Quick Answer: Both oral and topical magnesium can raise your body's magnesium levels, but they differ in absorption route and side effects. Oral magnesium is convenient and well-studied but can cause a laxative effect at high doses; topical magnesium bypasses digestion and rarely causes this, but can feel greasy or tingle on application. Many people use both together.
Magnesium Spray or Tablets
Magnesium plays a role in hundreds of processes in the body, from muscle and nerve function to energy production, and low magnesium intake is a recognised concern in modern diets. That's driven a wide range of magnesium supplements onto the market. Here, we compare oral magnesium (taken by mouth) with topical magnesium (applied to the skin) — how they differ in absorption, side effects, and which might suit your routine best.
Table of Contents
- Taking Magnesium Orally — Pros
- Taking Magnesium Orally — Cons
- Using Magnesium Topically — Pros
- Using Magnesium Topically — Cons
- Which Is Better?
- Where Turmeric Australia's Magnesium Range Fits In
- FAQs
- Our Simple Recommendation
Taking Magnesium Orally — Pros
- Convenience — whether capsules, powder or liquid, oral magnesium is easy to take wherever you are.
- Availability — a wide range of oral magnesium formulations is available, so it's easy to find one that suits your routine.
- Established results — consistent oral supplementation has been shown to raise the body's magnesium levels over time.
Taking Magnesium Orally — Cons
- Laxative effect — magnesium can have a laxative effect if taken in too high a dose.
- Absorption — passing through the digestive system means some absorption can be lost along the way.
Using Magnesium Topically — Pros
- Faster absorption route — absorption through the skin bypasses the digestive process.
- No laxative effect — because it doesn't pass through the digestive system, topical magnesium very rarely causes this side effect.
- Adjustable dosage — topical application makes it easy to increase or reduce how much you use.
Using Magnesium Topically — Cons
- Tingling sensation — many people notice a tingling or itching feeling on application, particularly on sensitive or broken skin.
- Oily residue — some topical magnesium products can leave a film on the skin that needs rinsing off.
Which Is Better?
With several forms of magnesium available, there's an option to suit most routines — and you don't have to choose only one. Many people use topical magnesium alongside an oral supplement for extra support.
Oral and topical magnesium both offer genuine benefits, so it's less about one being definitively "better" and more about personal preference and how your body responds. Whether you're weighing up magnesium spray or tablets, consider how much magnesium you need, how often you're realistically able to take a supplement, which option you're more likely to stick with consistently, and how each makes you feel.
Where Turmeric Australia's Magnesium Range Fits In
Ultra Magnesium is our oral option — a straightforward daily capsule for those who want convenience and consistency.
Pure Magnesium Oil and Magnesium Body Lotion are our topical options — ideal for targeted use, or for pairing with an oral supplement for extra support.
FAQs
Is topical magnesium better absorbed than oral magnesium?
Topical magnesium bypasses the digestive process, which may help avoid absorption loss that can happen with oral supplements. Both routes can raise the body's magnesium levels — they simply work differently.
Can I use oral and topical magnesium together?
Yes, many people use both — an oral capsule for daily consistency and a topical oil or lotion for targeted or additional support.
Why does magnesium oil tingle on my skin?
A tingling or itching sensation is a common response to topical magnesium, especially on sensitive or broken skin. It usually settles with repeated use, but discontinue if irritation persists.
Does oral magnesium cause digestive issues?
It can, particularly at higher doses — a laxative effect is the most common side effect. Starting with a lower dose and increasing gradually can help.
How do I know if I need a magnesium supplement?
Low magnesium intake is common in modern diets. If you're unsure whether supplementation is right for you, speak with your healthcare professional, who can advise based on your diet and health history.
Our Simple Recommendation
There's no single "better" option — it comes down to what fits your routine and how your body responds. If digestive sensitivity is a concern, start with topical magnesium. If convenience and consistency matter most, oral magnesium is the simpler daily habit. Many people find combining both gives the most rounded support.
Speak with your healthcare professional before starting any new magnesium supplement, and follow the directions on the label. If you experience side effects, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
References
- Pure Magnesium Oil — Turmeric Australia
About the Author
This article was written by Kirsty Strowger, Founder of Turmeric Australia and Nature's Help — two of Australia's most trusted natural health e-commerce brands. With over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry, Kirsty has become a recognised authority in natural health education, product development, and women's wellness. For more than a decade, Kirsty has been writing evidence-based articles that empower Australians to take charge of their health naturally. Her passion for creating high-quality, science-backed supplements has helped thousands of Australians improve their wellbeing — the natural way.
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