Homemade Magnesium Lotion Bars: Your Body’s New Best Friend
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in many bodily functions, including more than 300 Biochemical reactions in the human body. Homemade Magnesium lotion bars are an easy and enjoyable way to enjoy the many benefits of this essential mineral AND they are a luxurious self-care staple that are extremely easy to make!
Contents
Topical Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the minerals that can be absorbed through the skin because it is a small molecule that can penetrate the skin barrier.
Some research suggests that topical magnesium application may be more effective than oral supplementation – in certain cases.
When magnesium is applied topically, it can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This can be a more efficient way to get magnesium into the body for some people, as magnesium supplements taken orally can sometimes cause digestive discomfort or have a laxative effect. Not fun!
How does Magnesium Improve Health?
Regulates Muscle and Nerve Function
Magnesium is required for the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. It helps to regulate muscle contractions and nerve impulses, which is important for activities like walking, running, and breathing.
Maintains Healthy Bones
Magnesium is involved in the regulation of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. It helps to maintain strong bones and may even help to prevent osteoporosis.
Regulates Heart Rhythm
Magnesium is involved in the regulation of the heart’s rhythm and can help to prevent arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms.
Supports Immune Function
Magnesium plays a role in the regulation of the immune system and can help to support a healthy immune response.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Magnesium is involved in the regulation of insulin, which is important for the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels.
What Common Problems Can Magnesium Treat?
Stress and Anxiety
Magnesium helps to regulate the release of neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in the brain that are involved in mood and anxiety. Specifically, magnesium helps regulate the release of GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain and can reduce feelings of anxiety.
Magnesium is also thought to help reduce stress and anxiety by regulating the release of the stress hormone, cortisol, and by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is a complex system in the body that is involved in the stress response. Magnesium helps regulate the HPA axis, which can help to reduce feelings of anxiety.
Sleep Issues
As mentioned above, magnesium plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters, specifically regulation of the release of GABA which both decreases anxiety and promotes relaxation, both of which can help you fall asleep.
Magnesium also plays a role in regulating the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Specifically, magnesium helps to increase melatonin levels in the body, which can help you get a good sleep.
If that wasn’t enough, magnesium has been shown to improve sleep quality by increasing the amount of time spent in deep sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep. This type of sleep is important for physical restoration and repair, and it can help to reduce feelings of fatigue and improve overall sleep quality.
Low Energy
Magnesium plays an important role in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the primary energy molecule in the body. Magnesium is a cofactor for several enzymes involved in ATP production.
Magnesium also helps to regulate the activity of ion channels and transporters that are involved in the movement of ions (such as calcium and potassium) across cell membranes. This regulation helps to maintain the electrical and chemical balance of cells, which is important for many physiological processes.
Together, these functions of magnesium help to support energy production and increase energy levels in the body. Several studies have shown that magnesium supplementation can be effective for reducing fatigue and increasing energy levels.
Supports Healthy Bones
Magnesium is essential for bone health, as it helps to regulate calcium absorption and metabolism.
Skin Issues
Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and soothe dry skin. This can be particularly helpful for people with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or acne.
Magnesium is also thought to promote skin healing by helping to increase collagen production and improve skin elasticity. Collagen is a protein that is important for skin health, as it helps to support the structure and strength of the skin.
Magnesium’s relaxing properties can also benefit your skin, as stress and anxiety can contribute to skin issues such as acne, rosacea, and eczema.
Sore Muscles
Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant. It works by blocking calcium from entering muscle cells, which causes the muscles to relax. This can help to reduce muscle tension and soreness.
Magnesium helps to improve blood flow and oxygenation to the muscles. This can help to promote muscle recovery and reduce muscle fatigue.
In addition to relaxing and improving circulation, magnesium’s effectiveness at reducing inflammation, regulating electrolyte balance, and aiding in ATP production all help soothe sore muscles and improve recovery.
Leg Cramps and Restless Leg Syndrome
Leg cramps are often caused by muscle fatigue or dehydration, and magnesium plays an important role in muscle function and hydration. Magnesium helps to regulate the contraction and relaxation of muscles, and a deficiency in magnesium can lead to muscle cramps and spasms.
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an urge to move the feet and legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations like itching or tingling. While the exact causes of RLS are not fully understood, magnesium deficiency has been suggested as a possible contributor to the condition.
Several studies have found that magnesium supplementation may be effective for reducing the frequency and severity of both restless legs and cramps.
Homemade Magnesium Lotion Bar
Making a homemade lotion bar is a great way to take advantage of the many benefits of magnesium for your skin and overall health.
Why Lotion Bars?
Lotion bars are becoming increasingly popular in skincare routines due to their many benefits over regular lotion.
Convenience
Lotion bars are very convenient to use and can be easily carried in a purse or gym bag. They are solid at room temperature, making them less likely to spill or leak.
Long-lasting
Lotion bars typically last longer than regular lotion because they are more concentrated and require less product per application. This means you’ll need to purchase them less frequently, which can save you money in the long run.
