DMSO is easily absorbed by the skin. It's sometimes used to increase the body's absorption of other medications. DMSO is available without a prescription most often in gel or cream form.It can be purchased in health food stores, by mail order, and on the Internet.While it can sometimes be found as an oral supplement, its safety is unclear. DMSO is primarily used by applying it to the skin.MSO has been used to try to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. It has also been promoted as an alternative cancer treatment. People have used it to try to treat wounds, burns, and other injuries. People have also used it to try to treat such conditions as: 1  Headache. 2  Rheumatoid arthritis. 3  Eye problems.