From the Research
DMSO can help with wounds by promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and potentially speeding healing, as evidenced by a 2020 study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology 1. When considering the use of DMSO for wound healing, it is essential to prioritize its potential benefits and risks. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2020, found that low-concentration DMSO significantly accelerated skin wound closure by promoting fibroblast proliferation in both non-diabetic and diabetic mice 1.
Key Benefits of DMSO for Wound Healing
- Promotes tissue repair and wound healing
- Reduces inflammation and fights bacteria
- Potentially speeds up the healing process
- Has antioxidant properties that can neutralize harmful free radicals in damaged tissue
- May increase blood flow to the injured area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to support healing
Important Considerations for Using DMSO
- DMSO can cause skin irritation, garlic-like breath odor, and may carry other substances through the skin into the bloodstream
- Its use for wound healing remains largely off-label, so consulting a healthcare provider before using it for wounds is strongly recommended
- Only pharmaceutical-grade DMSO should be used, not industrial grade
Application and Dosage
- Clean the area thoroughly before applying a thin layer of pharmaceutical-grade DMSO to the wound and surrounding skin
- Apply 2-3 times daily, as needed
- Start with a low concentration and gradually increase as needed and under medical supervision
A more recent study published in 2023 in the Archives of Dermatological Research also highlights the potential of DMSO in treating various cutaneous challenges, including wound healing 2. However, the 2020 study 1 provides more specific and relevant evidence for the use of DMSO in wound healing. Other studies, such as those published in 2022 3 and 2011 4, provide additional information on the properties and potential uses of DMSO, but are not directly relevant to its use in wound healing. Similarly, a 2020 study on the anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant potential of compounds from Dioscorea bulbifera L. bulbils 5 is not directly related to the use of DMSO for wound healing.