MSM Vitamin and Stretchmarks
There has been much talk about MSM – sold as both a dietary supplement and as a cream for stretch marks and scars. It had been primarily sold as a method to treat conditions such as allergies, osteoarthritis, thinning hair and brittle nails, just to name a few – before gaining popularity as a treatment for smoothing stretch marks.
So what is MSM? Methylsulfonylmethane, besides being a tongue twister, is an organic sulfur compound that is naturally found (in varying levels) in our body and is known as an important building block in the makeup of hair and skin. MSM is a nutrient found in fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and fish. If we ate all of our food fresh, in its raw form, we would receive plenty of it naturally. However, with any type of processing or cooking, much of the organic sulfur is gone.
MSM improves skin elasticity, as well as the strength and growth of hair and nails. It has also been said to help with skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, athletes foot, rashes and blisters. MSM lotion may also help to reduce blemishes and age spots.
As for treating stretch marks, it has been recommended that MSM be taken both as an oral supplement and in cream form – kind of like going at it from both sides. How much MSM you should take orally is best determined by experienced professionals, who would be taking into consideration factors such as your body size and weight, along with any other supplements and medications you may be on at the same time. The general rule is to start out slow (less is best) and adjust according to your body’s needs. Even though MSM is not a drug, you should always consult with your healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplement – especially if you are nursing your baby.
