Magnesium Oil seems to be all the rage in skincare lately. A quick Google search will lead you to many articles and blogs about all of the benefits of magnesium oil, many of which cannot be discussed here due to FDA regulations, but let’s explore some of the facts we can discuss about this interesting ingredient.
What is Magnesium Oil?
Despite its name, magnesium oil isn’t really an oil, it’s simply magnesium chloride dissolved in water. The term “magnesium oil” comes from the slippery “oily” feeling that the magnesium chloride solution leaves behind on the skin. You’re probably familiar with Epsom Salt, which is also magnesium, but it’s in the form of magnesium sulfate. While Epsom salt baths can be a lifesaver after a long day of physical activity, and they are rich in magnesium, they do not provide the same topical benefits as magnesium oil. To make magnesium oil, the ratio of water to magnesium chloride can certainly vary, however, most formulas call for a 1:1 ratio, meaning one part water to one part magnesium chloride.
How to Use Magnesium Oil
There are many different ways to use magnesium oil in your skincare routine. We like to use it on skin fresh from the shower or after working out. You could simply mix the magnesium chloride and water at a 1:1 ratio and use it as a spray. There’s no need for a preservative as the magnesium chloride will prevent any bacteria or mold growth. You may experience a tingling sensation when using as a spray at this ratio. Many users report this sensation as decreasing over time with regular use.
You can also use magnesium oil in your cosmetic formulations. You’ll still get all of the benefits of magnesium oil without any of the tingling sensation. Try this simple magnesium lotion recipe.
0.780 Lbs | Orange Blossom Distillate | 34.837% |
0.790 Lbs | Deionized Water | 35.284% |
0.200 Lbs | Magnesium Chloride Flakes | 8.933% |
0.080 Lbs | Sorbitol | 3.573% |
0.006 Lbs | Xanthan Gum | 0.268% |
0.200 Lbs | USDA Certified Organic Jojoba Oil | 8.933% |
0.050 Lbs | Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Sorbitan Olivate | 2.233% |
0.020 Lbs | Glyceryl Stearate | 0.893% |
0.030 Lbs | Cetyl Alcohol | 1.340% |
0.060 Lbs | Kokum Butter | 2.680% |
0.023 Lbs | Caprylhydroxamic Acid (and) Glyceryl Caprylate (and) Glycerin | 1.027% |
WATER PHASE
Weigh and add the following ingredients to a container for heating –
0.780 Lbs Orange Blossom Distillate
0.780 Lbs Deionized Water
Bring water and orange blossom distillate to a boil. Add the following ingredients to a large mixing bowl and then slowly pour the boiling water phase over the magnesium chloride flakes and sorbitol.
0.20 Lbs Magnesium Chloride Flakes
.080 Lbs Sorbitol
Grab your stick blender and while blending the water phase ingredients above, slowly add Xanthan Gum, it’s best to sprinkle over the surface of water very slowly while constantly mixing with your stick blender. You will see your water phase transform into more of a gel texture.
0.006 lbs Xanthan Gum
Set this phase aside and in a new container begin your oil phase.
OIL PHASE
Place the following ingredients in a pot or microwave safe container and heat until completely melted or to 170 degrees.
0.200 Lbs Golden Jojoba Oil
0.050 Lbs Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Sorbitan Olivate
0.020 Lbs Glyceryl Stearate SE
0.030 Lbs Cetyl Alcohol
0.060 Lbs Kokum Butter
Place your stick blender into your water phase ingredients, slowly add the melted oil phase ingredients to the Water Phase ingredients while constantly mixing with your stick blender. Continue to mix until all ingredients are fully blended and your lotion is fully emulsified. It should turn a bright white color.
Once your lotion is cooled to 110F – Add the following Preservative and mix thoroughly.
0.023 Lbs Caprylhydroxamic Acid (and) Glyceryl Caprylate (and) Glycerin