Magnesium Chloride: Research

Magnesium Chloride: Research and Context

Magnesium chloride has been studied for decades across a wide range of biological and dermatological contexts. Its role in human physiology, skin barrier function, and mineral balance has made it a subject of continued scientific interest.

This page exists to share peer-reviewed research related to magnesium chloride and magnesium more broadly. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent medical conditions. Instead, it provides access to published studies so readers can explore the research directly and form their own conclusions.

We believe transparency matters, especially in wellness. That includes acknowledging both what research suggests and where it remains limited or ongoing.

How To Read This Page

The studies below are grouped by topic and link directly to their original sources. We do not summarize outcomes in absolute terms or make medical claims based on these studies.

Research into topical and transdermal magnesium is still developing. Many studies are exploratory, small in scale, or focused on specific use cases. Individual experiences may vary.

Magnesium’s Role in Human Physiology

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the body. It plays a role in muscle contraction and relaxation, nervous system signaling, and cellular energy processes. For this reason, magnesium has been extensively studied in nutritional and physiological research.

These studies provide background context for why magnesium is widely discussed in wellness and health literature.

Magnesium in pain modulation and nervous system signaling (NCBI Bookshelf) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507245/
Effects of magnesium supplementation on muscle function and recovery (review) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11227245/

Skin Barrier Function & Dermatological Research

Magnesium chloride has been studied in dermatological settings, particularly in relation to skin barrier integrity, hydration, and inflammatory response. Mineral-rich solutions containing magnesium chloride have been examined for their interaction with dry or compromised skin.

Dead Sea salt bathing for atopic dry skin: a randomized controlled study
This study examined the effects of bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea solution compared to a control solution and observed differences in skin hydration and barrier function. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15689218/
Dead Sea balneotherapy in rheumatoid arthritis
A controlled clinical study examining the effects of mineral-rich Dead Sea bathing on rheumatoid arthritis symptoms compared to saline baths. While not isolated to magnesium chloride, it reflects longstanding research interest in topical mineral exposure. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2397624/

Skin Interaction & Transdermal Exposure

Researchers have explored whether magnesium ions can interact with or pass through the outer layers of the skin. These studies help inform discussions around topical application, though conclusions regarding systemic absorption remain limited and debated.

Selected research:

Permeation of magnesium ions through human skin
An in-vitro study examining whether magnesium ions can cross the stratum corneum under controlled conditions.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27624531/
Myth or Reality—Transdermal Magnesium?
A review discussing available evidence, limitations, and ongoing debate surrounding transdermal magnesium exposure.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28788060/
Effect of transdermal magnesium cream on serum and urinary magnesium levels
A pilot human study exploring whether topical magnesium application influenced serum and urinary magnesium markers. The study observed changes in a subgroup of participants, highlighting the need for further research. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22503590/
A pilot study to determine the impact of transdermal magnesium treatment on serum levels and whole-body Ca:Mg ratios
An exploratory trial examining systemic magnesium markers following topical magnesium application. Results were preliminary and intended to inform future research. https://f.hubspotusercontent10

Exploratory & Pilot Studies Using Topical Magnesium Chloride

A small number of pilot studies have examined topical magnesium chloride use in specific populations. These studies are limited in size and scope and do not establish definitive outcomes, but they contribute to ongoing research interest.

Selected research:

Transdermal magnesium chloride spray and quality of life in fibromyalgia
A pilot clinical study examining quality-of-life measures following regular topical magnesium chloride application.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26343101/
Topical magnesium treatment and neuropathic symptom severity
An exploratory study investigating topical magnesium application in individuals with neuropathic symptoms. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37486715/

A Note on Ongoing Research

Scientific understanding evolves over time. While magnesium’s role in human biology is well established, research into topical and transdermal applications is still emerging. Existing studies explore mechanisms, feasibility, and potential associations rather than providing definitive conclusions.

We encourage readers to view this research as part of a broader scientific landscape rather than as proof of specific outcomes. We hope as our business continues to grow, research will grow with us.

*Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding health-related decisions.*

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