I apply it immediately after shower or bath and find that it absorbs much better. The heat from the shower/bath seems to open the pores so the magnesium transdermally absorbs. In fact, I have to be careful and only apply to part of my body. One time I slathered it on all over following a hot bath and I absorbed so much I got diarrhea the next day like when you take Epsom Salts (magnesium sulfate). But, if I apply without the shower or bath first, the mag oil just sits on my skin and doesn't absorb.