Magnesium is a powerful, versatile mineral that can help ease numerous ailments and conditions. In addition to creams and tablets, it is also available as a highly effective transdermal oil. We use the term ‘oil’ loosely as technically, it isn’t an actual oil, it just feels like one.
What many people may not realise is that the location of application on the body, can benefit you in many ways. Typically, magnesium oil can be applied anywhere on the body. As your skin is your biggest organ, it will eventually transfer the mineral into your blood stream. Naturally, it is important to avoid the eye area, mucus membranes, sensitive areas and any open wounds or cuts.
Let’s start at the very beginning
Before applying magnesium oil, it’s important to make sure that the skin is clean and free from any other product or barrier cream that could reduce effectivity and hinder uptake by the skin. We all have different levels of magnesium in our bodies which change daily depending on our diet, stress levels and environment.
Anyone can benefit from introducing more magnesium into their routines as due to the way our food is produced, we simply aren’t getting enough of the mineral through our diets anymore. On the flip side, some people do have naturally low levels of magnesium. Unless you are suffering from dysfunctional kidneys, your body will typically regulate a safe intake, so don’t be concerned about accidentally using too much.
For those who have a specific condition which has led them to try magnesium as an agent to support recovery, there are some important application techniques and areas on the body you can target which will help you get the most out of your oil.
General application – as an overall supplement
The great thing about magnesium is that you don’t need a health professional to administer it – unless you’re opting for an intravenous approach of course. Transdermal absorption is the most efficient way to absorb magnesium and is effective on any part of your body. We suggest administering it daily as part of your morning routine, but not in an area which is freshly shaved. Monitoring and responding to the activity and stress levels of your day, you may wish to re-apply after mental or physical exertion.
Targeted application – eczema, acne and skin health
There are so many reasons why Chinese medicine refers to magnesium as the secret beauty mineral, helping to improve the overall appearance and condition of your skin.
You may also notice improvements when you apply magnesium oil regularly to places which are impacted by conditions such as eczema. Be careful to utilise an unscented magnesium product and avoid any areas with broken skin as well as around the eyes. If you suffer from oily skin, you may also find this helps reduce oil levels by breaking down fats.
For this reason, it can also aid acne. Make sure you apply it carefully if you have an outbreak on your face. Some people prefer to rub it in using their (clean!) fingers, applying it directly to the area, avoiding the eyes and open sores.
Soles of your feet – stress reduction, sleep hygiene and relaxation
Whilst we are asleep, our bodies are working hard to reset, regenerate and recover from the day, so why not give yourself some extra help and at the same time, treat your feet?
Consisting of over 7,000 nerve endings, your feet are jam packed full of activity and what many people may not realise, is that they act like a second nervous system. Applying magnesium to your feet when you’re in bed will help calm and relax you, whilst also aiding a quick transition into sleep. As the skin on the tops of our feet is quite thin, it absorbs quickly. Try it in a footbath for the ultimate calming experience.
Abdomen – menopause, PMS and stomach cramps
Applying magnesium oil to your abdomen can help ease symptoms of menopause as well as other cramps and discomfort associated with PMS. It’s also another great place on your body to aid with stress reduction and stomach spasms, which can occur due to illness or injury. Try it after exercising to reduce cramping in this area, as well as other places on the body which might have been impacted.
After a shower – high blood pressure
Applying magnesium to the skin after a shower helps promote blood flow and lower blood pressure. It doesn’t make a dramatic difference so we would only suggest using it as part of a comprehensive approach that includes medication as recommended by your GP or specialist.
After a shower, your body will be more relaxed, and the pores will be open from the heat, meaning magnesium will be absorbed more effectively. We suggest spraying your body liberally and spreading it briefly before getting dressed so you can get the full benefit. Some brands will advise you to leave it on to fully soak in for at least 30 minutes, however more sophisticated formulations provide accelerated absorption and bio-availability within minutes.
Shoulders, neck and upper back – migraines
For anyone who has suffered from migraines, you’ll know how debilitating they can be. But what you may not know, is that magnesium can help ease the discomfort. Apply to the shoulders, neck and upper back for relief which you should feel gradually depending on the severity of the migraine. Current science also suggests that daily magnesium intake is reducing the frequency of migraine attacks.
Under arms – excessive sweat and prevention of body odour
Did you know that you can also use magnesium oil also as a deodorant? Odour is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat into chemicals that release that distinctive BO smell. Magnesium oil sprays containing magnesium chloride work much like solid deodorising salt crystal rocks, where the mineral salts slow the growth of odour-causing bacteria.
There are so many ways that magnesium oil can be used to assist with quality of life. If you have any questions or would like additional information about where to apply magnesium so it works best for you, please contact us. We’d love to help.