What Is Aluminum Dimyristate?
Aluminum Dimyristate is the cosmetic name for hydroxybis(myristato-O)aluminium, an aluminum salt formed from myristic acid, a fatty acid that naturally occurs in coconut and palm kernel oils. When the purified fatty acid is reacted with aluminum hydroxide under carefully controlled heat and pH, the result is a fine white powder that is insoluble in water yet disperses well in oils and silicones. Chemists first explored this material in the late 1960s while looking for safer ways to thicken and stabilize makeup powders, and it has been a mainstay in color cosmetics since the 1980s. Today you will most often find Aluminum Dimyristate in pressed powders, loose setting powders, liquid foundations, cream blushes, high SPF sunscreens, certain clay masks, body powders and even some long-wearing moisturizers where a velvety, non-greasy feel is important.
Aluminum Dimyristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators like this ingredient because it quietly improves the texture, stability and appearance of many products
- Anticaking – Keeps powder particles from clumping so products spread smoothly and stay airy in the pan or jar
- Emulsion stabilising – Helps oil and water stay mixed which prevents separation in creams and lotions during shelf life
- Opacifying – Adds softness and a hint of whiteness that can blur fine lines and boost coverage in makeup without heavy pigments
- Viscosity controlling – Thickens formulas just enough to stop them from running while still allowing an easy, even application
Who Can Use Aluminum Dimyristate
Because it sits on the surface and does not penetrate deeply, Aluminum Dimyristate is generally considered suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination and even sensitive skin. It lends a silky feel without adding oil so those prone to shine often appreciate it while its mild thickening action can help dry skin formulas feel richer. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still check the full ingredient list since irritation is usually triggered by other ingredients in the formula rather than this powder itself.
The myristic acid used to make Aluminum Dimyristate is most often sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil, making finished material acceptable to vegans and vegetarians. If a strict plant-only origin is important, look for brands that confirm a vegetable source because in theory myristic acid can also be obtained from animal fat.
Current cosmetic safety reviews find no special restrictions for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show any skincare product they plan to use to a qualified healthcare provider before adding it to a routine.
Aluminum Dimyristate does not increase sensitivity to sunlight or interfere with sunscreen filters. It is odorless, has no known hormone activity and is considered non comedogenic at the low levels used in finished products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Aluminum Dimyristate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential issues that could occur, though most users experience none of them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation – very rare and usually linked to other formula components rather than the powder itself
- Contact allergy – isolated cases in people already sensitive to aluminum salts
- Clogged pores – possible if used in very heavy layers on skin already prone to congestion
- Respiratory irritation if inhaled – relevant mainly when handling large amounts of loose powder during manufacturing or decanting at home
If any redness, itching or other discomfort appears while using a product containing Aluminum Dimyristate stop using it and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5. Aluminum Dimyristate is an inert, oil-insoluble powder that stays on the surface of skin and is used at very low percentages, which makes it unlikely to block pores or feed the bacteria involved in acne. Its particle structure allows air to circulate and sebum to escape, so congestion risk is minimal. This ingredient is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts, especially when compared with heavier waxes or butters.
Because it is often blended with other powders like talc, mica or starch, the overall pore-friendliness of a finished product depends on the full formula. Very heavy, occlusive makeup layers or inadequate cleansing can still contribute to clogged pores even when Aluminum Dimyristate is present.
Summary
Aluminum Dimyristate acts as an anticaking agent, emulsion stabiliser, opacifier and mild thickener. Its plate-like particles coat other ingredients, preventing clumping in dry formulas while adding a silky slip. In creams it anchors oil and water droplets, improving shelf stability. The soft white powder scatters light for a blurred finish and it gently boosts viscosity so lotions do not run.
Though not as famous as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, this behind-the-scenes workhorse is widely used in pressed powders, liquid foundations, sunscreens and some skincare to give products a smoother, more elegant feel without extra grease.
Current safety reviews find it low risk for irritation, photosensitivity or hormonal activity. Most users tolerate it well, but every skin is different so perform a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains Aluminum Dimyristate to be safe.