Dimethyl Isosorbide
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Sorbitol, Ethoxydiglycol
Synthetic or plant-derived solvent | Helps control the viscosity of cosmetics
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Dimethyl Isosorbide?
Dimethyl isosorbide is a clear, slightly oily-feeling liquid that functions as a solvent. It may be plant-based or synthetic. This ingredient is also used to decrease the thickness of products, such as keeping a liquid in its fluid form rather than letting it revert to a lotion (or, in cosmetics chemistry parlance, an emulsion with higher viscosity).
Another desirable function of dimethyl isosorbide is to allow controlled, sustained delivery of key ingredients such as antioxidants, so they can, in theory, provide stronger and longer-lasting benefits.
Use levels of dimethyl isosorbide in cosmetics range from 1–10% depending on desired aesthetics and which ingredients, if any, may need help penetrating past skins’ surface and doing so in a more controlled manner to reduce risk of irritation. It’s considered non-irritating to skin and eyes.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, April 2020, ePublication [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517320301216]
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, October 2012, pages 38-49 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22634140/]
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ChemSusChem, May 2010, issue 5, pages 566-570 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20401898/]
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Skin Pharmacology and Applied Physiology, issue 6, October 2008, pages 326-334 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18832865/]
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