FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
/ about us
WHO ARE SALTS & CO?
Salts & Co is an Australian-owned and operated wellness brand with roots going back to 1976. What started as a family salt business evolved into a passion for bathing wellness when we discovered the remarkable benefits of soaking in magnesium-rich salts. Some 50 years on, we are still run by the same family — with a few welcome new additions — and just as passionate about helping people feel their best.
WHERE CAN I BUY SALTS & CO PRODUCTS INSTORE?
Salts & Co products are stocked in a wide range of Australian retailers including Woolworths, Coles, Costco, Amazon Australia, Harris Farm, Foodland, Drakes, IGA, Tony & Marks, and TJ Maxx. Please note that not every retailer carries the full range — we recommend checking online or in store for product availability.
CAN I BUY SALTS & CO PRODUCTS ONLINE?
Yes! Our full range is available through Amazon Australia with Australia-wide delivery. You can shop the range at amazon.com.au. If you're unsure of your nearest stockist, feel free to get in touch with us and we'll point you in the right direction.
DO YOU OFFER WHOLESALE OR BULK PRICING?
We do sell direct to business on a wholesale basis. Products are available in bulk carton quantities (we are unable to break cartons into individual retail units). To enquire about setting up a wholesale account, please contact our whole sale distributor Nocelle Foods at sales@nocellefoods.com.au or call +61 (8) 8300 2700.
/ understanding magnesium
WHY IS MAGNESIUM IMPORTANT?
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 chemical reactions in the body. It plays a critical role in energy production, muscle function, nerve health, sleep quality, and maintaining a healthy heart. Despite its importance, many of us don't get enough magnesium through diet alone — a modern lifestyle, refined foods, stress, and intense exercise all deplete our natural stores, leaving us feeling tired, tense, or run down.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I'M MAGNESIUM DEFICIENT?
Magnesium deficiency is more common than many people realise. Common signs include muscle cramps or twitches, trouble sleeping, fatigue, tension headaches, restless legs, and general feelings of anxiety or stress. A blood test may not give a full picture, as most of the body's magnesium is stored in bones and muscles rather than the bloodstream. If you suspect a deficiency, we recommend speaking with your GP or healthcare professional.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EPSOM SALTS AND MAGNESIUM FLAKES?
Both products deliver magnesium to the body, but they work slightly differently. Epsom salts are magnesium sulfate — a gentler, milder source of magnesium that is ideal for a relaxing daily soak and is a great starting point for anyone new to magnesium bathing. Magnesium flakes are magnesium chloride — a compound that is more readily absorbed through the skin, making it a more potent option for those with a higher magnesium requirement or those seeking deeper recovery. We often recommend starting with our Epsom salts and working up to magnesium flakes as your body adjusts.
WHAT IS MAGNESIUM OIL?
Despite the name, magnesium oil is not actually an oil. It is a concentrated solution of magnesium chloride dissolved in water, which has a slightly oily feel on the skin. It is designed for topical use — meaning you apply it directly to your skin — where it is absorbed transdermally (through the skin) without needing to go through the digestive system.
WHAT IS TRANSDERMAL ABSORPTION?
Transdermal absorption simply means absorbing a substance through the skin. When you apply our Magnesium Oil Spray or soak in one of our bath salts, magnesium is absorbed through the skin directly into the muscles and bloodstream. This bypasses the digestive system, which means none of the magnesium is lost through digestion, and it can be a gentler option for those who find oral magnesium supplements cause stomach discomfort.
/ benefits
WHO ARE SALTS & CO?
Salts & Co is an Australian-owned and operated wellness brand with roots going back to 1976. What started as a family salt business evolved into a passion for bathing wellness when we discovered the remarkable benefits of soaking in magnesium-rich salts. Some 50 years on, we are still run by the same family — with a few welcome new additions — and just as passionate about helping people feel their best.
CAN MAGNESIUM HELP WITH SLEEP?
Many people find magnesium one of their most valuable sleep tools, and there is a good reason for this. Magnesium supports the function of GABA receptors in the brain — GABA is the calming neurotransmitter that helps your mind and body switch off at the end of the day. Using our bath salts or magnesium oil before bed as part of an evening wind-down routine can support deeper, more restorative sleep. Please note: a small number of people find magnesium stimulating rather than relaxing. If this applies to you, try using a lower dose or using product earlier in the day.
* If you are experiencing ongoing sleep issues, we recommend speaking with a healthcare professional.
