What Is DMSO? A Complete Guide to Dimethyl Sulfoxide
What Is DMSO? A Complete Guide to Dimethyl Sulfoxide
DMSO — short for dimethyl sulfoxide — is one of the most researched yet misunderstood compounds available today. It's been studied in thousands of scientific papers, used in medical settings for decades, and has built a devoted following among researchers, wellness enthusiasts, and athletes alike.
But what exactly is DMSO? How does it work? And why has it generated so much interest — and controversy?
This guide covers everything you need to know: what DMSO is, where it comes from, how it works, what it's used for, and how to evaluate quality if you decide to try it.
What Is DMSO?
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is an organosulfur compound with the chemical formula (CH₃)₂SO. In plain terms, it's a colorless, slightly oily liquid that occurs naturally as a byproduct of the wood pulp industry and is also found in trace amounts in certain foods.
Key characteristics of DMSO:
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Powerful solvent — DMSO dissolves a wide range of both polar and nonpolar compounds, making it one of the most versatile solvents known
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Rapid skin penetration — DMSO passes through biological membranes (including skin) extremely quickly — often within minutes
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Carrier properties — DMSO can transport other dissolved substances through the skin along with it
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Anti-inflammatory properties — Research has documented DMSO's ability to reduce inflammation at the cellular level
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Free radical scavenger — DMSO has demonstrated antioxidant activity in research settings
DMSO was first synthesized in 1866 by Russian scientist Alexander Zaytsev. It gained medical attention in the 1960s when Dr. Stanley Jacob at the Oregon Health & Science University began investigating its therapeutic potential — research that continues to this day.
How Does DMSO Work?
DMSO's most distinctive property is its ability to penetrate biological membranes rapidly. When applied to the skin, DMSO passes through the outer layers within minutes — far faster than most topical substances.
This penetration happens because of DMSO's unique molecular structure:
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It's both hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (fat-loving), allowing it to interact with both the watery and fatty components of skin
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Its small molecular size lets it pass through cell membranes easily
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It temporarily reorganizes the lipid structure of the skin, creating pathways for absorption
This same property is what makes DMSO an effective carrier — it can transport other dissolved substances through the skin barrier along with it. This is both its greatest advantage and the reason why purity is absolutely critical with DMSO products.
A Brief History of DMSO
DMSO has a long and fascinating history:
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1866 — First synthesized by Alexander Zaytsev as a chemical curiosity
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1960s — Dr. Stanley Jacob discovers DMSO's remarkable biological properties, including rapid skin penetration and pain relief. Research begins at Oregon Health & Science University
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1970s — Thousands of studies are published. DMSO gains a massive public following, but faces regulatory resistance from the FDA
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1978 — FDA approves DMSO (as Rimso-50) for the treatment of interstitial cystitis (a bladder condition) — still its only FDA-approved indication in the US
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1980s–2000s — DMSO continues to be widely studied and used internationally. It's approved for broader medical use in several countries outside the US
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2010s–Present — Renewed interest driven by the wellness and alternative health communities. Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO becomes widely available for research and topical use
Despite being one of the most studied compounds in medical literature, DMSO remains FDA-approved only for interstitial cystitis in the United States. However, it is widely available as a research compound and topical product.
What Is DMSO Used For?
DMSO has been studied and used for a wide range of applications. Here's what the research and user community focus on:
Topical Application
The most common use of DMSO is topical — applied directly to the skin. Areas of interest include:
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Joint and muscle discomfort — DMSO has been studied for its ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief when applied to affected areas
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Skin health — Research has explored DMSO's effects on skin conditions and wound healing
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Carrier for other compounds — DMSO's penetration ability is used to enhance the absorption of other topical substances (such as castor oil, aloe vera, and magnesium)
Research & Laboratory Use
In laboratory settings, DMSO is one of the most widely used solvents in the world:
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Cell biology — Used as a cryoprotectant to preserve cells during freezing
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Drug delivery research — Studied extensively as a carrier for transdermal drug delivery
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Chemistry — Used as a polar aprotic solvent in countless chemical reactions
Veterinary Use
DMSO has a long history in veterinary medicine, particularly for horses and other large animals, where it's used topically for inflammation and swelling.
DMSO Properties at a Glance
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Chemical formula: (CH₃)₂SO
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Molecular weight: 78.13 g/mol
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Appearance: Colorless, slightly viscous liquid
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Odor: Mild garlic-like smell (stronger in lower grades)
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Freezing point: 65°F (18.5°C) — solidifies at room temperature in cool environments
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Boiling point: 372°F (189°C)
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Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents
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Skin penetration: Begins within minutes of application
Fun fact: If your DMSO freezes (turns solid or crystalline), that's actually a sign of high purity. Simply warm it to room temperature and it returns to liquid form with no loss of quality.
DMSO Grades: Not All DMSO Is the Same
This is one of the most important things to understand about DMSO. The grade determines the purity and intended use:
Pharmaceutical Grade (99.9%+ purity)
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Highest commercially available purity
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Third-party lab tested for contaminants and heavy metals
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Packaged in chemically compatible containers (glass or HDPE)
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Appropriate for topical use and research
Reagent / ACS Grade (99.5%+)
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Laboratory-grade purity
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Meets American Chemical Society standards
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Used primarily in controlled research settings
Industrial / Technical Grade (99% or lower)
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Used as an industrial solvent
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May contain residual chemicals from manufacturing
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Not appropriate for skin contact or human use
Because DMSO penetrates skin and carries substances with it, purity is more important with DMSO than almost any other topical product. Impurities don't just sit on the surface — they get transported into the body. Always choose pharmaceutical grade.
