Magnesium is an important mineral and it is known to support over 300 processes in your body, like– muscle function, nerve health, and energy production. But, many people don’t get enough magnesium in their diet. Our body often gives subtle signs of magnesium deficiency that can show up right on our face and around our eyes– however, one needs to know these symptoms to identify a mineral imbalance in the body. But, the good part is that once identified, magnesium deficiency can often be corrected through proper diet, supplements, or lifestyle adjustments. Here we list some facial and eye-related signs that may indicate your body is running low on this essential mineral:1. Eye twitching or eyelid spasmsHave you noticed that your eyelids are involuntarily twitching more these days? Also called myokymia, this is one of the most common signs of magnesium deficiency which is seen on the face. It generally starts as a small flutter in the lower eyelid and may come and go without warning. Magnesium plays a key role in regulating nerve impulses and muscle contractions. And so, when the magnesium levels reduce in the body, the nerves can become overly sensitive, causing twitches and spasms. To fix this involuntary movement which can get annoying if it happens frequently, increase your magnesium intake by eating foods like spinach, nuts, and whole foods that are rich in this mineral, or by taking supplements. This can often relieve this symptom within days or weeks.2. Having puffy eyes or under-eye bagsDo you often wake up with swollen or puffy eyes? This could be a subtle sign of low magnesium levels in the body. Magnesium helps regulate fluid balance and reduces inflammation in the body. But when magnesium levels are low, your body may retain more fluid, thus causing puffiness around the eyes. Having stress and a poor diet can also make the problem worse. A simple way to fix this is by drinking enough water, cutting down on salt and salty foods, and eating magnesium-rich foods. All of this can help improve magnesium levels in your body.3. Dark circles under the eyesWhile under eyes dark circles are often caused by poor sleep and fatigue, it can also be a sign of magnesium deficiency in the body. How? Well, when the magnesium levels are low, it can affect oxygen circulation and delivery in the body. Since the skin near the eyes is sensitive, low magnesium levels can cause darker, tired-looking skin beneath the eyes. So, if you’ve tried eye creams and extra sleep to fix under eyes’ dark circles and it hasn’t improved, then maybe your body is missing out on this important mineral. Try having magnesium-rich foods or taking supplements, and this could improve circulation and help lighten those stubborn dark circles over time.4. Facial muscle cramps or tightnessDo you sometimes feel tightness or cramping in your jaw, cheeks, or temples? Magnesium deficiency can be one of the reasons for this. Since magnesium helps in relaxing muscles and preventing overactive nerve responses, a lack of it can cause facial cramps, tightness, and even spasms. This tightness can feel like pressure or aching and is often mistaken for stress or TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). A quick and natural fix for this is to take Epsom salt baths or increase intake of leafy greens and seeds, as they are all rich in magnesium.5. Dry or flaky skin on the faceHaving unusually dry or flaky skin on the face may be a sign of low magnesium. How? Well, Magnesium supports healthy skin by aiding hydration, promoting cell repair, and reducing inflammation. And so, low magnesium levels can make the skin more prone to irritation, dryness, and sensitivity. This is especially noticeable during weather changes or times of high stress. Using moisturisers can offer temporary relief, but increasing your magnesium intake– either through food or supplements– can help tackle the root cause of the problem.6. Dull or tired-looking eyesJust like low magnesium affects the skin around the eyes, it can also make your eyes look tired, dull, or unfocused. Magnesium supports energy production and healthy nerve function in the body– this helps your eyes stay alert and clear. However, low magnesium levels can cause fatigue that’s visible in your eye area— making your gaze look less lively or even slightly sunken. You might also experience occasional blurred vision or sensitivity to light.7. Twitching at the corner of the mouth or faceJust like low magnesium levels can cause facial muscle cramps or tightness, it can also lead to involuntary twitching at the corner of the mouth, cheek, nose or face. These facial muscle twitches happen when nerve signals misfire due to low magnesium, causing quick, involuntary movements. This can feel like a flutter or mild spasm that disappears on its own but keeps returning. Stress, caffeine, and a poor diet can make it worse. A simple way to fix this issue is by having a magnesium-rich diet, which includes whole grains, nuts, and leafy greens. You can also take magnesium supplements, as it can help calm your nerves.
