What Is Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate?
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is a plant-derived surfactant made by joining two naturally occurring molecules: glutamic acid, an amino acid often sourced from sugar beets or corn, and myristic acid, a fatty acid commonly obtained from coconut or palm kernel oil. When these two are linked, then neutralized with food-grade potassium hydroxide, the result is a mild, water-soluble salt that pairs the cleansing power of fatty acids with the skin-friendly nature of amino acids.
Amino acid-based surfactants first entered the cosmetic scene in the 1980s as brands searched for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate quickly gained popularity because it produces a rich yet low-irritation lather and leaves a soft after-feel on both skin and hair.
The manufacturing process starts with acylation, where myristic acid is chemically attached to glutamic acid. This intermediate is then reacted with potassium hydroxide, yielding the final salt. The finished ingredient is usually supplied as a fine powder or a clear liquid solution, both easy to incorporate into water-based formulations.
You will most often spot Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate in facial cleansers, foaming gels, micellar waters, body washes, sulfate-free shampoos, baby washes and shaving foams. Its mild profile also makes it a favorite in premium bar cleansers and rinse-off masks that aim to purify without stripping.
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is how this multitasker improves the feel and performance of everyday products:
- Cleansing: Acts as a gentle surfactant that lifts away dirt, oil and makeup while creating a creamy lather. Because it is derived from amino acids it maintains the skin’s natural pH balance and helps prevent the tight, squeaky sensation linked with harsher soaps
- Hair Conditioning: Provides a light, conditioning effect that smooths the hair cuticle and reduces static. This helps hair feel softer and easier to detangle after rinsing
Who Can Use Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate
This gentle surfactant suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its low irritation profile means it rarely triggers tightness or redness, making it a good option for people who react to harsher cleansers. Those with extremely compromised or broken skin should still consult a healthcare professional first as any surfactant can sting on open lesions.
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is typically sourced from plants and processed without animal by products so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always, check the full ingredient list of the finished product to confirm no animal derived additives have been introduced elsewhere in the formula.
Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in wash off products. This information is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should run any skincare they plan to use past a doctor just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known restrictions on daytime use. It also plays well with most other common skincare ingredients, which is why you will often find it paired with actives like vitamin C or niacinamide in cleansing formats.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate vary from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itching
- Stinging sensation on very compromised or broken skin
- Dryness if used in a highly concentrated formula or if cleansing too often
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for those sensitive to fatty acid or amino acid derivatives
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
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Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is a water-soluble surfactant that stays on the skin for only a short time before being rinsed away. It does not leave an oily or waxy residue that could block pores, so its chance of triggering comedones is extremely low. The ingredient is therefore considered non-comedogenic and suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that the final product formula matters. Heavy oils or butters paired with this surfactant could still clog pores even though the surfactant itself does not.
Summary
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is mainly valued for two things: it lifts away dirt, oil and makeup as a gentle cleanser and it smooths hair cuticles for easier detangling. It pulls off this double duty by combining a fatty acid that dissolves grime with an amino acid base that respects the skin’s natural pH.
Thanks to its mildness it has become a go-to in sulfate-free face washes, baby cleansers and premium shampoos, though it is still less common than long-standing surfactants like sodium laureth sulfate. Safety studies show a very low irritation profile and no strong links to sensitization when used in rinse-off formats. As with any new product it is smart to do a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees.