[1] Title: Pilot Study on Transdermal Magnesium and its Effects on Serum Magnesium and Ca/Mg Ratios 

Summary: This pilot tested whether applying 31% magnesium chloride solution to the skin could raise magnesium levels and improve calcium/magnesium (Ca/Mg) balance. The analysis showed that after 12 weeks, 89% of participants increased their cellular magnesium, with an average rise of 59.7%, comparable to results of 9-27 months of oral supplements. The Ca/Mg ratio improved by 25.2%, and 78% showed signs of reduced heavy-metal levels. 

Conclusion: This study suggests that transdermal magnesium chloride is absorbed efficiently, raises magnesium levels quickly, and may help improve overall mineral balance more effectively than dietary intake alone. 

[2] Title: Magnesium Status and Exercise Performance in Athletes 

Summary: Magnesium is essential for energy metabolism, muscle contraction, hydration, and immune function - making it especially important for athletes. Because intense exercise increases magnesium losses through sweat and urine, athletes often need 10-20% more magnesium than sedentary individuals. Research summarized in this paper shows that magnesium deficiency is associated with reduced strength and power in elite athletes, including isometric strength, handgrip strength, jump performance, and knee strength.

Conclusion: Maintaining adequate magnesium status is important for optimal strength, power and overall performance. Performance may improve with a sufficient magnesium intake. 

[3] Title: In Vitro Transdermal Delivery of Magnesium

Summary: Different test solutions were prepared and permeability was tested on pig ears to determine if magnesium can pass through the skin.

Conclusion: Magnesium can be absorbed through the skin and absorption began with immediate effect. Action was accelerated with a short period of massaging the application area after Magnesium was applied. Certain additional ingredients (such as aloe vera) can block the magnesium absorption if used together while others (menthol or wintergreen) can enhance absorption

[1] Title: The Permeability of Magnesium Across the Skin is Enhanced By Menthol Cream

Summary: This study tested magnesium creams with and without menthol on porcine skin. Magnesium can penetrate the skin, but absorption from a standard cream is very low. Various ingredients can change the absorption rate of magnesium. Some ingredients (like aloe) can block absorption if used together while others (menthol) can enhance absorption. Adding menthol greatly increases magnesium permeation, likely by disrupting skin lipids and enhancing penetration.

Conclusion: Magnesium is absorbed through the skin, and menthol can help enhance this process and boost absorption.