Scientist working at a microscope in a laboratory

MagnesiumHealth Institute

Research into transdermal magnesium absorption, and education about applying magnesium through the skin.

The institute

Magnesium through the skin — what is known, and what is not

Magnesium is usually swallowed. Absorption in the gut is limited, and for some people it is poorly tolerated. Applying it to the skin bypasses that route — an approach examined in several studies, the most robust of which shows that magnesium crosses the skin mainly via the hair follicles.

The Magnesium Health Institute collects that research and explains what follows from it. Just as importantly: what does not. We sell no products, we give no medical advice, and we present the evidence as it stands — gaps included.

Topics

  • Magnesium

    Its role in the body, requirements, dietary intake — and an overview of the authorised health claims.

  • Transdermal absorption

    The three transport routes through the skin, the role of hair follicles, and the factors that determine how much is absorbed.

  • Application

    Dosage for daily intake, full and foot baths, suitable areas of skin, and what particular groups should be aware of.

Evidence

Five studies, honestly assessed

From Shealy's early measurements of intracellular magnesium levels to the permeation study at the University of Queensland: we summarise what each piece of work shows and name its methodological limits — small samples, missing control groups, contested measurement methods.

Robust controlled trials on clinical endpoints are still lacking. We say so rather than leave it out.

View the evidence

From the blog

All articles →

  • Magnesium in pregnancy and breastfeeding

    Magnesium requirements are raised in pregnancy and breastfeeding. What is known, which forms of application exist — and why this question belongs with a midwife or doctor.

  • Magnesium and the menstrual cycle

    The uterus is made of smooth muscle, and magnesium contributes to normal muscle function. What follows from that — and what the evidence actually shows.