The importance of magnesium cannot be understated – it’s involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, and it is also involved in other body processes like calcium absorption and bone formation. Surprisingly, more than 20% of Americans are magnesium-deficient. That’s why this article will explore transdermal absorption of magnesium, or absorbing magnesium through your skin. Read on to learn more about this process, how it works, and the benefits.
Before going further, let’s understand a little more about transdermal absorption.
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Transdermal Absorption
The skin plays several important roles for the body, one of which is acting as a barrier to the outside world. To achieve this, the skin has several layers that work together to keep things out or let them in. The top layer of the skin, the epidermis, is made up of cells that are constantly shed and replaced. Underneath the epidermis is the dermis, which houses blood vessels, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The bottom layer, the hypodermis, comprises fat and connective tissue.
Although the skin appears to be intact, tiny openings called pores allow for the passage of toxins and sweat out of the body and for the absorption of other substances.
What Are The Routes Of Transdermal Absorption?
There are three routes of transdermal absorption:
Transcellular route – Transcellular absorption occurs when a substance passes through the skin cells. This process involves the cell membranes, which act as selective barriers that allow certain things to pass while keeping others out.
Intercellular route – On the other hand, intercellular absorption occurs through the spaces between the cells of the outermost layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum. This is the most common route of topical absorption and is how most drugs and cosmetics are absorbed through the skin.
Through the Glands and Follicles – Finally, the third way substances can be absorbed through the skin is through the glands and follicles. The sweat glands and sebaceous (oil) glands open to the skin’s surface and can act as routes of absorption.
Now that we know how transdermal absorption works, let’s explore whether magnesium can be absorbed through the skin.
Can Magnesium Be Absorbed Through The Skin?
The answer is yes. You can absorb magnesium through the skin as a salt when it is linked to another element, such as chloride. The carrier for the magnesium salt can either be oil or water. The reason magnesium chloride, in particular, is used for this purpose is that it has a very small molecule, which makes it easy to penetrate the skin.
Once magnesium chloride is absorbed through the skin, it passes into the bloodstream, where it is then distributed to the cells that need it. This process bypasses the gut, which is where magnesium absorption is usually limited.
Is It Possible To Increase The Total Amount Of Magnesium Absorbed By The Skin?
Yes. There are a few ways to increase the amount of magnesium that is absorbed through the skin:
Expanding the application area – By increasing the surface area over which you apply the magnesium, you will increase the level of absorption of the mineral.
Applying the magnesium chloride more frequently – When you apply magnesium chloride more frequently, you will also increase the absorption of magnesium.
By varying the application location – It has been shown that certain areas of the skin are more permeable than others. For example, the skin on the scalp and armpits is more permeable than the skin on the hands and feet.
Moisture-rich skin – Well hydrated skin is also more permeable to magnesium chloride. So, if you apply the magnesium after a shower or bath when your skin is already moist, you will increase the absorption of magnesium.
What Makes Transdermal Absorption Ideal?
Several reasons make the transdermal route ideal for magnesium absorption:
Impaired digestive system – When the gut is not functioning properly, it can limit the absorption of magnesium. This is often seen in people with damaged intestines or gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease. By absorbing magnesium through the skin, you can bypass the gut and still get the benefits of this essential mineral.
People unwilling to take pills – Some people simply do not like taking pills or capsules, and transdermal absorption is a great alternative for these individuals.
Magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, and there are a few ways to increase the absorption of this essential mineral. Transdermal absorption is ideal for people with impaired digestive systems or those who are unwilling to take pills. By absorbing magnesium through the skin, you can bypass the gut and still get the benefits of this essential mineral.