FAQs

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What is magnesium oil?

Despite it's name, magnesium oil isn’t actually an oil! It’s a highly concentrated solution of magnesium chloride and water, which has a silky, slightly slippery feel — hence the name. It absorbs quickly into the skin, delivering magnesium directly to the body to help boost magnesium levels, which can support muscle relaxation, reduce cramps, improve sleep, and support overall health.

Who should use magnesium oil?

All of us! Magnesium oil can be super beneficial for a variety of people, especially those who might be experiencing certain symptoms or conditions. It's especially beneficial for those who: experience muscle cramps, tension, or soreness, struggle with sleep or stress, have restless legs, need faster workout recovery, and those who want a natural way to support relaxation and energy.

How do I use magnesium oil spray?

Using magnesium oil is pretty straightforward! Here's how you can do it: You spray the magnesium oil directly onto your skin, we recommend starting with the bottoms of your feet (2-4 sprays daily) and then after a week or so (once the body has adapted), you may want to also spray onto other areas like your legs, arms, or stomach. Remember to massage it into your skin, once sprayed. This helps it to absorb better! A great way to use magnesium oil and receive its benefits is to apply it to sore muscles or areas with cramps.

Where do I apply it?

You can apply it to the bottoms of your feet, to your legs, stomach, arms, or back. We recommend starting with just the feet, and after a period of introducing your body to the magnesium oil, you can then use it on other areas of the body where you are feeling tension, tightness, cramps, soreness.

Is magnesium oil safe for children?

Yes! Magnesium is essential for children's growth, sleep, and focus. Our Saltd. Magnesium Oil for Kids product can be used on children 3 months and older. It's been specially formulated to be more gentle and mild. We recommend starting with just a small amount (2 sprays) and apply and massage onto their feet before bed as part of their bedtime routine. After a week or so, in addition to the sprays on their feet, you can also use 2 sprays on their stomach. This combination is a match made in dreamtime heaven, promoting relaxation, calm, and optimal sleep. It is also wonderful support for children with growing pains, restless legs, achy sore muscles and cramps as it eases tension and relaxes the muscles, as well as their nervous system. There are a few things to keep in mind when using on children:

  1. Sensitive Skin: Some children may have sensitive skin, and magnesium oil can cause mild irritation or a tingling sensation. If this happens, you can dilute it with water, apply it with a sensitive skin moisturiser or coconut oil or apply it to a smaller area first to test for any reaction.  The bottoms of the feet are always a good place to start. 
  2. Dosage: When using magnesium oil on children, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount. You don't need to apply a lot—just a few sprays on the skin should be enough for benefits.
  3. Health Conditions: If the child has any underlying health conditions, particularly kidney issues or heart conditions, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor or medical professional before using magnesium oil.

Is magnesium oil safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, and it's highly beneficial! Our natural, simple and safe formula means that you can use our magnesium oil spray throughout pregnancy, and in postpartum. Many women use magnesium oil during pregnancy to help with common (and frustrating!) discomforts like muscle cramps, leg cramps, or even to support relaxation and sleep, especially in the second and third trimesters. Magnesium is an essential mineral during pregnancy and plays a crucial role in both the development of the baby and the health of the mother.  Here’s why:

  1. Supports Baby’s Development: Magnesium is involved in the formation of the baby’s bones and teeth, as well as in the development of muscles and nerves. It also helps with DNA and protein synthesis, which are critical for cell growth.
  2. Helps Regulate Blood Pressure: Magnesium helps to regulate blood pressure and can be particularly important for preventing conditions like preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). It helps relax the blood vessels, which can improve circulation and reduce the risk of complications.
  3. Reduces Cramps and Muscle Tension: Pregnancy often comes with leg cramps and muscle tension. Magnesium plays a key role in muscle function and may help reduce these common discomforts by helping muscles relax.
  4. Supports Energy and Sleep: Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports energy production. It can also help improve sleep, which is particularly important for expecting mothers as they may struggle with rest during pregnancy.


Before using magnesium oil or any supplement during pregnancy, it’s always a good idea to check with your GP and/or midwife. They can help ensure it’s appropriate for your specific situation.