CAN MAGNESIUM HELP WITH MUSCLE SORENESS AND RECOVERY?
Magnesium is a favourite of athletes and active people for good reason. It plays an important role in muscle contraction and relaxation, and studies suggest it may help reduce cramping and support faster recovery by replenishing magnesium stores lost through exercise. Soaking in our Epsom salts or magnesium flakes after a workout, or applying our Magnesium Oil Spray directly to sore muscles, can provide welcome relief.
CAN MAGNESIUM HELP WITH ANXIETY?
Research suggests magnesium may play a role in supporting the nervous system and helping the body manage stress. As a natural nervous system relaxant, it is often linked with feelings of calm and a reduction in feelings of worry, restlessness, and tension. While magnesium is not a treatment for anxiety, many of our customers find regular use is a supportive part of their overall wellbeing routine.
* If you are experiencing anxiety, please speak with your doctor or healthcare professional.
CAN MAGNESIUM HELP WITH WITH HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES?
There is a growing body of research suggesting a connection between low magnesium levels and an increased frequency of headaches and migraines. While magnesium is not an acute treatment for headache pain, studies indicate that maintaining optimal magnesium levels may help reduce how often they occur. A warm bath with our Epsom salts can also provide gentle relaxation for those carrying tension around the head and neck.
* If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, please consult your healthcare professional.
CAN MAGNESIUM HELP WITH RESTLESS LEGS?
Restless leg syndrome is commonly linked to magnesium deficiency. Many of our customers use our bath salts or apply Magnesium Oil Spray to their legs before bed and find it helps reduce restless leg discomfort. We recommend speaking with your GP if symptoms are persistent, as restless legs can have a number of underlying causes.
/ using bath salts
HOW MUCH SHOULD I ADD TO A BATH?
For Epsom Bath Salts, we recommend adding 1–2 cups (approximately 250–500g) to a warm bath. For Magnesium Bath Flakes, we recommend approximately 1–2 cups (approximately 300g) as a guide. Bath size and water volume vary, so adjust to suit your bath — a smaller bath may only need 1 cup, while a larger bath may benefit from closer to 2. Simply dissolve the salts in warm running water before getting in.
HOW LONG SHOULD I SOAK?
We recommend soaking for at least 20–30 minutes to allow your skin to absorb the magnesium. Use this time to relax, unwind, and give your body the rest it deserves.
CAN I USE THESE PRODUCTS IN A SPA BATH OR JACUZZI?
We do not recommend using Epsom salts or magnesium flakes in a spa bath or jacuzzi, as the salts can cause damage to the jets and internal components. If you'd like to use magnesium products in a spa bath, we suggest speaking with your spa bath retailer, who may be able to recommend a formulation that is safe for use with jets.
MY EPSOM AND HIMALAYAN BATH SALTS DIDN'T FULLY DISSOLVE IN THE BATH - WHAT SHOULD I DO?
We recommend adding the salts to warm running water and stirring to help them dissolve before getting in. Himalayan salt crystals are larger and denser than Epsom salt and may take a little longer to dissolve, particularly in cooler water.
CAN I USE EPSOM SALTS FOR GARDENING?
Yes, you can. Our Epsom salts are a pure salt product with no additives, so there is nothing harmful to your soil or plants. Magnesium sulfate is in fact used as a natural fertiliser and can help with magnesium-deficient soil and plants. We suggest starting with a small amount to see how your garden responds.
/ using magnesium oil spray
HOW DO I USE THE MAGNESIUM OIL SPRAY?
Spray directly onto the skin — muscles, joints, feet, stomach, or anywhere you feel tension or soreness — and massage in. We suggest starting with 2–4 sprays and building up from there. Do not apply to your face or to broken or irritated skin. It is always a good idea to patch test first, particularly if you have sensitive skin.
HOW DO I OPEN THE SPRAY BOTTLE?
To unlock the spray, locate the two small clear plastic tabs on either side of the spray lever. Twist these downward — they will drop into an open position, allowing the lever to be pressed and the product to be released. If you have any trouble, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
WHY DOES THE MAGNESIUM OIL TINGLE OR ITCH?
A mild tingling or itching sensation is very common and is generally a sign that your body is absorbing the magnesium and that your levels may be depleted. Most people find this sensation fades after a week or two of regular use as their magnesium levels replenish. To reduce the sensation, try applying to your feet first (which are less sensitive) and build up to other areas over time. You can also dilute the spray with a little water, or apply a light moisturiser to the skin before spraying. If the sensation is more than mild, reduce the amount you are using and build up gradually.