No Preservatives
Lotion bars often do not contain preservatives, which are added to regular lotions to prevent bacterial growth. This makes them a good choice for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer to use natural skincare products.
Environmentally Friendly
Lotion bars can be stored in re-usable containers, making them a more environmentally friendly option than regular lotions that often come in plastic bottles.
No Mess
DIY Lotion bars are solid and can be applied directly to the skin without creating a mess. This makes them ideal for use on-the-go or in situations where you don’t have access to a sink.
Deep Moisture
Lotion bars often contain a higher concentration of natural, deeply moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or cocoa butter, which can provide long-lasting hydration for dry or rough skin.
Home Made Magnesium Lotion Bar Recipe
This recipe is both simple and easy. The ingredients aren’t difficult to find and aren’t terribly expensive. Many of the ingredients can be used for other cosmetic DIY projects (check out our other articles), making your purchases even more cost effective!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup shea butter
1/2 cup beeswax pellets
1/4 cup magnesium chloride flakes (dissolve flakes in a small amount of warm water)
20-30 drops of essential oil of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets over low heat.
Once the mixture is melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the magnesium flakes (dissolved in warm water) until they are fully mixed.
If you want to add essential oils, stir them in at this point
Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an empty container, and let it cool and harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Once the lotion bars have hardened, remove them from the molds or container and store them in a cool, dry place.
Read our article on DIY Lip Balm and DIY soap for more information on essential oils and natural coloring powders that can be added to homemade cosmetics.
Lavender is a good choice for magnesium bars – given its relaxing properties. But fragrance free is always a good option as well!
Keep in mind that if you’re using magnesium flakes for specific health or skincare purposes, it’s essential to follow the recommendations provided on the product packaging or consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on the proper dosage and usage.
Using and Storing Your New Lotion Bars!
Magnesium lotion can be used in a variety of ways to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and support overall health. Here are some tips for using magnesium lotion:
How and When to Use
Once your lotion bars are set, you are ready to start incorporating your topical magnesium into your daily routine. To apply the lotion, simply rub the bar on your skin. The warmth of your skin will soften the lotion bar as you rub.
Apply it to Sore or Tense Muscles
The lotion bar can be massaged into sore or tense muscles to help with pain, reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
Use it Before Bed
Magnesium can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, so using magnesium lotion before at night can be a great way to unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
Apply it After Exercise
Magnesium is important for muscle recovery and can help reduce post-exercise soreness. Applying magnesium lotion after a workout can help support muscle recovery and reduce inflammation.
Use it on Dry or Irritated Skin
Magnesium lotion has hydrating properties and can help soothe dry or irritated skin. It may also be helpful for conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
When using magnesium lotion for the first time, start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount as needed. Some people may experience mild skin irritation or itching when using magnesium lotion, so it’s best to start slowly and monitor your skin’s reaction.
Storing Your Lotion Bars
Store Them in a Cool, Dry Place
Your Magnesium lotion can become liquid or grainy if exposed to high temperatures, so it’s important to store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or near a heat source.
Use Airtight Containers
Magnesium lotion should be stored in airtight containers to prevent contamination and moisture from getting in. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are good options for storing magnesium lotion.
Avoid Exposure to Air
Exposure to air can cause the magnesium lotion bar to dry out and lose its potency. To prevent this, be sure to seal the container tightly after each use.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your lotion bars stay fresh and effective for as long as possible. If you notice any changes in texture, smell, or color, or if you have any concerns about the quality of the lotion bar, it’s best to discard it and use a new one.
Enhance Your Self-Care Routine Today
Making your own magnesium lotion bars is a fun and easy way to incorporate this essential mineral into your daily skincare routine.
By making your own lotion bars, you can control the ingredients and ensure that you are using high-quality, natural ingredients that are free from irritating chemicals.
Plus, the process of making your own lotion bars is just fun and creative! You can even make it a family event!
Give it a try and experience the benefits of magnesium lotion bars for yourself.
Your skin (and your body) will thank you!
6 Comments
Lisa
Could these be used as deodorant bars as well? I’ve seen magnesium helps eliminate body odor
Kelly
Hi Lisa, thanks for your question! I believe our magnesium bars would be safe to use as a deodorant. If you would like to try it, I would recommend trying on a small spot to be sure, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Amanda
How do you get the magnesium to dissolve? I can only get it dissolve in water based liquids, not oil based.
Kelly
Hi Amanda, thank you for pointing that out. I did miss that step. Dissolve the magnesium flakes in warm water prior to mixing it with the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets. The article has been updated!
Allison
I want to make a solid lotion bar with magnesium and have a 4 oz. bottle of liquid magnesium chloride. How much of this would I use per round bar? Thank you!
Kelly
Hi Allison, thanks for reading and for your question! Most recipes suggest adding an equal amount of the liquid magnesium chloride and each of your other ingredients, plus a few drops of essential oil if you choose. If using the 4 ingredients as mentioned in our article, use a ratio of 1:1:1:1. Hope that helps!