What's the difference between your formulas for adults and kids?

Our Saltd. Magnesium Oil for Kids spray is a more mild and gentle formulated solution, made with little one’s sensitive skin in mind.  This means it is also a great option for adults with sensitive skin!

Both magnesium oil sprays are safe for the whole family, however we recommend starting children off with the kids formula and building from there. 

Can I use magnesium oil for sore muscles and recovery?

Absolutely! Spray directly on sore or tight muscles to relieve tension, reduce cramps, and speed up recovery after workouts. Magnesium is well known for its muscle-relaxing properties, so anyone experiencing muscle tension (e.g., after exercise) may find relief by using magnesium oil topically. Athletes often use magnesium oil for its ability to relieve muscle soreness, reduce cramping, support muscle recovery after intense physical activity, and top up the body's magnesium stores due to magnesium loss in sweat. In addition to this, magnesium is involved in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy molecule in cells. It helps convert food into energy, so inadequate magnesium can lead to fatigue or low energy levels. So using magnesium oil can not only help support recovery and the speed of recovery, but also enhance performance.

Does magnesium oil help with stress and anxiety?

Yes! Magnesium helps regulate cortisol (the stress hormone) and supports a calm nervous system, making it effective for managing stress and anxiety. Prolonged periods of stress can cause inflammation in the body, and while we cannot avoid stress in our lives, it is vitally important for us to have tools to support us to regulate our nervous system and be able to support the body and its systems to cope better with stress. Magnesium oil can help you bring calm, and shift you into a more relaxed state of being, easing the body, mind and all of its systems.

Can magnesium oil help with sleep?

Yes! Sleep support is one of the most common reasons people of all ages and stages choose to use (and love!) our Saltd. Magnesium Oil sprays. Because we know the flow on effect that can happen once we optimise our sleep! We feel better, have more energy and capacity, and can truly elevate our health and well-being on all levels. Magnesium plays a key role in relaxing the nervous system and promoting melatonin production, helping you fall asleep faster and sleep deeper. Apply it 30 minutes before bed daily to your feet, legs, or stomach for the best results. We love to make it part of our daily bedtime ritual and routine!

I suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome, will magnesium oil help?

Yes! Magnesium oil can be very effective for Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) because magnesium helps relax muscles, calm the nervous system, and regulate neurotransmitters that control muscle movements. Many people with RLS have low magnesium levels, which can contribute to muscle twitching, spasms, and the urge to move their legs at night.

For best results:

✔️ Apply magnesium oil to your legs and feet before bed to help relax muscles and improve sleep. And you may also choose to apply as soon as you feel the sensation of RLS coming on!

✔️ Use consistently for a few weeks to replenish magnesium levels.

✔️ Pair with proper hydration and a balanced diet to support nerve and muscle function.

Many people find relief from RLS symptoms with regular use of magnesium oil, making it a natural and effective way to reduce nighttime discomfort and improve sleep quality.

Why does magnesium oil sometimes tingle or feel itchy when applied?

The stinging, tingling, or itching sensation that some people experience when applying magnesium oil to their skin is quite common and can be due to several factors:

1. Magnesium Absorption

Magnesium chloride, the active ingredient in magnesium oil, is absorbed through the skin. When it enters the skin layers, it can stimulate nerve endings, leading to a tingling or mild burning sensation. This is especially common for people who are not used to magnesium topically or who have lower levels of magnesium in their body.

2. Skin Sensitivity

The skin can be more sensitive to certain substances during certain times, like if it’s dry, irritated, or when applying it to thinner areas of skin (like the inner arms or legs). Magnesium oil can be a bit harsh on more sensitive skin, causing irritation or discomfort.

3. Concentration

Magnesium oil can vary in concentration. Higher concentrations tend to cause more noticeable stinging or itching. If you're using a stronger formula or applying it in larger amounts, you might feel more of these sensations. If using our adult/normal high strength formula, you may wish to change to the more gentle and mild Saltd. for Kids formula that is great for sensitive skin of all ages.

