Dimethyl Isosorbide

Good

Solvent

No known benefits

Dimethyl Isosorbide description

Dimethyl isosorbide is a clear, slighlty oily-feeling liquid that functions as a solvent and may be plant-based or synthetic. It is also used to decrease the thickness of products, such as keeping a liquid in its fluid form rather than wllowing it to rever to a lotion (or, in cosmetics chemistry parlance, a thicker emulsion). Another function of this ingredient is to allow controlled, sustained delivery of key ingredients such as antioxidants, so they can, in theory, provide stronger benefits.

Dimethyl Isosorbide references

  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, October 2012, issue 1, pages 38-49
  • ChemSusChem, May 2010, issue 5, pages 566-570
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Physiology, issue 6, October 2008, pages 326-334

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not Rated

rating.description.notrated