Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) for Hair Growth and Hair Shedding
Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a compound possessing sulfur that is found in plants, humans, and animals. MSM is a dietary supplement with potent anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat pain and inflammation associated with different diseases.
Sulfur present in MSM supplements takes part in forming bonds that strengthen keratin and promote hair growth. In addition to hair growth, these oral supplements are used to treat a variety of health conditions including osteoporosis, muscle cramps, arthritis, headache, and tendinitis.
It is also available in a solution form which is applied topically to eliminate wrinkles, reduce stretch marks, and heal minor cuts.
What is MSM?
Methylsulfonylmethane is an organosulfur compound that naturally exists in the environment. It serves as a source of sulfur for amino acid methionine and is found in both human and bovine milk.
The antioxidant activities of sulfur-containing amino acids prevent the harmful effects of free radicals and play a great role in maintaining the integrity of cellular structure. MSM supplements provide sulfur to important amino acids like methionine and cysteine and serve as a source of dietary fiber.
These supplements are also associated with the metabolism of sulfur essential for carrying out the optimal functioning of the body.
MSM supplements are quickly absorbed, evenly distributed, and effectively eliminated from the body when administered orally. In humans, a daily dose of 3 g of MSM for 2 weeks results in a significant improvement in blood MSM and continues to increase for 4 weeks. Results showed that MSM consumption is greatly associated with plasma concentration. Maximum concentration is attained within one month.
MSM for Hair Growth and Hair Shedding
Methylsulfonylmethane is a compound commonly known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. There is limited research suggesting the hair-growing effects of MSM. Like biotin, these supplements offer beneficial effects in regrowing hair and preventing baldness.
What does Research Say?
Though there is limited research in this field but some studies revealed that these sulfur-containing oral supplements help prevent hair loss and boost their growth.
A study was conducted to examine the effects of methylsulfonylmethane and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate on hair growth in mice suffering from alopecia. In this study, different percentages of MSM and MAP were applied to the back of mice. Results revealed that topical application of MAP and MSM is highly effective for the treatment of alopecia.
According to another study on 63 individuals, consumption of MSM supplements increases the hair growth and appearance of nails. Studies found that taking a high concentration of MSM supplements at 3g/day is more effective than consuming 1g.
These supplements provide sulfur to keratin which is essential for strengthening hair and promoting growth.
Hair loss may occur due to various factors like aging and hormonal changes, especially in the case of male pattern baldness. Male pattern baldness occurs due to the hormone dihydrotestosterone and is characterized by loss of hair from the crown area and receding hairline.
According to a randomized placebo-controlled trial, supplements with MSM improve skin health in addition to improving hair growth. Due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, these oral supplements and topical solutions improve skin health including hydration and elasticity.
Topical MSM for Hair Growth
Various topical MSM products are available in the market which can improve hair growth and give a radiant and shiny look to hair.
Studies revealed that the percentage concentration of MSM is associated with hair growth. In an animal study, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate aqueous solution was used with different concentrations of MSM such as 1%, 05%, and 10%. The solution was applied topically to the shaved back of mice for 20 days. Results revealed that hair growth was maximum in mice with 10% MSM solution.
So, the study found that topical application of MSM and MAP solution may increase hair growth and reduce the risk of hair shedding.
Well, MSM topical solution can be prepared at home with simple ingredients like aloe vera gel and water.
Take 10g of MSM powder, 15g of aloe vera juice, and 75g of water and mix well.
Transfer the solution into a spray bottle and apply it to the scalp.
Leave for 10 to 12 hours and wash your hair in the morning.
Dosage Of MSM
According to Food and Drug Administration, MSM supplements are considered safe for consumption and no serious side effects are reported.
MSM supplements are safe in even higher doses ranging from 500mg to 3g and this dosage was used in various clinical studies.
The powder form of this supplement is also available in the market and is used in hair conditioners to improve hair growth and shinning.
Food Rich in Methylsulfonylmethane
There is a huge variety of foods that contain sulfur and MSM and you are already eating them in your diet. But there are some foods that are a rich source of MSM including:
- Fruits like apples and raspberries
- Green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, and alfalfa sprouts
- Beverages including tea, coffee, and beer
- Milk
- Whole grain
These foods are suggested to use raw or unprocessed because cooking these foods may decrease the nutrition and MSM levels of these foods. To increase the amount of sulfur and MSM in the body, MSM supplements can be used with these foods.
Possible Risks or Side Effects
Studies revealed that MSM supplements do not cause serious side effects and some people may experience mild side effects like
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
MSM supplements may interact with some medications and are advised to consume after consulting with your health care professional.
There is limited research on the safety of these supplements for pregnant and breastfeeding women. But to be on the safe side it is advised to avoid these supplements in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
People with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation and itching on topical application of these supplements.
Bottom Line
MSM is a compound having a good source of sulfur and potent anti-inflammatory properties. The high sulfur content and anti-inflammatory abilities of these supplements make them effective supplements to improve general health and wellbeing. Several studies showed that oral supplementation and topical application of MSM help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. However, more research is needed to confirm their effects on hair growth.
Here you can check out Vorst’s supplement Advanced joint Formula 1000mg 90 Capsules containing MSM.
https://vorstcanada.com/products/joint-advanced-formula-1000mg-90-capsules
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372953/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6508480/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14739061/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17258373/