New publications
Contraindications to treatment and recreation at the Dead Sea
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Contraindications to treatment and recreation at the Dead Sea are based on the properties of water, mud, air and sea salt. Let's consider the main restrictions to recreation at the Dead Sea, as well as the rules for effective treatment on the Israeli seashore.
Rest and treatment at the Dead Sea is a unique therapy that is available only in Israel. It is all about the unique structure of sea water, air and climate in general. The salt lake has a combination of unique natural factors. Firstly, it is the lowest point on earth, so the air here is special, which is saturated with bromine and iodine ions. This fact makes the Dead Sea the best place for treating lung and respiratory diseases.
There are many medical centers on the shores of the Dead Sea that treat various diseases and have modern treatment methods in their arsenal that are used in the treatment of various types of lesions. The peculiarity of treatment at the Dead Sea is that it is here that all the factors necessary for effective treatment, rehabilitation and prevention are concentrated. But, despite the advantages of treatment on the seashore of Israel, there are a number of restrictions and prohibitions for carrying out therapeutic therapy. Let's consider contraindications to treatment and rest at the Dead Sea:
- Patients after steroid treatment or PUVA therapy (only those patients who have undergone treatment more than 2-3 years ago are allowed).
- Patients in the postoperative period are admitted for treatment only with the permission of the attending physician.
- Presence of infectious diseases: tuberculosis, typhus and any other diseases during an exacerbation.
- Circulatory disorders and frequent bleeding.
- Patients with cardiovascular diseases, malignant neoplasms and unstable diseases (renal lesions, lobular and decompensated diabetes).
- Herpes, AIDS, hemophilia and hypertension at all stages.
- Psychiatric diseases: psychosis, schizophrenia, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease.
- Patients in a state after deep thrombosis and superficial thrombophlebitis.
- Respiratory, renal and hepatic failure.
- Lupus erythematosus and pemphigus.
- History of stroke or myocardial infarction less than 6 months ago.
- Alcoholism, substance abuse, sudden weight loss.
In addition to the above contraindications, patients who use cortisone medications should stop using them 2-3 months before vacation and treatment at the Dead Sea. Since taking medications can cause an exacerbation of the disease.
It is worth remembering that it is better to choose the ideal time of year to treat a particular disease. Let's consider recommendations for staying at the Dead Sea to treat various diseases:
- Psoriasis, seborrhea and other skin lesions – from March to November.
- Eczema, acne, neurodermatitis, mycosis – all year round, except July and August.
- Diseases of the musculoskeletal system, ENT diseases and pathologies, endocrinological diseases, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - all year round.
- Chronic fatigue syndrome, neurological diseases – from September to May.
- Bronchitis, asthma, vitiligo – from April to November.
Contraindications to the use of Dead Sea mud
Contraindications to Dead Sea mud depend entirely on the healing properties of the mud components, which are valued for their healing properties. Mud contains a large number of minerals and microelements that are beneficial for the skin, bones, muscles and joints. Mud therapy is used for patients with nervous system disorders, endocrine diseases, immune system disorders, metabolic pathologies in the body and many other diseases.
- Muds have thermal properties and are characterized by high heat conductivity. With the help of mud applications, you can warm up the skin and promote vasodilation, improve blood circulation and speed up metabolism. Due to the effect of heat on the skin, the production of hormones and endorphins is significantly increased, which has a positive effect on the immune system.
- Many patients compare the effect of using mud with a massage. When applied to the skin, the mud has a mechanical effect. Pressure is applied both to the upper layer of the epidermis and to the deep tissues and capillary vessels. Since the blood intensively passes from the capillaries to the vessels, the functioning of the cardiovascular system is significantly improved.
- The Dead Sea mud also has chemical properties. The mud contains many chemical elements, the complex effect of which accelerates the production of enzymes to normalize metabolic processes. The skin, like the entire body, begins to rejuvenate.
- The mud has an anti-inflammatory effect, so it is effective in the treatment of dermatological diseases and allergic reactions on the skin. The mud contains iodine, bromine and zinc, which act as bactericidal substances, improve skin nutrition and relieve inflammation.
As for contraindications to Dead Sea mud, the list is quite extensive. Of course, the main contraindications are: the period of exacerbation of skin diseases, open wounds, pregnancy, cancer. Do not forget about the age and general condition of patients, as in some cases this is also a contraindication to the use of mud.
Dermatologists and cosmetologists name the following contraindications to the use of Dead Sea mud:
- Any acute inflammatory processes in the body.
