Working with MSM: Boost Collagen Production

Creams and lotions,

Promises and potions,

Aches and pains,

We all end the same.

Aging is the cost of living. A price that rises ever so high.

But.

Aging does not have to be the painful, shameful process of watching yourself become a little bit less than who you were yesterday. Fingers shaking and smile faking while pretending that your joints are not actively ablaze. Why let the children worry?

There are supplements that could help. Supplements that have a scientific backing with minimal side effects. Supplements so good for inflammation and regeneration that Gym Bros and the Aesthetically Obsessed all have it on their shelves. You just haven't heard of it yet.

What is Methylsulfonylmethane?

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organosulfur compound that is part of the Earths Sulfur Cycle. MSM can be found in foods, wine, tea and even cows milk - so odds are that you already have MSM in your system, albeit at a small dose. (*2) Though MSM can be synthesised, they perform identically in the human system.

In 1981 a Dr. Herschler was one of the first few interested in MSM, and got a patent (*1) for the use of MSM to smooth and soften skin, to strengthen nails, or as a blood diluent. Following this Dr Herschler made many claims about MSM and it's great uses for the body, including stress relief, pain relief, treating parasitic infections, increasing energy, boosting metabolism, enhancing circulation, and improving wound healing. At the time, these claims had very little scientific research to support them.

But as time passed and interest grew more and more studies, seemingly supporting many of Dr. Herschler's original claims, began to surface.

How does MSM work?

MSM has an enhanced ability to penetrate membranes and spread throughout your entire body (*6 *7 *8). As it is so ever present in the body, the full mechanism of action would involve many cell types, and therefore it can be hard to pin down EXACTLY what MSM does. However, through research we are able to study the outcomes of using MSM as a Complementary and Alternative Medicine and infer mechanisms of action.

Though some of it is cleared out as part of the body's natural detox process, MSM supplementation accumulates in your system over time with consistent use. This was found in a recent study done on men consuming 3g daily for 4 weeks, a study looking into the anti-inflammatory effects of MSM. (*3)

Internal Benefits of MSM:

MSM readily dissolves into water. Meaning you can take MSM in a capsule form or dissolved as a supplement.

• Supports Collagen and Connective Tissue Formation:

MSM provides sulphur, a critical component for collagen and keratin production - which makes it super useful for skin revitalisation, hair growth, nails, and joints. MSM also helps to maintain the elasticity in tissues and promotes regeneration overall, as indicated in a study conducted by Muizzuddin, N., & Benjamin, R. (2022) which discovered that:

"Oral ingestion of MSM (3 g / day) reduces signs of ageing like facial wrinkles and skin roughness... as well as improved skin firmness, elasticity and hydration..." (*13)

• Reduces Inflammation:

MSM has been shown to reduce inflammatory molecules like cytokines and nitric oxide. Therefore, MSM can be highly beneficial in the treatment and management of inflammatory conditions such as; osteoarthritis (*4), or muscle pains and joint stiffness. By reducing inflammation MSM helps to reduce pain and improve the mobility.

• Boosts Immune Function:

MSM enhances antioxidant activity, especially by boosting glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. This helps to strengthen the immune system and protects cells from oxidative damage.

• Improve Seasonal Allergies:

MSM improves respiratory symptoms related to seasonal allergies, including nasal congestion and breathing issues. It may also lower histamine responses and vasodilating agents (*5), which helps protect immune cells from damage. A study evaluating MSM supplementation (2.6g / day) for 30 days found the reduction of symptoms associated with Seasonal Affective Rhinitis with minimal side effects (*12 )

• Improves Joint Health:

By supporting cartilage production and reducing oxidative stress, MSM alleviates joint discomfort and supports mobility.

• Improves Energy Levels:

MSM's reduction in oxidative stress aids cell health and permeability. By enhancing cell permeability, it may also improve nutrient and oxygen uptake, contributing to better energy levels.

• Anti - Cancer Properties

Early research suggests MSM may influence cell survival and death. It can trigger apoptosis (programmed cell death) in some cancer cells (*2), such as those in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and colon.

