Our body requires various nutrients, including minerals like sulfur, for proper functioning. Although it is mostly known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, rumor has it that there are many benefits in using sulfur for hair growth. But is there any truth to this? Keep reading to find out if sulfur can really stimulate hair growth and how you can use it effectively if it does.
In This Article
What Is Sulfur?
Sulfur is the third-most abundant mineral in the human body after calcium and phosphorus (1). It is an important dietary source needed for metabolism, synthesizing proteins and enzymes, and balancing oxidative stress and inflammation (2).
But does sulfur help with hair growth? Let us understand in the next section.
How Does Sulfur Affect Hair Growth?
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), an organosulfur compound, is also popular as an effective nutritional supplement that supports the growth and overall health of hair, skin, and nails. It contains keratin, a major building block of hair and nails (3).
MSM helps donate sulfur to keratin, strengthening the bonds between the keratin molecules in the hair (3) This way, the sulfur strengthens hair and boosts its elasticity.
This does show that sulfur can promote hair health. But are you getting enough of it?
Are You Getting Enough Sulfur?
Symptoms of sulfur deficiency include dry/brittle hair, skin, and nails. Some research shows that the elderly may not be receiving sufficient sulfur (4).
There are three ways you can include enough sulfur in your diet/routine:
A. Have A Sulfur-Rich Diet
Have a protein-rich diet. Protein contains 3 to 6 percent sulfur amino acids as per studies (4). The following foods promote natural keratin synthesis (4):
- fish
- high quality, grass-fed beef, and poultry
- eggs
- Brussels sprouts
- asparagus
- legumes
- garlic
- kale
- onion
- wheat germ
B. Take MSM Supplements
These supplements are available at most over-the-counter stores. However, speak to your dermatologist before you take them. Do not self-prescribe any supplement.
C. Use A DIY Sulfur Oil Recipe
Simple DIY Sulfur Oil Recipes For Hair Growth
Recipe 1
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of sublimed sulfur powder
- 4 oz. of jojoba oil
- 2 oz. of Jamaican black castor oil
- 2 oz. of extra virgin olive oil
- 4 to 5 drops of rosemary essential oil
- 4 to 5 drops of peppermint essential oil
Directions
- Use an applicator bottle to mix all the ingredients. The nozzle also allows you to apply the mixture to the scalp easily.
- Apply to your scalp (without touching your hair length) and gently massage section by section.
- Leave it on for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) before washing with cool water. You can wear a shower cap if you intend to keep it on overnight.
Recipe 2
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of sulfur powder
- 1 cup of coconut/castor oil
- 10 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as that of lavender, peppermint, or tea tree (optional)
Directions
- Mix all ingredients in an applicator bottle. Use a funnel to avoid wastage.
- Shake it and apply the mixture to your scalp.
- Gently dab the oil on your roots. Ensure not to apply excess of it.
- Massage gently into your scalp.
- Leave it on overnight or rinse after 30 minutes.
Recipe 3
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of sulfur powder
- 2 oz. of extra virgin olive oil
- 4 oz. of jojoba oil
- 2 oz. of castor oil
- 4 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 4 drops of rosemary essential oil
Directions
- Mix all ingredients in an applicator bottle. Use a funnel to avoid wastage.
- Shake it and apply the mixture to your scalp.
- Gently dab the oil on your roots. Ensure not to apply excess of it.
- Massage gently into your scalp.
- Leave it on overnight or rinse after 30 minutes.
You also must keep the following pointers in mind while trying out the DIY recipes.
How To Use The Hair Growth Oil Mix: Tips And Recommendations
- Be mindful of shaking the applicator bottle before use. This evenly distributes the sulfur.
- Do a patch test on a smaller area to check if you are allergic to sulfur.
- Do not use sulfur in higher proportions. Do not exceed the recommended amounts.
- Start by taking half the recommended amount of sulfur and gradually increase the quantity.
The benefits of sulfur for hair growth are indirect. It is an important component of keratin, the protein that makes up your hair and nails. Low levels of sulfur results in brittle hair. Hence, you need to add sulfur to your diet. Incorporating sulfur oil into your hair care regimen may minimize hair loss and promote natural hair growth as well. Though more research is needed to fully understand its benefits, anecdotal evidence suggests that you can apply moderate amounts of it to your hair safely. If you experience any adverse effects, stop using it immediately and seek medical advice.
Key Takeaways
- Sulfur may strengthen the hair and boost its elasticity.
- You can get sulfur through dietary sources that are rich in protein, sulfur supplements or sulfur enriched scalp oil.
- Sulfur oil should only be applied to the scalp and can be left overnight or rinsed within half an hour.
Sources
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Sulfur in human nutrition and applications in medicine,
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11896744/#:~:text=Sulfur%20is%20the%20sixth%20most,homocysteine%2C%20homocystine%2C%20and%20taurine - Chemistry and Biochemistry of Sulfur Natural Compounds: Key Intermediates of Metabolism and Redox Biology.
https://www.ecronicon.com/ecnu/pdf/ECNU-14-00660.pdf - Beneficial Effects of a Sulfur-Containing Supplement on Hair and Nail Condition,
https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2019-11/beneficial-effects-sulfur-containing-supplement-hair-and-nail-condition - Are we getting enough sulfur in our diet?,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2198910/
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Annie Jangam
Annie Jangam is a researcher-turned-content writer. She enjoys dissecting complex clinical studies and shuffling through the scientific jargon to make… more
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