What are the Topical Uses for DMSO?

DMSO or Dimethyl Sulfoxide is a substance derived from wood pulp and is sometimes used as a solvent. It can be used topically on the skin for various problems and it penetrates quickly with a peak time of four to eight hours. DMSO is not rubbed onto the skin but is blotted on with thin coats and usually diluted between 50 and 80 percent.

Arthritis Pain

DMSO is beneficial as a rapid temporary pain reliever for arthritis.

Bruises, Pulled Ligaments, Tendons and Muscle

Topical application of DMSO also helps a variety of sports injuries. It can help to prevent or minimize bruises and alleviate pain.

Athlete's Foot and Foot Odor

Using a 50 percent diluted solution of DMSO on the feet helps to combat athlete's foot and will also help to alleviate foot odor.

Hormones

DMSO is excellent at penetrating the skin and acting as a carrier for all types of topical treatments. When used as a carrier for hormone applications it has been known to increase their availability in the body by 300 percent.

Shingles

Applications of DMSO have helped alleviate the lesions associated with shingles (Herpes Zoster).

Scars, Scleroderma and X-rays

Applying DMSO to raised scars three times a day helps to flatten the tissues over several months and it also helps to relieve skin affected by Scleroderma.

Using DMSO on the skin protects the body from the toxic effects of X-rays.

Common minor side effects of using DMSO are itching skin, redness, or rash. This can be relieved by diluting it with more water. As a precaution, make sure to wash your hands before applying, since DMSO is an excellent carrier, it can carry any toxins on your hands into your skin.