Transdermal Magnesium

[AndyBurrows]

I like many others suffer with eczema, my sons also suffer too. Have been using the usual creams and topical steroids, they do help but I do worry about using steroids.

In an attempt to try and find an alternative, I came across an article that gave a strong indication that magnesium chloride can help the skin improve it's barrier function. In other words, the skin can hold onto it's moisture better. Here is the link for the article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15689218

I decided it was worth a shot and tried using magnesium chloride flakes in the bath - after about a week (bathing every other day) - and using a good cream, we noticed a gradual improvement in dryness and a reduction in itch. We now do not use topical steroids. Now this may just be genetic - and for it to work on three people could just be luck.

I have been in contact with the National Eczema Society in order to determine how they would view magnesium and they suggested that I run a small trial to see if other people saw similar benefits. If other people report back with improvements the plan is to contact local Hospitals that specialise in dermatology to see if any doctors working towards their masters degree would want to run with the study.

As part of my research, I have been looking into any possible side effects associated with using magnesium chloride on a regular basis via the transdermal route. It would appear that the transdermal route is better than taking supplements, simply because the magnesium is absorbed by the skin and tissues and any excess is secreted by the renal system.

I do not want to start a trial without testing the waters to see if anyone else has had any success with using magnesium chloride flakes ?

So thoughts or comments would be appreciated ??

Best regards,

Andy