However, in certain cancers like breast and melanoma, MSM helps restore normal cell metabolism instead. This helps shift cells away from the typical metabolic patterns of cancer, potentially reducing tumor growth or making cancer cells behave less aggressively. We should note that these studies are still in their infancy and requires much more research.

Skin Benefits of MSM

One could easily dissolve MSM into the water phase of your formulations and add it to your creams, lotions and serums. It's particularly effective in menopausal skincare.

• Boosts Collagen and Skin Elasticity:

When applied topically, MSM enhances collagen synthesis, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improving overall skin texture and elasticity.

• Soothes Inflammation and Reduces Redness:

Its anti-inflammatory properties works to soothe skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, and acne, reducing redness and irritation.

• Improves Wound Healing:

MSM supports tissue repair by increasing circulation and nutrient delivery to the skin. It can therefore help to reduce scarring.

• Hydrates and Softens Skin:

MSM helps the skin retain moisture and improves permeability, enhancing the absorption of other active ingredients in skincare formulations.

• Antioxidant Benefits:

It protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and pollution, helping to maintain a youthful appearance.

What does Collagen do? Is MSM better than a Collagen Supplement?

In our journey towards healthy skin, collagen has become a focal point of our skincare strategies. Research suggests a mixed view of collagen supplements. While some studies show significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and density, (*9) other research finds no significant differences (*10).

This is rooted in how our bodies digest collagen when taken internally. Unlike a direct transfer of protein, our digestive system breaks down collagen into amino acids. This takes work. We are built to create our own collagen, not to incorporate fully formed collagen molecules directly from supplements.

This is where MSM becomes takes the lead. Instead of providing complete collagen, MSM offers a highly bioavailable building block that supports the body's natural collagen production. It provides these essential components more efficiently, requiring less energy and potentially supporting more direct collagen creation.

Is MSM Safe?

MSM is generally well tolerated and safe. While how strongly you respond to MSM is specific to your body, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers MSM safe at dosages under 4845.6 mg/day. (*11 - see number 229). Rare but possible MSM side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: If this happens consider reducing your dosage.
• Headaches: If your headache persists, stop taking MSM and please consult a medical professional.
• Skin Reactions like rashes or hives: If a skin reaction occurs, please stop using MSM and consult a medical professional.
• Allergic Reactions like a swelling throat: If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
• Flu like Symptoms: These symptoms usually go away after a few days. If they persist, it's best to consult a healthcare professional.

You should always seek the advice of a Medical Professional before ingesting any new supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or currently using prescribed medication.

How much MSM should you take?

MSM as a Supplement:

The general Dosage of MSM for health benefits can vary depending on your individual needs and goals

• Start with 1 - 2 grams a day, taken in divided doses (perhaps once in the morning and once late day), to find out how well you tolerate MSM.
• Gradually increase to 2 - 4 grams a day, which is the common dose for overall health improvement (including joint support and inflammation reduction).
• A high dose would be up to 6 grams a day. This could be considered for folks with more serious health concerns. If you are considering a high dose, please do consult with a healthcare provider.

Tip: Take your MSM with food and water to avoid stomach discomfort, and remember, MSM builds up in the body over time.

MSM in Skincare:

Like with the internal doses, the concentration of MSM in your formulation depends on your intention with your product.

• General Use: 1 - 5 % (Creams and serums to support elasticity, hydration and anti-inflammation)
• Targeted Use: Up to 15% (For intensive skin repair, acne, redness or scarring)

Formulations Inspiration:

Below you can find some amazing MSM product recipes for you to try-out. But first, a quick note:

These formulations are provided to showcase the uses of MSM and to help inspire your own product creations. While they hold many therapeutic benefits they are not a substitute to professional medical advice or treatments. It's always best to defer to the advice of a registered and trusted medical professional if you are unsure about using MSM.

Remember; individual results may vary, as some ingredients can interact differently with different skin types. It is therefore always best to conduct a quick spot-test before use.

Hyper Hair Growth Spritz

This formula is easy and potent. You will feel a cooling sensation on your scalp, as the menthol, caffeine and MSM "wakes up" your hair follicles, increasing your hair growth rate and hair thickness.

