Does Topical Magnesium Really Work?
Topical magnesium is often used for stress, sleep, and muscle tension — but does it really absorb through the skin? This article explains how it works and who it’s best for.
by Amber Boone, Holistic Aesthetician & Founder of Skin Soul Rituals
Sacred Sleep Magnesium Body Butter
If you’ve ever taken a magnesium supplement and felt bloated, wired, or unsure whether it was doing anything at all, you’re not alone. Magnesium is essential for relaxation, muscle recovery, and nervous system balance, but not everyone tolerates it well when taken orally.
That’s where topical magnesium comes in.
So… does it actually work when applied to the skin?
Short answer: yes, for many people — and often faster than supplements.
Here’s why.
What magnesium does in the body
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical processes, including:
muscle relaxation
nerve signaling
stress regulation
sleep quality
inflammation response
When magnesium levels are low, the body can feel tense, restless, sore, or overstimulated, even if everything else looks “fine.”
Modern stress, depleted soils, caffeine, and poor sleep all burn through magnesium quickly, which is why so many people are unknowingly deficient.
Why oral magnesium doesn’t work for everyone
While supplements can be helpful, they come with limitations:
digestion affects absorption
certain forms cause stomach upset or diarrhea
absorption is slower and inconsistent
the magnesium has to compete with other nutrients
For people with sensitive digestion, high stress, or chronic tension, oral magnesium often doesn’t deliver relief where it’s needed most.
How topical magnesium works
Topical magnesium is applied directly to the skin, usually in the form of magnesium chloride or magnesium oil, blended into creams or butters which is what we did with our Sacred Sleep.
Instead of passing through the digestive system, it:
absorbs through the skin barrier
reaches muscles and tissues directly
bypasses common digestive side effects
This makes topical magnesium especially helpful for:
sore or tight muscles
tension in the neck, shoulders, or jaw
restless legs
stress held in the body
difficulty winding down at night
Many people notice a calming or relaxing effect within minutes, especially when applied after a shower or before bed.
Sacred Sleep Magnesium Body Butter
Slow-infused with Arnica. This works to relieve tired, sore muscles and help you fall asleep fast.
Does magnesium really absorb through the skin?
Research on transdermal magnesium is still emerging, but existing studies and clinical use suggest that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, particularly when applied consistently and to areas with good blood flow.
Beyond the science, there’s also lived experience — massage therapists, athletes, and holistic practitioners have used topical magnesium for decades because it works in practice, even when supplements fail.
In wellness, results matter.
Why magnesium butter works better than sprays
Magnesium sprays can be effective, but many people experience:
stinging
itching
dryness
A magnesium butter slows absorption slightly while nourishing the skin, making it more comfortable for daily use.
When combined with calming botanicals like arnica or soothing oils, it becomes not just functional — but ritual-worthy.
When topical magnesium is most effective
Topical magnesium works best when:
applied after a warm shower
massaged into tense areas
used consistently (daily or nightly)
paired with rest, breath, or intention
This isn’t about forcing the body to relax — it’s about giving it what it needs to remember how.
A gentler way to support the nervous system
At Skin Soul Rituals, magnesium isn’t treated like a quick fix. It’s part of a slower, more intuitive approach to care — one that honors the body’s signals instead of overriding them.
Magnesium Butter was created for people who:
carry stress in their body
want relief without harsh side effects
prefer topical support over pills
crave calm that feels natural, not sedating
It’s especially loved as an evening ritual — a moment to soften, ground, and release the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does topical magnesium take to work?
Some people feel relaxation within 10–20 minutes. For deeper benefits, daily use over 1–2 weeks is ideal.
Can I use topical magnesium every day?
Yes. Daily use is generally well tolerated and often more effective than sporadic application.
Where should I apply magnesium butter?
Common areas include calves, feet, shoulders, neck, lower back, or anywhere that you are holding tightness and tension.
Is topical magnesium better than supplements?
It depends on your body. Many people find topical magnesium gentler and faster-acting, especially for muscle tension and stress.
Final thought
Topical magnesium isn’t a miracle — but for many, it’s a missing piece.
A quiet support.
A nervous system exhale.
A way back into the body.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what healing looks like.
Ready to make magnesium body butter part of your nightly ritual?
Apply Magnesium Butter after a warm shower, massage into calves or shoulders, and allow the body to soften before sleep.
Sacred Sleep Magnesium Body Butter with our Lotion Candle