Why Do People Use Magnesium Oil?

Magnesium oil is a topical product available in spray, lotion, cream, and gel forms.

Despite its name, it’s not an oil but is made from magnesium chloride flakes dissolved in water.

Close up shot of magnesium oil in a dropper

Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images

It has a slippery texture when applied to the skin.

People use magnesium oil to:

Small studies suggest topical magnesium may benefit specific conditions.

Study participants sprayed magnesium oil on their limbs twice daily for four weeks.

Is a Spray or Cream an Effective Way to Absorb Magnesium?

Studies examining how well magnesium oil is absorbed through the skin show mixed results.

Researchers suggested that higher doses or longer program times may improve absorption, but more research is needed.

Another study examined how effective magnesium is at penetrating human skin.

Researchers found that magnesium can pass through the skin barrier, primarily via hair follicles.

Dietary sources of magnesium and oral supplements are the most effective ways to treat or preventmagnesium deficiency.

Magnesium Oil vs.

Oral supplements are generally more appropriate for treating or preventing a deficiency or managing a specific health concern.

The recommended daily magnesium intake varies by age, sex, and life stage.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports muscle, nerve, immune, and heart functions.

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