What Is Myristyl Myristate?
Myristyl myristate is an ester formed when myristyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol derived from plant oils like coconut or palm kernel, reacts with myristic acid, a saturated fatty acid found in the same oils. The result is a waxy solid sometimes referred to by its chemical name tetradecyl myristate. Cosmetic chemists began using fatty esters such as this in the 1960s as a more skin-friendly alternative to mineral oils and heavy waxes. Production involves combining the alcohol and acid under controlled heat with a catalyst, then purifying the finished material to meet cosmetic-grade standards.
Because of its creamy feel and stability, myristyl myristate shows up in a wide range of products. You will find it in facial and body moisturizers, sunscreens, color cosmetics like foundations and lipsticks, age-defying creams, hair conditioners, cleansing balms, masks and even solid perfumes. Whenever a formula needs extra softness or a richer texture, this ingredient is a common choice.
Myristyl Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on myristyl myristate for several useful roles in skin and hair care products.
- Opacifying: It scatters light within a formula, giving lotions and creams an elegant, opaque look that consumers often associate with richness and quality
- Skin conditioning: It forms a light film on the skin surface, helping it feel smoother and softer while reducing moisture loss throughout the day
- Emollient: Its waxy structure fills in tiny gaps between skin cells which leads to a velvet-like touch and a more supple appearance
Who Can Use Myristyl Myristate
Most skin types tolerate myristyl myristate well. Normal, dry and mature skin often benefit the most thanks to the ingredient’s ability to lock in moisture and give products a richer feel. Combination skin usually handles it in moderate amounts, especially when the formula balances lighter ingredients alongside it. Very oily or acne-prone complexions may find it a bit too occlusive, which can contribute to clogged pores in some users.
The ingredient is sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm kernel, so it is generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Those following a strict lifestyle may still want to confirm the supplier’s sourcing practices to be certain animal by-products were not involved.
There are no specific warnings against using myristyl myristate while pregnant or breastfeeding. It is considered low-risk for topical use, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should always show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified healthcare professional before adding it to their routine.
Myristyl myristate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not classed as a photosensitizer. It also plays well with most active ingredients and does not interfere with sunscreen filters or antioxidants.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical myristyl myristate vary from person to person. The points below outline possible issues, though most users experience none of them when the ingredient is included at typical cosmetic levels.
- Clogged pores or breakouts in very oily or acne-prone skin
- Mild skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases
- Greasy or heavy skin feel if applied in high-concentration formulas
- Folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles) on the body when used in thick creams
- Weighed-down or greasy hair when used in leave-in hair products
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a dermatologist or healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 5 / 5 (highly comedogenic)
Myristyl myristate is a waxy fatty ester that can form an occlusive film on skin. While that film helps keep moisture in, it can also trap dead cells and oil underneath, which raises the risk of blocked pores. Studies and anecdotal industry reports consistently place it at the top of comedogenicity scales, especially when used at higher levels in rich creams and makeup.
Because of this, the ingredient is generally not recommended for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Formulation context matters: when used at low percentages in lightweight lotions or washed off in cleansers, the pore-clogging potential drops, but it never fully disappears.
Summary
Myristyl myristate acts as an opacifier, skin conditioner and emollient. Its waxy structure scatters light to give formulas a creamy look, slips between skin cells to smooth rough patches and leaves a soft film that slows water loss so skin feels supple longer.
It is a workhorse ingredient seen in everything from moisturizers and sunscreens to foundations and conditioners. While not a buzzworthy superstar, its ability to improve texture and sensory feel keeps it popular with formulators.
Safety-wise, it has a long track record of low irritation and is considered safe for topical use by major regulatory bodies. The main concern is its high comedogenic rating, so anyone with acne-prone skin should choose products wisely. As with any new product, it is smart to patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.