What Is Myristyl Nicotinate?
Myristyl Nicotinate, also known as tetradecyl nicotinate, is an ester made by combining myristyl alcohol with nicotinic acid, the active form of vitamin B3. The myristyl portion is a 14-carbon fatty alcohol usually sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil, while the nicotinic acid is produced through the oxidation of nicotine or biosynthetic fermentation. When these two parts are joined through an esterification reaction, the resulting molecule becomes oil-loving yet still carries the skin-friendly traits of niacin.
The ingredient began appearing in personal care research in the late 1980s as formulators searched for gentler ways to deliver vitamin B3 derivatives to skin without the flushing often linked to plain niacin. Its dual nature—fatty from the myristyl chain and vitamin-rich from the nicotinate group—quickly made it a favorite for leave-on products that aim to soften skin while supporting a healthy barrier.
Commercial production involves heating purified myristyl alcohol with nicotinic acid in the presence of an acid catalyst, then removing water to drive the reaction to completion. After purification and quality checks, the clear to pale yellow liquid is packaged for use by cosmetic chemists.
You will most often find Myristyl Nicotinate in facial moisturizers, anti-aging creams, body lotions, hair conditioners, scalp treatments, overnight masks, cuticle oils and other leave-on formulas where a silky finish and conditioning boost are desired.
Myristyl Nicotinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas, Myristyl Nicotinate works in two main ways:
- Hair conditioning: The fatty alcohol tail coats strands, smoothing the cuticle so hair feels softer, looks shinier and resists tangles. It adds slip that makes comb-through easier and helps reduce static.
- Skin conditioning: The emollient nature of the myristyl chain fills in microscopic gaps in the skin surface, while the nicotinate portion supports a healthy-looking glow. Together they improve softness, boost suppleness and leave a lightweight, non-greasy finish that suits both face and body care.
Who Can Use Myristyl Nicotinate
Myristyl Nicotinate is generally suitable for most skin types including dry, normal and combination skin thanks to its light emollient feel. Oily or acne prone skin usually tolerates it well because the molecule is lightweight and non occlusive, though those highly sensitive or dealing with rosacea might notice a brief warming sensation from the nicotinate part. If persistent redness is a concern choosing a product with a lower concentration or pairing it with calming ingredients can help.
The ingredient is synthetically produced from plant derived myristyl alcohol and laboratory made nicotinic acid, so it does not rely on animal sources. That makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians. If palm sourced feedstocks are an issue, look for brands that certify the use of sustainably harvested palm oil.
No specific warnings link Myristyl Nicotinate to pregnancy or breastfeeding risks when used topically at cosmetic levels. It is a distant cousin of niacinamide, which is routinely recommended in gentle prenatal skincare. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone pregnant or nursing should run any product past a qualified healthcare provider before adding it to a routine.
The ingredient does not raise photosensitivity and may actually support a strong moisture barrier that defends against environmental stress. Regular sunscreen use is still advised with any daytime regimen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Myristyl Nicotinate vary between individuals. The points below outline potential reactions, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is included at standard cosmetic levels in a well formulated product.
- Mild warmth or flushing shortly after application
- Transient tingling or stinging sensation on very sensitive skin
- Temporary redness that usually subsides within minutes
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis or allergic rash
- Greasy feel or buildup on fine hair if overapplied in leave on conditioners
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a medical professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Myristyl Nicotinate is an esterified fatty alcohol with a relatively light molecular weight and an oily-yet-dry finish. It softens skin without creating a heavy occlusive film, so it has a very low tendency to clog pores. Limited in-vivo data and anecdotal feedback from formulators place it just above completely non-comedogenic ingredients like squalane.
This low score means it is generally fine for people prone to acne or breakouts, though the rest of a product’s formula and personal tolerance still matter.
Keep in mind that comedogenicity scales are guides, not absolutes. A product rich in other pore-blocking oils could override the mild nature of Myristyl Nicotinate.
Summary
Myristyl Nicotinate conditions hair by smoothing the cuticle for easier combing and less static, while on skin it acts as a lightweight emollient that boosts softness and supports barrier health thanks to its vitamin B3 backbone. These dual benefits come from the fatty myristyl chain coating surfaces for slip and the nicotinate portion promoting a healthy-looking glow.
It is a useful but still somewhat niche ingredient, showing up mainly in mid to high-end leave-on creams, serums and conditioners rather than everyday drugstore basics.
Safety reviews and real-world use point to a low irritation profile and a very low comedogenic score, so most users can enjoy it worry-free. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, patch test a small area first to rule out individual sensitivities before applying widely.