What Is Myreth-3 Palmitate?
Myreth-3 palmitate is a synthetic ester created by joining palmitic acid, a fatty acid often sourced from palm or coconut oil, with myreth-3, a short chain of ethoxylated myristyl alcohol. The result is a lightweight oil-like ingredient that feels silky rather than greasy. It first caught formulators’ attention in the late 1980s when brands looked for alternatives to heavier mineral oils in moisturizers and makeup. Production involves an esterification step in which palmitic acid is reacted with myreth-3 under controlled heat and in the presence of a catalyst, then purified to remove any unreacted material. Today you will find myreth-3 palmitate in a wide range of products such as facial lotions, hydrating serums, sheet and cream masks, anti-aging creams, lightweight sunscreens, makeup primers and cleansing balms where a smooth non-sticky finish is desired.
Myreth-3 Palmitate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient plays two key roles that directly affect how a product feels and performs on the skin.
- Skin conditioning: Forms a soft, breathable film that helps the skin surface stay supple and smooth so the complexion looks freshly moisturized
- Emollient: Fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells which softens rough patches, improves slip and spreadability and boosts the overall sensory elegance of creams and lotions
Who Can Use Myreth-3 Palmitate
Thanks to its lightweight silky feel myreth-3 palmitate suits normal dry and combination skin types that crave moisture without a greasy after-feel. People with very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer to use it sparingly because fatty esters can sometimes sit on top of pores and contribute to breakouts in those already prone to congestion.
The ingredient is typically derived from plant oils so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the brand confirms plant sourcing and cruelty-free status.
Current safety assessments show no issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be safe.
Myreth-3 palmitate is not known to cause photosensitivity and it will not interfere with sunscreen filters. No other special precautions are needed beyond normal product use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of myreth-3 palmitate vary from person to person. The points below cover potential reactions yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation Redness or a stinging sensation can occur on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Contact allergy Rare cases of itching or small hives have been reported in people allergic to fatty alcohol derivatives
- Clogged pores or breakouts Heavy or layered use may trigger whiteheads or blackheads in acne-prone skin
- Eye irritation If product migrates into the eyes it may cause temporary burning or watering
If any discomfort or reaction develops stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 out of 5
Myreth-3 palmitate is a lightweight ester that sits on the skin without the heaviness of traditional oils yet it still has a fatty backbone. This structure gives it a mild tendency to trap debris in pores, especially when layered under occlusive products. Most people with normal or dry skin will not notice any pore clogging, but those who break out easily might see small whiteheads if they use high-percentage formulas every day.
Suitable for acne-prone users only in low concentrations or rinse-off products, not ideal as a leave-on staple for very oily skin.
Formulas that pair this ingredient with oil-absorbing powders or exfoliating acids can offset its minor comedogenic potential, so check the full ingredient list if clogged pores are a concern.
Summary
Myreth-3 palmitate conditions skin and acts as an emollient by forming a soft breathable film and filling in tiny gaps between skin cells. This smooths texture, boosts moisture retention and gives creams a silky slip that feels elegant instead of greasy.
Once a go-to replacement for mineral oil in the late 80s and 90s, it now shows up mainly in mid-weight moisturizers primers and cleansing balms rather than in every new launch, so its popularity is steady but not headline-grabbing.
Current research and decades of use point to a strong safety profile with low irritation risk for most skin types. As with any cosmetic ingredient it is smart to do a quick patch test when you try a new product that contains myreth-3 palmitate to make sure your skin gets along with it.