What Is Butyl Myristate?
Butyl myristate is a clear, lightweight liquid ester made by combining butyl alcohol with myristic acid, a fatty acid usually sourced from coconut oil, palm kernel oil or nutmeg. First explored by chemists in the 1950s as a plant-derived alternative to heavy mineral oils, it quickly found favor in beauty labs for its smooth feel and easy spreadability. Production typically involves a simple heat-driven process called esterification where the two raw materials react in the presence of an acid catalyst, then get purified to remove any leftover starting materials. Today you can spot butyl myristate in a wide range of leave-on and rinse-off products such as moisturizers, face and body lotions, sunscreens, makeup primers, liquid foundations, hair conditioners and even some cleansing balms.
Butyl Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient mainly serves two roles that make products feel better on the skin
- Skin conditioning – helps soften and smooth the skin surface so it feels silky and looks more even
- Emollient – forms a thin protective layer that reduces water loss, improving moisture levels without a greasy afterfeel
Who Can Use Butyl Myristate
Thanks to its light silky texture butyl myristate works well for normal dry and combination skin, giving these types a smoother feel without leaving a heavy film. People with very oily or acne prone skin may want to approach with a bit more caution because richer esters can sometimes sit in pores and trigger breakouts in those who are already congestion prone. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it since it is fragrance free and low in allergens.
The ingredient is typically sourced from coconut oil palm kernel oil or nutmeg so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians, provided the finished product has not been blended with animal derived additives.
Current safety data show no known risks linked to topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing users should run any new skincare product past their healthcare provider just to be on the safe side.
Butyl myristate does not make skin more reactive to sunlight and it plays nicely with sunscreen filters so daytime application is fine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Every skin is different so reactions to butyl myristate can vary. The points below describe potential side effects that could occur even though most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used in a well formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation some users may notice temporary redness or stinging especially if the formula contains other active ingredients that boost penetration
- Allergic contact dermatitis rare cases of allergy have been reported with fatty acid esters which can lead to itching flaking or swelling
- Acne flare ups those who are very acne prone might see clogged pores or small bumps after repeated use
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes it may cause watering or burning until rinsed out
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 3 out of 5. Butyl myristate has a medium chain length and a fairly occlusive nature that can trap dead skin cells and oil in pores, especially when used in richer leave-on products. This makes it more likely to clog pores than lighter silicones or esters but less risky than heavy plant butters or petrolatum. Because of this moderate score, those who break out easily might want to steer toward lower concentrations or non-comedogenic alternatives. Formulation matters too; pairing the ester with lightweight humectants and keeping the overall oil phase low can reduce its pore-blocking potential.
Summary
Butyl myristate is mainly valued for two jobs: it conditions skin by smoothing rough spots and works as an emollient that locks in moisture without a thick greasy finish. It does this by forming a thin lipid layer that fills microscopic gaps in the skin surface, which leaves skin feeling soft and looking more even. While not as famous as ingredients like hyaluronic acid or shea butter, it remains a quiet workhorse in many lotions, creams and makeup primers that aim for a silky quick-absorbing texture.
Current research and decades of cosmetic use show it to be low risk for irritation or long-term harm when used as directed. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to do a small patch test before full-face or body application just to confirm personal tolerance.