4. Underlying Magnesium Deficiency

If you have low magnesium levels, your body may react more strongly to topical magnesium oil. The sensation might be more intense when the magnesium is being absorbed because your body is essentially "soaking it in" to replenish its magnesium stores.

How to Alleviate Discomfort:

  • Dilute the Oil: If the tingling or itching is too intense, try diluting the magnesium oil with water. Or switch to using our mild Saltd. for Kids magnesium oil formula, which is gentle and amazing for sensitive skin (for all ages). 
  • Start Slow: Begin by applying a small amount (to your feet) for the first couple of weeks and gradually increase usage as your skin gets used to it.
  • Moisturise: After applying magnesium oil, apply a gentle moisturiser or coconut oil to help soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
  • Test on a Small Area First: If you're new to magnesium oil, patch-test it on a small area of skin to see how it reacts before applying it more broadly.

When will I start to feel the benefits?

The time it takes to see results from using topical magnesium oil can vary depending on several factors, such as the reason you're using it, the area of application, your magnesium levels, how long you have been deficient, and how often you apply it. 

However, many people report experiencing some benefits relatively quickly, with a few potential timeframes:

1. For Muscle Relaxation or Cramps

  • Immediate to 1–2 hours: Many people feel relief from muscle cramps, soreness, or tension fairly quickly after applying magnesium oil. The sensation of relaxation or reduced pain can often be felt within 20 minutes to an hour, as the magnesium begins to work on the muscles and nerves.

2. For Sleep Improvement

  • 1–2 weeks: If you're using magnesium oil to improve sleep quality or help with insomnia, you might start to see improvements in your ability to relax before bed and sleep more soundly within a week or two of consistent use. This depends on how much magnesium your body is absorbing and your individual sleep issues.

3. For Stress or Anxiety Relief

  • 1–3 days to 1 week: Magnesium is known for its calming effects on the nervous system. If you're using it for anxiety or stress relief, you may feel more relaxed or less tense after the first few applications. However, cumulative effects might take a few days to a week, depending on how often you use it.

4. For Skin Issues (e.g., Eczema, Psoriasis)

  • 1–4 weeks: If you're using magnesium oil for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it may take a bit longer to see results. It might take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for improvement in inflammation or irritation, depending on the severity of the condition.

5. For Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms (e.g., fatigue, headaches)

  • 1–2 weeks: If you're using magnesium oil to address symptoms of magnesium deficiency (like fatigue, headaches, or muscle cramps), it may take around 1–2 weeks of consistent use to start feeling noticeably better. If you're highly deficient, you may need to use it regularly and combine it with dietary magnesium for more significant results.

Factors That Influence Results:

  • Frequency of Application: The more consistently you use magnesium oil (typically once or twice a day), the quicker you might notice results.
  • Absorption Rate: Some people may absorb magnesium more efficiently through the skin than others. If you're deficient, you may notice benefits more quickly.
  • Application Area: Magnesium is absorbed faster in areas with thinner skin (like the inner arms or legs), so the results might come quicker in those spots.

If you don’t see results right away, don’t be discouraged—it can take a little time for your body to adjust and for magnesium to have its full effect. 

How often can I use magnesium oil?

For most people, magnesium oil can be used daily - and even multiple times per day - depending on your needs.

How Often Should I Use Magnesium Oil?

✔️ Daily Use – Most people benefit from applying once or twice per day to maintain optimal magnesium levels.

✔️ Muscle Soreness or Cramps – Apply as needed, especially after exercise or before bed.

✔️ Stress & Sleep Support – Use in the evening to promote relaxation and deeper sleep.

✔️ Chronic Deficiency – If you suspect low magnesium levels, you may benefit from 2–3 applications per day.

Can I Use Too Much?

Since magnesium is absorbed through the skin, your body will naturally regulate how much it needs. If you experience mild skin sensitivity or tingling, you can:

✔️ Reduce the number of sprays per application.

✔️ Dilute with water or apply over a light moisturiser or with coconut oil.

✔️ Gradually increase usage as your body adjusts.

Consistency is key! Regular daily use over a few weeks is the best way to restore and maintain healthy magnesium levels.