- Malignant tumors and benign neoplasms.
- Diseases of the liver, kidneys, urinary tract.
- Diseases of the hematopoietic organs and blood, circulatory failure of 2-3 degrees.
- Endocrine diseases, thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus.
- Atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension.
- Pregnancy at any stage.
- Age group of patients over 65 years old.
- Mental illness, paralysis (progressive), epilepsy, neuroses.
Contraindications to holidays at the Dead Sea
Contraindications for vacationing at the Dead Sea depend on the age of the vacationer, the general condition of the body and the presence of chronic diseases. If the vacation is carried out for preventive purposes, then to prevent relapses of diseases, patients are examined in medical centers located on the seashore in Israel. Let's consider the main contraindications for vacationing at the Dead Sea:
- Mental disorders and diseases of the nervous system (epilepsy, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease).
- Renal, hepatic and respiratory failure.
- Infectious diseases in the acute stage.
- AIDS.
- Red lupus.
- Stroke less than 6 months ago.
- Myocardial infarction less than 2 months ago.
- Pulmonary tuberculosis.
- Pemphigus.
- Relapses and acute course of any diseases.
In addition to the above contraindications, do not forget that before going to Israel to the Dead Sea, you must stop taking medications and stop acute inflammatory processes. Since the special climate and natural conditions of the salt lake can cause exacerbation and relapse of untreated or chronic pathologies.
[ 3 ]
Contraindications to swimming in the Dead Sea
Contraindications to bathing in the Dead Sea are based on the chemical composition of the water. You can bathe in the sea 1-2 times a day, but not more than 15 minutes. If doctors recommend three visits to the water, then at least 3 hours should pass between each bathing. Contraindications are associated with the high salinity of the sea 280 g / l and a high concentration of minerals. The water of the Dead Sea has a high PH index - 9, because of this, prolonged exposure to the water can cause burns on particularly sensitive areas of the skin.
People with nervous disorders and mental illnesses are contraindicated to swim in the sea. Acute infectious diseases and open wounds are also contraindications to water procedures. Do not forget that renal, hepatic and respiratory failure are contraindications not only to swimming, but also to rest at the resorts of the Dead Sea.
In addition to time restrictions and health restrictions, bathing in the Dead Sea has certain rules and recommendations, let's look at them:
- It is necessary to enter the sea in rubber slippers or moccasins. This is justified by the fact that there are stones and salt crystals on the bottom that can damage the skin.
- When swimming, it is forbidden to touch your face with wet hands. Since sea water that gets on the mucous membranes can cause a burn. If water does get on your face, you must immediately rinse it with fresh water.
- The water of the Dead Sea is very dense, so swimming and diving are prohibited. If you go into the water beyond the required level, the saline solution will push you out.
- During the bathing process, it is recommended to lie on your back and enjoy the salt bath.
- After leaving the sea, you need to wash yourself with fresh water to wash off the layer of salt. If you don't do this, the salt will burn and corrode sensitive skin.
Bathing in the Dead Sea gives energy and strength, calms and relaxes. After bathing, the skin becomes velvety, soft and tender. But do not neglect the above contraindications and recommendations. Since failure to comply with the rules can cause serious adverse effects of bathing in the Dead Sea.
[ 4 ]
Contraindications to the use of Dead Sea cosmetics
Contraindications to the use of Dead Sea cosmetics depend entirely on the type of cosmetic product, its composition and method of application. General contraindications are similar to the prohibitions regarding recreation, treatment and swimming in the sea waters. When choosing cosmetics, it is worth paying attention to reviews, as many consumers talk about the side effects of this or that cosmetic product. Let's consider the general contraindications to the use of Dead Sea cosmetics:
- Respiratory and cardiac failure.
- Hypertension.
- Acute course of infectious diseases.
- Open wounds and recurrent skin diseases.
- Oncological and inflammatory diseases.
Real cosmetics from Israel are made only from natural ingredients that are hypoallergenic, but each of them has its own contraindications. Therefore, before using any cosmetic product, carefully read its composition, indications for use, dosage and contraindications. This will protect you from unwanted side effects.
Contraindications to treatment and recreation at the Dead Sea are a number of precautions that allow you to spend your vacation as comfortably as possible, and the treatment is effective. Compliance with the rules and recommendations regarding swimming in the sea, certain medical procedures or the use of cosmetics will protect you from the adverse effects of the active substances of the Dead Sea.
[ 5 ]