What Is Potassium Myristyl Aspartate?
Potassium Myristyl Aspartate is the potassium salt formed by reacting myristyl aspartic acid with potassium hydroxide. The aspartic part comes from aspartic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid often sourced from plant sugars through fermentation, while the myristyl part is a 14-carbon fatty chain commonly derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. By joining these two pieces scientists create an amphiphilic molecule that has both water-loving and oil-loving regions, a feature prized in cleansers.
The ingredient gained attention in the late 1990s when formulators looked for milder alternatives to traditional sulfates. Its dual origin from amino acids and fatty acids made it attractive for brands that wanted to highlight skin-friendly surfactants. Over time it moved from niche sensitive-skin lines into mainstream products as consumers began to demand gentle yet effective cleansing agents.
Manufacturing starts with the esterification of aspartic acid to attach the myristyl group. This intermediate is then neutralized with food-grade potassium hydroxide, producing a water-soluble salt that can be handled as a paste or powder. The final material is filtered and dried before being shipped to cosmetic labs.
You will typically see Potassium Myristyl Aspartate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, sulfate-free shampoos, body washes, baby washes, makeup removers and lightweight gel moisturizers where a touch of cleansing action is needed to give formulas a fresh finish.
Potassium Myristyl Aspartate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is included mainly for its surface-active properties, meaning it helps water mix with oils and dirt so they can be rinsed away.
Its single documented function is cleansing. By lowering the surface tension of water it lifts sebum, makeup and environmental grime from the skin or hair without the harsh stripping effect associated with stronger detergents. This makes formulas feel gentle, leave behind less residue and support a soft refreshed after-feel.
Who Can Use Potassium Myristyl Aspartate
Thanks to its mild cleansing nature Potassium Myristyl Aspartate suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its gentle action helps avoid the tightness that harsher surfactants can cause so even sensitive or compromised skin usually tolerates it well. There are no specific skin types that must avoid it unless an individual knows they have a personal sensitivity to fatty acid–based surfactants.
The raw materials are typically sourced from plant sugars and coconut or palm kernel oil so the molecule contains no animal-derived content. This makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product is certified cruelty-free.
No data suggest that topical use poses a unique risk to people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before introducing new skincare products.
Potassium Myristyl Aspartate is not known to increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. It also plays well with most common cosmetic ingredients because it is used in rinse-off or low-leave-on concentrations, adding versatility to many formulations.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to Potassium Myristyl Aspartate can differ. The effects listed below are possible but unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin redness or stinging in very sensitive individuals
- Transient dryness if used in a high-foaming cleanser without added moisturizers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of specific ingredient allergy
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally enters the eyes before rinsing
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Potassium Myristyl Aspartate is highly water soluble and generally used in rinse-off products at low concentrations, so it is unlikely to stay on the skin long enough to clog pores. While the molecule does contain a 14-carbon fatty chain, it is neutralized into a salt that disperses easily in water, further reducing the chance of buildup.
Because of this low rating it is usually fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that the overall formula can influence pore-clogging potential, so always look at the full ingredient list of any product, especially if it is a leave-on.
Summary
Potassium Myristyl Aspartate acts as a mild surfactant that loosens oil, dirt and makeup so they wash away without stripping the skin. Its amphiphilic structure lets it nestle between water and oil, lowering surface tension for effective yet gentle cleansing.
Although not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, it has earned steady popularity in sulfate-free cleansers, micellar waters and baby washes where brands need a soft touch cleanser that satisfies label-savvy shoppers.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization for most users, and its comedogenic rating is low. Even so, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to do a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains it.