How much salt is too much? A high-sodium diet doesn’t just raise blood pressure—it also affects skin health. According to a study by the Author Manuscript, excessive salt intake can cause skin puffiness, leading to facial bloating and water retention.

Why does salt consumption cause bloating?

Consuming excessive salt causes your body to retain more water to balance sodium levels, leading to puffiness, particularly around the eyes, face, hands, or feet. The link between salt intake and skin puffiness appears in various ways. Globally, adults consume an average of 4,310 mg of sodium daily—more than twice the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of 2,000 mg.

Consuming too much salt can lead to dehydration, prompting the body to retain water and causing noticeable bloating. A high sodium intake may also trigger inflammation, leading to fluid buildup, especially in delicate areas like under the eyes.

What are the other causes of skin puffiness?

Skin puffiness or facial bloating can be caused by other factors too.  These include allergies, hormonal fluid retention, kidney conditions, sleep deprivation, dehydration, and so on. Additionally, sinus congestion, corticosteroid use, thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism, alcohol intake, poor circulation, injuries, ageing and certain medications, including antidepressants and birth control pills can cause bloating.

How to treat skin puffiness?

To reduce salt-induced skin puffiness, consider drinking more water to flush out excess sodium, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, limiting processed foods, and incorporating natural diuretics like cucumber, watermelon, and asparagus.