“I would rather people have a diet that supports magnesium intake,” Lee says. “I would say the gold standard is for you to eat dark leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, and salmon.” But she says, for those with low magnesium, a supplement can be an effective way to get these benefits.
A spray will be less potent but may also have some effects. “Anything we put on the skin does get absorbed into the bloodstream at a certain percentage,” Lee says, adding that you’d have to be really consistent with it to notice any significant impact. And for those who dislike taking any kind of pill, a spray is a great alternative.
Do magnesium sprays actually work?
Again, your skin only absorbs so much of the magnesium present in a spray, but it may still have benefits on your sleep quality and overall health.
Lee notes that while magnesium sprays often get hype around hydrating the skin, she doesn’t believe there’s a direct correlation. “That’s likely a temporary hydration you’re getting because it’s a liquid spray on you,” she says. “It’s not directly helping your skin become more supple and hydrated and elastic like some of these posts might say. And if you are getting something that’s a little bit more prolonged, it’s probably because of other supporting ingredients in that spray.”
That said, again, it may help you calm your body and mind, which has ripple effects for healthier skin—especially if a magnesium spray helps you get consistent with an evening wind-down routine.
Can you use magnesium spray every day?
Yes, in fact, if you’re hoping to glean any benefits from a magnesium spray, consistency is key. Try using it as part of your evening wind-down routine, and notice how it impacts your sleep quality, sense of calm, and skin over time.
Of course, it’s important to also pair this with a daily intake of high-quality foods that naturally contain magnesium, along with other sleep-promoting habits like limiting screen time before bed, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and keeping your room cool.
What to Look for in a Magnesium Spray
When seeking a top-notch magnesium spray, Lee recommends opting for high-quality, well-studied ingredients. She’s personally a fan of brands that work with scientists and those that source ingredients in a sustainable way. You may also want to seek out sprays that feature other body- and skin-soothing ingredients like aloe or arnica, for additional benefits. Ultimately, it comes down to your own preferences and which spray would best contribute to your personal needs and calming routine.