10 Benefits Of Using Milk Of Magnesia For Oily Skin

If your face can't stop overproducing sebum, you should look into the effects of this underrated ingredient.

Medically reviewed by Dr. M. Khawar Nazir, MBBS
Written by Kushneet Kukreja, MS (Biotechnology)
Edited by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Monomita Chakraborty, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

Magnesium hydroxide, also known as milk of magnesia, helps your skin in many ways. The benefits of milk of magnesia for oily skin make it a wonderful ingredient as it can improve your skin texture and make it more soft and smooth. Keep reading to know more about the different milk of magnesia uses for your skin.

What Is Milk Of Magnesia?

Milk of magnesia (also called magnesium hydroxide) is a dual-purpose substance. It is an over-the-counter medication that can be taken as an antacid or a laxative. It comes in the form of a white liquid suspension that relieves acid indigestion and heartburn by neutralizing excess stomach acid (1).

When used as a laxative, it promotes bowel movements by drawing water into the intestines, softening the stool, and facilitating its passage (2). It is typically taken orally and is available in various flavors. It is considered a safe and effective remedy for occasional constipation and gastrointestinal discomfort, but it should be used according to the recommended dosage and with caution to avoid potential side effects.

Consult a healthcare professional or read the product label for specific usage instructions. You can also use it topically. In the next section, we will discuss how to use it on the skin to reap its benefits.

How to Apply Milk Of Magnesia?

Young woman applying milk of magnesia with a cotton ball
Image: Shutterstock
  • Cleanse your face thoroughly
  • Removes excess moisture. Pat dry with a towel
  • Apply a thin layer of this product on your face with a cotton ball.
  • This has a calamine lotion-like texture, hence use a small amount.
  • Allow it to dry.
  • If you are planning to go out, apply your regular makeup.
  • Dab on some loose powder for smoother skin.

Here Are The Benefits Of Milk Of Magnesia For Oily Skin

1. Cleans Up Your Skin

Young woman happy with her clear skin
Image: Shutterstock

Milk of magnesia can be used for countering your oily skin problem. This is also a very effective cleanser for oily skin.

2. Use as a Primer

Some also use milk of magnesia as a primer. This can smooth your skin and make it ready for the application of makeup. This has oil-blotting properties that can reduce oil production during summers. This is also used to cure seasonal outbreaks and other oily skin issues. Milk of magnesia is also applied to the bride’s skin to keep the makeup looking fresh all day. This also helps the bride to look flawless in photos without the need for touch-ups.

You can also apply this after moisturizing as a very thin layer. Allow it to dry and follow your normal makeup routine.

A blogger spoke about their experience of using milk of magnesia as a makeup primer in her blog. They said, “My personal experience has been that it provides an excellent base for makeup, allowing it to go on smoother. It’s helped my oily skin problem, and my makeup has been fresh and pretty at the end of the day (i).”

protip_icon Trivia
MoM as a primer is a favorite among many makeup artists. In fact, Kylie Jenner’s makeup artist, Hrush Achemyan, swears by it.

3. Controls Extra Shine

Milk of magnesia controls extra shine. Milk of magnesia acts as a clay mask to remove excess oils from your skin.

4. Kills Bacteria

It is useful for killing bacteria on the skin (3). Since, milk of magnesia contains zinc, it can heal wounds.

5. Gently Strips Away The Blackheads

Woman removing blackheads with milk of magnesia
Image: Shutterstock

Nose strips and facial strips are often used to remove blackheads. Using milk of magnesia is an even gentler way to remove blackheads. Lightly cover your blackhead-affected areas with milk of magnesia and clean off with warm water once it dries. This is the best way to treat blackheads.

6. Cleanser and Toner

Milk of magnesia is one of the best cleansers and toners that can minimize your pore size.

7. Removes Oiliness And Suntan

This helps to make your skin lighter, healthier and glowing. Milk of magnesia can be applied once a month to get rid of oiliness and suntan.

