Isopropyl Myristate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Isopropyl Myristate?

Isopropyl myristate is an ester created when isopropyl alcohol reacts with myristic acid, a fatty acid that occurs naturally in coconut oil, palm kernel oil and nutmeg. First introduced to personal care chemists in the 1970s, it quickly gained popularity thanks to its light, silky feel on skin that contrasted with the heavier plant oils used at the time. Commercial production starts with vegetable-derived myristic acid that is blended with cosmetic-grade isopropyl alcohol under heat and pressure, then purified to remove any leftover starting materials.

You will spot isopropyl myristate in a wide range of leave-on and rinse-off products. It is common in facial moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup primers, foundation, lipstick, cleansing oils, body lotions, hair conditioners, after-shave balms and sheet masks. Formulators reach for it when they want to boost glide, dissolve other ingredients or give a product a non-greasy finish.

Isopropyl Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Below are the main roles this multitasker plays in beauty formulas

  • Binding: Helps keep solid or powder ingredients evenly dispersed so a product does not separate during storage or application
  • Fragrance: Acts as a carrier that dilutes aromatic oils making the scent feel smooth and uniform on skin
  • Perfuming: Adds its own faintly fruity note that can round out a fragrance blend without overpowering other scents
  • Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin surface by filling in microscopic gaps in the outer layer which enhances slip and leaves a light, velvety after-feel

Who Can Use Isopropyl Myristate

Because it feels weightless and silky, isopropyl myristate works well for normal, dry or mature skin that could use extra softness and slip. Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may want to limit use since the molecule can sit in pores and encourage breakouts. The ingredient is typically sourced from plant oils so it is usually suitable for vegans and vegetarians, though anyone following a strict lifestyle should look for a product that states it is plant derived. Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review their routine with a doctor to be safe. Isopropyl myristate does not increase photosensitivity and has no known issues with sun exposure. It is also fragrance neutral in low amounts, making it a flexible pick for those sensitive to strong scents.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses differ so the effects listed below are only potential outcomes. When formulated and used as directed most people experience no problems.

  • Clogged pores and blemishes in oily or acne-prone skin
  • Surface irritation such as redness, itching or burning on very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in people allergic to isopropyl compounds
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally migrates into the eye area
  • Enhanced penetration of other actives which could amplify their side effects

If any discomfort, rash or breakout develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 4 out of 5

Tests that look at how easily an ingredient can block pores put isopropyl myristate near the top of the scale. Its small size lets it slip into follicles while its oily nature stays behind and mixes with skin oil, slowing normal flow out of the pore. This makes it more likely to trigger blackheads or pimples on faces that already run oily.

For that reason it is usually not the best pick for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially in leave-on face products. In lower-strength formulas such as body lotions or rinse-off cleansers the risk drops.

Concentration and product type matter. Small amounts blended with lighter esters tend to be fine while high levels in rich creams or makeup primers push the rating toward the upper end.

Summary

Isopropyl myristate binds ingredients, carries fragrance, adds a faint fruity note and works as an emollient that leaves skin feeling velvety. It does all this by forming a thin fluid film that fills tiny surface gaps, dissolves scents and keeps powders evenly spread.

After its debut in the 1970s it became a formulating staple and it still turns up in primers, sunscreens and cleansing oils today, though newer light esters now share the spotlight.

Regulatory reviews rate it as low toxicity and safe for most users aside from its higher pore-clogging potential on oily skin. Give any new product a quick patch test first so you know your skin is comfortable with it.

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