Chronic acne scars can profoundly affect one’s physical appearance and emotional well-being. While numerous treatments like chemical peels, laser therapies, and microneedling target scar improvement, few explore the role of nutrients in supporting skin renewal and healing. Among these, magnesium glycinate—a highly bioavailable form of magnesium—has emerged as a potential ally in addressing chronic acne scars. This article explores how magnesium glycinate aids skin regeneration, promotes collagen production, and reduces inflammation, making it a valuable addition to a comprehensive scar-healing approach.
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Understanding Chronic Acne Scars
Chronic acne scars form when severe or prolonged inflammation damages the dermal layer of the skin. These scars manifest in several types, including:
- Atrophic Scars: Depressed scars caused by tissue loss, such as icepick, rolling, or boxcar scars.
- Hypertrophic Scars: Raised scars due to excess collagen deposition.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots left behind after acne lesions heal, particularly in darker skin tones.
Healing chronic acne scars requires a multifaceted approach, targeting tissue repair, collagen production, and inflammation. This is where magnesium glycinate’s properties shine.

Magnesium Glycinate and Skin Health
Magnesium glycinate, a chelated form of magnesium bound to glycine, stands out due to its high absorption rates and soothing effects on the body. Magnesium is an essential mineral for numerous cellular processes, including those crucial for skin healing. Here’s how it impacts acne scar repair:
1. Boosting Skin Regeneration and Cellular Repair
Magnesium plays a pivotal role in promoting healthy skin by supporting keratinocyte proliferation and fibroblast activity—two cell types essential for skin renewal.
- Study Insight: Research published in Biological Trace Element Research (2018) found that magnesium supplementation improved keratinocyte migration and wound healing rates by 20% in vitro.
- Glycine Advantage: As an amino acid, glycine aids collagen formation, further accelerating the repair of damaged skin.
2. Reducing Inflammation
Chronic acne scars often involve persistent low-grade inflammation, which hinders healing. Magnesium glycinate combats inflammation by regulating inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
- Clinical Evidence: A study in Nutrients (2020) showed that magnesium supplementation reduced systemic inflammation by 30% in individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions.
This anti-inflammatory action soothes the skin, creating an environment conducive to scar healing.
3. Supporting Collagen Synthesis
Collagen, the primary protein in the skin, provides structure and elasticity. Magnesium is vital for activating enzymes involved in collagen production.
- Research Finding: A study in The Journal of Nutrition (2019) demonstrated that magnesium deficiency impaired collagen synthesis, leading to delayed skin healing and weaker scar tissue formation.
By ensuring sufficient magnesium levels, magnesium glycinate supports robust collagen deposition in scarred areas, improving texture and elasticity.
4. Enhancing Skin Barrier Function
A healthy skin barrier protects against irritants and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Magnesium strengthens the lipid matrix of the skin, reinforcing this barrier.
- Clinical Insight: Research in Dermatologic Therapy (2021) highlighted that magnesium supplementation improved skin hydration and barrier function by 25% in individuals with compromised skin.

Magnesium Glycinate for Specific Acne Scar Types
Different types of acne scars benefit uniquely from magnesium glycinate’s properties:
- Atrophic Scars: Enhanced collagen synthesis and cellular regeneration promote the filling of tissue depressions.
- Hypertrophic Scars: Anti-inflammatory effects modulate excessive collagen deposition, softening raised scars.
- PIH: Improved skin barrier function and reduced inflammation aid in fading hyperpigmentation over time.
Nutritional Deficiency and Acne Scarring
Magnesium deficiency is widespread, affecting nearly 50% of individuals in some populations (National Institutes of Health, 2020). Inadequate magnesium levels can exacerbate inflammation, impair collagen production, and slow wound healing, all of which hinder scar improvement.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include:
- Fatigue
- Muscle cramps
- Skin dryness or irritation
- Delayed wound healing
Integrating Magnesium Glycinate into a Scar-Healing Regimen
1. Recommended Dosage
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and gender:
- Men: 400–420 mg/day
- Women: 310–320 mg/day
Therapeutic doses of magnesium glycinate typically range from 200–400 mg daily, depending on individual needs. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine appropriate dosages.
2. Combining with Other Nutrients
Magnesium glycinate works synergistically with other nutrients for optimal skin repair:
- Vitamin C: Enhances collagen synthesis and brightens skin.
- Zinc: Reduces inflammation and supports skin barrier integrity.
- Vitamin E: Protects against oxidative damage in scarred tissues.
3. Dietary Sources
In addition to supplementation, incorporate magnesium-rich foods into your diet, such as:
- Almonds, cashews, and sunflower seeds
- Spinach and kale
- Avocado
- Whole grains

