MSM

em-ess-em (meth-ul-sul-FON-ul-METH-ane)

Protein 8/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Semi-synthetic Vegan

What Is MSM?

An organic sulfur compound found naturally in many foods and the human body. In hair care, it provides bioavailable sulfur necessary for keratin synthesis and hair growth.

Source: Natural sulfur compound found in plants, animals, and humans; also synthesized

Origin: Semi-synthetic

Also known as: Methylsulfonylmethane, Dimethyl Sulfone, DMSO2

What Does MSM Do to Your Hair?

Provides bioavailable sulfur that is essential for the disulfide bonds in keratin, the main structural protein of hair. Supports healthy hair growth by improving the structural integrity of new hair growth. Anti-inflammatory benefits support scalp health.

Best For

Thinning hair, slow-growing hair, damaged hair, all hair types

Not Recommended For

None known

Concentration Matters

Topical: 1-5% in products; Oral: 1000-3000mg/day as supplement

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight
Heat-damaged: Beneficial

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

8/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Very safe for both topical and oral use. Commonly taken as a dietary supplement. No known adverse effects at standard concentrations. May have a mild sulfur smell in some formulations.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA considers safe as dietary supplement and cosmetic ingredient.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

A useful sulfur source for hair growth and strength. Most effective as an oral supplement combined with topical application. Safe and well-tolerated with no significant side effects.

Products That Contain MSM

Hair growth supplements, scalp treatments, strengthening products

Alternatives to MSM

If you want to avoid MSM, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Cysteine, Biotin, Keratin

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MSM safe for hair?

Yes, MSM has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe for both topical and oral use. Commonly taken as a dietary supplement. No known adverse effects at standard concentrations. May have a mild sulfur smell in some formulations.

Is MSM bad for curly hair?

MSM is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is MSM CG-method approved?

Yes, MSM is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of MSM?

Some alternatives to MSM include: Cysteine, Biotin, Keratin

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