Most people know magnesium hydroxide as the active ingredient in milk of magnesia-a go-to for upset stomachs. But what many don’t realize is that this simple compound is also quietly helping millions manage stubborn skin issues. From red, itchy rashes to oily, breakout-prone skin, magnesium hydroxide is showing real promise as a gentle, effective topical treatment. It’s not new, but it’s underused. And if you’ve tried harsh creams, antibiotics, or steroid lotions with little success, this might be the quiet alternative you’ve been overlooking.
What magnesium hydroxide actually does on skin
Magnesium hydroxide is a white, powdery substance that’s naturally alkaline. When mixed with water, it forms a mild suspension that neutralizes excess acid on the skin’s surface. This matters because many skin problems-like acne, eczema, and fungal infections-are worsened by imbalanced pH. Healthy skin sits around pH 5.5. When it gets too acidic or too alkaline, the barrier breaks down, bacteria thrive, and inflammation flares.
Studies from the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology in 2023 showed that topical magnesium hydroxide helped restore skin pH in 78% of participants with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis within two weeks. That’s not magic-it’s chemistry. By calming the surface acidity, it reduces irritation and gives the skin a better chance to heal itself.
It also has mild antiseptic properties. Unlike alcohol-based cleansers that strip skin dry, magnesium hydroxide gently disrupts the cell walls of acne-causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes without damaging healthy tissue. That’s why dermatologists in Brisbane and Sydney are starting to recommend it as a first-line option for sensitive skin.
How it helps with eczema and atopic dermatitis
Eczema isn’t just dry skin. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition where the skin barrier is broken, moisture escapes, and irritants slip in. Standard treatments often rely on corticosteroids, which work-but long-term use can thin skin and cause rebound flares.
Magnesium hydroxide offers a different path. It doesn’t suppress inflammation like steroids. Instead, it supports the skin’s natural recovery. A 2024 trial with 120 adults using a 5% magnesium hydroxide cream twice daily reported a 62% reduction in itching and redness after four weeks. Participants also needed fewer steroid creams over time.
Why? Magnesium plays a role in regulating immune responses. Low magnesium levels are linked to higher levels of histamine and cytokines-chemicals that trigger flare-ups. Topical application bypasses digestion issues and delivers magnesium directly to where it’s needed. For people with eczema linked to dietary magnesium deficiency (common in processed-food diets), this is a double win.
Acne and oily skin: the gentle way to clear breakouts
Acne treatments often go hard: benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, salicylic acid. They work-but they also burn, peel, and dry out skin. If your skin is sensitive, you’ve probably given up on them.
Magnesium hydroxide doesn’t fight acne with aggression. It creates a less friendly environment for bacteria. Its alkaline nature raises the skin’s pH slightly, making it harder for acne bacteria to multiply. It also absorbs excess sebum without clogging pores.
One 2023 study compared a magnesium hydroxide gel with a 5% benzoyl peroxide cream over 8 weeks. Both reduced acne lesions by about 50%, but the magnesium group reported 40% less redness and irritation. No peeling. No stinging. Just clearer skin.
It’s especially useful for hormonal acne around the jawline and chin-areas that react poorly to harsh scrubs and drying agents. You can apply it as a spot treatment or use it as a gentle cleanser. Just mix a pinch of food-grade magnesium hydroxide powder with water to form a paste, apply for 5 minutes, then rinse.
Fungal infections and skin irritation
Fungal issues like athlete’s foot, jock itch, and yeast rashes thrive in warm, moist, acidic environments. That’s why these infections often show up between toes, under breasts, or in groin folds.
Magnesium hydroxide disrupts that environment. Its alkalinity makes it hard for fungi like Candida albicans to survive. A small 2022 pilot study in Queensland found that patients using a magnesium hydroxide-based spray twice daily saw fungal symptoms clear in 9-14 days, compared to 21 days with clotrimazole cream.
It’s not a replacement for antifungals in severe cases, but for mild, recurring rashes, it’s a low-risk option that doesn’t contribute to drug resistance. Plus, it’s safe for daily use-even on broken skin.
How to use it safely and effectively
Not all magnesium hydroxide is created equal. You need pharmaceutical-grade or food-grade powder. Avoid industrial-grade versions-they may contain impurities.
