Monitor for Irritations: Be vigilant for any unusual rashes or skin changes.
• Proper Swimwear Maintenance: Remove and wash wet clothing promptly to prevent prolonged skin exposure.

Practical Tips for Estheticians and Clients

Throughout the episode, Alec and Maggie emphasize the importance of educating clients about the effects of different water bodies on skin health. Key tips include:

• Hydration: Maintain adequate hydration before and after water exposure.
• Barrier Support: Use appropriate skincare products to reinforce the skin's natural barrier.
• Sun Protection: Consistently apply SPF, especially when spending extended periods outdoors.
• Cleansing Routines: Adopt thorough cleansing practices post-exposure to remove residual minerals or contaminants.
• Use of Soothing Botanicals: Incorporate products containing calming ingredients to mitigate irritation.

Alec encapsulates the essence of the discussion:

“It's really important to understand how different types of water affects the skin. Really helps estheticians to better support clients through the seasons, but also through their adventures...”
[17:41]

Conclusion

Episode 333 of ASCP Esty Talk provides a comprehensive exploration of how various water environments—ocean, geothermal hot springs, chlorinated pools, and freshwater lakes and rivers—impact skin health. By understanding the benefits and risks associated with each, estheticians can offer informed advice and tailored skincare solutions to their clients, ensuring healthy and radiant skin throughout the summer season.

Notable Quotes:

• Alec Cressman: “The word spa... sanitas per aquam – health through water.”
  [03:15]

• Maggie Stasik: “I would advise clients to rinse with fresh water immediately after their ocean exposure...”
  [07:08]

• Alec Cressman: “Chlorine strips the skin's natural oils and so that weakens the lipid barrier...”
  [12:49]

• Maggie Stasik: “After lake or river exposure, recommend using an antibacterial or pH balancing cleanser...”
  [17:03]

Connect with ASCP:

For more insights from Maggie and Alec or to learn more about ASCP's offerings, visit the show notes or reach out via Instagram, Facebook, or email at getconnectedscpskincare.com.