Is MSM good for hair growth and strength?

Hair loss and slow hair growth are common issues that affect many people. MSM has gained popularity for hair growth however. MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a sulphur-containing compound found in some foods and supplements which helps hair growth and prevents hair loss.

Our expert nutritionists discuss how MSM can impact the health of hair, including hair growth, hair thinning and hair strength.

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What is MSM and how does it help hair growth and prevent hair loss?

Sulphur is a mineral that is found in all cells in the body, including hair. Sulphur bonds are needed for strong, flexible, and healthy hair. MSM aids in the production of collagen and keratin, two proteins that are vital for hair growth.

Collagen provides strength and keratin makes hair less prone to breakage. Be cautious of taking collagen supplements and topical hair products however, the way collagen is sourced is surprising, you may like to read 'The truth about collagen' first.

MSM is known to help to reduce inflammation, which can cause damage hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. A reduction in inflammation leads to healthier hair growth.

What are the best forms of MSM?

There are several forms of MSM available, including powder, oils, and supplements. Good health starts with good nutrition, so it’s best to take supplemental MSM, to work on hair health from within. Capsule form is known to be the cleanest form of supplement consumption, and Hair Saviour^® is our nutrient-rich formula to help support dull, dry and brittle hair and fuel naturally strong hair every day.

Topically rosemary oil can also be applied to the scalp, as it contains MSM. Some hair products also contain MSM. Topical treatments are not a replacement for dietary and supplemental MSM.

Hair in menopause

MSM and other nutrients that can help reduce menopausal hair loss and support growth. A comprehensive supplement like DR.VEGAN^® Hair Saviour^® contains many nutrients targeted at improving hair growth.

Find out more about how 'How menopause affects your skin and hair'. You may also be interested in reading what causes premature grey hair and if it can be reversed.

Nutrients for hair growth and preventing hair loss

MSM is excellent for hair growth and preventing hair loss, but there are other nutrients that also help.

Biotin

Part of the B vitamin family supports the production of keratin, the protein in hair.

Horsetail and silica

Horsetail extract is rich in silica which helps strengthen hair and prevent thinning.

Saw palmetto extract

Testosterone is found in both men and women. Saw palmetto helps prevent testosterone converting into the form that causes hair loss and thinning.

Zinc

Zinc is needed for the replication of new hair cells, deficiency can lead to hair loss and thinning. Zinc is actually very important for your immune system, hair, skin, and nails.

Iron

Iron is necessary for healthy blood cells and helps them carry oxygen and other nutrients to the scalp where they support hair growth. Iron is particularly important for women making it important to understand Iron-rich sources of food.

Copper

Copper is necessary for normal hair pigmentation and is one of our listed five key nutrients for healthy hair.

Folic acid

Folic acid is needed by quick growing cells such as hair cells. Folic acid is particularly important when pregnant and is an ingredient in our Pregnancy Multinutrient.

Iodine

Iodine is needed for the normal function of the thyroid, which controls metabolism and the rate of hair growth.

Iodine is an important nutrient to supplement if needed, particularly on a vegan diet or when managing an underactive thyroid.

Nori sheets or seaweed, are an excellent source of Iodine, a key nutrient to be mindful of particularly when following a plant-based diet.

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is rich in nutrients needed to support hair growth.

Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper improves circulation to the scalp, improving nutrient uptake of the hair follicles. It is a dried chili pepper powder, available cheaply at supermarkets. Cayenne pepper adds a kick to lots of dishes, for example or baked feta spinach pasta recipe which is plant-based.

AnaGain™ extract

AnaGain™, found in Hair Saviour^®, is a clinically proven ingredient, from pea sprouts, and stimulates specific signal molecules in the hair follicle required for hair growth.