Ditch the Itch: Understanding Magnesium Spray Sensations

Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, and understanding the sensations associated with topical magnesium can enhance its use. When you use topical magnesium products, such as magnesium oil or magnesium flakes, you may experience various sensations on your skin. This occurs because magnesium is essential for numerous bodily functions, and applying it directly can help to quickly elevate levels of this mineral in the body.

The amount of magnesium oil applied can influence how it feels on the skin. For some, this might include a tingling or warming sensation, which indicates that magnesium works to relax muscles and alleviate discomfort. While magnesium is known for its relaxing properties, it’s important to note that different types of magnesium supplements exist, and not all are absorbed in the same way. While taking magnesium orally can be effective, topical forms of magnesium are often preferred for localised relief, as they can deliver this amazing mineral directly to targeted areas (Whelan, 2018).

It’s crucial to understand that excess magnesium can lead to adverse effects. Individuals should monitor their intake and be mindful of the different types of magnesium available. While magnesium is required for optimal bodily function, magnesium salts and topical magnesium should be used in moderation to avoid any discomfort. If you’re considering adding magnesium to your routine, ensure you choose the form that best suits your needs while being aware of how your body responds to it.

Magnesium spray, a popular form of transdermal magnesium, offers numerous benefits ranging from muscle relaxation to improved sleep quality (Connor Wellness Clinic, n.d.). However, some users experience an unexpected side effect: skin itchiness or a slight burning sensation when applying magnesium oil spray.

Why Does Magnesium Spray Itch or Burn?

Many wonder if this irritation is a good or bad sign. Let's explore the reasons behind this:

1. Low Magnesium Levels: The itching or burning sensation is often linked to magnesium deficiency. When your body has low magnesium levels, it may react more strongly to topical application.

2. Excessive Magnesium Application: Applying too much magnesium oil at once can contribute to the stinging sensation. It's important to gradually introduce your body to this form of magnesium, especially if you're a first-time user.

3. Vasodilation Effect: Magnesium acts as a vasodilator, relaxing muscle cells and increasing blood flow in capillaries. This increased circulation can cause a tingling or warming sensation on the skin.

4. Salt Residue: Magnesium oil is essentially a combination of magnesium and chloride. Once absorbed, it may leave a slight salt residue on the skin, which can trigger itchiness, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

5. pH Difference: Some experts attribute the tingling to a significant variation in pH between the magnesium and the skin's natural pH. This difference can create a sensation of itching or irritation when applied topically.

Understanding Magnesium Absorption

Maintaining optimal levels of magnesium is vital for overall health, as it helps regulate over 300 biochemical reactions. To boost your magnesium levels, it is important to understand the different forms of magnesium available, as some forms of magnesium are less effectively absorbed by the body. For instance, while dietary sources may provide 300 mg of magnesium daily, some supplements can be more beneficial due to improved bioavailability.

Additionally, magnesium also has applications beyond dietary intake. Topical solutions, such as magnesium oil directly, allow for efficient absorption through the skin, increasing intracellular magnesium levels. While it's important to ensure adequate intake, one must also be cautious of toxicity from magnesium, which can occur with excessive supplementation. Ultimately, understanding how to effectively incorporate pure magnesium into your routine can enhance your well-being.

Transdermal magnesium products offer an alternative to oral magnesium supplements, potentially increasing the absorption of magnesium without the digestive side effects often associated with oral forms. The skin can effectively absorb magnesium, delivering it directly to the bloodstream and cells.

A Word From Our Co-Founder and Long-Term User of Magnesium Sprays

Dan Simpson, Co-Founder of Harrogate Organics and a long-time user of magnesium spray, shares his insights on the benefits of transdermal magnesium application. He emphasises that magnesium oil spray offers a viable alternative to dietary incorporation of this essential mineral.

Dan explains that low cellular magnesium levels may lead to this tingling sensation, which can persist until magnesium stores are replenished. He notes that with regular use, any discomfort typically subsides.

One of the first studies on transdermal magnesium absorption was published by Dr. Norman Shealy, founder of the American Holistic Medical Association, in 2005. He was an early advocate for the benefits of transdermal magnesium therapy. Shealy argued that magnesium deficiency can be compensated for more quickly through topical application than with oral magnesium supplements (Shealy, 2005).

Top 10 Tips for How to 'Ditch the Itch'

If you're experiencing itchiness or a tingling sensation from using magnesium spray, don't worry—there are several strategies you can employ to minimise discomfort while still enjoying the benefits of magnesium. Here are our top 10 tips to help you 'ditch the itch':

1. Start Slowly: Begin with 5 to 10 sprays of magnesium oil spray, applying it morning and evening. This allows your skin to adjust gradually. For reference, 10 sprays deliver approximately 200 mg of pure elemental magnesium, which is beneficial for restoring magnesium levels.