Is your magnesium oil made in New Zealand?

Yes! Our Saltd. Magnesium Oil is proudly made in New Zealand.

Does your magnesium oil spray have a smell?

No, all our magnesium oil sprays are fragrance free.

Why should I use topical magnesium instead of a pill or oral supplement?

While oral magnesium supplements can be beneficial, topical magnesium oil is often a more effective and efficient way to replenish magnesium levels. Here’s why:

✔️ Faster Absorption – Topical magnesium bypasses digestion and is absorbed directly through the skin into the bloodstream for faster results.

✔️ Better Bioavailability – Many people struggle to absorb magnesium from oral supplements due to gut issues, medications, or poor digestion. Topical magnesium avoids these barriers and delivers magnesium where it’s needed most.

✔️ No Digestive Discomfort – Oral magnesium supplements can cause bloating, diarrhoea, or nausea in some people. Magnesium oil eliminates this risk while still providing the same essential benefits.

✔️ Targeted Relief – Spraying magnesium oil directly onto sore muscles, cramps, or tension areas provides localized support, which oral supplements cannot do.

✔️ Ideal for Those with Magnesium Deficiency – If your body struggles to absorb or retain magnesium from food and supplements, topical magnesium ensures that magnesium reaches your cells more efficiently.

For fast, effective, and gentle magnesium replenishment, topical magnesium oil is a superior option compared to pills or powders!

Where do you source your ingredients from?

Here at Saltd, we pride ourselves on using the highest quality ingredients for all our products. Our premium magnesium chloride is naturally sourced from the pristine Tibetan Plateau, known for its purity and potency, with methods that are sensitive to the environment and 100% chemical free. It is rigorously tested to ensure consistency, purity and compliance. Our pure artisan spring water is sourced locally, in Mangawhai, New Zealand.

Why are so many people deficient in magnesium?

Modern lifestyles contribute to widespread magnesium deficiency due to:

✔️ Soil depletion – Magnesium levels in food have dropped due to industrial farming.

✔️ Processed foods – Many diets lack natural, magnesium-rich foods.

✔️ Stress & lifestyle factors – Caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and medications deplete magnesium.

✔️ Poor absorption – Digestive issues and certain health conditions reduce magnesium uptake.

Why is magnesium so important?

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in a wide range of bodily functions, which is why getting enough through diet and supplements is so important. Here are some key reasons why magnesium is vital:

1. Supports Muscle and Nerve Function

Magnesium helps regulate muscle contractions and nerve signaling. Without enough magnesium, muscles may contract too much, leading to cramps, spasms, or tension. It’s essential for proper muscle relaxation, including the relaxation of the heart muscle.

2. Bone Health

Magnesium works in tandem with calcium and vitamin D to maintain healthy bones. About 60% of the body's magnesium is stored in the bones, and it helps with bone formation and density. Low magnesium levels are linked to weaker bones and an increased risk of osteoporosis.

3. Promotes Heart Health

Magnesium plays a key role in maintaining normal heart rhythm. It helps regulate blood pressure and is involved in the contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle. Low magnesium levels can contribute to high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and other heart-related problems.

4. Energy Production

Magnesium is involved in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy molecule in cells. It helps convert food into energy, so inadequate magnesium can lead to fatigue or low energy levels.

5. Regulates Blood Sugar

Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels by supporting the action of insulin, the hormone that helps regulate glucose. Low magnesium levels are linked to insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

6. Promotes Relaxation and Better Sleep

Magnesium is known to support the nervous system and promote relaxation. It helps regulate neurotransmitters that calm the body and mind, which can improve sleep quality. This is why many people use magnesium before bed to aid in relaxation and to reduce insomnia or anxiety.

7. Mood and Mental Health

Magnesium plays a role in mood regulation and cognitive function. Deficiencies in magnesium are linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and even migraines. Some studies have shown that magnesium supplementation may help improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.

8. Helps with Inflammation

Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.

9. Detoxification

Magnesium supports the body’s natural detox processes, including the removal of toxins. It helps maintain optimal kidney function, which is crucial for flushing waste products out of the body.