8. Reduces Blemishes

Use milk of magnesia on oily skin. This is useful to prevent blemishes and skin irritations.

9. Facial Mask for Oily Skin

Woman using milk of magnesia as face mask
Image: Shutterstock

Milk of magnesia is the best facial mask for oily skin. It absorbs excess oils and balances your complexion. This also helps to neutralize acids on your skin and cures acne outbreaks. This is a natural ingredient to take off impurities from your skin.

10. Skin Rashes

A person applying milk of magnesia on the skin rash
Image: Shutterstock

Milk of magnesia is very effective for treating skin rashes (4). This has acidic properties to neutralize acids that cause skin rashes on oily skin. This is also a disinfectant that prevents the rash from spreading.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can also use MoM as a deodorant. Apply a thin layer to your underarm area and let it dry. Anecdotal evidence suggests it can provide 24-hour protection against body odor.

Dos and Don’ts of Using Milk Of Magnesia

  • This can cause dryness and tightness.
  • Use this only if you have problems related to oily skin.
  • It may cause irritation and flakiness
  • This can create a “chalky” or whitish film on your face.
  • Use this in a small quantity to treat oily skin.
  • This is not suggested for use on dry skin.
  • Shake well before opening the bottle of milk of magnesia.
  • If you note any side effects of using milk of magnesia, stop using the product.
  • Don’t use the product too often. Use only 1-2 times a week.

Infographic: Top Benefits Of Using Milk Of Magnesia For Oily Skin!

Milk of magnesia is an inorganic compound that is better known for its laxative properties. However, this versatile ingredient helps improve skin texture and offers a smooth base for makeup application. Check out the infographic below to learn about the benefits of applying milk of magnesia on oily skin.

top benefits of using milk of magnesia for oily skin (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

Magnesium hydroxide, commonly known as milk of magnesia, is an ingredient that helps oily skin in many ways. The benefits of milk of magnesia on oily skin includes cleansing the skin of excess oil, wound healing, and reducing blackheads and skin rashes. You can use milk of magnesia as a toner, primer, or cleanser as per your skin needs. However, milk of magnesia is suitable for oily skin only and may cause dryness in other skin types. If you experience any adverse reaction, stop its usage immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does milk of magnesia clog pores?

No. In fact, milk of magnesia may aid in sebum control by soaking up excess oil and tightening the pores to minimize their size.

Does milk of magnesia make your makeup sweat-proof?

Yes, it helps in absorbing sweat, makes your makeup last long, and offers a matte finish.

Can you use milk of magnesia daily?

No, milk of magnesia has a basic pH, while your skin has acidic or neutral pH. Therefore, using it daily can cause dryness or tightness of skin. Use it only 1-2 times a week.

Key Takeaways

  • Milk of Magnesia is a powerful remedy for oily skin since it may absorb excess oil when used topically.
  • The astringent qualities of the magnesium in the milk of magnesia can help tighten and firm the skin, minimizing the visibility of pores.
  • Milk of Magnesia’s alkaline properties can assist in balancing the pH of the skin, which makes it harder for germs to flourish and lessens the likelihood of outbreaks and acne.
  • A light exfoliator like milk of magnesia can remove dead skin cells and expose softer, cleaner skin.
  • Start with a tiny amount when applying milk of magnesia because excessive use can cause skin irritation.
benefits of milk of magnesia for oily skin

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team


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References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Antacids revisited: review on contemporary facts and relevance for self-management
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8966100/
  2. Magnesium Oxide in Constipation
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7911806/
  3. Controlling the Antimicrobial Action of Surface Modified Magnesium Hydroxide Nanoparticles
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC6631741/
  4. Effect of Topical Application of the Cream Containing Magnesium 2% on Treatment of Diaper Dermatitis and Diaper Rash in Children A Clinical Trial Study
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4740689/
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