What Is Dimyristyl Tartrate?
Dimyristyl Tartrate is the diester of tartaric acid and myristyl alcohol, also called 2,3-dihydroxybutanedioic acid ditetradecyl ester. The tartaric acid portion is often sourced from grape by-products created during winemaking, while the fatty alcohol usually comes from plant oils such as coconut or palm kernel. Because both starting materials are plentiful and renewable, the ingredient is considered a plant-derived or naturally based cosmetic raw material.
The compound is produced through an esterification process: purified tartaric acid is reacted with myristyl alcohol under controlled heat with an acid catalyst, then the mixture is refined to remove impurities. The result is a waxy, off-white solid that melts on contact with skin and disperses easily in oils.
Cosmetic chemists began using Dimyristyl Tartrate in the late 1970s when they were looking for gentle, plant-based emollients to replace heavier animal fats. Over time it proved useful not only for its silky skin feel but also for the slight grip it gives to formulas, helping creams stay on the skin and powders adhere better. Today you can find it in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, facial masks, sunscreens, body lotions, makeup primers, foundations and certain lipsticks where a smooth glide and lightweight cushion are desired.
Dimyristyl Tartrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers two key functions that improve both the performance and sensory appeal of cosmetic products
- Skin conditioning: Forms a smooth, breathable film that softens the skin surface, leaving it feeling supple and hydrated. This conditioning effect can help diminish the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness and makes the skin look more even and refreshed.
- Emollient: Fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells, reducing roughness and flakiness. Its light, non-greasy texture imparts a velvety after-feel, which enhances the spreadability of creams and lotions and boosts overall user comfort.
Who Can Use Dimyristyl Tartrate
Dimyristyl Tartrate is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, dry and combination skin. Its lightweight emollient profile means it rarely feels heavy or occlusive, making it suitable for oily or blemish-prone skin unless an individual is extremely sensitive to fatty esters. People with very reactive or compromised skin should check how their skin responds, as any ingredient can potentially cause irritation in these cases.
The ingredient is plant derived because both tartaric acid and myristyl alcohol are sourced from botanical materials. No animal by-products are used in its manufacture so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
There are no known issues that restrict use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with their healthcare provider to be safe.
Dimyristyl Tartrate does not increase photosensitivity and has no reported interaction with sunlight. It also plays well with other common cosmetic ingredients, so it can be layered or blended in multi-step routines without special precautions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Dimyristyl Tartrate vary from person to person. The following points list potential side effects, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness or itching in people with sensitivity to fatty esters
- Rare contact dermatitis in individuals with pre-existing allergies to similar compounds
If any of these issues occur discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
On the 0-5 scale Dimyristyl Tartrate scores a 2. The molecule contains a medium-chain fatty segment but its large ester structure and wax-like consistency limit how deeply it can settle in pores, so it only carries a mild clogging risk.
Most acne-prone users can use products containing this ingredient without issues, though very oily skin may want to keep an eye on how it performs.
Formulators typically dose it at 1-4 percent, a range that delivers slip and softness without pushing a formula’s overall comedogenic load too high.
Summary
Dimyristyl Tartrate is a plant-derived emollient and skin-conditioning agent that melts on contact, spreads easily then forms a light breathable film that smooths, softens and visually evens the skin surface.
It is not a headline-grabbing star but its renewable sourcing, gentle feel and compatibility with many formulation types give it steady popularity in moisturizers, sunscreens, primers, foundations and some lip products.
Safety reviews show it to be low risk with only occasional mild irritation reports. Still, whenever you try a new product that contains Dimyristyl Tartrate it is wise to perform a quick patch test to make sure your skin agrees with it.