Did you know your skin absorbs magnesium? (2024)

How is topical magnesium absorbed?

The skin absorbs magnesium through a process called dermal absorption. The millions of tiny openings in the skin, which allow sweat and other toxins to exit the body, also allow some substances to enter the body. After the magnesium has been absorbed through these porous openings, it passes into the lymph and blood vessel systems, and then into the bloodstream. Some parts of the body, including the scalp and armpits, have been shown to exhibit higher rates of absorption.

To increase the amount of magnesium your skin absorbs, try the following:

Why use topical magnesium when there is magnesium in food?

Although getting magnesium from food seems to be the easiest option, studies have shown that most Americans have a magnesium deficit diet. Additionally, oral magnesium has properties of laxatives which make it both inconvenient to use and not as effective because there is less time for the magnesium to absorb through the GI tract. It is very difficult to dose both magnesium in food and oral magnesium because the dose would be very large. After considering the difficulties associated with either of these methods, topical magnesium shows clear benefits.

Health benefits of using topical magnesium

Hundreds of studies have been published supporting magnesium’s benefits toward health. Magnesium plays a role in preventing some common diseases and conditions. Without magnesium, the body could not produce energy in cells or use that energy to move muscles and synthesize hormones. Magnesium supplementation can reduce risk of osteoporosis, depression, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, according to many studies. Magnesium can also be used to combat existing health conditions such as migraines, depression, diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, and even asthma. Overall magnesium is a safe and necessary addition to your routine. Scientists are still studying the details of the effects of magnesium deficiency and the effects of supplementing your body with magnesium, but we do know that proof magnesium is beneficial is out there and keeps coming out.

What is Magnesium? What does it do?

Magnesium is the second most abundant element inside human cells. Magnesium is also a macro-mineral which is needed by the body in large amounts. Once magnesium enters the body, it is broken down into ions. These magnesium ions are responsible for many different functions within the body. Magnesium allows enzymes to function properly which helps with a numerous amount of bodily functions such as glucose and fat breakdown, production of proteins, creation of DNA and RNA, and regulation of cholesterol production. Magnesium also allows our cells to produce energy that muscles use to relax and contract. DNA synthesis can be slowed by a lack of magnesium in the system, and our mineral balance in our cells can be thrown off by a lack of magnesium. This is why it is very important to protect this delicate balance and help our bodies function the way they were built to.

Causes of Magnesium Deficiency

There are many causes of magnesium deficiency, and some health conditions can increase your vulnerability to a magnesium deficiency.

Diet:

Most Americans have a diet that is magnesium deficit. Some foods that are magnesium rich are whole grains, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. However, these are not staples in the typical American diet. Instead, we find highly-processed foods with added fat and sugar. Although these foods may be convenient, they prevent our bodies from absorbing the amount of magnesium they need.

Water:

Water softening removes magnesium from drinking water. This is often done to improve the household cleaning properties of water, but it removes a beneficial mineral. Many municipalities participate in water softening, and some do try and resupply magnesium afterwards.

Excess Calcium:

Many people, especially women, take calcium supplements to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis. However, calcium actually depletes magnesium. Calcium needs magnesium in order to be effectively utilized, so many experts recommend taking calcium and magnesium in either a 2:1 or 1:1 ratio.

Other causes of magnesium depletion can include taking certain medications, addiction, stress, illness, and aging. By understanding the causes of magnesium deficiency, we can all make a choice regarding how and if we need to supplement our intake.

Overview of Ancient Minerals Products

General Usage of Ancient Minerals Products:

Ancient Minerals recommends using their products intensely for the first three to four months of use to ensure cellular magnesium levels will be properly restored. For the first few days of use, use modestly and gradually work up to larger amounts over time. A period of restoration will follow for about three to four months. During this time, use products daily at an individual therapeutic level. After three to four months, some users continue their usage, and others decrease their usage to only a few times per week. However, these recommendations serve only as a guideline because everyone has different needs when it comes to magnesium therapy.

General Dosage of Ancient Minerals Products

The recommended amount of magnesium intake will vary from individual to individual. However research indicates that 300mg of magnesium is required to replace daily losses. The National Institute of Health recommends men take in 400-420 mg of magnesium per day and women take in 310-360 mg per day.

Magnesium Oil:

What is Magnesium Oil?

Magnesium oil is a simple solution of magnesium chloride and water. It comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle. The chemical make-up of magnesium chloride makes it best to use topically due to its unique benefits and low toxicity. Apply the oil for a minimum of twenty minutes a day to experience the benefits, but never worry about applying too much! Another benefit of magnesium oil is that it can be applied as many times as you feel is best for you.

Benefits of Magnesium Oil

Application of Magnesium Oil:

For best use, spray 1-3 pumps into a cupped hand and rub into the skin. Apply the oil to the legs, arms, and torso. Avoid sensitive areas and mucus membranes. You may experience a tingling sensation during first use, however it is totally normal. It is also normal to see a salt-like residue on your skin after the oil dries. After twenty minutes, wipe off if desired.

Dosage:

100mg elemental magnesium per 1ml / 6 sprays

Magnesium Bath Flakes:

What are Magnesium Bath Flakes?

Magnesium bath flakes are the dry flakes of magnesium chloride and other naturally-occurring trace minerals in a convenient form to use in baths and foot soaks. Individuals with sensitive skin may prefer this method of application to the more concentrated Ancient Minerals Magnesium Gel or Magnesium Oil.

Benefits of Magnesium Bath Flakes

Use of Magnesium Bath Flakes

Dissolve 1-3 cups or more of the magnesium flakes into a warm foot bath or tub bath, and soak for 30 minutes or more. For intense applications, dissolve 8 pounds of magnesium flakes into a full tub bath.

Dosage:

15g elemental Magnesium per cup

Magnesium Lotion:

What is Magnesium Lotion?

Magnesium lotion is designed to deliver magnesium and also hydration. It is a more gentle concentration than the oil or gel, so it caters to individuals with sensitive skin. Magnesium lotion is an emulsion of magnesium chloride in a base of Ancient Minerals certified organic oils. It is quick-drying, fragrance free, paraben free, and phenoxyethanol free.

Benefits of Magnesium Lotion

Application of Magnesium Lotion

Apply the desired amount into a cupped hand and rub into the skin thoroughly. Repeat as appropriate to your treatment regimen, covering any areas needing special attention.

Dosage:

40mg elemental magnesium per 1ml / 1 full pump press

Magnesium Gel:

What is Magnesium Gel?

Magnesium gel is simply a combination of magnesium chloride with aloe vera gel. It is best used in massage therapy and provides more whole-body benefits compared to a traditional massage gel.

Benefits of Magnesium Gel

Application of Magnesium Gel

Magnesium gel is designed to stay hydrated on the skin, rather than be absorbed, like lotion. To use, apply the desired amount into a hand and rub into the skin thoroughly. Repeat as desired. After use, rinse or wipe the gel off the skin with a damp towel.

Dosage:

100mg elemental magnesium per 1ml

All information was gathered from Ancient Minerals