2. Dilute with Water: Mix your magnesium oil spray with a little water before applying. This can help reduce the magnesium concentration and lessen any irritation, making it gentler on your skin.

3. Choose the Right Time: Apply magnesium spray at night before bed. This not only helps with relaxation but also allows any potential irritation to subside overnight.

4. Moisturise After Application: Follow up with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser after applying magnesium spray. This can help soothe the skin and reduce any dryness or irritation (Whelan, 2018).

5. Apply to Less Sensitive Areas: If you experience discomfort, try applying the spray to less sensitive areas of your body, such as your legs or feet. Additionally, consider spraying inside your elbows and behind your knees, where the skin is thinner and absorption is easier.

6. Use a Patch Test: Before widespread use, conduct a patch test on a small area of skin. This will help you determine if you have any sensitivity to the product.

7. Consider Your Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, look for magnesium products specifically formulated for sensitive skin types, such as the Harrogate Organics Sensitive Skin Magnesium Spray, which is designed to minimise irritation while providing the benefits of magnesium.

8. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration can help support your skin's health and reduce irritation.

9. Monitor Your Magnesium Intake: Keep an eye on your overall magnesium intake from all sources—dietary and supplemental—to ensure you're not overdoing it, which can also lead to skin reactions.

10. Consult a Professional: If irritation persists or worsens, consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalised advice and recommendations tailored to your needs.

By following these tips, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of magnesium while minimising any discomfort associated with its application.

Nourish Your Body: Magnesium-Packed Foods

Incorporating magnesium-rich foods into your diet is an effective way to increase magnesium levels naturally. This essential mineral plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, energy production, and maintaining a healthy immune system (Whelan, 2018). Here's a list of some of the best magnesium-packed foods to consider adding to your meals:

1. Leafy Greens: Dark, leafy greens are excellent sources of magnesium. Consider including spinach, Swiss chard, and kale.

2. Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are not only nutritious but also high in magnesium. Some top choices include almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.

3. Whole Grains: Whole grains provide a substantial amount of magnesium along with fibre. Opt for brown rice, quinoa, oats, and barley.

4. Legumes: Beans and lentils are great plant-based sources of magnesium. Include black beans, chickpeas, and lentils.

5. Fish: Certain types of fish are rich in magnesium and offer additional health benefits. Consider mackerel, salmon, and halibut.

6. Dark Chocolate: Good news for chocolate lovers! Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) is not only delicious but also packed with magnesium.

7. Avocado: This creamy fruit is not only a source of healthy fats but also contains a good amount of magnesium.

8. Bananas: Known for their potassium content, bananas also provide a decent amount of magnesium, making them a convenient snack.

9. Tofu: Tofu is an excellent plant-based protein that is also rich in magnesium, making it a versatile addition to various dishes.

10. Dairy Products: Dairy products like yoghurt and milk can contribute to your daily allowance while providing calcium and protein.

Incorporating these magnesium-rich foods into your diet can help you maintain optimal magnesium levels, supporting overall health and well-being. Whether you prefer to take magnesium through dietary sources or through external applications like magnesium oil, ensuring you get enough magnesium is key to a balanced lifestyle.

Magnesium Application Methods: A Comparison

When it comes to increasing your magnesium dose, both oral supplements and magnesium applied to the skin have their advantages. However, many users find that magnesium spray offers distinct benefits that make it a preferred choice for supplementation. Here's a closer look at the differences between these two methods:

Efficiency of Delivery

• Oral Supplements: Magnesium supplements, such as magnesium citrate or magnesium glycinate, must pass through the digestive system. This process can lead to variable absorption rates, and some of the magnesium may be lost before it reaches the bloodstream.
• Magnesium Spray: Transdermal application allows for direct entry through the skin, bypassing the digestive tract entirely. This can enhance the overall bioavailability of magnesium, providing quicker results.

Convenience

• Oral Supplements: Taking oral supplements often requires remembering to take pills or powders at specific times throughout the day, which can be cumbersome for some.
• Magnesium Spray: Applying magnesium spray is quick and easy. You can use magnesium oil spray anytime and anywhere, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

Reduced Gastrointestinal Side Effects

• Oral Supplements: Some individuals experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhoea or cramping, when taking oral magnesium supplements. This is especially true with high doses.
• Magnesium Spray: By using a form of magnesium that is applied to the skin, you can avoid these digestive issues altogether, making it a gentler option for those with sensitive stomachs (Davis, K. W., 2024).

