Many people remember Milk of Magnesia as that laxative their mothers gave them when they were children to ease bouts of "irregularity." Many grownups still take it for that very worthy purpose. But Milk of Magnesia for skin has ingredients that are also good for the beauty and health of the skin. The following lets you know why.



What is Milk of Magnesia Anyway?
Milk of Magnesia is another name for magnesium hydroxide which is a suspension of magnesium salts in water. It was given its name by Charles Henry Phillips, and the most popular brand bears his name. It neutralizes excess hydrochloric acid in your stomach and eases indigestion. When it enters the lower gastrointestinal tract, it draws water from the tissues and softens the stool. The magnesium ions also help the contractions of your small intestine that push everything along.

Why is Milk of Magnesia Good for Skin?
Milk of Magnesia for skin is great because when it's put on, it soaks up and inhibits the production of excess oil. It helps to tighten up the pores and keeps the skin from being excessively shiny. This makes it an excellent remedy for people who have skin that produces more oils than people with dry or normal skin; oily skin also tends to have large pores. Their skin is shiny and subject to eruptions of acne and other skin problems. Some people are turning to Milk of Magnesia as a mask they put on before they go to bed or as a remedy for patches of oiliness or acne on areas of their face.

Milk of Magnesia as a Makeup Primer
Primer is what's placed underneath your makeup to allow it to have a smoother finish and to keep foundation, mascara or lipstick from sinking into your skin. It lets your makeup stay on for a longer time without having to be refreshed. All primers set up a barrier between your skin and your makeup, but Milk of Magnesia for skin is exceptionally good at this. It adheres well to your skin and doesn't have that unpleasant waxy feel that some primers have.

How to Use Milk of Magnesia for Skin
Before using Milk of Magnesia, dab a bit of it on your skin and see how your skin reacts. Some people are sensitive to Milk of Magnesia. If there's no reaction, then read on. Using Milk of Magnesia for skin is easy. Just shake the bottle to make sure the suspension is evenly distributed, and then put a thin layer of the stuff over your face. Rub it in until it disappears. Let it dry before you put on foundation. If you wear it for a face mask, rub it into the problem area, keep it on for 15 minutes or so, and rinse it off with cool water.