What Is Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters?
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters is a plant-derived ingredient created by reacting myristyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol, with hydrogenated olive oil. The hydrogenation step turns the naturally liquid olive oil into a more solid, saturated form, which then bonds with myristyl alcohol to form a stable mixture of esters. First explored in the 1990s when formulators looked for vegetable alternatives to mineral and animal fats, it gained popularity as consumers gravitated toward olive based skincare. Production involves hydrogenating refined olive oil under controlled pressure and temperature, then combining it with purified myristyl alcohol in the presence of a catalyst. The result is a wax-like substance that melts easily into creams and lotions.
You will most often see Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters in moisturizers, night creams, anti-aging serums, hair conditioners, styling balms, makeup primers, cleansing balms and leave-on masks where it helps create a smooth, velvety feel.
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ester blend improves both texture and performance in skincare and haircare formulas.
- Emulsion stabilising: Keeps oil and water phases from separating so creams stay uniform, look appealing and last longer on the shelf
- Film forming: Leaves a light, breathable film on skin or hair that locks in moisture and gives a soft finish without greasiness
- Hair conditioning: Smooths the cuticle, reduces frizz and boosts shine making strands feel silky and manageable
Who Can Use Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters
This ingredient suits most skin types, especially normal to dry complexions that crave extra softness and protection. Its light waxy finish usually feels comfortable on combination skin as well though very oily or congestion-prone users might prefer it in lower concentrations to avoid a heavy feel.
Because it is made entirely from olive oil and plant-derived myristyl alcohol it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are involved during manufacture.
The mixture is considered low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is not absorbed in meaningful amounts through intact skin and has no known hormonal activity. Still, this is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should show new skincare products to a doctor before use just to be safe.
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters does not cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance-free and unscented which benefits those sensitive to strong smells.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters vary from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects though most people will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in those with very sensitive skin
- Breakouts or clogged pores on individuals already prone to comedones if used in high amounts
- Contact allergy presenting as a rash in the rare case of sensitivity to olive derivatives
- Build-up on hair strands over time leading to a weighed-down feel if not cleansed thoroughly
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare or skincare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 out of 5. Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters has a waxy yet lightweight texture that can sit on the skin without fully sinking in, which gives it some potential to trap debris in very pore-clogging-prone areas. However, the hydrogenation process reduces the free oleic acid content that typically drives olive oil’s comedogenicity, and the esterification with myristyl alcohol further limits its ability to oxidize inside a pore. Most people, including those with combination skin, tolerate it well in balanced formulas. Those with persistent acne or very oily skin may want to stick to products where it appears lower on the ingredient list.
Suitable for acne-prone users in low to moderate concentrations, but heavy leave-on layers might be best avoided if breakouts are a frequent issue.
Its rating can shift slightly depending on the overall formula; when paired with lighter silicones or humectants the risk drops, while thick balms rich in other waxes can push it higher.
Summary
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Esters acts as an emulsion stabiliser, film former and hair conditioner. The saturated olive wax gives structure that keeps oil and water blended, the ester portion melts on contact to create a soft breathable film that seals in moisture and the smooth coating helps flatten the hair cuticle for extra shine.
It is a niche but growing ingredient, especially in natural inspired creams, cleansing balms and leave-in conditioners where formulators want a plant-based alternative to mineral oils.
Overall safety is considered high with low irritation and allergy potential. As with any new cosmetic, it is wise to patch test a product containing this ester before full use to make sure your skin agrees with it.