I see it every day—people taking magnesium and still dealing with muscle cramps, restless legs, sore calves, or gut discomfort. They swallow capsules, mix powders, soak in Epsom salt baths… and yet the problem persists.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The issue isn’t that magnesium doesn’t work. It’s that most people are using it the wrong way.
I’m Dr. Doug Strobel—a neurologist, Marine and Navy veteran, and ultra-endurance runner. After decades in medicine and sport, I’ve learned this simple truth: how you use magnesium matters as much as how much you use.
Why Magnesium Matters
Magnesium supports 300+ reactions in the body: muscle function, nerve signaling, energy, digestion, and sleep. Many people fall short due to low-magnesium diets, soil depletion, stress, and gut issues. Even when we supplement, the delivery can make or break results.
The Problem with Oral Magnesium
Oral magnesium must pass through the gut and liver before it reaches your tissues. Along the way, only a fraction gets to the exact spot that hurts. If absorption is poor, even less gets there. That’s why many say, “I take magnesium, but my cramps remain.”
The Power of Topical Magnesium: Put It Where It Hurts
Transdermal (topical) magnesium is applied to skin so it can be absorbed into the tissues underneath—right where you need it. As Dr. Mark Sircus describes in Transdermal Magnesium Therapy, the skin is an active organ that can deliver magnesium without the gut in the way.
- Calf cramps? Rub it into the calves.
- Low back tension? Apply to the low back.
- Digestive sluggishness? Massage the abdomen.
Simple idea, strong result: put magnesium where it hurts.
Why Magnesium Chloride Is the Gold Standard
Not all forms are equal for skin use. Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is popular, but its larger molecules can limit absorption. Glycinate is great orally, not ideal topically. Magnesium chloride has a structure that supports better skin penetration and bypasses GI side effects.
My Journey to the Right Magnesium Balm
Magnesium balm was the hardest product I’ve ever formulated. My goal: the highest possible magnesium chloride without the sting, burn, or grit many people feel from other products. I wanted it to massage in smoothly and completely—and I didn’t stop until it worked wonders.
I first made it for my neurology patients seeking natural support for restless legs, migraines, muscle tension, and neuropathic pain. I used it myself in ultra races when my legs were screaming. Today, athletes, parents, and holistic practitioners reach for it daily.
Where Topical Magnesium Shines
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Muscle cramps & spasms: relaxes tight muscles and eases discomfort.
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Restless legs: applied before bed to calm twitching and support sleep.
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Post-workout recovery: reduces soreness, inflammation, and stiffness.
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Digestive support: abdominal massage can ease bloating and motility issues.
- Pregnancy & postpartum: many moms use it for leg cramps and muscle aches.
A Bonus Benefit: Better Sleep
One common surprise: better sleep. Magnesium helps calm the nervous system and relax muscles. Apply to legs and feet before bed to ease nighttime twitching and restlessness. Many report deeper, more restorative sleep. I’ll cover this in depth in a future post.
What Science Says (and What It Doesn’t)
Research on transdermal magnesium is growing. Some studies show benefits; others say more data is needed. The skin can absorb magnesium, and many people report real-world results—especially when oral forms fell short. Dr. Mark Sircus has long highlighted how topical magnesium chloride may support circulation, inflammation balance, and tissue magnesium—without GI side effects. In clinic and athletics, I’ve seen those results firsthand.
How to Use Topical Magnesium for Best Results
- Target the area: apply where it hurts (calves, back, shoulders, abdomen).
- Use after a shower: warm, clean skin absorbs more effectively.
- Massage it in: gentle massage boosts circulation and penetration.
- Be consistent: daily use builds better results over time.
My balm is designed to be gentle and non-irritating, so you can use it every day—even on sensitive skin.
The Bottom Line
Does topical magnesium work better than oral? For targeted issues like cramps, pain, and restless legs, it often can—because you deliver magnesium right where you need it. Oral magnesium still supports whole-body health, but topical magnesium chloride adds precise, fast help for problem areas. That is why I worked so long to get this balm right.
FAQs
Does topical magnesium really absorb through the skin?
Yes, the skin can absorb magnesium. Results vary by formula, dose, and skin health. Many people feel faster relief when they apply it where it hurts.
Why magnesium chloride instead of Epsom salt?
Magnesium chloride’s structure supports better skin penetration than sulfate. It also avoids GI side effects seen with some oral forms.
Can I use topical and oral magnesium together?
Often, yes. Oral supports whole-body needs. Topical targets specific areas. Many people use both. If you have medical conditions, ask your clinician.
Will it sting or leave residue?
My goal was high magnesium without the sting or grit people dislike. This balm was formulated to massage in smoothly and completely.
Try It for Yourself
If you want to feel the difference topical magnesium can make, try the balm I created. It’s doctor-crafted, dermatologist-tested, toxin-free, and designed to absorb smoothly—without the sting.