There’s been a lot of fuss about magnesium in the past few years. Greater understanding of its properties has led us to believe it may be able to improve sleep, promote muscle relaxation and soothe migraines.
So how does it work and just how effective can it be? We put it under the microscope to discuss its benefits and how to include it in your daily routine.
How does magnesium help the body?
Magnesium plays a pivotal role in a host of processes in our body, such as:
- Supporting muscle contraction
- Aiding DNA and RNA production
- Helping protein production
- Overseeing blood pressure and blood sugar regulation
- Supporting nerve transmission
Whilst health institutions do not recommend a minimum level of topical magnesium, there is a recommendation for how much magnesium our body needs to maintain healthy levels:
- 14 to 18 years old: 410 mg (male), 360 mg (female or lactating), 400 mg (pregnant)
- 19 to 30 years old: 400 mg (male), 310 mg (female or lactating), 350 mg (pregnant
- 31 to 50 years old: 420 mg (male), 320 mg (female or lactating), 360 mg (pregnant)
- 51 years old and above: 420 mg (male), 320 mg (female)
What are the benefits of using magnesium on skin?
It is believed that applying magnesium to skin helps to bypass gut absorption although there are a limited number of studies that compare the benefits of taking magnesium by mouth compared to skin absorption.
However, some studies have examined the possibility of using magnesium on skin to ease:
Nerve pain
A recent small study from 2023 (which involved 20 participants) found that spraying magnesium chloride onto limbs affected by peripheral neuropathy for 12 weeks helped to ease the regularity and severity of symptoms.
Muscle and joint pain
According to a study involving 40 female participants, using four sprays of magnesium chloride twice daily for four weeks helped to severe muscle and joint pain. This was used on subjects with a condition called fibromyalgia – although they also concluded that much larger sample sizes were needed to confirm these initial findings.
Can I increase my magnesium levels using a balm or spray?
There is currently no research that suggests you can boost your magnesium levels by using a spray or balm.
When you apply a magnesium spray or balm, the absorption occurs in small areas of the hair follicles and sweat glands. This is because the outer layer of the skin does contain magnesium transporters, which are needed to ensure it can have an impact at cell level.
If you want to increase your magnesium levels, it is best to either take a course of supplements or vitamins or alter your diet to include foods like milk, nuts, peanuts, whole grain breads and cereals and dried apricots and bananas.
How to use magnesium balm
Magnesium balm is ideal for supporting muscle recovery and can be easily applied by using the steps below:
- Place a small amount of the balm on the skin and use small circular motions to rub it in.
- Give it 30 to 60 minutes to take effect and absorb into the skin.
- Wait at least 60 minutes before washing it off or taking a shower.
- If you experience any irritation, wash the balm off immediately.
- Do not apply to any open wounds.
Before you apply the magnesium balm, it is also a good idea to carry out a patch test to ensure it is compatible with your skin.
Get in touch
At Kartee Salon, we are truly lucky to have amazing customers who love what we do, with some even calling us the best hair salon in Tooting (some have even called us the best hair salon in London!).
You can also find regular updates on our social channels that offer free, helpful tips and insight into common hair issues: Facebook or Instagram.
You can find us on Colliers Wood Road, SW19 and we are open Monday to Friday, 10-7.30pm (9pm on Thursdays), Saturday 9-6pm and Sunday 10-5pm. Give us a call on 020 8540 4664 or email hello@kartee.salon and we’d be more than happy to arrange a free hair consultation.