Ingredients:

• Saw Palmetto Water Extract (else a Hydrosol, Different Extract or Distilled Water would do): 61%
• MSM: 15%
• Caffeine Powder: 5%
• Niacinamide: 5%
• D-Panthenol: 2%
• Geogard 221: 1%
• Decyl Glucoside: 6%
• Menthol Crystals: 2%
• Rosemary Essential Oil: 1%
• Pumpkin Seed Oil: 2%

Storage:

• Amber bottle with Spritzer

Method:

1. Sterilise utensils before use.
2. Dissolve MSM powder into a room temperature Water Base.
3. Once completely dissolved, mix in your Caffeine Powder, D-Panthenol and Niacinamide till completely dissolved.
4. In a separate mixing cup, heat your Decyl Glucoside (to about 45°C)
5. Mix in your Menthol Crystals till it dissolves in the Decyl Glucoside.
6. Allow the Decyl Glucoside solution to cool.
7. When cool, add Rosemary Essential Oil and Pumpkin Seed Oil into Decyl Glucoside.
8. Mix well.
9. Add this to you Water Base MSM Caffeine Solution.
10. Mix until completely homogenous.
11. Mix in Geogard.
12. Store in a cool, dark place.

Directions for use:

- Shake well before use.
- Spray directly onto scalp and then gently massage it in. It is mostly water based so it will be easily absorbed.
- Use 1 - 2 times daily.
- This is very potent, so you may want to start off with a lower percentage and gradually increase in concentration (eg. Caffeine Powder at 2%, MSM at 5% and Menthol Crystals at 0.5%)
- Consult a healthcare professional if you have any scalp condition before use.
- Please do not use on open wounds or irritated skin.
- Patch test before a complete application.
- Monitor your scalp response carefully and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Scar Care & Skin Texture Renewal Cream:

This is a cream is designed to promote collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation and improve the texture of your skin. The active ingredients support tissue regeneration while simultaneously addressing pigmentation and scarring. This cream would also work amazingly for wrinkles and anti-aging.

Ingredients:

• Gotu Kola Water Extract (else a hydrosol, other extract or distilled water): 50%
• MSM: 10%
• Vitamin C: 5%
• Ferulic Acid: 1%
• Niacinamide: 5%
• Glycerine: 5%
• D-Panthenol: 3%
• Tamanu Oil: 10%
• Vitamin E: 2%
• Eco E Wax: 7%
• Frankincense Essential Oil: 0.5%
• Lavender Essential Oil: 0.5%
• Geogard 221: 1%

Storage:

• Amber Pump Dispenser or an Amber Jar

Method:

1. Sterilise utensils before use.
2. Separate 10% of your Gotu Kola Water Extract at room temperature, mix in the Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid completely. Leave aside for later use.
3. Heat the remainder of your Gotu Kola Water Extract to about 40°C. Gotu Kola is temperature sensitive so try not to go too hot for an extended period of time or you might degrade some of the active compounds.
4. Separate some of the Extract into a smaller beaker and dissolve in your MSM into that smaller beaker.
5. Add the dissolved mixture back into the main holder containing your Gotu Kola Extract.
6. Repeat this step with your Niacinamide, Glycerin, and D- Panthenol.
7. Heat your Tamanu Oil to the same temperature about as your Gotu Kola Water Extract.
8. Melt the Eco-E wax into your Tamanu Oil.
9. Blend your Oils with the Gotu Kola Solution.
10. When the cream is cooler (below 30°C), add in your Vitamin E Oil and the dissolved Vitamin C Ferulic Solution of step 1.
11. When the cream is completely cooled off, add in your Essential Oils and Geogard.
12. Transfer to a sterile, airtight container and store in a cool, dark place.

Directions for use:

- Massage gently a thin layer onto the scarred area 2 - 3 times, daily.
- Patch test before full application.
- If you have a skin condition, do consult a medical professional before applying this cream.
- Not for open wounds.
- Discontinue use if irritation occurs.