Magnesium for Skin: Why it’s the Best Wrinkle-Fighting Supplement
Magnesium is an abundant mineral in the body and is required for hundreds of enzymatic actions in the body. However, only 30 – 40% of the dietary magnesium we consume is absorbed by our bodies which is why magnesium deficiency is a common problem. This deficiency has a profound impact on overall health, including skin health. Dermatologists and skin health experts now say that magnesium may hold the key to good skin health.
Dietary magnesium can be found in foods such as nuts and seeds as well as leafy greens and chocolate. A diet that contains magnesium-rich foods can help to improve skin health from within. In addition to dietary magnesium, topical lotions that contain magnesium or magnesium oil sprays can also help to address a wide variety of common skin problems.
Here’s Why Magnesium is the Key to Good Skin Health:
Magnesium for Acne
Magnesium creams can have a soothing effect which helps to reduce the severity of acne breakouts. Magnesium can also reduce inflammation which is why these topical creams can also be used as a spot treatment for a pimple. Stress is a common trigger for acne breakouts but studies show that increasing magnesium intake can help to improve the body’s reaction to stress. It is theorized that dietary magnesium could theoretically have a positive impact on acne breakouts.
Magnesium for Dry Skin
Magnesium deficiency results in lower levels of natural fatty acids on the skin. These fatty acids help to keep the skin moisturized which is why people with magnesium deficiency often suffer from dry patchy skin. Increasing your intake of foods rich in magnesium can help to overcome this problem. Magnesium gel is designed not to be fully absorbed by the skin which helps to maintain the moisture levels within your skin and keep your skin soft and supple.
Magnesium for Uneven Skin Tone
People with sensitive skin or combination skin types often suffer from an uneven skin tone due to skin irritation and inflammation. Topical creams containing magnesium can help to reduce skin irritation and inflammation and give you clear and even complexion. Use magnesium oil for sensitive skin as this will help to soothe and protect sensitive skin as well as reduce itchiness.
Magnesium for Wrinkles
Magnesium plays a key role in the production of the enzymes that manage DNA repair and replication. This means that magnesium deficiency slows down the process of DNA synthesis which in turn speeds up the process of aging. People who have low levels of magnesium are more likely to suffer from fine lines and wrinkles. Wrinkle creams that contain magnesium may also help to reduce these early signs of aging.
Magnesium for Sagging Skin
Sagging cheeks and a double chin are among the first signs of skin aging. These skin problems occur due to a loss of skin elasticity. A diet that contains magnesium-rich foods can help to prevent this problem and give you firm and plump skin. This will prevent or at least delay the formation of wrinkles around the neck and mouth that occur due to sagging skin. You can also use a magnesium oil spray as a convenient way to retain your youthful appearance.
Magnesium for Stressed Skin
It is well known that stress has an impact on our overall health as well as our appearance. This is because stress can increase free-radical damage to the skin, increase the severity of wrinkles, trigger acne breakouts and give the skin a sallow appearance. A magnesium bath helps to relax the entire body, ease mental stress and encourage healthy skin.
What to Look for in Topical Magnesium Products
When choosing a magnesium cream or lotion, the first thing you should look for is ‘Zechstein magnesium chloride’ on the ingredients list – this indicates that the magnesium chloride has been sourced from the pure Zechstein salt beds in northwest Europe. Choose products that have natural ingredients such as aloe and chamomile rather than creams that only contain harsh and synthetic chemicals which could do more damage than good. If you have sensitive skin, make sure to choose a magnesium skin cream that is fragrance free to reduce the risk of skin irritation and inflammation.
Dietary magnesium as well as topical magnesium creams can help to prevent skin problems but your lifestyle and habits will also have a tremendous impact on your skin health. A healthy balanced diet, adequate water intake and a regular exercise plan will go a long way in improving your skin tone. Sleep and stress are other factors to take into consideration as they have a significant impact on your skin as well as your overall health and wellness. Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as smoking and binge-drinking will also accelerate the aging process and make you appear older.
Author’s Bio: Anita Fernandes has been writing extensively on health and wellness for over a decade. She has expertise in nutrition, fitness, public health, and weight loss and has contributed content to a variety of leading digital health publishers. Anita has a unique perspective on healthy living and lifestyle, as she has battled and overcome stress and eating disorder. She shares her experiences in an effort to help others overcome the physical and mental health problems that can sometimes seem insurmountable.