What Is Myricetin Sesquipropionate?
Myricetin Sesquipropionate is a blend of mono and diesters formed when myricetin, a naturally occurring plant flavonoid, is reacted with propionic acid. The parent compound myricetin is often sourced from berries, teas and certain tree barks, prized for its antioxidant character. By attaching propionate groups chemists improve its oil compatibility and skin penetration, turning a fragile plant molecule into a stable cosmetic active.
The ingredient entered the beauty scene in the late 1990s as formulators searched for gentle plant-derived boosters that could sit well in creams and serums without quick breakdown. Production typically involves extracting myricetin from plant material, purifying it, then carrying out controlled esterification with propionic acid under mild heat and catalytic conditions. The resulting mixture is filtered, tested for purity and blended into a carrier for easy handling.
You will most often spot Myricetin Sesquipropionate in moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and targeted treatment ampoules where a touch of plant-based skin conditioning is desired.
Myricetin Sesquipropionate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators include this ingredient mainly for its skin conditioning ability, helping products feel pleasing and support a healthy looking complexion.
Who Can Use Myricetin Sesquipropionate
This ingredient sits well with most skin types. Normal, dry, oily and combination skins generally tolerate it because it feels lightweight, sinks in easily and does not add a greasy film. Sensitive skin also tends to do fine since Myricetin Sesquipropionate is considered a mild conditioning agent that lacks the stinging or flushing sometimes seen with stronger actives. The only group that might hesitate is people with a proven allergy to propionic acid derivatives or flavonoids, as they could be predisposed to irritation.
As it is derived from plant sources and involves no animal by-products during standard manufacturing, Myricetin Sesquipropionate is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding users. The molecule does not penetrate deeply into systemic circulation in significant amounts and has no known hormonal activity. That said, safety data in these groups is limited, so this information is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use to their healthcare provider for individualized guidance.
The compound is not known to cause photosensitivity. It can be worn in daytime formulas without increasing the skin’s vulnerability to sunburn, though daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Myricetin Sesquipropionate differ from person to person. The effects below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels in a well formulated product.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Transient itching or tingling at the application site
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to flavonoids or propionic acid derivatives
- Watery eyes if applied too close to the lash line
- Rare clogging in very acne prone skin when used in heavy, occlusive bases
If any of these effects appear and persist, discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Myricetin Sesquipropionate sits low on the comedogenic scale because its esterified structure keeps it light and easily spreadable. It does not form a heavy occlusive film that traps dead cells or sebum inside pores, yet the propionate groups add a touch of richness that could, in rare cases, feel too much for skin already prone to congestion. Overall the molecule itself has minimal pore-clogging potential and any breakout risk usually comes from the rest of the formula, not the ester.
Suitable for those who are acne prone, especially when used in lightweight lotions, gels or serums.
As with many low-comedogenic ingredients, formulation style matters. Pairing it with thick waxes or high concentrations of butters can raise the clogging risk even if the active alone is mild.
Summary
Myricetin Sesquipropionate is a plant-derived skin conditioner that smooths, softens and supports a healthy feel by wrapping the antioxidant flavonoid myricetin in propionate groups for better stability and skin affinity. It is still a niche additive rather than a mainstream star, so you will spot it in select boutique serums or K-beauty masks rather than every drugstore cream.
Current safety data shows it is well tolerated by most skin types with a very low rate of irritation or pore clogging. While the ingredient itself is gentle, every new product brings a unique mix of components, so it is wise to run a quick patch test before full-face use to make sure your skin stays happy.