Magnesium is no longer confined to oral supplements; it is now available as capsules or powders. This essential mineral, required for muscle relaxation, nerve functioning, and better sleep, has found its way into body care products like creams, roll-ons, mists, and deodorants. This is changing how we think about bedtime wellness.
But does topical magnesium actually work as well as oral supplements? We spoke to industry experts to explore the science, the shift in consumer habits, and what each form of magnesium really offer
Why magnesium matters
Atul Rajani, Founder of Be, said that magnesium-based supplements combine the mineral with potent, science-backed ingredients, each blend tailored to regulate the nervous system, ease nighttime restlessness, and promote deeper, more restorative sleep. “While topical bodycare may offer temporary relief, supplements work holistically, addressing the root of imbalances rather than just the symptoms,” Rajani told indianexpress.com.
“At its core, magnesium fuels over 600 biochemical reactions in the body,” said Rajani, adding, “It supports everything from blood sugar regulation, bone strengthening, heart health, energy production, muscle recovery, and enhanced mood and mental clarity.”
However, people are shifting from oral pills to soothing lotions to lull them to sleep at night.
Why people are shifting from pills to lotions
According to Dr Ameesha Mahajan, cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Eden Skin Clinic, the shift from oral to topical magnesium is driven by growing gut issues and the unpredictable absorption rate of pills. “Transdermal magnesium – absorbed via the skin – is gentler and more targeted,” she explained.
Palak Sehgal, founder of Kasaya, agreed that the move isn’t about abandoning capsules entirely but diversifying how people get their magnesium. She points to three main reasons for the shift:
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Transdermal convenience and fewer gut issues: Topical creams sidestep the laxative effect some users feel with high oral doses. Also, there is no one-size-fits-all proper dose concentration.
Self-care rituals habits: A nightly leg massage with magnesium cream satisfies the same “wind-down” need as popping a sleep gummy, but feels more luxurious and present.
Beauty-wellness convergence: Stretch-mark repair, muscle recovery and sleep-support can come from magnesium rich skin care as well.
Sehgal’s brand, for instance, includes body oils packed with magnesium-rich ingredients like pumpkin seed oil, amaranth, flaxseed and guava hydrosol to support skin health and boost collagen.
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Riya Gupta, founder of Babi Beauty Cosmetics, told indianexpress.com that the trend stems from a broader cultural shift. “Customers seek skincare that doubles as self care. People want rituals, not routines. Slathering on a magnesium lotion feels like wellness in action, even if the science hasn’t fully caught up,” she said.
Learn why magnesium supplements are necessary (Source: Freepik)
So, does topical magnesium work?
Gupta spilled a truth most won’t say – transdermal magnesium has limited absorption, without proper delivery systems. “Most products don’t include delivery enhancers, yet they make bold claims,” she said. Technologies like liposomal encapsulation or microchannel systems can improve effectiveness, especially when combined with activities like MSM or adaptogens, especially for post-exercise recovery or stress relief.
Dr Saurabh Arora, managing director, Auriga Research Private Ltd, is also sceptical about the efficacy of topical magnesium supplements. “There is only one animal study which has shown some help in muscle cramps when you take magnesium through the skin,” said the director of the analytical testing laboratory. He also said, “What many call ‘magnesium oil’ is actually a saturated solution of magnesium chloride that feels oily due to its concentration.”
What health experts say
Dr Mikki Singh, medical director and founder at Bodycraft Clinics, cited early research showing magnesium may penetrate the skin via hair follicles, potentially increasing skin hydration and metabolic activity or reducing inflammation. “Some studies suggest it can treat conditions like diaper rash or mild pain, but more research is needed,” she said.
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Dr Mahajan said skin, the largest organ of the human body, is capable of absorbing minerals when received in the form of oil or lotion. “While anecdotal evidence is strong – users often report better sleep, reduced muscle cramps, and less stress – clinical research is limited. Transdermal magnesium shows promise, especially in people who can’t tolerate oral supplements, but we need more robust studies to confirm its absorption levels and efficacy,” she said.
Dr Pooja Solanki, consultant dermatologist at Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, supported topical magnesium in some instances, especially in patients with poor gut absorption. “It offers faster relief and fewer side effects,” she said, adding that it can be helpful for skin issues like acne and atopic dermatitis.
Are there risks?
Not many, as per experts. “Some people experience mild skin irritation, particularly with magnesium oil, but serious side effects are rare,” Dr Solanki said, adding, “While diet remains the foundation of magnesium intake – through green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains – it’s often not enough for people with chronic deficiency or absorption issues.”
As brands like The Switch Fix and Amrutam jump on the trend, magnesium bodycare is gaining ground among wellness-conscious consumers looking for a holistic, hassle-free solution. Whether it’s a roll-on before bed or a lotion post-shower, magnesium-infused body care could be your new go-to ritual for better sleep and stress relief.
