What Is Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide?
Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide is a gentle surfactant made from fatty acids that come mainly from plant oils such as coconut or palm. Chemically it belongs to a family called amine oxides, which means it has a nitrogen atom bonded to oxygen and long carbon chains of 14 to 16 carbons. This structure lets it attract both water and oils, making it useful for cleaning and foaming.
The ingredient first appeared in household cleaners in the 1960s when formulators looked for surfactants that were effective yet mild to skin. Its low irritation profile soon made it a fit for shampoos and other personal care products. Over time it moved into a wide range of cosmetics as brands searched for sulfate-free options that still lather well.
Manufacturers create Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide by reacting dimethylamine with a natural fatty acid chloride, then oxidizing the result with hydrogen peroxide. The process yields a clear to pale-yellow liquid that is water soluble and easy to blend.
You will most often see this ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, shaving creams, foaming masks and bubble baths. It can also appear in makeup removers and liquid hand soaps where a mild yet effective cleanser is needed.
Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient brings several benefits to a formula
- Cleansing: Lifts dirt, excess oil and product buildup without stripping natural moisture so skin and hair feel clean yet comfortable
- Hair conditioning: Helps smooth the cuticle and reduce static which leaves hair softer and easier to comb
- Foam boosting: Increases the amount and stability of lather giving products a rich creamy feel that users associate with effective cleaning
- Hydrotrope: Improves the way water and oil-based ingredients mix allowing formulators to create clear low-viscosity products without extra solvents
Who Can Use Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide
This mild surfactant is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Sensitive skin usually handles it better than many sulfate based cleansers because it disrupts the skin barrier less. People with very reactive or highly compromised skin should still watch for any tightness or stinging since any surfactant can be overused.
The ingredient is produced from plant derived fatty acids and does not contain animal sourced components so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Formulations that pair it with other strictly plant based or synthetic ingredients can carry vegan friendly claims.
No data suggest that topical use poses a risk to those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run new products past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide is not known to increase photosensitivity so routine sun exposure precautions are enough. It also rinses cleanly which makes it compatible with leave on actives that may follow in a routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide vary from one person to another. The effects listed below are possible but not common and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated at typical levels.
- Mild skin dryness
- Temporary redness or itching
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- In rare cases contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to amine oxides
If any of these issues occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if irritation persists.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses away fully and leaves almost no residue, so it is very unlikely to clog pores. The small rating of 1 simply reflects that any cleanser can bother skin if used too often or in a strong formula.
This low score means the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it is usually part of rinse-off products, contact time is short, which further reduces any risk of pore blockage.
Summary
Myristyl/Cetyl Amine Oxide is a plant based surfactant that cleanses, conditions hair, boosts foam and helps oily and watery ingredients blend. Its split personality head is attracted to water while its tail loves oil, letting it grab grime then wash it down the drain while leaving skin and hair comfortable.
It is not a headline maker but it shows up in many shampoos, face washes and body cleansers thanks to its gentle yet effective performance.
Studies and decades of use suggest it is safe for most people with only a low chance of irritation. As with any new product, play it safe and patch test first to be sure your skin agrees.