What Is Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate?
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate is a plant-derived ester created by linking about ten glycerin units to myristic acid, a fatty acid commonly sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. The result is a mild, biodegradable ingredient that looks like an off-white waxy solid and melts easily into cosmetic blends.
Its journey into skincare began in the early 2000s when formulators started searching for greener alternatives to traditional PEG-based emulsifiers. Because glycerin and fatty acids are both well-known, safe materials, chemists combined them to design a multifunctional ingredient that could condition skin without irritation.
Production starts with food-grade glycerin, which is heated under vacuum so the molecules bond into longer chains. This polyglycerol is then reacted with purified myristic acid to form a stable ester. The final material is filtered, cooled and milled into a fine powder or flakes ready for use in cosmetic labs.
You will spot Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating face masks, anti-aging creams, sunscreens, cleansing sticks, solid shampoos and even baby lotions thanks to its gentle nature.
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient works mainly as a skin-conditioning agent, forming a soft breathable film that helps hold moisture on the surface of the skin. This boosts hydration, leaves a silky afterfeel and can improve the spreadability of creams and lotions, letting brands create products that feel rich yet non-greasy.
Who Can Use Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry and mature skin enjoy its light moisturizing boost while oily or acne-prone skin appreciate that it feels weightless and does not clog pores. Sensitive skin usually finds it gentle because it is free of common irritants like fragrance and alcohol. No specific skin type needs to avoid it unless an individual has a rare allergy to fatty acids sourced from coconut or palm.
The ingredient is plant derived so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Although the fatty acid often comes from palm, reputable suppliers follow sustainable sourcing programs which may be important to eco-minded shoppers.
No studies have shown risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in cosmetics. It does not penetrate deeply or act on hormones, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before starting a new product.
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate does not cause photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays nicely with most other cosmetic ingredients so layering it with serums, sunscreens and makeup is usually trouble free.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Itchiness on very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in people allergic to coconut or palm derivatives
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Although myristic acid on its own can be pore clogging, once it is linked to a long chain of glycerin units its oily character drops sharply. In finished formulas it sits on the surface in a very thin film, mixes well with water based phases and is usually used at low levels. These factors keep the risk of blocked pores low.
Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin in most cases.
If a product is very rich in other heavy oils or butters the overall formula could still feel greasy, so pay attention to the complete ingredient list.
Summary
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate is mainly a skin conditioning agent that leaves a light moisturising film helping skin hold on to water. Its unique structure lets it glide on smoothly without leaving a heavy residue which makes creams and lotions feel soft and spread easily.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, it is gaining quiet popularity among clean beauty brands that want plant sourced multifunctional ingredients.
Safety data show it is gentle for most skin types with very low irritation or allergy rates. Still, any new product can combine many ingredients so doing a small patch test first is a good habit to make sure your skin stays happy.