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DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE.

Valuable CAS 5306-85-4 / SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) is a high-purity solvent and carrier ingredient engineered to optimize the delivery and penetration of active compounds into the skin. It enhances the bioavailability of actives by facilitating their transport into the stratum corneum without compromising the skin barrier.

Summary

solvent viscosity controlling penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

DMI functions primarily as an advanced solvent and carrier, significantly enhancing the transdermal delivery and penetration of active ingredients into the skin's deeper layers. It improves the transport of various actives, including retinoids, UV filters, antioxidants, and anti-aging/brightening compounds, into the stratum corneum, thereby increasing their bioavailability. Additionally, DMI contributes to the shelf stability of sensitive active ingredients and can facilitate controlled, sustained release to potentially mitigate irritation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 6.25–25%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Reviewed by SCCP for use in self-tanning cosmetic formulations with a conclusion of no risk.
  2. 02 Reviewed by SCCP for use in spray tanning booths, concluding no risk.
  3. 03 Reviewed for acceptable use in leave-on non-oxidative hair dyes by SCCP.
  4. 04 A dental cleaning gel containing DMI used for two weeks was well-tolerated by 15 individuals, indicating safety at this high concentration.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Dimethyl Isosorbide exhibits robust chemical and thermal stability, resisting oxidation and hydrolysis, and maintaining performance even during heat processing up to 80°C. For optimal preservation of sensitive active ingredients, it is recommended to incorporate DMI during the cool-down phase of formulation.

Synergies

  • retinoids
  • UV filters
  • antioxidants
  • botanical extracts
  • anti-aging actives
  • brightening actives
  • ascorbic acid
  • alpha-arbutin
  • salicylic acid
  • azelaic acid
  • peptides

Conflicts

  • hydrogenated castor oil
  • lanolin
  • mineral oils
  • silicone oil (dimethicone)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Insufficient data
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Low

While a formal CIR report detailing DMI's safety status is not explicitly available, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS/SCCP) has concluded no risk for its use at 10% in self-tanning products and 14% in spray tanning, and acceptable use at 6.25% in leave-on hair dyes. The FDA deems DMI acceptable as a solvent in certain drug formulations, and EPA has granted exemptions for its inert use. It is generally considered safe for skin and hair with low irritation potential, though patch testing is recommended for rare individual sensitivities. There is a documented history of use at up to 25% in leave-on cosmetic products, and aggregated GHS information indicates 99.6% of companies report no GHS hazard criteria met.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Dimethyl Isosorbide is a valuable ingredient for enhancing the efficacy of skincare formulations by significantly boosting the penetration and bioavailability of active compounds while maintaining formulation stability.

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