ODM Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) Ultimate Penetration Enhancer for Skincare Actives Manufacturer, Factory

Products Name  Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI)
CAS No  5306-85-4
INCI Name  Dimethyl Isosorbide
Specification  ≥99%
Molecular Weight  174.20 g/mol
Chemical Formula  C₈H₁₄O₄
Appearance  Clear colorless to pale yellow liquid

Product Description

Dimethyl Isosorbide

Product Description

Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) is an eco-friendly solvent synthesized from renewable sorbitol. Its molecular structure, containing two methoxy groups and a furan ring, endows it with excellent solubility and stability. As a colorless, transparent liquid, DMI is miscible with water, polyols, and esters in any proportion, maintaining liquid fluidity within the temperature range of -50°C to 200°C. It creates permeation channels by dissolving free fats on the skin’s surface, aiding active ingredients in penetrating the stratum corneum. It is non-irritating to the skin, with safety validated by multiple toxicological studies.

Unlock Active Ingredient Potential

Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) is the gold-standard penetration enhancer trusted by cosmetic chemists and skincare brands worldwide. This pharmaceutical-grade ingredient significantly improves the delivery and efficacy of skincare formulations:

Boosting active ingredient absorption – Enhances transdermal penetration by up to 300%
Solubilizing challenging compounds – Perfect for vitamin C, retinoids, and CBD formulations
Maintaining lightweight texture – Non-greasy alternative to silicones and oils
Improving formula stability – Extends shelf life of oxidation-prone actives

Why Formulators Choose DMI

99.9% Purity: Highest grade available for cosmetic applications
Multi-Functional: Acts as solvent, carrier, and penetration booster
Safety Certified: Non-irritating (OECD 439 tested) and vegan
Versatile Compatibility: Works in serums, creams, and transdermal systems

Key Benefits

Solvent

High-Efficiency Solvent and Carrier

DMI exhibits excellent solubility for both polar and non-polar ingredients, dissolving poorly soluble actives like salicylic acid, vitamins, and resorcinol-based whitening agents.

Absorption

Enhanced Transdermal Absorption

By disrupting lipid structures in the stratum corneum, DMI improves the delivery of anti-aging and spot-lightening ingredients several times over.

Stability

Support for Formulation Stability

DMI is resistant to high temperatures and chemically stable, preventing hydrolysis or oxidation during storage or heat exposure.

Gentle

Gentle and Low-Irritation

Less irritating than traditional enhancers, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Its components also help neutralize free radicals.

Recommended Use

Typically added at 1-10% in cosmetic formulations, depending on specific needs.
Whitening Serums: 3-5% to boost niacinamide penetration.
Sunscreen Lotions: 2-4% to dissolve sunscreens effectively.

Applications

Commonly used in facial creams, serums, lotions, and masks.

Skincare

Skincare Products

Used in serums targeting chloasma and sun spots to accelerate melanin metabolism.

Anti-Aging

Anti-Aging Products

Promotes peptides and pro-Xylane penetration into the dermis for collagen production.

Color Cosmetics

Color Cosmetics

Acts as a dispersant in foundations and helps setting sprays for long-lasting wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the primary function of Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI)?
A1: DMI serves as a high-purity solvent and carrier that significantly enhances the transdermal delivery of active ingredients, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin layers.
Q2: Can DMI be used in products for sensitive skin?
A2: Yes, DMI is validated as non-irritating and is considered much gentler than many traditional penetration enhancers, making it ideal for sensitive skin formulations.
Q3: What is the recommended dosage for cosmetic formulations?
A3: The typical usage level is between 1% and 10%. For specific applications like whitening serums, 3-5% is common, while 2-4% is often used in sunscreens.
Q4: Does DMI improve the stability of my formula?
A4: Yes, DMI is chemically stable and heat-resistant. It helps prevent active ingredients from undergoing oxidation or hydrolysis, thereby extending the shelf life of the product.
Q5: Is this ingredient vegan-friendly?
A5: Absolutely. It is synthesized from renewable sorbitol and does not contain any animal-derived components, making it 100% vegan.
Q6: How should the raw material be stored?
A6: It should be stored in a closed container in a dry place at room temperature to maintain its 99.9% purity and stability.

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