What Is Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate?
Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate is the salt formed when tetradecanoic acid is reacted with a sulfonating agent and neutralized with diethanolamine. Chemically it combines a 14-carbon fatty acid backbone with a sulfonate group, giving the molecule both oil-loving and water-loving sides. This dual nature makes it act like a surfactant, meaning it can pull oily grime into water so it rinses away easily.
The ingredient emerged in the mid-20th century as chemists searched for milder lathering agents than traditional soaps. By attaching a sulfonate group to a mid-length fatty acid then pairing it with diethanolamine, formulators achieved a cleanser that foams well in hard or soft water and feels gentle on skin. It was soon adopted in shampoos and facial washes when consumers began demanding sulfate-free options.
Manufacturing starts with myristic acid, often sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. The acid is treated with sulfur trioxide to create the sulfonic acid, then reacted with diethanolamine to form the final salt. The resulting paste or liquid is filtered, quality-checked and blended into finished formulas.
You will most often find Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, bubble baths and makeup removers, as well as some exfoliating masks and micellar waters that need gentle but effective foaming action.
Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient improves both the performance and sensory feel of rinse-off products
- Cleansing: Acts as a surfactant that lifts dirt, oil and product buildup from skin or hair so it can be washed away without harsh scrubbing
- Foaming: Produces a rich stable lather that spreads easily and enhances the perception of cleanliness while helping distribute the product evenly
Who Can Use Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate
Because it is a mild cleansing surfactant, Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and even moderately dry or sensitive skin. Those with very reactive or compromised skin should still proceed carefully since any foaming agent can disrupt a fragile barrier if used too often or in high concentrations.
The ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. Its fatty acid portion is usually sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm kernel and the remaining components are synthetic, with no animal derived substances involved in standard manufacturing.
No data indicate that topical use poses special risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice; expecting or nursing mothers should review any personal care product with their healthcare provider to be sure it fits their individual situation.
Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and there are no known interactions with UV exposure.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ between individuals. The points below list potential but uncommon reactions; when included at appropriate levels most users tolerate the ingredient well.
- Skin dryness or tightness due to over-cleansing
- Mild irritation or stinging on very sensitive or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual sensitivity
- Eye irritation if product accidentally enters the eyes
- Potential formation of trace nitrosamines if the finished formula also contains nitrosating agents
If any discomfort, redness or other adverse effect occurs stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Although the molecule contains a 14-carbon fatty chain, it is balanced by a highly water-loving sulfonate group and is almost always used in rinse-off cleansers. This structure keeps it from lingering on skin or blocking pores, so the risk of clogging is very low. People who are prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products containing Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate without added concern. The only exception would be leave-on formulas, which are uncommon for this ingredient.
Summary
Dea-Methyl Myristate Sulfonate acts mainly as a cleansing and foaming agent. Its surfactant nature lets the oil-friendly tail attach to dirt and sebum while the water-friendly head pulls that grime into the rinse water for easy removal, producing a rich lather along the way. It is moderately popular in sulfate-free shampoos, facial washes and body cleansers but less common than long-standing surfactants like sodium laureth sulfate, partly because formulators often combine several milder agents for optimal performance.
Overall safety is high when the ingredient is used at the levels found in cosmetics. Reports of irritation or allergy are rare and it is considered suitable for most skin types. As with any new skincare product, it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.