Make your own DMSO cream: Step-by-step instructions for safe home production
DMSO cream is known for its versatile, natural healing properties, and homemade creams offer the advantage of being able to customize the ingredients. But making your own requires care, as DMSO is a strong solvent and contamination or incorrect concentrations can easily lead to skin irritation. This guide will show you how to make your own DMSO cream safely and easily.
What you should know about DMSO
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a solvent with anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and circulation-stimulating properties. In natural medicine, DMSO is applied externally and can help with muscle and joint pain, swelling, skin problems and scars. However, since DMSO can transport other substances deep into the skin, purity is particularly important.
Benefits of a homemade DMSO cream
- Control over ingredients: You decide on the concentration and the basic ingredients.
- Avoiding additives: Homemade creams are free of unnecessary chemicals or artificial preservatives.
- Customization: You can tailor the cream to your skin type and your specific concerns.
Safety instructions for the preparation of DMSO cream
Before you begin, please note some important notes to ensure safe use:
- Purity: Use only pure, medical grade DMSO with a purity of 99,9%.
- Protective measures: Wear gloves as DMSO is easily absorbed through the skin.
- Hygiene: Make sure your work surface is clean and use sterile utensils to avoid contamination.
- Concentration: Start with a lower concentration (e.g. 25-50%) and increase if necessary.
Step-by-step instructions for making DMSO cream
Ingredients
- DMSO (99,9% purity): 25-50 ml depending on the desired concentration
- Distilled water: 25-50 ml (depending on DMSO concentration)
- Base cream or gel: 100 g (e.g. aloe vera gel, shea butter or olive oil cream)
- Essential oils (optional): Depending on your needs, e.g. lavender for calming effects or tea tree oil for Skin care
Note: The concentration of DMSO is chosen between 25 and 50% depending on the skin type and intended use. Higher concentrations should only be used under medical advice.
Utils
- measuring cup and spoon (preferably made of glass)
- Small, sterile bowl
- Clean stirring sticks (preferably made of glass or stainless steel)
- Airtight glass container for storage
Step 1: Prepare DMSO solution
- Mix the DMSO and distilled water in the desired ratio (e.g. 1:1 for a 50% solution).
- Gently stir the mixture in the glass bowl until completely combined.
- Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to allow any bubbles that may form to dissolve.
Step 2: Select and prepare base cream
- Choose a natural base cream that you tolerate well and that is free of alcohol and artificial fragrances. Aloe vera gel is particularly suitable as it has cooling and moisturizing properties.
- If the base cream is solid (e.g. shea butter), you can warm it slightly in a water bath to mix it better with the DMSO.
Step 3: Mix DMSO solution with base cream
- Slowly add the DMSO-water mixture into the base cream.
- Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly until it reaches a uniform consistency.
- If you want to add essential oils, add 3-5 drops and stir well again.
Step 4: Transfer and store
- Fill the finished DMSO cream into an airtight glass container.
- To maintain the effectiveness of the ingredients, store the cream in a cool, dark place. A place in the refrigerator is ideal.
Tip: Label the container with the date of manufacture and the concentration of the cream to keep track and check the shelf life.
Application and tips for homemade DMSO cream
Dosage and Application
- Test your skin tolerance: Apply a small amount to an inconspicuous area of skin, such as the forearm, and wait 24 hours to ensure no irritation occurs.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of the cream to the desired area and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Then wash the skin with clean water or use a moisturizing cream.
- Frequency: Once or twice a day is usually sufficient. If you have sensitive skin, it may be advisable to use it every two days.
Avoid possible application errors
- Applying too frequently: DMSO works long after application, so too frequent use can irritate the skin.
- Application on contaminated skin: Since DMSO can transport foreign substances into the skin, you should clean the skin before each use.
- Protect your hands: Since DMSO is also absorbed through the hands, wear gloves when applying the cream.
Advantages and disadvantages of homemade DMSO cream
Benefits
- Customization: Concentration and base ingredients can be adapted to the skin’s needs.
- More cost-effective: Making your own is often cheaper than buying special DMSO products.
- Natural: Without additives and free from artificial preservatives.
Disadvantages
- Risk of incorrect concentration: Too high concentrations can cause skin irritation.
- More complex preparation: Production requires time, care and a clean environment.
- Shorter shelf life: Without preservatives, the cream only lasts about 2-3 months in the refrigerator.
Frequently asked questions about the production and use of DMSO cream
How long does the homemade DMSO cream last?
Homemade DMSO cream will last for about 2-3 months if stored in a cool place and kept airtight. Always pay attention to any changes in consistency or smell.
Can I mix DMSO with any base product?
Not all creams or gels are suitable as a base for DMSO. Do not use products with alcohol or fragrances as these can cause irritation. Aloe vera gel or pure shea butter are ideal.
What should I do if I notice skin irritation?
If irritation occurs, wash the skin thoroughly with water and avoid using the product for a few days. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
Conclusion: Make DMSO cream safely and effectively yourself
Making your own DMSO cream is a great way to use DMSO in its pure form and customize the ingredients. With the right preparation, concentration and hygiene, the homemade cream can provide valuable support for natural skin care and pain management.
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Sandy Theis
December 20, 2025 at 12:47 pmUnfortunately, it doesn't work at all with shea butter; it doesn't mix with the liquid, even after heating. The liquid stays at the bottom and the shea butter on top, just like water and oil.
Nature Total Team
April 20, 2026 at 11:04 amHello Ms. Theis,
Thank you very much for your feedback.
Shea butter and liquid ingredients do not bind permanently on their own, so separation of the phases can indeed occur. A suitable emulsifier is usually necessary for a smooth cream. Without an emulsifier, the consistency often remains unstable, even when the mixture is heated.
Thank you for sharing your experience.
Kind regards
Your Nature Total Team