Transdermal Magnesium: What Science Says About This Absorption Method

Transdermal Magnesium: What Science Says About This Absorption Method

What Is Transdermal Magnesium?

Transdermal magnesium refers to the application of magnesium through the skin using sprays, oils, lotions, or baths (like Epsom salts). The idea is that magnesium can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the skin, bypassing the digestive system.

How Does It Work?

The skin has a protective barrier called the stratum corneum, which typically blocks many substances. However, certain studies suggest that small, water-soluble molecules—like magnesium chloride—may penetrate the skin under specific conditions.

A study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine (2017) found that magnesium ions can be transported through skin via hair follicles and sweat glands. Another study (Waring, 2016) found that soaking in a magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) bath for 12 minutes raised participants’ magnesium levels in blood and urine.

However, these results are not universal. Some researchers argue that evidence for effective absorption is limited or inconsistent. A 2017 systematic review in Nutrients stated that while promising, current data supporting transdermal magnesium as a reliable supplement method is still lacking robust clinical evidence.

Pros of Transdermal Magnesium:

• Bypasses the digestive tract, making it ideal for people with gastrointestinal issues or low magnesium absorption.
• Convenient and non-invasive, easy to apply via sprays or baths.
• Localized relief, reduces muscle cramps or soreness when applied directly to the skin.
• Lower risk of diarrhea, a common side effect of high-dose oral magnesium.

Cons of Transdermal Magnesium:

• Inconsistent absorption, as skin penetration varies based on skin type, area, and formulation.
• Limited clinical research, with a lack of large, well-controlled human trials.
• Possible skin irritation from certain magnesium oils or formulations.

Oral vs. Transdermal Supplementation:

Oral magnesium is well-studied, with well-established bioavailability depending on the form—magnesium citrate and glycinate are among the most absorbable.

Transdermal magnesium is less studied but offers an alternative for those with digestive sensitivity. Its potential benefits are most often reported anecdotally or in small studies, and more research is needed before it can be considered a primary supplementation method.

Summary:

Transdermal magnesium offers a promising alternative route for magnesium supplementation, especially for those who struggle with oral forms or lack magnesium rich nutritional diets. Small studies and anecdotal evidence show strong support for its absorption and benefits, larger-scale clinical trials are needed for full validation. Magnesium in general has robust clinical backing for use in treating deficiency, muscle cramps, migraines, and more.