Alternatives to DMSO for Skin Penetration

Hello, thank you for your question.

Regarding the formulation you mentioned using DMSO and Vitamin C to aid skin penetration, DMSO is well-known for its properties as a penetration enhancer. However, as you noted, the odor of DMSO can be undesirable.

For alternatives to DMSO that assist in skin penetration and may have a better odor, there are several substances commonly used in skincare products to enhance the delivery of active ingredients (penetration enhancers). These substances work through various mechanisms, such as temporarily disrupting the skin's lipid barrier structure or increasing the solubility of the active ingredient.

Examples of substances that might be considered as alternatives (the choice of which depends on other active ingredients in the formulation, concentration, and product type) include:

• Glycols: Such as Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Hexylene Glycol
• Fatty Alcohols: Such as Oleyl Alcohol
• Fatty Acids: Such as Oleic Acid
• Esters: Such as Isopropyl Myristate, Isopropyl Palmitate
• Ethoxydiglycol
• Urea
• Delivery Systems: Such as Liposomes, Nanoparticles

Important Considerations:

1. Not Medical Advice: This information pertains to cosmetic chemistry and skin penetration enhancers, not medical advice or a formulation for treating skin cancer. Skin cancer treatment must be under the care of a medical professional.
2. Efficacy and Compatibility: The effectiveness of each penetration enhancer in delivering Vitamin C into the skin can vary and depends on compatibility with other ingredients in the formulation, as well as the stability of Vitamin C in that formulation.
3. Irritation: Some penetration enhancers can cause skin irritation. The selection must also consider skin safety.

Therefore, the selection and formulation development for a DMSO alternative should be considered and performed by a cosmetic chemist or pharmacist to ensure appropriate efficacy and safety.