What Is Methyl Laurate/Myristate?
Methyl Laurate/Myristate is a lightweight liquid made by reacting lauric and myristic acids with methanol, a process called esterification. The two fatty acids usually come from renewable plant sources such as coconut and palm kernel oil, both naturally rich in the 12-carbon lauric and 14-carbon myristic chains that give the ingredient its silky feel. Cosmetic chemists began experimenting with these methyl esters in the mid-20th century when they were looking for alternatives to heavier mineral oils. Because the molecule is smaller and more mobile than the original fatty acids it spreads easily, feels dry to the touch and carries other ingredients without leaving a greasy film.
Production starts with pressing the oil-bearing seeds or kernels, splitting the triglycerides to isolate lauric and myristic acids, then reacting the acids with methanol under heat and a catalyst. The resulting clear ester is refined, filtered and ready for use in personal care formulas.
You will most often spot Methyl Laurate/Myristate on the ingredient list of lightweight facial moisturizers, body lotions, sunscreens, cleansing oils, makeup removers, hair conditioners, lip balms and masks where a non-oily slip and quick absorption are desirable.
Methyl Laurate/Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifaceted ester earns its place in formulations for several reasons
- Skin conditioning: Softens and smooths the skin surface helping it look and feel healthier
- Emollient: Creates a thin protective layer that reduces water loss for a supple hydrated feel without heaviness
- Solvent: Dissolves oily actives pigments and UV filters so they can be spread evenly and remain stable
- Cleansing: Breaks down makeup sunscreen and sebum allowing them to be wiped or rinsed away with minimal tugging
Who Can Use Methyl Laurate/Myristate
Methyl Laurate/Myristate is light and non greasy so it suits most skin types including oily, combination and normal skin. Dry skin can also benefit when the ester is paired with heavier creams or occlusives. Extremely acne prone users may want to monitor how their skin reacts since any lipid can in theory add to pore buildup but this ester is generally seen as low risk.
The ingredient is made from plant oils and contains no animal by-products which makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full product label though because other ingredients in the formula might not meet the same standard.
No data suggest a problem for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ester is used on intact skin but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show their doctor any new skincare product before adding it to a routine just to be safe.
Methyl Laurate/Myristate does not increase sensitivity to sunlight and can even help dissolve UV filters in sunscreen, making it a friendly teammate for daytime use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Methyl Laurate/Myristate vary between individuals. The issues listed below are only potential effects and most people will not notice any problems when the ingredient has been correctly formulated and preserved.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness or itching for those with a coconut or palm allergy
- Clogged pores or small breakouts in very acne prone skin
- Stinging if the product is applied to broken or freshly shaved skin
- Temporary eye irritation if the liquid accidentally gets into the eyes
If you experience any of these issues stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Methyl Laurate/Myristate is a small lightweight ester that spreads thinly and evaporates or absorbs quickly instead of sitting in pores. It lacks the long sticky chains and waxy nature that raise clogging potential in heavier oils. Most users with acne prone skin tolerate it well though extremely reactive or congested complexions may still prefer to limit leave-on exposure. Overall it is generally suitable for breakout-prone skin. Laboratory panels and anecdotal reports place it alongside other low-risk esters such as isopropyl myristate derivatives.
Because it is often paired with richer lipids or occlusive agents in finished formulas, pay attention to the full ingredient list if pore clogging is a big concern. The ester itself stays low on the comedogenic scale but the company it keeps can change the final product’s behavior.
Summary
Methyl Laurate/Myristate works mainly as a skin conditioner, emollient, solvent and mild cleanser. Its small ester structure lets it glide over skin to fill in microscopic gaps for an instant silky feel, dissolve oily actives and pigments so they stay uniform, lock in light moisture without heaviness and help break down makeup or sunscreen for effortless removal. These traits have made it a quiet staple in modern formulations, especially in weightless lotions, sunscreens and cleansing oils, though it is not as headline-grabbing as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.
Safety data show a low irritation profile with minimal sensitization or phototoxicity so routine topical use is considered safe for the vast majority of people. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test first to rule out individual sensitivities and enjoy its benefits with confidence.