INCI Name
Magnesium Chloride
Functions
1 Roles
Sustainability
9/10
Category
actives
What It Does
Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium salt harvested from ancient seabeds or extracted from seawater, containing six water molecules per magnesium chloride unit. The crystalline flake form is particularly valued in cosmetics and bath products because it dissolves rapidly and completely in water, delivering magnesium ions that can be absorbed transdermally through the skin. Formulators choose this hexahydrate variant over anhydrous magnesium chloride because it's less hygroscopic, easier to handle, and provides a more stable, consistent concentration of magnesium in formulations.
Technical Properties
pH Range
5.5-7.5
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
cationic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Ingredient Compatibility
Known Interactions
Calcium and Magnesium compete for absorption at high doses. While they can be combined at moderate levels, high-dose formulations should separate them or use chelated forms.
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
mineral
Feedstock
seawater or underground brine deposits
Available Variants
3 forms available
Crystalline Flakes (Hexahydrate)
Flakes (Dead Sea or Zechstein Grade)
Pharmaceutical Grade Flakes
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Magnesium Chloride
- Common Name
- Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate Flakes
- CAS Number
- 7786-30-3
- Category
- actives
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