What Is Aluminum Myristate?
Aluminum myristate is the aluminum salt of myristic acid, a 14-carbon saturated fatty acid also called tetradecanoic acid. Myristic acid is naturally present in plant oils like coconut and palm kernel as well as in nutmeg, and it is from these renewable fats that most cosmetic-grade aluminum myristate is sourced. To create the ingredient, manufacturers first isolate or synthesize myristic acid, neutralize it with an alkaline base to form the sodium or potassium salt, then react that salt with an aluminum compound. The resulting fine white powder has a lightweight feel, disperses easily and behaves as a surface-active mineral fatty salt.
Its cosmetic story began decades ago in loose face powders, where formulators noticed that the ingredient helped pigments flow smoothly and prevented clumps. Over time its stabilizing talent led to wider use in creamy foundations, color sticks, deodorants, sunscreens, masks and even some leave-on moisturizers. Today you will most often spot aluminum myristate on the ingredient list of pressed and loose powders, anhydrous balms, solid or semi-solid makeup sticks, clay masks and long-wear complexion products where texture control is key.
Aluminum Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker supports both the feel and stability of many formulas
- Anticaking: Keeps powders and pigmented products free flowing so they apply evenly without forming crumbly lumps on skin or in the pan
- Emulsion stabilising: Helps oil and water phases stay mixed in creams and lotions, extending shelf life and preventing separation during use
- Viscosity controlling: Thickens or structures formulas such as sticks and rich masks, giving them a smooth spread and helping them hold their shape in the jar or compact
Who Can Use Aluminum Myristate
Because it is a relatively inert mineral–fatty acid salt, aluminum myristate is well tolerated by most skin types. Oily, combination and normal skin generally appreciate its lightweight, non greasy feel, while sensitive skin tends to do fine with it since it lacks common irritants like fragrance or acids. Very dry or compromised skin can still use products containing aluminum myristate, but should pair it with richer moisturizers since the ingredient itself does not add hydration.
The material is sourced from plant fats and aluminum minerals rather than animal by-products, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished formula has not added any animal derived ingredients elsewhere.
Topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is considered low risk because aluminum myristate sits on the surface of the skin and has minimal systemic absorption. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity, making it perfectly fine for daytime wear and for formulas that already contain SPF actives.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical aluminum myristate can vary from person to person. The following points outline potential but unlikely effects when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished cosmetic product.
- Skin irritation: mild redness or itchiness may occur in individuals who are reactive to fatty acid salts
- Contact dermatitis: very rare allergic type rash, more likely if the person already has sensitivities to multiple cosmetic ingredients
- Dryness or tightness: can appear if a high level of the powder is used in a formula that lacks emollients
- Eye irritation: stinging or watering if loose particles accidentally get into the eyes
- Respiratory discomfort: coughing or throat irritation when large amounts of loose powder are inhaled during application
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Aluminum myristate is a mineral salt that sits on the skin surface and has very little oil solubility which means it does not readily clog pores. While its parent acid, myristic acid, can be more pore blocking the aluminum salt form is far less occlusive and is usually used at low levels in powders or stick formulas. Because of this the ingredient is considered low risk for causing blackheads or pimples.
Most people who are prone to acne can use products containing aluminum myristate without issue though the overall formula still matters. If the product also contains heavier oils the breakout risk will depend on the blend, not just this single ingredient.
Those with very oily skin might appreciate its light, absorbent feel which can help reduce shine in makeup and skincare.
Summary
Aluminum myristate acts as an anticaking agent, an emulsion stabiliser and a viscosity controller. Its fine powder texture coats pigments and absorbs a touch of oil so powders stay loose and spread evenly. In creams and sticks it forms a soft network with oils and waxes helping water and oil stay mixed while giving the product the right thickness and structure.
It is not the most famous cosmetic ingredient but it has a steady following among formulators who need reliable texture control in pressed powders solid sunscreens clay masks and long wear makeup. Consumers rarely notice it on the label yet benefit from smoother application and better product stability.
Safety wise aluminum myristate is considered low concern. Reports of irritation or allergy are uncommon and systemic absorption is minimal. That said every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product to ensure personal compatibility.