What Is Myristyl Betaine?
Myristyl Betaine is a mild surfactant made by combining myristyl alcohol, which comes from coconut or palm kernel oil, with betaine, a naturally occurring compound often sourced from sugar beets. Chemically it is known as (carboxylatomethyl)dimethyltetradecylammonium, a name that reflects its long 14-carbon chain and its betaine group. The ingredient first gained attention in the 1970s when formulators were searching for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. By reacting myristyl chloride with dimethylaminopropionic acid then neutralizing and purifying the result, manufacturers create a clear liquid that blends easily into water-based systems.
Because it boosts foam while staying gentle on skin and hair, Myristyl Betaine shows up in a wide range of personal care items, including facial cleansers, body washes, bubble baths, shampoos, micellar waters, shaving creams, sheet mask essences and lightweight moisturizers.
Myristyl Betaine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas, Myristyl Betaine pulls double duty by cleaning while leaving skin and hair feeling smooth.
- Antistatic: Helps prevent static buildup on hair so strands stay smoother and easier to style
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping natural moisture which makes washes feel gentle yet effective
- Hair Conditioning: Deposits a light, soft touch that improves combability and leaves hair feeling silky
- Skin Conditioning: Forms a thin conditioning layer that reduces tightness and supports a soft after-feel
- Foam Boosting: Enhances and stabilizes lather so products feel rich and luxurious even with mild surfactants
Who Can Use Myristyl Betaine
Thanks to its gentle cleansing action Myristyl Betaine works for most skin types including dry, oily, combination and even sensitive skin. People with highly reactive or allergy-prone skin should still keep an eye on how their skin responds, because any surfactant can become irritating if used at very high levels or in a poorly balanced formula.
The ingredient is made from plant sources such as coconut or palm kernel oil and sugar beets, so it can be suitable for vegans and vegetarians when used in a cruelty-free product. Check the overall product label for animal-derived additives or third-party vegan certification to be certain.
Current safety data show no special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare professional.
Myristyl Betaine does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, and it has no known interference with common actives like vitamin C or retinoids. It is also considered color-safe for dyed hair because it is mild and non-stripping.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Myristyl Betaine vary from person to person. The points below describe potential reactions, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin redness or stinging, especially on broken or highly sensitive skin
- Temporary eye irritation if the foam gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals who are specifically sensitized to betaine-type surfactants
- Scalp buildup or limp hair when used in very high concentrations or without proper rinsing
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenic rating: 1/5
Myristyl Betaine is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away, so it leaves little residue that could clog pores. Its long fatty chain is balanced by a charged betaine group that keeps the molecule dispersible in water, further lowering its pore-blocking potential.
With such a low rating it is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Remember the finished product formula matters too—a cleanser loaded with heavy oils could still cause congestion even if Myristyl Betaine itself is low risk.
Summary
Myristyl Betaine is a plant-derived surfactant that cleanses, conditions skin and hair, tames static and boosts foam. Its amphoteric structure lifts away dirt while leaving a soft conditioning layer that makes hair easier to comb and skin feel comfortable.
The ingredient shows up often in sulfate-free shampoos, gentle face washes and bubble baths because it delivers rich lather without harshness, though it is not as famous as older surfactants like sodium laureth sulfate.
Safety studies rate it as low irritation, non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic at normal use levels. Still, everyone’s skin is different, so patch test any new product that contains it to be on the safe side.