What Is Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI)?
Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) is a high-purity cosmetic solvent widely used in skincare and personal care formulations. It is valued by formulators for its ability to dissolve and stabilise a wide range of cosmetic ingredients, helping to create clear, uniform, and well-balanced products.
DMI is commonly included in professional and DIY formulations where precise ingredient dispersion and formulation consistency are required.
Technical Details & Characteristics
-
INCI Name: Dimethyl Isosorbide
-
Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid
-
Odour: Mild
-
Solubility: Miscible with water and many organic solvents
-
Formulation Role: Solvent, carrier
-
Typical Usage Rate: 1–10% (depending on formulation needs)
-
pH Stability: Stable across a broad pH range
-
Heat Stability: Suitable for both hot and cold process formulations
How It Is Used in Cosmetic Formulations
Dimethyl Isosorbide is added during the formulation process to help dissolve or carry cosmetic ingredients that may otherwise be difficult to incorporate evenly. It can be included in:
-
Serums
-
Emulsions
-
Gels
-
Lotions
-
Masks
It is compatible with a wide variety of cosmetic ingredients and is suitable for use in leave-on and rinse-off products intended for external cosmetic application.
Why Formulators Choose DMI
-
Helps achieve clear, uniform formulations
-
Improves ingredient compatibility within complex formulas
-
Supports stable, professional-quality cosmetic products
-
Suitable for both small-batch DIY and larger-scale formulation work
Important Information
-
Cosmetic ingredient for formulation use only
-
Not a finished cosmetic product
-
Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition
-
For external cosmetic use only
-
Formulators are responsible for ensuring final product safety and regulatory compliance
Documents