Thursday, January 16, 2014

MSM for Hyper-Pigmentation (Brown Spots)

When you have Melasma, hyperpigmentation or sun spots as some call them, only about 30% of it is actually visible. The rest of the spots are still in the lower layers of the skin waiting to surface. This is why it can seem really hard to get rid of this particular condition.

MSM which contains organic sulfur  is a powerful anti-oxidant and natural hormone balancer that targets abnormal pigmentation without effecting the pigmentation process or tanning mechanism of the body. The recovery rate for taking MSM for brown spots is relative to how long you've had the spots and also the cause of the pigmentation. Some have results in 12 hours to 3-7 days and others take weeks and months.
Melasma can appear darker during menstruation even while taking MSM, don't get discouraged as this is just a temporary set back. Results can include tiny "cracks" or "holes" in the dark patches that gradually combine to form larger patches of normal skin color.Overall fading of the dark patches can occur at the same time or later on.  Taking birth control pills may hamper progress of fading brown spots but you may see results to varying degrees. This is true with other medications that affect hormones.

MSM is a mineral and therefore considered safe. 2000 mg  is great for general health and then increasing the dose gradually up to 5000mg showed results for pigmentation. It's well tolerated by most people. Always consult your health care provider or physician before taking supplements or changing your diet. Especially if you take medications of any kind.*

If MSM or other treatments have not worked to reduce your hyper-pigmentation then other underlying health issues could be hindering your results.
Here's some things that are definitely worth a try:

  1. Improve your diet with more wholesome organic food and fresh produce. Cut down on excess sugar and salt
  2. Take a good quality B-group vitamin daily (Focusing on B3, B5, Folic Acid and B12)
  3. Try Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin E or Selenium in addition to MSM (They are anti-oxidants)
  4. Increase your water intake, reduce alcohol and caffeine.
  5. Reduce your exposure to chemicals whenever possible. Environmental pollution or chemical makeup and sunscreen could be aggravating the condition. (Use only mineral sunscreens and natural organic makeup and skincare)
  6. Reduce your stress! Indulge in relaxing activities.
  7. Don't Give UP! Be patient, it could take some time!
I would love to hear from you if you have tried MSM supplementation for hyper pigmentation, or if you've found other successful treatments for this condition. Feel free to comment here or contact me directly.

*Source: Melasma-Is this the Clear Solution? by Vanessa Wild