“Magnesium oil” is a term that was coined early in the development of transdermal magnesium therapy. Though applied in a manner similar to beneficial natural oils, magnesium oil in its composition is actually a highly concentrated solution of magnesium chloride in water. There are no actual oils present in our formulations.

Many manufacturers rely on the phrases “Pharmaceutical Grade” and “USP Grade” to convey a sense of quality to consumers. Both “Pharmaceutical Grade” and “USP Grade” refer to the same thing–the public standards set forth by the United States Pharmacopeia.

There are several aspects of magnesium chloride defined by USP standards, but arguably the most important and controversial is the standard set for maximum allowable heavy metal content. This standard designates how much mercury, cadmium, lead, and other toxic metals may be present while still receiving USP certification.

In the case of magnesium chloride, the USP standard allows for a maximum heavy metal content of 10 parts per million (ppm). Because transdermal magnesium chloride comes into direct contact with our skin, we should pay particular attention to the fact that these allowed elements are known toxins. Even as low as a single part per million of mercury can have negative effects.

What this means for you is that manufacturers can casually use the phrase “Pharmaceutical Grade” without telling you exactly what toxic heavy metals exist in the finished product, and at what levels–so long as these levels are below the USP limit.

By no means do we consider this an acceptable practice, and certainly not a suitable method to represent the purity of Ancient Minerals. For that reason, we refer to the “ultra-purity” of Ancient Minerals as being far beyond any pharmaceutical standard that exists in the world, period. We are completely transparent in our efforts to redefine purity. Genuine Zechstein® lab results are available proudly to all who seek them. For more information on these results, please feel free to contact us.

Some users of magnesium oil and magnesium gel with sensitive skin may experience tingling and/or slight irritation at the site of application due to the high concentration of magnesium chloride. This is completely harmless and varies based on a number of factors, including how much is applied and where it is applied to the body.

Diluting the magnesium oil 1:1 with pure spring water can reduce this effect, although this is a matter of personal preference. Those who experience this effect also report that the tingling lessens with each subsequent application.

Another option is to choose Ancient Minerals magnesium lotion or magnesium bath flakes, for use in foot soaks and/or full body soaks, which offer a gentler form of transdermal magnesium therapy, for those with extremely sensitive or broken skin.

No. The skin has a unique ability to self-regulate absorption, and therefore overuse is of little concern.