Magnesium spray is a popular method for increasing mineral intake through topical application. It is essentially a high concentration of magnesium chloride mixed with water, often called “magnesium oil” due to its slightly slick texture, even though it contains no actual oil. This approach offers the benefits of magnesium without the gastrointestinal side effects sometimes associated with oral supplements.
What Magnesium Spray Is and How It Works
Magnesium spray is primarily composed of magnesium chloride, a highly soluble form of the mineral typically sourced from ancient seabeds. The high concentration of the mineral salt dissolved in water creates a brine solution designed for direct application to the skin. This method is known as transdermal absorption, allowing the magnesium to pass through the skin’s surface into the underlying tissues and bloodstream.
This topical application bypasses the digestive system, which is often sensitive to large doses of magnesium and can cause stomach upset or a laxative effect. When applied, magnesium ions move from the high-concentration spray area to the lower-concentration tissues. Absorption is facilitated by hair follicles and can be enhanced by massaging the solution into the skin.
Specific Health Benefits of Topical Magnesium
Magnesium spray is primarily valued for its ability to support muscle and nerve function. Magnesium is a cofactor in over 300 enzyme systems and plays a direct role in regulating muscle contraction and relaxation. When applied topically, the mineral offers localized relief to areas of tension and discomfort.
This local action makes it useful for muscle recovery and the relief of nocturnal leg cramps and spasms. By helping to block the entry of calcium ions into muscle cells, magnesium promotes the relaxation phase of the muscle cycle. Topical application may also help soothe the involuntary muscle movements associated with restless legs syndrome that interfere with sleep.
Magnesium contributes significantly to the nervous system, translating into improvements in sleep quality and general relaxation. It helps calm nerve activity and supports the regulation of neurotransmitters that influence mood and sleep cycles. Specifically, it regulates the stress hormone cortisol and interacts with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation.
Using the spray before bed may help quiet the mind and encourage a more restful sleep pattern. Applying magnesium spray to the neck and temples can also provide temporary relief from mild tension headaches. Furthermore, transdermal magnesium may help reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility, benefiting those with joint discomfort.
Proper Usage and Important Precautions
For effective use, magnesium spray should be applied directly to clean skin, such as the torso, legs, and arms, and then thoroughly massaged in. Applying it after a warm shower or bath is recommended, as open pores may enhance absorption. While some people leave the spray on, it can be rinsed or wiped off after 20 to 30 minutes if a slight salt-like residue remains.
Users, particularly when first starting, commonly experience a tingling or mild stinging sensation on the skin. This is generally not an allergic reaction but may indicate low cellular magnesium status or rapid absorption of the concentrated salt solution. If the sensation is uncomfortable, the product can be diluted with water or users can switch to a less concentrated formulation.
Always avoid spraying the product on broken skin, cuts, or highly sensitive areas like the face or mucus membranes. Before starting regular use, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for redness or sustained irritation. Individuals with underlying health conditions, particularly those affecting kidney function, should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any form of magnesium supplementation.