Are you planning to use MSM for hair growth? If so, this article will provide information that will help you determine if the supplement is right for your hair growth goals.
MSM, which stands for methylsulfonylmethane, is a compound that is rich in sulfur. The chemical formula for methylsulfonylmethane is (CH3)2SO2. The compound occurs naturally and is found in a variety of foods, such as green vegetables, garlic, seafood, onions, and milk.
MSM for Hair Growth: How It Works
Many women take MSM for hair growth because the chemical compound contains sulfur, which is one of the primary building blocks for your hair. But, will methylsulfonylmethane actually make your hair grow?
Some medical professionals suggest that methylsulfonylmethane can be used as a supplement for increasing hair growth.
It is also believed by many people that MSM can increase the rate of hair growth since it elongates the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle.
The anagen phase of the hair growth cycle is commonly referred to as the growth phase. Note that hair generally grows at roughly ½ inch per month.
If the supplement can significantly increase the rate of hair growth, this would be a scientific breakthrough. Unfortunately, scientific evidence is inconclusive at the moment. My current opinion on using MSM for hair growth was derived mostly from reading a recent study from the College of Pharmacy at Yeungnam University in South Korea (Republic of Korea).
The objective of this study was to understand the effect of methylsulfonylmethane on increasing hair growth of magnesium ascorbyl phosphate for the treatment of alopecia.
Even though the results of the study are inconclusive, most people who read the study will come away with only marginal hope that future studies will demonstrate conclusive evidence. It’s unlikely that you’ll see significant results using MSM for hair growth, however minimal increases in hair growth may be possible.
Even if it only helps a little, that’s worth something. Right?
Where Can You Buy Methylsulfonylmethane?
Methylsulfonylmethane supplements are available in almost every health food store, grocery store, pharmacy, and several online retailers.
Methylsulfonylmethane is present in many foods. However, the content level of MSM reduces while foods are cooking. So you can ingest it without taking over-the-counter supplements, but most women will want to increase their overall intake of the chemical compound. So, unless you eat most of your food raw, taking a supplement is likely the preferred option.
Other Uses of MSM Supplements
MSM is possibly effective for treating various ailments such as hemorrhoids, osteoarthritis, and rosacea. There are many other potential uses of MSM, but we can’t currently substantiate the other uses due to insufficient evidence.
It is true that the human body uses sulfur to build things other than just hair. Sulfur is also used to develop bones and form cartilage for the joints. MSM is not only beneficial to your hair but also good for your whole body.
What You Should Know Before Taking MSM
Before I conclude, it’s important for you to understand that using MSM also comes with several potential side effects. The National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, hasn’t established a recommended daily allowance (RDA) of methylsulfonylmethane intake.
Note that RDA is defined as the average intake necessary to satisfy the nutritional requirements of nearly all healthy people.
High doses can lead to negative symptoms such as itching, insomnia, fatigue, headaches, kidney problems, nausea, and diarrhea in some people.
MSM is generally considered safe for many people if taken in the appropriate doses. However, we always suggest that ladies speak with their medical doctor prior taking any new supplements.
This is particularly the case for women who are pregnant or currently breastfeeding.
Sammie says
Yes and I also applied it to my scalp as well and I noticed growth in my alopecia spot.
Suzanne says
I started taking MSM some months ago as an aid to help arthritis in my wrist. Over the past month, I noticed my hair seemed to have a growth spurt. I thought it was just wishful thinking until several people commented on it. I have just googled whether it can affect hair growth and came across this article. It looks like it can work!!