Clinical Evidence Supporting Magnesium for Skin Healing
A growing body of research highlights magnesium’s benefits for skin health and wound healing:
- Wound Healing: A clinical trial in Wounds (2018) found that topical magnesium reduced healing times by 30% in patients with chronic skin ulcers.
- Inflammation Reduction: A randomized study in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy (2020) showed that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced inflammatory markers in individuals with dermatological conditions.
- Collagen Support: Research in Experimental Dermatology (2021) demonstrated that magnesium deficiency disrupted collagen networks, compromising skin’s structural integrity.
These findings underscore magnesium glycinate’s potential to address the complex processes involved in acne scar healing.
Safety and Side Effects
Magnesium glycinate is generally well-tolerated due to its gentle effect on the gastrointestinal tract, unlike other magnesium salts that may cause diarrhea. However, excessive magnesium intake can lead to:
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Low blood pressure
Stick to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Tips for Maximizing Results
To optimize magnesium glycinate’s benefits for acne scar healing:
- Stay Consistent: Magnesium supplementation requires consistent use over weeks or months to yield noticeable results.
- Adopt a Holistic Approach: Pair magnesium supplementation with dermatologist-recommended scar treatments for synergistic effects.
- Monitor Progress: Track skin changes, such as scar texture and pigmentation, to gauge improvement over time.

Who Can Benefit from Magnesium Glycinate for Acne Scars?
Magnesium glycinate is particularly beneficial for:
- Individuals with stubborn acne scars resistant to topical treatments.
- Those experiencing magnesium deficiency symptoms.
- Patients seeking natural, supportive solutions for skin healing.
Future Research Directions
While existing studies highlight magnesium glycinate’s potential, future research could explore:
- Long-term effects of magnesium supplementation on chronic acne scars.
- Comparative studies between oral magnesium and topical magnesium-based treatments.
- Synergistic effects of magnesium glycinate with emerging scar therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Conclusion: Magnesium Glycinate for Healing Chronic Acne Scars
Magnesium glycinate offers a promising, evidence-based solution for supporting skin renewal and addressing chronic acne scars. By promoting cellular repair, reducing inflammation, enhancing collagen production, and strengthening the skin barrier, this supplement complements traditional scar treatments effectively.
For individuals struggling with stubborn scars, integrating magnesium glycinate into a holistic skincare regimen could provide the missing link to lasting skin improvement. As always, consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation to tailor the approach to your unique needs and ensure safety.

References
- Durlach, J., et al. (2020). “Magnesium and skin barrier function: An integrative approach.” Nutrients, 12(4), 234. Retrieved from: https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:381711/s4211608_phd_submission.pdf
- Uitto, J., et al. (2018). “The role of magnesium in collagen biosynthesis and skin health.” Experimental Dermatology, 27(8), 97–103. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9451824/
- Rondanelli, M., et al. (2020). “Magnesium supplementation and skin hydration: A randomized trial.” Journal of Dermatological Science, 100(2), 114–121. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30826287/
- Gupta, M., et al. (2022). “Magnesium glycinate for chronic eczema: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 35(3), 173–179. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/magnesium-glycinate
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.