Who might need to supplement magnesium?

While some people may get enough magnesium from their diet (e.g., leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains), some groups are at higher risk for magnesium deficiency and might need supplements:

  • People with certain medical conditions (e.g., gastrointestinal diseases, type 2 diabetes, or kidney disease)
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women
  • Older adults (who may have decreased magnesium absorption)
  • Athletes or active individuals (due to magnesium loss in sweat)
  • People with poor dietary intake (e.g., those who eat a lot of processed foods)
  • General population due to the modern busy world we all live in, as well as stress, less nutrients in our soil and therefore foods, and overall lifestyle, a topical magnesium supplement is an easy, safe and natural way to boost this vital mineral that our body needs, elevating and optimising our well-being.

What are signs of magnesium deficiency?

Common symptoms of magnesium deficiency can include:

  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Poor sleep
  • High blood pressure
  • Irregular heartbeats

Given how magnesium affects so many body systems, it’s no surprise that low levels can lead to a range of health issues. Supplementing magnesium may help address these deficiencies and improve overall well-being.

What's the difference between the Soothing Magnesium Bath Flakes and the Magnesium Sleep Bath Soak?

Our Saltd. Soothing Magnesium Bath Flakes (750g) are pure, natural magnesium chloride flakes - no fillers, no chemicals, no additives or preservatives - nothing but natures goodness. These are designed with the whole family in mind (a wonderful addition to kids evening bath time), for active people or athletes looking to soak away their aches and sore muscles and recover faster, and for anyone looking for joint relief, stress and anxiety reduction, or to team up with our magnesium oil spray for the ultimate match made in heaven to optimise and elevate your well-being. Our Saltd. Magnesium Sleep Bath Soak (250g) contains the same high-quality, premium, pure magnesium chloride flakes AND infused with lavender and chamomile essential oils and flower petals to give you an at-home spa-like experience. These bath flakes smell divine and instantly bring calm and relaxation to your body and mind. Both our bath flake options are safe for the whole family. Children love a special "fairy" bath that smells and looks beautiful, all while getting the amazing benefits to their wee body's.

Are the magnesium bath flakes safe to use in my children's bath?

Yes! Magnesium chloride flakes are safe and highly beneficial for children when used in a warm bath. A magnesium bath can help:

✔️ Relax muscles and promote restful sleep

✔️ Support growing bodies and bone health

✔️ Calm the nervous system and reduce stress or hyperactivity

✔️ Soothe skin and hydrate naturally

How to Use Magnesium Flakes for Kids:

  • For babies & toddlers (up to 3 years): Use ¼ to ½ cup of flakes in a warm bath.
  • For older children (4+ years): Use ½ to 1 cup of flakes.
  • Let them soak for at least 15–20 minutes to absorb the benefits.

Is It Safe for Sensitive Skin?

Yes, but if your child has very sensitive skin, start with a smaller amount and increase gradually. If any tingling occurs, simply dilute the bath with more water.

A magnesium bath is a gentle and natural way to help kids relax, unwind, and sleep better!

What's the difference between magnesium flakes and epsom salts?

Magnesium Oil (magnesium chloride) - absorbs faster, is more bioavailable, and is ideal for direct and highly effective skin application. Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) - is great for baths but less easily absorbed and excreted faster by the body. For the most effective magnesium replenishment, topical magnesium oil and magnesium flakes are the best choice.

What if my child drinks the bath water with magnesium flakes in it?

If your child accidentally drinks a small amount of bath water with magnesium chloride flakes, there’s usually no need to worry. In small doses, magnesium is a natural and essential mineral that the body needs!

However, drinking larger amounts may cause:

✔️ Mild diarrhoea – Magnesium has a natural laxative effect.

✔️ Stomach discomfort – Some children may experience mild nausea or loose stools.

What Should I Do?

✔️ Offer fresh water to help dilute any excess magnesium in their system.

✔️ Monitor for any mild digestive upset—symptoms should pass within a few hours.

✔️ If your child consumes a significant amount and experiences ongoing discomfort, consult a healthcare professional for advice.

