What Is Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is a specialty form of collagen that has been broken down into small peptides through a process called hydrolysis, then linked with myristic acid, a fatty acid found in nutmeg, coconut and palm oils. Attaching the myristoyl group gives the protein fragments a lipophilic tail, helping them bond with oils as well as water. Collagen itself has been prized for decades in beauty care for its skin mimicking properties, yet the native protein is too large to penetrate or disperse well. By the late 1990s formulators began pairing hydrolyzed collagen with fatty acids like myristic acid to improve spreadability and boost conditioning performance, paving the way for broader cosmetic use.
The ingredient is made in two main steps. First animal or marine collagen is enzymatically or chemically hydrolyzed into shorter chains that are water soluble. In a separate reaction these peptides are acylated with myristic acid under controlled conditions, producing an amphiphilic powder or viscous liquid that easily blends into oil-in-water emulsions and surfactant bases. After purification and drying the material is ready for cosmetic labs.
You will commonly spot Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen in rinse-off and leave-on hair products such as shampoos, conditioners, masks and styling creams. Skin care formulas like face serums, anti-aging creams, sheet masks and body lotions also use it for a supple feel. Because it can help both cleanse and condition, it shows up in creamy facial cleansers and micellar waters too.
Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker offers several roles in beauty formulations
- Antistatic – helps reduce static electricity on hair strands making them easier to comb and less prone to flyaways
- Cleansing – its amphiphilic nature lifts away dirt and oil while maintaining a gentle feel on skin or hair
- Hair Conditioning – deposits a thin protein-rich film that smooths the cuticle, enhances softness and improves shine
- Skin Conditioning – binds moisture to the skin surface giving a plumper, more hydrated appearance
- Emollient – the myristic acid portion delivers a light silky slip that leaves skin and hair feeling velvety without heaviness
Who Can Use Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen
Because it is lightweight yet moisturizing, Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and even mildly oily skin that benefits from extra hydration without a greasy feel. Very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter humectants since the fatty acid portion can feel too rich in high concentrations.
The ingredient is not considered vegan or vegetarian friendly. Its collagen peptides are sourced from animal or marine by-products so anyone following a plant-based lifestyle will likely avoid it unless a clearly labeled bio-synthetic version is used.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals generally tolerate topical collagen derivatives well. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen does not increase photosensitivity so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daytime sun protection habits are still recommended.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential outcomes and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated in a product.
- Mild skin irritation — a transient redness or stinging sensation, typically if used at high levels or on already compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis — rare sensitization to the collagen or fatty acid component leading to itching or rash
- Follicular congestion — in very acne-prone skin the fatty acid segment may contribute to clogged pores if the formula is heavy or not fully rinsed
- Eye irritation — possible if a high concentration shampoo or cleanser accidentally enters the eyes
If any discomfort or unwanted reaction occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5. While the myristic acid portion on its own is known to be moderately pore clogging, once it is bound to small collagen peptides the molecule is bulkier and less likely to settle deep in follicles. Most formulas use it at low to mid percentages, further diluting any clogging tendency. Overall it presents a mild risk for congestion, so it is usually tolerated by people with normal, dry or combination skin but those who struggle with persistent acne may prefer to limit high concentrations. Formulators often pair it with light non occlusive carriers to balance the fatty component.
Summary
Myristoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen delivers antistatic, cleansing, conditioning and emollient benefits by combining water loving collagen peptides with an oil friendly myristic tail. The dual nature lets it cling lightly to hair and skin where it forms a soft breathable film that smooths texture, traps moisture and improves slip. Although effective, it remains a niche ingredient found mainly in premium hair masks, anti aging creams and gentle cleansers rather than in everyday drugstore staples.
Topically it is considered low toxicity and is generally well tolerated, with only occasional reports of mild irritation or breakouts in very sensitive users. As with any new cosmetic, patch testing a small area first is a smart precaution before applying a full sized product.