What Is Dipa-Myristate?
Dipa-Myristate is the diisopropanolamine salt of myristic acid, a fatty acid that naturally occurs in nutmeg butter, coconut oil and palm kernel oil. By reacting myristic acid with diisopropanolamine chemists create a stable, water-dispersible ingredient that carries a mild pH, making it gentle on skin. The compound first appeared in personal care labs in the late twentieth century when formulators were looking for plant-derived alternatives to harsher surfactants. Today it is produced on an industrial scale through a controlled neutralization process where purified myristic acid is combined with diisopropanolamine under moderate heat and vacuum, followed by filtration and drying to yield a fine powder or flake.
Because it helps water mix with oils, Dipa-Myristate shows up in a wide variety of rinse-off products such as facial cleansers, body washes, scrubs and shaving creams. It can also be added to clay masks, exfoliating pads and some lightweight lotions where a gentle cleansing boost is desired.
Dipa-Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient is prized mainly for one key role in formulations.
Cleansing: Dipa-Myristate lowers the surface tension of water so it can better lift away dirt, excess oil and makeup. By doing so it supports a thorough yet mild cleanse, leaving skin feeling fresh without the tightness or residue that stronger detergents can cause.
Who Can Use Dipa-Myristate
Dipa-Myristate is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and oily skin. Its mild cleansing action means it rarely strips the skin of natural moisture, so even sensitive or mature complexions usually tolerate it well. Those with very dry or compromised skin conditions may still prefer richer formulas that contain additional emollients because Dipa-Myristate alone will not provide substantial hydration.
The ingredient is typically sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm kernel which makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If a product is labeled vegan the manufacturer is confirming no animal-derived feedstocks were used in the supply chain.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding users. The molecule stays on the surface of the skin and is rinsed away so systemic absorption is unlikely. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should share their full skincare lineup with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Dipa-Myristate does not increase photosensitivity and has no known interactions with common actives such as retinoids, vitamin C or exfoliating acids. It can therefore be incorporated into both morning and evening routines without special sun precautions beyond a daily sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ingredients vary from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon side effects associated with Dipa-Myristate when used as directed in cosmetic products. Most users will not experience these outcomes.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching, usually in individuals with highly reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis triggered by an individual allergy to fatty acid derivatives
- Eye stinging if a concentrated formula accidentally enters the eyes before rinsing
If you notice any persistent discomfort stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Dipa-Myristate is highly water-dispersible and designed for rinse-off formulas so it spends very little time on the skin before being washed away. Although it is derived from myristic acid, a fatty acid that can be pore-clogging in its pure form, converting it into the diisopropanolamine salt greatly reduces its oily residue and makes it unlikely to build up inside pores. Therefore it is generally safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
No data suggest it interferes with commonly prescribed acne medications and its mild nature means it is rarely a culprit in product-related congestion.
Summary
Dipa-Myristate acts mainly as a gentle cleansing agent that helps water dissolve and lift away dirt, excess oil and makeup. By lowering surface tension and carrying a skin-friendly pH, it supports formulas aimed at delivering a fresh yet non-stripping cleanse.
While not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or retinol, it shows up quietly in many everyday cleansers, body washes and shaving products because formulators appreciate its plant-derived origin, stability and mildness.
Current research and decades of consumer use point to a strong safety profile with very low risk of irritation or pore clogging when used as directed. As with any new skincare product a brief patch test is still the easiest way to confirm personal compatibility and enjoy worry-free use.