Customisation of Dosage

• Oral Supplements: Dosing can be less flexible with pills or powders, as you are limited to pre-measured amounts.
• Magnesium Spray: With this method, you can easily adjust your dosage based on your individual needs. Start with a few applications and increase as necessary to find what works best for you.

Targeted Application

• Oral Supplements: Oral forms of magnesium affect the entire body uniformly.
• Magnesium Spray: This method allows you to target specific areas of discomfort, such as sore muscles or joints, delivering magnesium directly where it's needed most.

Understanding Magnesium: Types and the Power of Zechstein Magnesium

Magnesium is available in various forms, each with its unique properties and benefits. Understanding these types can help you choose the best option for your needs, whether you're considering oral supplements or magnesium in the form of a spray. At Harrogate Organics, we proudly use Zechstein magnesium chloride in our spray bottles, which is recognised as one of the best sources of this essential mineral. Here's a breakdown of the most common forms of magnesium, including the advantages of our premium spray:

Zechstein Magnesium Chloride

• Uses: Found in Harrogate Organics Magnesium Oil Spray, Zechstein magnesium chloride is known for its exceptional purity and high bioavailability.
• Benefits: This ancient mineral, sourced from the Zechstein Sea, allows for efficient uptake through the skin, providing quick relief and replenishing magnesium levels effectively. It supports overall wellness by alleviating muscle soreness, reducing stress, and promoting better sleep.

Magnesium Citrate

• Uses: Commonly used in oral supplements due to its good absorption rate.
• Benefits: Often recommended for digestive health, this form of magnesium can have a mild laxative effect, making it suitable for those who may need help with regularity.

Magnesium Glycinate

• Uses: Known for its calming properties, this form promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.
• Benefits: Less likely to cause gastrointestinal discomfort compared to other types, making it a popular choice for supplementation.

Magnesium Malate

• Uses: Often recommended for energy production, magnesium malate combines magnesium with malic acid.
• Benefits: It may help reduce muscle pain and fatigue, making it suitable for those who are physically active or suffer from fibromyalgia.

Magnesium Sulphate (Epsom Salt)

• Uses: Commonly used in baths, it can be absorbed through the skin to promote relaxation and soothe sore muscles.
• Benefits: While not typically taken orally as a supplement, Epsom salt baths can provide a relaxing experience and help alleviate muscle tension.

Magnesium Oxide

• Uses: Found in over-the-counter supplements but has a lower absorption rate compared to other forms.
• Benefits: Primarily used as an antacid or laxative rather than as a primary source of magnesium supplementation.

Magnesium Spray Side Effects

Common Magnesium Spray Side Effects

• Skin Irritation: Mild tingling or slight redness at application site
• Temporary Itching: Some users report brief skin sensitivity
• Slight Stinging: Especially on broken or sensitive skin

Who Should Be Cautious About Magnesium Side Effects

• Individuals with extremely sensitive skin
• Those with open cuts or wounds
• People with known magnesium sensitivities

Minimising Magnesium Spray Side Effects

• Always do a patch test before full application
• Start with small amounts
• Dilute spray if experiencing persistent irritation
• Consult healthcare professional if side effects persist

Most magnesium spray side effects are mild and typically resolve quickly. If you experience severe reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Embracing the Power of Magnesium for a Healthier You

Incorporating magnesium into your wellness routine can significantly enhance your overall health. With various forms available, from oral supplements to external applications, understanding your options allows you to choose what best suits your lifestyle.

Zechstein magnesium chloride, used in Harrogate Organics products, is renowned for its purity and effectiveness, making it an excellent choice for quick relief and support for muscle relaxation. Additionally, exploring magnesium-rich foods can further help maintain optimal levels of this essential mineral.

Whether you prefer magnesium oil spray or traditional oral supplements, ensuring adequate intake of magnesium is crucial for supporting bodily functions. By making informed choices about the types of magnesium you use, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier and more balanced life. Embrace the power of magnesium and discover its positive impact on your daily routine.

References

Connor Wellness Clinic. (n.d.). Magnesium and Itching: Why Does Magnesium Oil Sting? https://connorwellnessclinic.com/blog/magnesium-and-itching-why-does-magnesium-oil-sting/

Davis, K. W. (2024). Magnesium Spray for Better Sleep? What to Know - WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/news/20240327/magnesium-spray-sleep-what-to-know

Shealy, C. N. (2005). Transdermal Magnesium Therapy. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Cl-Shealy-2

Whelan, C. (2018, October 5). Magnesium oil: Benefits, side effects, and application. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/magnesium-oil-benefits?c=558625612543