What Is Myreth-3 Myristate?
Myreth-3 Myristate is a man-made ingredient created by linking ethylene oxide units with myristic acid, a fatty acid commonly found in coconut oil and nutmeg butter. The finished molecule is part of the polyethylene glycol (PEG) ester family, which means it combines the softness of fatty acids with the water-friendly character of PEGs. Chemists began experimenting with these hybrids in the 1960s when the beauty industry was looking for lighter, fast-absorbing alternatives to heavy oils. Myreth-3 Myristate quickly gained favor because it spreads easily on skin and leaves a velvety feel without greasiness.
The manufacturing process starts with plant-derived myristic acid. This acid reacts with a short chain of three ethylene oxide units, forming a stable ester. The result is a waxy liquid that dissolves well in oils and partially in water, making it versatile for many formulas.
Today you can spot Myreth-3 Myristate in a wide range of products: facial moisturizers, lightweight body lotions, cream cleansers, makeup removers, hydrating masks, sun care lotions, tinted moisturizers and even some hair conditioning creams where a smooth non-oily finish is desired.
Myreth-3 Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on Myreth-3 Myristate for several helpful roles in skin care and makeup.
- Skin Conditioning: Softens and smooths the skin surface so it feels supple and looks healthy
- Emollient: Forms a thin protective layer that traps moisture, improves spreadability and gives products a silky glide
- Cleansing: Helps lift away dirt oil and makeup by loosening them from the skin, allowing other cleansing agents to rinse debris off more easily
Who Can Use Myreth-3 Myristate
Myreth-3 Myristate suits most skin types thanks to its light silky texture. Normal dry and mature skins often enjoy the extra softness it gives, while combination and oily skins can benefit from its non greasy feel that sinks in quickly. Those who are highly acne prone should keep in mind that fatty acid esters can occasionally clog pores on very reactive skin, so monitoring for breakouts is advised.
The ingredient is manufactured from plant sourced myristic acid and synthetic ethylene oxide units so it is generally considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal derived matter is used in its standard production.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm with a doctor before adding new products to a routine.
Myreth-3 Myristate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interaction with UV filters or self tanning agents. It is fragrance free and uncolored so it rarely interferes with other active ingredients in a formula.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topically applied Myreth-3 Myristate differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects that could occur though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation or redness in those with very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Increased likelihood of clogged pores or pimples on acne prone skin
- Transient eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 3 out of 5. Myreth-3 Myristate combines a fatty myristic acid chain with a short PEG backbone. The lipid portion can lodge in pores and mix with sebum while the PEG side keeps the molecule semi-water soluble. This balance makes it less pore-clogging than straight fatty acids but still more likely to cause bumps than lightweight esters or silicones.
People who are prone to acne or breakouts may want to avoid daily leave-on products that list this ingredient high on the label, though many can still tolerate it in rinse-off formulas.
Formulation specifics matter: lower concentrations, addition of exfoliating acids or non-occlusive bases can reduce clogging potential.
Summary
Myreth-3 Myristate acts as a skin conditioner, emollient and mild cleanser. The fatty tail nestles into the skin’s lipid layer to soften and smooth while the PEG side attracts a bit of water improving spreadability and helping loosen makeup or grime during cleansing. This dual nature lets formulators create creams and cleansers that feel silky yet rinse without residue.
The ingredient enjoyed strong popularity in the 1980s and 1990s for its luxurious glide but has become more of a supporting player today as brands explore lighter synthetics and plant oils. Still you will spot it in many mid-priced lotions cleansers and makeup removers because it delivers reliable texture at a friendly cost.
Overall safety data show low irritation risk and no systemic concerns at cosmetic levels. As with any new product it is smart to patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the formula.