Does Magnesium Get Absorbed Through Your Skin? The Science Behind It

January 7, 2026 •

3 min read

Topical magnesium is becoming a popular wellness trend, but some scientific uncertainty remains. Research suggests that applying magnesium directly to the skin, known as transdermal magnesium therapy, can raise magnesium levels. The key question is whether this method is a proven alternative to oral supplements or just a trend.

Quick Summary

Limited research indicates that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, primarily via hair follicles, although the overall amount and clinical importance is still debated. Applying magnesium topically may be suitable for people who have digestive issues with oral supplements, but should not replace medically indicated treatments for severe deficiencies.

Key Points

Skin Absorption is Possible: Research suggests magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, mainly via hair follicles and sweat glands.
Bypasses Digestion: Transdermal use avoids digestive issues from oral supplements, which may benefit sensitive individuals.
Evidence is Mixed: The scientific community is debating the clinical significance and amount of magnesium absorbed transdermally; more research is required.
Product Differences: Absorption varies depending on the product used (e.g., oil, lotion, Epsom salts) and factors like skin condition and application time.
Not a Replacement: Topical magnesium is not a substitute for medical treatments for deficiencies.
Targeted Relief: Applying topical magnesium directly to sore muscles is common for relief from tension and cramps.

Transdermal Magnesium Absorption: An Overview

The idea that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin has grown in popularity with products like magnesium oil and Epsom salts. Supporters claim it is a more efficient way to increase magnesium levels by avoiding the digestive system, which can cause issues for some people. However, the skin's job as a barrier makes the absorption of charged particles, like magnesium ions, a complex process.

How Skin Permeation Works

The stratum corneum is the skin's outermost layer and protects against outside substances.

Barrier function: The stratum corneum is rich in lipids, making it difficult for water-soluble substances, like magnesium ions, to get through.
Penetration pathways: Limited evidence indicates that magnesium ions can enter the skin through hair follicles and sweat glands, which make up a small portion of the skin's surface. Research from Cardiff University shows that hair follicles assist in this process.
Diffusion dynamics: When applied topically, magnesium moves from a high-concentration area (the product) to a lower-concentration area (the body's tissues), allowing for some penetration.

Oral vs. Transdermal Magnesium


Feature	Oral Magnesium Supplements	Transdermal Magnesium
Absorption Mechanism	Digested and absorbed through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.	Absorbed directly through the skin, avoiding the GI tract.
Bioavailability	Varies based on the magnesium form; can be low due to GI issues.	Effectiveness and total absorbed amount are debated; may provide targeted benefits.
Side Effects	Common side effects include loose stools and diarrhea, especially at high doses.	Potential side effects include skin irritation, tingling, or itching, especially on broken skin.
Convenience	Easy and consistent dosage via tablets or capsules.	Convenient for targeted application or relaxing baths, but messy for some.
Evidence	Well-documented effectiveness for treating magnesium deficiency.	Scientifically debated efficacy; some pilot studies show promising results, but more research is needed.

Common Transdermal Products

Several products are marketed for delivering magnesium through the skin, each with a different method of use.

Magnesium Oil: A highly concentrated solution of magnesium chloride in water that has an oily texture. It is often sprayed and massaged onto the skin, allowing for focused application on specific muscle groups.
Epsom Salts (Magnesium Sulfate): Frequently used in baths and foot soaks. The relaxing effects of a warm bath are well known, but the amount of magnesium absorbed into the bloodstream from Epsom salt baths is still debated.
Magnesium Lotions and Creams: These products combine magnesium chloride with moisturizing ingredients. They offer the benefit of skin hydration and potential magnesium delivery, making them a gentler option for sensitive skin.

How to Improve Transdermal Absorption

If using topical magnesium, several factors can affect the rate of absorption:

Timing: Applying the product after a warm shower or bath, when pores are more open, may improve absorption.
Contact Time: Leaving the product on the skin for at least 20–30 minutes, or allowing it to air dry, is recommended for better permeation.
Application Method: Massaging the product into the skin can help speed up the absorption process.
Product Quality: The concentration and purity of the magnesium source, such as magnesium chloride from the Zechstein seabed, can affect efficacy.

Analyzing Scientific Discrepancies

Some studies suggest transdermal magnesium can increase magnesium levels, but comprehensive, large-scale studies are needed to determine its clinical relevance. Some researchers are skeptical about the amounts absorbed through the skin. This difference highlights the need for a balanced approach, considering both the potential benefits and the lack of strong evidence for widespread use.

Conclusion

In summary, there is some evidence that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, but the extent and clinical importance of this are still debated. Topical magnesium may be a good option for people who have gastrointestinal side effects from oral supplements or for those seeking targeted relief for muscle soreness. However, it is not a proven replacement for medical treatment of serious deficiency and should be used with realistic expectations. Always consult a healthcare professional before using transdermal magnesium for therapeutic purposes. For more information on magnesium, consult studies from the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Transdermal magnesium refers to applying magnesium-containing products, like oils, lotions, or bath flakes, directly to the skin for absorption into the body, bypassing the digestive system.

The effectiveness is debated; oral supplements have more robust scientific evidence for treating deficiency. Transdermal absorption occurs, but the amount and clinical impact are still under investigation.

A stinging or tingling sensation from magnesium oil can be caused by low cellular magnesium levels, applying too much product, or using it on broken or very dry skin. It is not an allergic reaction and typically subsides with continued use.

Severe overdose from topical application is extremely rare in individuals with healthy kidneys, as the body can regulate and excrete excess amounts. However, excessive use can cause temporary skin irritation.

Epsom salt baths are used for muscle relaxation, but there is no strong scientific evidence to support significant systemic absorption of magnesium or sulfate through the skin from them.

Potential benefits include muscle relaxation, reduced pain and soreness, and stress relief. It is also a good option for those who experience digestive upset from oral supplements.

To improve absorption, apply topical magnesium to clean, warm skin, such as after a shower. Massaging the product in and allowing it to remain on the skin for a longer period can also help.