I’ve previously shared how to make your own magnesium oil, but I wanted to create something more moisturizing and nourishing for the skin. Enter magnesium lotion/body butter, which not only hydrates but also integrates additional magnesium into your skincare routine.
Our skin absorbs everything we apply, for better or worse. Here, we’re using this property to our advantage. Given that our diets often lack magnesium due to nutrient-poor soil and food, many people, including myself, take magnesium supplements. I prefer using topical magnesium on my skin, especially before bed.
Magnesium is crucial for our muscles and other bodily functions. A deficiency can result in leg cramps, migraines, and restless legs. While I won’t give my kids melatonin, I do apply this lotion to their feet at night to promote restful sleep. Personally, I find magnesium energizing, so I use it during the day.
I enjoy making my own skincare products because they are typically healthier and more affordable. Some commercial magnesium lotions include sulfates and parabens, which I choose to avoid. These products might also contain ingredients like capric triglyceride and xanthan gum, which aren’t typically found in my kitchen.
The recipe I’m sharing uses all-natural moisturizing ingredients, making skin feel soft and silky. Many people feel a tingling or burning sensation when using magnesium oil spray for the first time, but this lotion’s creamy base makes it more comfortable.
While some recipes add glycerin and aloe for healthy skin, I decided not to include them. Excess glycerin can feel sticky, and aloe can significantly lessen the shelf life of the lotion. I did, however, use coconut oil and shea butter, which both have a natural SPF of 4-5. While this isn’t a substitute for sunscreen, it does offer slight protection. It also aids in vitamin D absorption, thanks to magnesium.
You’ll see some unique ingredients, like candelilla and emulsifying wax instead of beeswax for thickening. Candelilla is a hard plant wax that thickens without being greasy, and the emulsifying wax helps blend the magnesium water with the oils. Without these, beeswax is an option, but it’s harder to clean and can feel heavier on the skin.
This lotion has a thick consistency that absorbs quickly, without being as greasy as typical body creams or butters. While there are several magnesium forms, not all are suited for lotion. Magnesium chloride is ideal; I use unscented magnesium bath flakes made from Zechstein magnesium chloride from ancient seabeds. Just ensure the ingredient list includes magnesium chloride.
For fragrance, you can add skin-safe essential oils to the mix. I chose lavender for its soothing properties. However, I avoid citrus oils due to photosensitivity issues for daytime use. If you’re pregnant or nursing, double-check that your essential oil choice is safe for you, or simply omit it.
I apply this lotion or regular magnesium oil on my kids’ feet nightly to aid their sleep and boost magnesium levels. You can also use it for restless or sore muscles. While it’s not necessary to cover your entire body, it’s an option. Note, it could clog facial pores.
Due to its oils, this lotion helps with vitamin D absorption and offers mild sun protection, so I use it during warmer months. It doesn’t contain preservatives, so I make small batches that last up to two months. Storing it in the fridge can create a thicker, cooling effect. You might add vitamin E to extend the life of the oils and shea butter, although it isn’t an antimicrobial.
If you’re pressed for time or prefer not to make it yourself, you can buy healthy magnesium lotion online. Shops offer handcrafted jars in fragrance-free or lavender-scented versions that are well-loved.
Have you tried magnesium oil or lotion before? Did you notice a difference? Share your thoughts in the comments!
