How do we know if we want to see a certain ingredient on the back of our product’s label?

In this column, we shed light on the ingredients listed on our self-care products. We know how tough it can be to understand the gibberish that often disguised as an ingredient. In our mission to promote a healthy skin, lifestyle and world, we believe that the first step is advocating for educated consumption. Practice self-love by knowing exactly what you’re putting in your body AND on your body.

Always remember when looking at an ingredient list:

1. The main ingredient is first, and then it goes down the list
2. If it sounds like a science experiment, it’s probably not good for you
3. As a general rule, the fewer ingredients the better

Methyl-sulfonyl-methane

Synonyms: MSM, methyl sulfone, dimethyl sulfone, DMSO2

MSM is a sulfur, and a sulfur is an element.
As a body weight percentage, sulfur is one of the most abundant mineral in the body, and it plays a vital role in many bodily functions.
In the body, MSM is busy bonding proteins, making collagen and most importantly, metabolising glutathione (the “mother of antioxidants”). Without MSM, glutathione cannot work. So, you can start to appreciate why MSM is so revered. As an ingredient it is certainly a friend, not a foe.

How is MSM beneficial to the skin and the body?

You’ll find it’s naturally occurring in your skin, joints and muscles. In the skin, keratin, which protects epithelial cells (the outer most layer of the skin) contains a high amount of sulfur containing MSM. Meanwhile, connective tissue and cartilage contain a flexible form of MSM. All forms aid in the strength, elasticity and integrity of youthful skin, maintain lubricated joints and prevent muscles from becoming stiff.
But like most good things that are naturally produced in the body, MSM decreases as we age. It’s best kept replenished through dietary or supplemental consumption.

Where is Methyl-sulfonyl-methanefound in nature?

MSM is found in most raw foods. Excellent dietary sources include raw milk, bone broths, organic pastured eggs and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussel sprouts and cabbage, as well as onions and garlic.  Also, something interesting to note, a good amount of it is found in beer and coffee, as well as the atmosphere in any marine area. So a coffee by the seaside can can be therapeutic in more ways than one.

The verdict MSM

Methyl-sulfonyl-methane is not something to be feared, but rather embraced. It’s naturally occurring and slowly decreasing in the body and has wonderful benefits for skin, joint and muscles. Best way to keep MSM in the body is by regular dietary replenishment.