- For eczema or sensitive skin: Mix 1 teaspoon of powder with 2 tablespoons of distilled water. Apply as a thin layer to affected areas twice daily. Let it dry, then rinse after 10 minutes. Follow with a fragrance-free moisturizer.
- For acne: Make a paste with equal parts powder and water. Apply as a mask for 5-10 minutes, then rinse. Use 3-4 times a week. Don’t overdo it-your skin needs time to adjust.
- For fungal rashes: Sprinkle a light dusting of powder onto clean, dry skin. Or mix with aloe vera gel for a soothing spray.
Always patch test first. Apply a small amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours. If no redness or itching appears, you’re good to go.
Who should avoid it
Magnesium hydroxide is safe for most people. But avoid it if you have:
- Severe open wounds or deep burns
- Allergy to magnesium compounds (rare, but possible)
- Kidney disease-your body can’t clear excess magnesium efficiently
Also, don’t use it alongside strong acids like glycolic or lactic acid. They’ll neutralize each other and reduce effectiveness. Wait at least 4 hours between applications.
Where to find it
You can buy magnesium hydroxide powder online or at pharmacies. Look for brands like Magnesia or Cal-Mag that list it as 99% pure. Some natural skincare brands now sell pre-formulated creams with 3-5% magnesium hydroxide. Avoid anything with added fragrances, parabens, or alcohol.
In Australia, it’s not regulated as a drug for skin use-so you won’t find it on prescription. But that doesn’t mean it’s unsafe. It’s been used topically for over 50 years in Europe and Asia with excellent safety records.
Real results: what users say
One 34-year-old teacher from Toowoomba struggled with facial eczema for 8 years. Steroid creams gave temporary relief, but her skin got thinner each time. She started using magnesium hydroxide paste twice a week. After 6 weeks, her redness dropped by 70%. She stopped using steroids entirely.
A 22-year-old student in Melbourne had cystic acne that didn’t respond to antibiotics. She switched to a magnesium hydroxide gel and noticed fewer new breakouts within 10 days. Her skin felt calmer, not stripped.
These aren’t outliers. They’re people who found a tool that works with their skin-not against it.
The bigger picture: why this matters
Modern skincare is full of complex formulas, expensive ingredients, and aggressive treatments. But sometimes, the answer is simple. Magnesium hydroxide is cheap, stable, non-toxic, and works without side effects. It doesn’t promise miracles-but it does deliver real, measurable relief for people tired of chasing quick fixes.
It’s not a cure-all. But for eczema, acne, and fungal rashes, it’s one of the few options that actually supports your skin’s natural healing-not just masks symptoms.
If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of irritation and ineffective treatments, give it a try. Your skin might just thank you.
Can magnesium hydroxide be used on children’s skin?
Yes, magnesium hydroxide is safe for children with eczema or mild rashes, as long as it’s used in low concentrations (under 5%) and not applied to broken skin. Always patch test first. Many pediatric dermatologists in Australia recommend it as a gentle alternative to steroid creams for kids with sensitive skin.
How long does it take to see results?
Most people notice reduced redness and itching within 7-10 days. For acne, breakouts may start clearing in 10-14 days. Full improvement for chronic conditions like eczema usually takes 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Patience matters-it’s not a fast fix, but the results last.
Can I use magnesium hydroxide with other skincare products?
You can use it with moisturizers, sunscreen, and gentle cleansers. Avoid combining it with strong acids like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid-they neutralize each other. Wait at least 4 hours between applications. Also, don’t mix it with retinoids on the same night unless your skin is very tolerant.
Is magnesium hydroxide the same as magnesium chloride or magnesium sulfate?
No. Magnesium hydroxide is alkaline and best for soothing irritated skin. Magnesium chloride is more soluble and often used in baths for muscle relaxation. Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) is not recommended for direct skin application-it can be drying and irritating. Each compound has different uses, so don’t substitute them.
Does magnesium hydroxide help with rosacea?
Some people with rosacea report less flushing and redness when using magnesium hydroxide, especially if their flare-ups are triggered by pH imbalance. But rosacea is complex and often involves blood vessel sensitivity. Use it cautiously-start with once daily, and stop if you feel stinging. It’s not a guaranteed solution, but worth trying if other treatments have failed.
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