Curious About Magnesium? A few questions we get asked.
Over the years, we’ve had a lot of wonderful conversations about magnesium. Here are some of the questions we hear most often.
Why does magnesium spray sometimes tingle or sting?
This is probably the question we hear the most.
Some people notice a tingling or prickly sensation when they first use magnesium spray, while others don’t feel anything at all. It often happens on dry skin, freshly shaved skin, or if you’re just getting started with topical magnesium.
The sensation usually becomes less noticeable over time. If your skin is sensitive, try applying a smaller amount or rinsing it off after 20–30 minutes.
Is magnesium oil actually an oil?
No. In fact, this is a bit of a pet peeve of mine. Despite the nickname, there isn't any oil in magnesium "oil." It’s simply magnesium chloride dissolved in water. The silky, slightly slippery feeling it leaves on the skin is what earned it the name.
Personally, I prefer calling it magnesium "spray" because I think it’s important to describe ingredients for what they really are. Magnesium is a mineral—not an oil—and I believe understanding what you’re putting on your skin matters. Let us chose clarity over clever marketing
Where should I apply magnesium spray?
Anywhere you’d like to enjoy it as part of your daily routine.
Many people spray it onto their feet, legs, shoulders, arms, or back. We recommend avoiding freshly shaved skin, open cuts, or irritated areas.
Do I have to wash it off?
Not at all. Some people leave it on, while others prefer to rinse it off after 20–30 minutes, especially if they have sensitive skin. There isn’t a right or wrong way—find what feels best for you.
Why does my skin sometimes feel dry afterward?
Magnesium chloride is a natural salt, so some people notice their skin feels a little dry after it dries down.
If that’s the case, simply follow with your favourite body oil, lotion, or body butter to lock in moisture.
Can I use magnesium spray every day?
Absolutely. (I use mine on a regular basis)
Many people include it as part of their daily routine, whether that’s after gardening, after a workout, or before bed. Start with a small amount and see what feels right for your skin.
Can children use magnesium spray?
Many families choose to use topical magnesium with their children, but every child is different.
Because children’s skin can be more sensitive, we recommend starting with a small amount and speaking with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Why does Copper Barrel use magnesium chloride from the Dead Sea?
Because we believe quality begins with the ingredients.
The Dead Sea is one of the world’s most mineral-rich bodies of water, and we wanted to begin with thoughtfully sourced magnesium chloride. We pair it with the same care we give our own botanicals, creating each batch by hand in small quantities.
Why do you use hydrosols instead of plain water?
This might be our favourite question.
Many magnesium sprays are simply magnesium chloride and purified water.
I wanted to take it a step further. Many of our sprays begin with hydrosols we’ve slowly distilled ourselves from fresh botanicals such as lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and more. Those botanical waters become part of the ritual, adding another layer of care to every bottle.
Can magnesium spray help me sleep?
Many people enjoy using magnesium spray as part of their bedtime routine. Taking a few quiet moments to slow down before bed can become a meaningful ritual.
Magnesium plays an important role in normal muscle and nerve function, but everyone’s experience is different, and research is still exploring the effects of topical magnesium. We always encourage people to notice how their own body responds.
My skin on the bottom of my feet started peeling. Is that normal?
We’ve heard this from a few customers over the years.
Magnesium chloride is a natural salt, and for some people it can dry the outer layer of the skin, especially on areas that are already thick, dry, or callused, like the bottoms of the feet. As that dry skin sheds, it can sometimes look like peeling.
If this happens, don’t worry. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re having a reaction to the magnesium. Try applying a little less, alternating the areas where you spray, or following with a nourishing body butter or oil once the spray has dried.
If the peeling is significant, uncomfortable, or accompanied by redness, swelling, or irritation, stop using the product and check in with a healthcare professional
Still curious?
We love these conversations. If you have a question we didn’t answer here, send us a message. Some of our favourite products have started with a customer asking, “I’ve always wondered…”