Synthol is a site enhancement oil (SEO) used by some bodybuilders to artificially inflate the appearance of their muscles. Unlike anabolic steroids or traditional training-based gains, Synthol doesn’t contribute to actual strength or muscle tissue development—it’s a cosmetic enhancement with significant risks.
How Does Synthol Work?
Synthol is injected directly into a muscle to increase its volume. The solution typically contains 85% oil (often medium-chain triglycerides), 7.5% lidocaine (a painkiller), and 7.5% alcohol (as a sterilizer). Once injected, the oil sits in the muscle tissue and causes it to swell.
This process has no actual anabolic benefit and doesn’t lead to real muscle growth—only a temporary increase in size and visual appearance.
Why Do Some Bodybuilders Use Synthol?
Many bodybuilders who use Synthol do so to exaggerate the size of lagging muscle groups—especially the biceps, triceps, delts, and calves—without spending years training those areas. This has led to highly controversial and often unnatural-looking physiques.
In contrast, athletes looking for real muscle gains and improved strength prefer evidence-backed anabolic agents. For example, those pursuing size and strength stacks often explore cycles like Deca Durabolin cycles or advanced routines like the Ronnie Coleman steroid cycle that focus on genuine performance enhancements.
Risks and Side Effects of Synthol
Using Synthol comes with serious health risks:
- Muscle fibrosis and disfigurement
- Infections and abscess formation
- Nerve damage and loss of mobility
- Oil embolism leading to stroke or pulmonary complications
- Permanent scarring and asymmetry
Several high-profile cases, including individuals featured in Synthol misuse documentaries, highlight the dangers and irreversible damage caused by improper injection techniques.
Synthol vs. Anabolic Steroids: Key Differences
| Feature | Synthol | Anabolic Steroids |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Cosmetic volume only | Muscle tissue growth, strength, recovery |
| Mechanism | Oil fills the muscle | Hormonal enhancement of protein synthesis |
| Risk Level | Very high (infection, disfigurement) | Moderate to high (managed with PCT) |
| Longevity of Results | Temporary, non-functional | Can support long-term gains with cycles like Cycle Mass |
Better Alternatives for Aesthetic Muscle Growth
If your goal is lean size and definition, site enhancement oil should never be your first choice. Instead, focus on:
- Structured anabolic cycles with compounds like Anavar or Winstrol
- Progressive resistance training and proper nutrition
- Safe supplementation strategies like those found in popular stack cycles
These options offer real, functional gains that can be maintained with proper off-cycle recovery and PCT protocols.
Conclusion: Should You Use Synthol?
Synthol is not a performance enhancer. It carries significant health risks, creates unnatural aesthetics, and can lead to irreversible damage. For bodybuilders who value functionality, symmetry, and long-term results, sticking to scientifically supported enhancement methods is the smarter path.
If you’re currently researching anabolic cycles or alternatives to cosmetic enhancements, consider reviewing detailed resources like our breakdown of Deca vs. Tren or the complete Superdrol cycle guide for more context.