What Is Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate?
Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone PEG-7 Phosphate is a specialty silicone-based ingredient created by combining a fatty acid derived from coconut or palm kernel oil with a dimethicone backbone that has been modified by PEG-7 phosphate groups. The result is a salt that carries both water-loving and oil-loving parts, letting it sit comfortably in formulas that need to bridge the gap between oils and water. It first gained traction in the late 1990s when formulators searched for smoother, lighter silicone alternatives that could also nourish hair fibers. Manufacturing starts with myristic acid from plant oils, which is converted to myristylamine, reacted with propylene oxide to form myristylamidopropyl dimethylamine, then grafted onto dimethicone before finally being neutralized with phosphoric acid and ethoxylated to add the PEG-7 groups. The finished material arrives as a liquid or soft paste that disperses easily in water or alcohol blends, making it popular in rinse-off and leave-on products. You will most often spot it in conditioners, two-in-one shampoos, serum drops for split ends, smoothing creams, color-protecting treatments and lightweight styling sprays.
Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued mainly for how it treats the look and feel of hair.
As a hair conditioning agent it forms a thin, silky film over each strand, helping cuticles lie flat so hair feels softer and looks shinier. The film also reduces friction, making combing easier and cutting down on breakage. Because the molecule has water-compatible phosphate groups, it rinses without leaving heavy buildup, giving a clean yet conditioned finish that suits fine to medium textures.
Who Can Use Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate
This ingredient is generally considered suitable for all skin and scalp types, including oily, dry and sensitive. Its lightweight film rinses clean so it is unlikely to weigh down fine hair or clog pores along the hairline. People with highly reactive or eczema-prone skin should still keep an eye on how their scalp feels, as with any new haircare ingredient.
Because the fatty portion is normally sourced from coconut or palm and the rest of the molecule is synthetic, it is not derived from animals, making it acceptable for most vegans and vegetarians. Anyone following a strict lifestyle can look for a brand that confirms plant sourcing for the fatty acids.
There is no evidence that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should review any product containing this ingredient with their healthcare provider to be extra sure it fits their personal situation.
The molecule does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to sunshine, so it does not cause photosensitivity. It also has no known interactions with common hair dyes, styling polymers or scalp treatments.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, yet most people will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
Minor scalp or skin irritation
Redness or itching due to individual allergy to silicones or fatty amine salts
Eye stinging if the product accidentally runs into the eyes during rinsing
Temporary limp or heavy feel on very fine hair if overapplied
If you notice any troublesome reaction stop using the product and consult a medical professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1
Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate sits mostly on the surface of hair and is easily rinsed away thanks to its water-friendly phosphate groups. Its silicone backbone is large and inert so it does not penetrate pores or mix deeply with sebum, keeping clogging potential very low. The small amount of fatty content could in theory add a light occlusive layer, yet real-world use in rinse-off formulas further reduces that risk.
People who are prone to acne or breakouts can usually use products containing this ingredient without problems.
Because the ingredient is almost always formulated for the scalp rather than facial skin, actual pore exposure is limited. If left-on serums containing it do touch the face, the low rating still applies.
Summary
Myristylamidopropyl Dimethylamine Dimethicone Peg-7 Phosphate is a modern silicone-based hair conditioner that smooths cuticles, boosts shine, reduces friction and rinses clean. It achieves these results by forming a thin film that is both oil-compatible and water-dispersible thanks to its hybrid dimethicone and PEG-7 phosphate structure.
While not as common as classic dimethicone or quaternary ammonium conditioners it has carved out a niche in lightweight, silicone-alternative formulas aimed at fine to medium hair. Brands like it because it offers slip without heavy buildup and meets the growing demand for plant-derived content.
Current data shows the ingredient is safe for topical use with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging when used as directed. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a fresh product before full use to make sure your skin or scalp agrees with it.