Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless liquid that originated as a byproduct of the wood pulp industry. It is a powerful solvent known for its unique ability to rapidly penetrate the skin and biological membranes. DMSO’s structure allows it to dissolve both polar and nonpolar molecules, making it an efficient transdermal carrier. This means anything mixed with DMSO, or present on the skin during application, can be carried through the skin barrier and into the body. This property necessitates extreme caution regarding purity and application protocols.
Selecting the Right Grade and Preparing Solutions
The safety of topical DMSO application starts with the purity of the product. Only pharmaceutical or United States Pharmacopeia (USP) grade, typically 99.9% pure or higher, is appropriate for use on the body. Industrial or technical grades may contain impurities, such as solvents or by-products, which could be carried into the bloodstream by the DMSO itself.
Pure DMSO must be diluted with a sterile liquid before being applied to the skin to avoid irritation. The most common diluent is distilled or deionized water, as tap water can contain contaminants that DMSO will carry into the body. Topical concentrations usually range between 50% and 70%. For instance, a 70% solution is made by combining seven parts of DMSO with three parts of distilled water, while a 50% solution requires equal parts of each.
When mixing the solution, precise measurement tools, such as syringes or graduated cylinders, should be used to ensure the correct concentration. The dilution process can generate a temporary warming sensation in the container. Once prepared, the DMSO solution should be stored in a clean, airtight container, preferably made of glass or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), as DMSO can dissolve certain plastics.
Step-by-Step Topical Application Guidelines
Before any application, the intended area must be thoroughly cleaned with mild soap and water, then rinsed and dried completely. DMSO’s skin-penetrating property means any dirt, oils, or residues on the skin will be absorbed along with it. The hands of the person applying the solution should also be washed, or clean, high-quality gloves, such as nitrile, should be worn to prevent unintended absorption.
A sensitivity patch test is required before widespread use, especially for a new solution concentration. Apply a small amount of the diluted solution to a discreet area, such as the forearm, and wait 24 hours to check for adverse reactions like excessive redness or irritation. If no significant reaction occurs, the solution is likely safe to use on a larger area, starting with a lower concentration like 50%.
Application Method
The diluted DMSO should be applied using a clean applicator, such as:
- Cotton ball
- Gauze pad
- Clean cotton swab
- Soft brush
Avoid dipping fingers or contaminated applicators directly into the main storage bottle to maintain purity. Apply a modest, thin layer of the solution to the targeted area, ensuring the skin is covered but not saturated. For localized concerns, the application should extend slightly beyond the affected area.
After application, the DMSO must be allowed to dry completely on the skin, which typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, before the area is covered with clothing or a dressing. This prevents the DMSO from dissolving dyes or chemicals in fabrics and carrying them into the skin. Applying the solution once or twice daily is a common frequency, but overuse can increase the risk of skin irritation.
Critical Safety Measures and Potential Reactions
The most common reaction to DMSO application is a transient garlic-like odor on the breath or a similar taste in the mouth. This occurs because the body metabolizes DMSO into dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which is excreted through the breath and skin and can last for a day or two. Local skin reactions are also frequent, especially with concentrations above 60%, and may include warmth, redness, mild itching, or a temporary burning sensation.
A paramount safety concern is combining DMSO with other topical products, including lotions, sunscreens, cosmetics, or medications. Due to its powerful carrier property, DMSO will transport any substance present on the skin’s surface deep into the tissue and potentially into the bloodstream. This can lead to the unintended systemic absorption of substances, posing a serious health risk. Therefore, the application area must be meticulously clean and free of all other products before, during, and for several hours after using DMSO.
DMSO is largely used off-label, as the Food and Drug Administration has approved it for only a few specific medical uses, such as treating interstitial cystitis. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, asthma, or liver and kidney issues should exercise extra caution and seek medical advice before use. Proper storage is also necessary; DMSO is a combustible liquid and must be kept in a tightly sealed container away from excessive heat, light, and potential ignition sources.