Epsom Salt vs Magnesium Salt: Which One Should You Use?

Updated September 2026.

Epsom salt and magnesium salt are both popular remedies for health and wellness purposes. But what is the difference between them, and which one should you use? Here, we compare Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) with magnesium salt or magnesium flakes (magnesium chloride), including their sources, benefits, uses and side effects.

Epsom salt vs magnesium salt at a glance

What is Epsom salt?

Epsom salt is a chemical compound made from magnesium, sulphur and oxygen. Its chemical name is magnesium sulphate. It looks similar to table salt but has a very bitter taste. It was named after Epsom, a town in England where it was first discovered.

Epsom salt is widely used as a bath salt, as it is believed to ease muscle soreness, stress, inflammation and skin problems. It can also be taken by mouth as a laxative or magnesium supplement.

Explore Biome’s products made with Epsom salt, including bath soaks and body care containing magnesium sulphate.

What is magnesium salt?

Magnesium can form several different mineral compounds. In this article, when we refer to magnesium salt or magnesium flakes, we mean magnesium chloride.

Magnesium chloride is made from magnesium and chloride. It has a flake-like appearance and a very bitter taste. It is usually harvested from seawater or salt-lake sources containing other trace minerals.

Magnesium salt is also used as a bath salt, as it is claimed to improve skin hydration, wound healing, detoxification and relaxation. It can be applied to the skin as a lotion or spray for natural skincare, or taken by mouth as a magnesium supplement.

For more detail, see our guide to the different forms of magnesium.

What is the difference between natural and synthetic Epsom and magnesium salts?

Epsom salt and magnesium salt are both minerals that can be found naturally in seawater, springs, salt lakes or underground deposits. However, not all Epsom salt and magnesium salt products are natural. Some are made synthetically in factories from chemical compounds.

Naturally occurring Epsom salt is rare because very few natural Epsom salt deposits exist. Natural Epsom salt can be obtained from underground deposits and purified through physical separation and recrystallisation.

When choosing either salt:

• Check whether it is naturally sourced or synthetically produced.
• Look for the source and country of origin.
• Check for relevant natural or organic certifications.
• Follow the directions provided for the particular product.

Are Epsom salt and magnesium salt made in Australia?

There are several brands and suppliers of Epsom salt and magnesium salt in Australia. Some source their products from natural seawater or salt lakes, while others use local manufacturers.

However, not all Epsom salt and magnesium salt products are made in Australia. Some are imported or synthetically produced. If you want to support Australian-made products, check the label and look for the Australian Made logo.

Amazing You, formerly Amazing Oils, makes topical magnesium products using natural magnesium extracted from the salt lakes of Western Australia. The magnesium oil is processed into sprays, gels, lotions and flakes. The brand claims it is the only organically certified source of magnesium in the world and has the highest grade of magnesium available on the market.

What are the benefits of Epsom salt and magnesium salt?

Both Epsom salt and magnesium salt are rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays an important role in over 300 biochemical functions in the body. Magnesium deficiency can cause symptoms such as fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches, insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Some of the reported benefits of using Epsom salt and magnesium salt include:

Applying magnesium topically can help to relieve pain, such as with a magnesium recovery gel.

How do you use Epsom salt and magnesium salt?

In a bath

The most common way to use Epsom salt and magnesium salt is to dissolve them in warm water and soak for 15 to 20 minutes. The recommended amount is approximately two cups of salt per bath. You can also add essential oils or other ingredients to enhance the experience.

Premade Epsom salt bath products include Corrynne’s Revive Bath Salts and Olieve & Olie Bath Salts.

On the skin

Epsom salt and magnesium salt can also be applied directly to the skin in a lotion or spray. This can help with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne or wounds.

You can make your own lotion or spray by mixing salts with water or oil, or explore Biome’s magnesium sprays, gels, lotions and bath flakes.

By mouth

Another option is to take Epsom salt and magnesium salt by mouth as a supplement. This can help with constipation, electrolyte imbalance or magnesium deficiency. However, always consult your doctor before doing this, as taking too much can cause side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting or irregular heartbeat.

Is magnesium or Epsom salt better for a bath?

Both magnesium and Epsom salts can be used for a bath. They have similar benefits, such as relaxing muscles, reducing stress, improving skin, and more.

However, many people prefer magnesium flakes because:

• They contain other trace minerals from seawater or salt-lake sources.
• Magnesium chloride is more readily absorbed by the body than Epsom salt, as chloride is more compatible with the body’s electrolyte balance.
• Magnesium chloride has a higher concentration of magnesium, so you may need a smaller amount to get the same effect.

What are the side effects of Epsom salt and magnesium salt?

Epsom salt and magnesium salt are generally safe and well-tolerated when used externally or in moderation. However, some people may experience allergic reactions, skin irritation, dehydration or kidney problems if they use too much or too often.

Factors that may increase the risk of side effects include:

• Kidney disease or another medical condition.
• Taking medications that interact with magnesium.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Open wounds or broken skin.
• Sensitive skin or allergies.

To avoid side effects, follow the instructions on the label or consult your doctor before using Epsom salt or magnesium salt. Drink plenty of water before and after using them to stay hydrated.

So, which one should you use?

There is no definitive answer to whether Epsom salt or magnesium salt is better. Both have similar benefits and uses, but they may differ in their absorption rate, bioavailability, purity and cost.

Some studies suggest that magnesium chloride may be more readily absorbed by the body than magnesium sulphate, as chloride is more compatible with the body’s electrolyte balance. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

Some sources claim that magnesium chloride may be more pure and natural than magnesium sulphate because it contains other trace minerals from seawater. However, this depends on the quality and origin of the particular product.

The best way to find out which one works better for you is to try them both and see how you feel. You can also mix them together to get the best of both worlds.