Magnesium oil spray can cause a burning or tingling sensation when applied to the skin. While often uncomfortable, this stinging, sometimes called “the sting thing,” is usually a temporary side effect and can be minimized. Let’s explore why it happens and what you can do about it.
Why Does Magnesium Oil Sting?
The primary reason magnesium oil spray burns is magnesium deficiency. When applied to the skin, magnesium chloride (the active ingredient in magnesium oil) encounters areas with a buildup of toxins or cellular waste. This interaction can trigger a burning or itching sensation as the magnesium works to flush out these substances. Essentially, the more deficient you are, the more intense the stinging might be. Think of it as your body signaling a need for this vital mineral.
How to Reduce the Burning Sensation
Fortunately, there are several ways to mitigate the burning sensation associated with magnesium oil:
1. Consistent Application
The stinging often subsides with regular use as your magnesium levels increase. Continue applying the spray daily, and you’ll likely notice a decrease in the burning sensation within a few days. Try applying it to less sensitive areas like the legs or feet initially.
2. Dilution and Moisturizing
Diluting the magnesium oil with water (a 1:1 ratio) can lessen the intensity of the burning. Apply the diluted spray or apply the magnesium oil after a shower while your skin is still damp. You can also apply a moisturizer like coconut oil after the magnesium oil has dried to soothe the skin. Applying moisturizer beforehand can block magnesium absorption.
3. Magnesium Baths
Consider incorporating magnesium bath flakes into your routine. Soaking in a magnesium-rich bath can gently elevate your magnesium levels, potentially reducing the stinging sensation when you use the spray afterward. Start slowly with the spray, applying just a small amount to your feet at night.
4. Product Quality
The quality of magnesium oil can influence the stinging sensation. Look for magnesium oil sourced from reputable suppliers and derived from high-quality sources like pristine salt lakes. Some individuals find that pharmaceutical-grade magnesium oil, often labeled “Magnesium Pro,” minimizes the burning sensation.
5. Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol or coffee consumption, some medications, and intense exercise can deplete magnesium in the body. Addressing these factors through lifestyle modifications can help restore magnesium levels and potentially lessen the burning sensation. Athletes, for example, often experience the sting despite taking oral magnesium supplements. Topical application through a spray can be more effective in these cases.
Magnesium Oil Benefits Outweigh the Sting
While the burning sensation from magnesium oil can be uncomfortable, it’s generally a temporary issue. The potential benefits of using magnesium oil, such as improved sleep, reduced muscle soreness, and stress relief, often outweigh the initial discomfort. By understanding why the burning occurs and employing strategies to minimize it, you can effectively incorporate magnesium oil into your wellness routine.
