I first heard about MSM, when I was searching for hair supplements for myself. I read from the reviews, majority of them prefer products that have MSM in it. I also noticed some skin care products include MSM too, for its anti-aging properties.

Surely that caught my attention. My mind was curious enough to do more research about this supplement. Because this is a beauty blog, I only want to bring out the beauty benefits of MSM for skin and hair care. But before starting MSM, I advise you to talk to the doctor or do your own research.

What is MSM?

MSM (methyl-sulfony-methane) is a naturally occurring nutrient, an organic sulfur. It’s not a drug, medicine nor vitamin. MSM is in all living organisms, so it’s in our own body too. Sulfur can also found in many common foods, such as meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, milk, coffee and tea.

You can’t overdose with MSM, because it’s non-toxic. However you’ll get side effects if consumed large doses too soon when first starting. The reasons why the side effects may occur, is because MSM also has a powerful detoxifying effect.

MSM is a white, crystalline powder that is odorless and somewhat bitter-tasting. It’s also water-soluble. You can use it as a supplementation or in other topical forms.

MSM for skin?

Our body needs MSM to produce new healthy cells. It has collagen building effects. MSM is in keratin, that’s how it can strengthens and benefits our skin, hair and nails. It reduces wrinkles, heals scar tissues, acne, skin allergies, skin disorders, soften skin and fades discoloring.

Aloe Vera is known for skin healing properties and is used in various skin care. But did you know it is the MSM in Aloe that heals and soothes the skin? Dang, now that’s powerful.

 MSM for hair?

Studies shows that MSM helps reduce, or completely stop hair loss. It promotes not only stronger hair but also speed up hair growth. With MSM, you can naturally lengthens you hair’s growth phase. Which means you can grow your hair longer than you would normally, genetically able to. This is good news for us, whom being helpless with growing our hair. MSM also thickens and promotes healthier hair.

How to use MSM?

There’s many ways to use MSM. Choices are from internally to topically. I’m now taking MSM powder as a supplement. It’s best to use/consume it conjunction with Vitamin C, MSM works better that way.

It’s very important that you build up the dose gradually. Like with any health supplements, our body needs time to get used to it. You can start off with 500-1000 mg, and slowly build up after 1-4 weeks. It all depends how well your body can tolerate it. Each time you can go up to 500-1000 mg. Some people have high tolerance and they can take up to 24 000mg of MSM. Some can’t take more than 1000 mg a day. Never take too much MSM at once. You should always split the higher doses. Follow the directions on the product label.

MSM comes in capsules, powder and tablets. The powder form is usually a purer version, which is more effective and economically better choice. MSM powder absorbs better into our body. There are also many skin care brands that offer MSM in their products. If you considering using it for skin or hair care, then it’s recommended to use it both topically and orally.

Check out Turmeric for Skin and My permanent makeup.