DO I NEED TO WASH THE MAGNESIUM OIL OFF AFTER APPLYING?
No — you can leave it on the skin to absorb. It dries relatively quickly and should not leave a greasy residue. Some people prefer to rinse off any slight salty residue after 20–30 minutes, but this is a personal preference and not necessary for the product to work.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE ADULT MAGNESIUM OIL AND THE KIDS MAGNESIUM OIL?
Our standard Magnesium Oil Spray offers a high concentration of magnesium chloride for maximum efficacy and is ideal for teenagers and adults. Our Kids Magnesium Oil Spray is formulated with a lower magnesium concentration, making it gentler on more sensitive skin and suitable for younger children. The Kids formula is also a great option for adults with particularly sensitive skin.
MY PUMP HEAD HAS STOPPED WORKING - WHAT SHOULD I DO?
This can sometimes happen when the high mineral content of the product causes a small amount of crystallisation in the pump head, particularly if it hasn't been used for a while. The fix is usually straightforward: remove the pump from the bottle, run it under warm water for a few minutes, and press the pump head down several times to flush it out. This usually resolves the issue. If it doesn't, please contact us and we'll help you sort it out.
/ product safety and suitability
IS IT SAFE TO USE YOUR PRODUCTS DURING PREGNANCY?
Our bath salts can generally be used safely during pregnancy, with many expectant mothers finding an Epsom bath soak or foot soak a wonderful way to support relaxation. We would recommend to use our Pure Epsom Bath Salts, to keep bath water at a comfortable, warm temperature (not hot — as high water temperatures are not recommended during pregnancy) and to ensure you have assistance getting in and out of the bath. Our Magnesium Oil Spray may also be used as topical magnesium is generally well tolerated during pregnancy, with many midwives recommending it for leg cramps. As every pregnancy is different, we always recommend consulting your GP or midwife before introducing any new wellness product during pregnancy.
CAN CHILDREN USE YOUR PRODUCTS?
Yes! Many of our products are safe for children. We would recommend beginning with our Pure Epsom Bath Salts or the Kids Magnesium Oil Spray and patch testing before use. For the bath salts, we suggest using half the recommended adult dosage as a starting point for young children. For babies and toddlers (2 years and under), start conservatively and do a patch test on a small area of skin first. If any redness, rash, or unusual irritation occurs, rinse with cool water and discontinue use. Our Kids Magnesium Oil Spray, we recommend using the Kids formula (suitable from 3 months and up). For very young children, begin with 1 spray to each foot, building up gradually over a few weeks. Our standard adult Magnesium Oil Spray is best suited to teenagers and adults. As always, if you have any concerns speak with your paediatrician or GP.
ARE YOUR PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR PEOPLE WITH SENSITIVE SKIN?
Many people with sensitive skin use and love our products. If you have particularly reactive skin, we recommend beginning with our unscented products (Pure Epsom Bath Salts, Pure Magnesium Bath Flakes, or Kids Magnesium Oil Spray) and patch testing before use. For those sensitive to fragrance, our Fragrance Free Floral range — including Lavender Fields, A Date with the Roses, and Hello Hibiscus — is scented using natural botanicals rather than synthetic fragrance blends and may be a gentler option. If you experience any skin irritation, rinse the affected area with cool water and discontinue use.
ARE THERE PEOPLE WHO SHOULD NOT USE MAGNESIUM PRODUCTS?
Our products are very well tolerated by most people. However, if you have kidney impairment, very low blood pressure, or any other significant medical condition, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional before using magnesium supplementation in any form. If you have any specific concerns, your GP is always the best starting point.
I THINK I'VE HAD AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO ONE OF YOUR PRODUCTS - WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Please stop using the product immediately and rinse the affected area thoroughly with cool water, which should provide immediate relief. If the reaction is mild, it may simply be the normal tingling sensation associated with high-concentration magnesium — this may not be an allergic reaction. If your reaction is more severe or persists after rinsing, please seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or dermatologist. We also welcome you to contact us directly so we can investigate further.
CAN I EAT OR INGEST YOUR EPSOM SALTS?
Our Epsom Bath Salts are pharmaceutical-grade (USP) Magnesium Sulfate, however they are packed in a cosmetic manufacturing environment rather than a food-safe facility. For this reason, we do not recommend ingesting our products. If you have questions about oral magnesium supplementation, we recommend speaking with your GP or pharmacist.