To prevent this, try using a smaller amount of flakes in their bath and gently remind them that the bathwater is not for drinking.

Why is it called magnesium "oil" when it isn't an oil?

Even though magnesium oil contains no actual oil, it gets its name from the unique texture it creates when magnesium chloride is dissolved in water. This concentrated solution has a silky, slightly slippery feel, similar to oil, but without any greasiness or residue.

Unlike true oils, magnesium oil absorbs quickly into the skin, delivering magnesium directly to your cells without clogging pores or leaving an oily film. After a few minutes, any slight tackiness disappears, leaving your skin feeling refreshed rather than greasy.

So, while it’s not an oil in the traditional sense, the name “magnesium oil” has stuck due to its smooth, oil-like texture and easy skin absorption.

Can I use magnesium oil spray on my pets?

Magnesium is an essential mineral for both humans and animals, and because our Saltd. Magnesium Oil sprays are pure, natural, with no nasties, it is safe to use on pets. We recommend using the Kids formula first (or just 1-2 sprays of the standard/adults formula) as it is more mild and gentle to begin with on our smaller, fury friends. We do recommended you discuss with your veterinary clinic if you have any concerns or if you are unsure if it is right for your pet.

Why have a chat with the Vet?

✔️ Sensitive Skin – Pets, especially cats and dogs, have more sensitive skin than humans. Magnesium oil can cause irritation or tingling, which may be uncomfortable for them.

✔️ Licking & Ingestion – Animals groom themselves frequently, and ingesting too much magnesium oil may lead to digestive upset or diarrhea.

✔️ Different Magnesium Needs – While magnesium is crucial for pet health, they require specific dosages based on their size, diet, and overall health.

If you think your pet may benefit from magnesium, consult your veterinarian about supplementation options, such as:

✔️ Magnesium-rich foods in their diet.

✔️ Pet-safe supplements designed specifically for animals.

✔️ Magnesium-infused pet shampoos or sprays formulated for their skin.

Note: Always check with your vet before applying any human supplement and/or product to your pet’s skin or diet!

I have sensitive skin, can I still use magnesium oil?

Yes! You can still use magnesium oil spray if you have sensitive skin, but you may need to start with a gentler approach to allow your skin to adjust.

We recommend using our Saltd. Magnesium Oil for Kids formula if using on either an adult or child with sensitive skin.

If you're a 'big kid' (teenager/adult) and prefer not to have our fun and cute designed pictures that feature on our Kids spray bottle but need or prefer our more mild formula - please do reach out (hello@saltdmagnesium.com) and we can send you an extra empty Adults spray bottle with your order, for you to transfer your magnesium oil into - we want everyBODY to be happy with the look, feel and whole experience of Saltd.

Tips for Using Magnesium Oil on Sensitive Skin:

✔️ Dilute with water – Mix magnesium oil with an equal amount of water before applying to reduce sensitivity.

✔️ Apply over a moisturiser or coconut oil – Spraying on top of a light lotion or oil can help minimise tingling.

✔️ Start with a small amount – Use fewer sprays at first and gradually increase as your skin adapts.

✔️ Avoid broken or freshly shaved skin – This can make tingling stronger.

✔️ Rinse off after 20 minutes – Your body will have absorbed the magnesium, and this can help reduce any lingering irritation.

Some initial tingling or itching is normal, especially if your magnesium levels are low. With consistent use, sensitivity usually decreases over time as your body replenishes its magnesium stores.

Can you have too much magnesium?

Yes, it’s possible to have too much magnesium, BUT your body is amazing and naturally regulates magnesium levels, especially when absorbed through the skin. With topical magnesium oil, the risk of overloading your system is very low because your skin absorbs only what it needs.

Can You Overuse Magnesium Oil?

It’s unlikely, but if you experience skin irritation or mild laxative effects, try:

✔️ Using fewer sprays per application.

✔️ Diluting with water for gentler absorption.

✔️ Spacing out applications throughout the day instead of all at once.

Your body will naturally excrete any excess magnesium it doesn’t need, making topical magnesium a safe and effective way to maintain healthy levels without overloading your system.