Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) | CAS No.: 5306-85-4 |MF: C8H14O4|MW: 174.19 g/mol
Other Names: Isosorbide Dimethyl Ether, DMI
One Solvent. Infinite Formulation Possibilities.
Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) is a next-generation, high-purity bio-based solvent designed for formulators who demand exceptional solvency, enhanced active delivery, and a superior safety profile. Whether you are formulating sunscreens, anti-aging serums, or pharmaceutical creams, DMI outperforms conventional solvents.
√Plant-Derived | √ Non-Irritating | √ Non-Mutagenic | √ Stable & Safe
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Why Choose DMI for Your Formulations?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| ≥99.5% Purity | Consistent batch-to-batch quality for reproducible results. |
| Broad Solubility | Miscible with water, alcohols, esters, glycols, and oils. |
| Penetration Enhancer | Delivers actives deeper into the epidermis without damaging the skin barrier. |
| Irritation Mitigator | Reduces stinging and peeling caused by potent actives like Retinol and Salicylic acid. |
| Hydrolytically Stable | Maintains formulation integrity in aqueous and emulsion systems. |
| Bio-Based & Safe | Derived from renewable plant starches; non-hazardous for transport. |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Assay (GC) | ≥ 99.0% (Typical 99.5%) |
| Specific Gravity (25°C) | 1.15 – 1.17 |
| Refractive Index | ~1.46 |
| Boiling Point | 234 – 242°C (760 mmHg) |
| Flash Point | > 80°C (Closed cup) |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Acid Value | ≤ 1.0 mg KOH/g |
| Solubility | Fully miscible with water, alcohols, glycols, esters |
Regulatory & Safety Highlights
Based on our comprehensive safety assessment report (Shanghai Weipu Testing Technology Group, April 2024) and NICNAS evaluations:
| Endpoint | Result |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD₅₀) | 5.63 mL/kg bw (Not classified) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating (Undiluted) |
| Eye Irritation | Non-irritating (Undiluted) |
| Skin Sensitization | No allergic reaction observed at 100% |
| Phototoxicity / Photoallergy | Negative (No phototoxicity) |
| Genetic Toxicity (Ames Test) | Negative (Non-mutagenic) |
| 90-Day Oral Repeat Dose (NOAEL) | 375 mg/kg bw/d (Rat) |
| Reproductive Toxicity | No adverse effects at 300 mg/kg bw/d |
| MoS (Margin of Safety) | > 100 (Safe for topical use) |
√ Safety Conclusion: MoS values for all tested product categories (face cream, body lotion, hand cream, sunscreen) exceed 100. Based on SCCS guidelines, the ingredient is considered safe at recommended use levels.
Application Matrix — Where DMI Excels
| Product Category | Recommended Dosage | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Sunscreens | 1% – 10% | Solubilizes organic UV filters; improves SPF efficiency & sensory feel |
| Anti-Aging Serums (Retinol/HPR) | 3% – 10% | Stabilizes retinoids; enhances penetration without irritation |
| Facial Creams & Moisturizers | 5% – 10% | Lightweight, non-greasy feel; boosts active delivery |
| Body Lotions | 2.5% – 5% | Improves spreadability and absorption |
| Hand Creams | 5% – 10% | Deep penetration without residue |
| Acne Treatments (Salicylic acid) | 5% – 15% | Reduces stinging; enhances efficacy |
| Depigmenting Serums (Kojic acid/TXA) | 5% – 15% | Solubilizes hard-to-dissolve brighteners |
| Pharmaceutical Topicals | Up to 15% | FDA-listed inactive ingredient for emulsions & creams |
DMI vs. Traditional Solvents — A Clear Winner
| Property | DMI (Dimethyl Isosorbide) | Propylene Glycol (PG) | Ethanol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Bio-based (Plant starch) | Petrochemical | Petrochemical |
| Skin Penetration | √ Enhances delivery | × Poor | ！Damages barrier |
| Irritation Potential | Low (Non-irritating) | Moderate | High (Stinging) |
| Solvency Range | Broad (Polar + Non-polar) | Moderate | Narrow (Polar only) |
| Flash Point | > 80°C (Safe transport) | 99°C | 13°C (Flammable) |
| Regulatory Status | Fully compliant (IECIC Listed #07835) | Restricted in leave-ons (EU) | Restricted in high conc. |
Trusted by Formulators Worldwide
√ China IECIC Directory: Entry No. 07835 — Highest historical use: 10% in leave-on products
√ NICNAS (AICIS) Assessment: “Risk acceptable up to 25% in personal care products when used as intended”
√ CMR Status: Not classified as CMR (no carcinogenicity, no mutagenicity, no reproductive toxicity)
√ Sustainable: Renewable feedstock, non-VOC, environmentally friendly
Packaging & Logistics
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Packaging Options | 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg, 250 kg (PTFE-lined drum), or custom |
| Sample Lead Time | 3 – 5 working days |
| Bulk Lead Time | 7 – 15 working days |
| MOQ | Flexible (evaluation quantities available) |
| Documentation | COA, MSDS, TDS, Safety Assessment Report available |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is DMI safe for use in cosmetics?
A: Yes. Based on our comprehensive safety assessment (Shanghai Weipu, April 2024), DMI is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, non-phototoxic, and non-mutagenic (Ames negative). The Margin of Safety (MoS) values for all tested product categories exceed 100, which is the safe threshold according to SCCS guidelines.
Q2: What is the recommended usage level of DMI in different products?
A: For face creams: up to 10%; body lotions: 2.5%; hand creams: up to 10%; sunscreens: 1-10%; anti-aging serums: 3-10%. For pharmaceutical topicals, up to 15% (FDA-listed for emulsions and creams).
Q3: Can DMI replace ethanol in cosmetic formulations?
A: In most leave-on products (serums, creams, lotions), yes. DMI provides excellent penetration enhancement without the stinging and barrier damage caused by ethanol. For sprays or quick-dry applications, partial replacement is recommended.
Q4: Is DMI water-soluble?
A: Yes. DMI is fully miscible with water at any ratio, making it ideal for clear serums, gels, and sprays.
Q5: What documentation do you provide?
A: We provide COA (Certificate of Analysis), MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), TDS (Technical Data Sheet), and a full Safety Assessment Report based on China NMPA guidelines.
Q6: What is the MOQ and lead time?
A: Sample lead time: 3-5 working days. Bulk lead time: 7-15 working days. MOQ is flexible — we offer evaluation quantities for initial testing.
Q7: Is DMI vegan and cruelty-free?
A: Yes. DMI is synthesized from plant-based feedstocks (corn or wheat starch), involves no animal-derived ingredients, and is not tested on animals unless required by regulation.
Q8: Can DMI be used in anhydrous formulas?
A: Absolutely. DMI is an excellent base for anhydrous serums. Unlike glycols, it does not feel sticky and provides superior penetration enhancement.
Ready to Elevate Your Formulations?
Whether you are developing the next best-selling sunscreen or a breakthrough anti-aging serum, Huachem DMI delivers performance, safety, and sustainability.
Contact us for DMI samples, COA, MSDS, TDS and further product details.
Email: sales@gzhuachem.com
WhatsApp/WeChat: +8615217471609/+8618565278805
📚 Want to learn more about DMI?
🔗 Read our article: Why DMI Is Replacing Traditional Penetration Enhancers
🔗 See DMI in action: DMI Formulation Guide for Retinol, Vitamin C & Sunscreens
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