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Magnesium is a popular oral supplement to take for increased nutrient absorption and benefits. Yet, there’s another way to use magnesium in your routine, which is topically—perhaps, an even faster, more effective method for healing the body and offering immediate relief and relaxation.
“Unlike oral supplements, which take time to be digested and absorbed, topical magnesium delivers quicker results,”
Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami explains. “This method also bypasses potential digestive issues, such as upset stomach or low bioavailability, ensuring a higher concentration of magnesium reaches the muscles.”
Plus, using magnesium topically, such as in the form of
magnesium flakes or
Epsom bath salts, can be a real treat, especially after a long day of work or sweaty and challenging workout.
What Are Magnesium Flakes?
“Magnesium flakes are concentrated, water-soluble magnesium chloride crystals derived from natural sources, such as seawater or salt mines,” Chacon says.
They’re generally used in baths or applied topically to skin. Magnesium flakes work by allowing magnesium to be absorbed through the skin.
Transdermal absorption speeds the process, for more rapid results and benefits. If you’re taking magnesium orally, you’ll need to wait longer to experience the effects, which is why it’s a favorable move to choose a topical approach, like a warm bath with magnesium flakes, instead.
“The purpose is to deliver magnesium directly to the body without need for digestion, promoting relaxation and providing various therapeutic benefits,” Chacon says.
Magnesium Flakes Benefits
There are several reasons to incorporate magnesium flakes into a skin care, self-care or gym recovery routine. Not only is a warm bath soothing for the body post-workout, but also adding magnesium flakes will speed muscle repair and recovery, and it’ll help prevent aches and pains or
muscle soreness the following day.
“Applying magnesium topically may help alleviate muscle soreness and stiffness by relaxing tense muscles and reducing inflammation,” Chacon explains.
Magnesium flakes also heal the mind and body by
alleviating stress and promoting relaxation. For instance, a bath with magnesium flakes in the evening after work or right before bed can be very relaxing and beneficial for forgetting about stress or calming anxiety, clearing the mind and increasing drowsiness.
“Magnesium can help calm the nervous system by regulating stress hormones like cortisol, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being,” Chacon notes.
While it’s never a bad idea to take a pause and focus on relaxation, it’s especially important to power down and unwind late at night and prior to bed to avoid losing sleep and valuable hours. Using magnesium flakes at night is an easy and effective way to promote drowsiness naturally.
“Magnesium supports the production of melatonin and regulates neurotransmitters like GABA, which are essential for deep, restful sleep,” Chacon says.
How To Use Magnesium Flakes
Always make sure skin tolerates it well before using or applying liberally. Avoid areas of the body with wounds or cuts since magnesium can be abrasive or irritating to damaged skin.
“Start with smaller amounts to assess skin sensitivity, especially if you have open wounds or cuts, as magnesium can sting,” Chacon says.
A warm bath with magnesium flakes is an easy and enjoyable way to reap the benefits, but you may also apply directly for a more targeted approach. For a bath, Chacon suggests dissolving 1-2 cups of magnesium flakes in warm water and soaking in the tub for 20-30 minutes.
“Avoid using overly hot water, as it can strip the skin’s natural oils and counteract relaxation,” Chacon says.
If applying magnesium flakes directly on skin, mix flakes with a small amount of water to create a paste. Start with a small amount first, increasing as needed. Apply directly on sore muscles for localized relief.
Which Magnesium Flakes To Buy
“Look for high-quality
magnesium flakes, such as those derived from natural sources, and consider products with added ingredients for enhanced benefits (e.g., melatonin or essential oils),” Chacon says. For instance, NOW Solutions Magnesium Flakes are an excellent choice.
“This product stands out because it’s made from pure magnesium chloride sourced from the Zechstein seabed, ensuring high purity and effectiveness,” Chacon says.
Use is straightforward and simple, as flakes dissolve easily in water for baths and foot soaks. It’s effective for relaxation and muscle repair, and even offers hydration for softer and dewier skin.
If you struggle to fall asleep, look for
magnesium flakes with melatonin or
lavender bath salts for support. Chacon recommends Shikai Magnesium Bath Flakes With Melatonin.
“This product combines magnesium chloride with melatonin, a natural sleep aid, creating a dual-action solution for relaxation and improved sleep, while added melatonin enhances the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it especially effective for those struggling with insomnia or restlessness,” Chacon explains.
If you find warmth comforting, try
warming magnesium flakes for some extra heat and relief. Chacon suggests Aura Cacia Aromatherapy Mineral Bath, which has essential oils like balsam fir to create a gentle heat effect and provide benefits.
“It promotes circulation, reduces tension and enhances relaxation, making them ideal for cold weather or post-workout recovery, and
aromatherapeutic benefits of balsam fir oil further amplify the soothing experience,” Chacon says.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator title="Featured Products" border_width="2"][vc_row_inner equal_height="yes" content_placement="middle" gap="35"][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="181138" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1735853369048{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/shikai-magnesium-bath-flakes-with-melatonin"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="181137" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1735853381170{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/now-solutions-magnesium-flakes"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="181135" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1735853394944{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/life-flo-pure-magnesium-flakes-1-65-lbs"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