For a deeper dive, read: Best Pharmaceutical Grade DMSO — What to Look For and How to Choose
Why Packaging Matters for DMSO
DMSO is a powerful solvent — which means it reacts with certain container materials. The wrong packaging can contaminate the product before you even open it.
Safe for DMSO:
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Glass — Completely inert, ideal for droppers and liquid bottles
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HDPE (high-density polyethylene) — Chemically resistant, safe for roll-on applicators and bulk containers
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PTFE (Teflon) — Used for cap liners and seals
NOT safe for DMSO:
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PET, PVC, polystyrene, polycarbonate, rubber — all degrade or leach on contact with DMSO
If a DMSO product comes in a generic plastic bottle and the seller can't tell you what it's made of — that's a red flag.
How to Use DMSO Topically
If you're using DMSO for topical application, follow these guidelines for safe and effective use:
1. Clean the area thoroughly
Wash and dry the skin before applying. Because DMSO carries substances through the skin, you want the area free of lotions, fragrances, sunscreen, or any other product.
2. Use clean hands (or gloves)
Anything on your hands — soap residue, dirt, lotion — can be carried through the skin by DMSO.
3. Apply a small amount
Start with a small area to test for sensitivity. A few drops from a dropper or one pass with a roll-on is usually sufficient.
4. Let it absorb
Don't cover the area immediately. Allow the DMSO to absorb naturally for several minutes before dressing.
5. Be consistent
Regular, consistent use tends to produce better results than sporadic application.
What to expect: You may notice a mild warming or tingling sensation at the application site. A slight garlic-like taste in the mouth is also common — this is harmless and happens because DMSO is rapidly absorbed and metabolized.
DMSO Safety Considerations
DMSO is generally considered safe for topical use when used properly, but there are important considerations:
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Carrier effect — Because DMSO transports substances through the skin, always ensure the application area is clean and free of other products
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Skin sensitivity — Some people experience temporary redness, warmth, or itching at the application site. This is usually mild and resolves quickly
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Garlic taste — Many users report a garlic-like taste in the mouth shortly after applying DMSO to the skin. This is a well-documented effect and is not harmful
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Drug interactions — If you're using prescription medications (especially topical ones), consult a healthcare professional before using DMSO, as it may enhance their absorption
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Pregnancy and nursing — Consult a healthcare provider before using DMSO if pregnant or nursing
Important: DMSO is sold as a research compound and topical product. It is not FDA-approved for general medical use (only for interstitial cystitis as Rimso-50). This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
DMSO Product Formats
Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO is available in several formats:
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Liquid with glass dropper — Precise, targeted application. Available in 4oz and 8oz
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Roll-on applicator — Mess-free, convenient for larger areas. HDPE chemical-resistant container
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DMSO + Castor Oil blend — Pre-mixed combination in both dropper (2oz glass) and roll-on (3oz HDPE) formats
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Bulk (1 gallon) — Best per-ounce value for regular users. HDPE container
The right format depends on how you plan to use it. Droppers are best for targeted areas; roll-ons are ideal for broader application zones like joints, back, and shoulders.
Frequently Asked Questions About DMSO
What does DMSO stand for?
DMSO stands for dimethyl sulfoxide — an organosulfur compound with the formula (CH₃)₂SO.
Where does DMSO come from?
DMSO is a byproduct of the wood pulp industry (kraft pulping process). It also occurs naturally in trace amounts in certain foods and beverages. Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO is produced through controlled industrial synthesis and purification.
Is DMSO FDA-approved?
DMSO is FDA-approved only for the treatment of interstitial cystitis (a bladder condition), marketed as Rimso-50. It is not FDA-approved for other medical uses in the US, though it is widely available as a research compound and topical product. It has broader approvals in some other countries.
Why does DMSO cause a garlic taste?
When DMSO is absorbed through the skin, it's metabolized in the body to dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which is exhaled and can produce a garlic or oyster-like taste. This is normal, harmless, and temporary.
Can DMSO be taken orally?
Some research has studied oral DMSO, but topical application is the most common use for consumer products. Always consult a healthcare professional before oral use of any research compound.
How should DMSO be stored?
Store in the original container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. DMSO freezes at about 65°F (18.5°C) — if it solidifies, simply warm to room temperature. Freezing and thawing does not degrade pharmaceutical-grade DMSO.
What's the difference between DMSO and MSM?
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a metabolite of DMSO — your body naturally converts some DMSO to MSM. However, they are different compounds with different properties. DMSO is a liquid with penetration and carrier properties; MSM is a solid supplement typically taken orally for joint support.
What purity should I look for?
Always choose pharmaceutical-grade DMSO with 99.9% purity or higher, verified by third-party lab testing. Because DMSO carries substances through the skin, impurities in lower-grade products get delivered directly into the body.
The Bottom Line
DMSO is a remarkable compound with a unique set of properties — rapid skin penetration, carrier ability, anti-inflammatory activity, and extraordinary versatility. It's been studied in thousands of research papers and used by millions of people worldwide.
If you're considering DMSO, the most important decision is quality. Choose pharmaceutical-grade DMSO with verified purity, chemically compatible packaging, and third-party lab testing. Understand how it works, follow safe application practices, and consult a healthcare professional if you have specific health concerns.
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