What Is Sodium Myristoamphoacetate?
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is a mild surfactant made by joining myristic acid, a fatty acid usually taken from coconut or palm kernel oil, with glycine and a small amount of ethanolamine, then neutralizing the mix with sodium. The result is an amphoteric molecule that can carry both positive and negative charges depending on pH, which makes it gentle on skin and hair. The ingredient first gained notice in the late 1970s when formulators looked for alternatives to harsher sulfates to improve the feel of shampoos and facial washes. Today it is created in large batches through a controlled reaction that bonds the fatty acid to the amino acid, followed by purification and drying into a fine powder or clear liquid.
You will most often find Sodium Myristoamphoacetate in foaming cleansers, sulfate free shampoos, baby washes, micellar waters, bubble baths, body washes and some conditioning masks. It is also added to styling mousses and shave creams where rich, creamy foam is valued.
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this ingredient for several helpful roles:
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and residue without stripping natural moisture, leaving skin and hair feeling comfortable
- Foaming: Creates a dense, stable lather that users associate with effective cleaning, improving sensory appeal
- Foam Boosting: Enhances and stabilizes foam produced by other surfactants so the product feels rich even in hard water
- Hair Conditioning: Deposits a light film on hair fibers which smooths the cuticle, reducing static and easing detangling
- Antistatic: Helps cut down on flyaways in hair care products and can reduce static cling on the skin in body cleansers
Who Can Use Sodium Myristoamphoacetate
This gentle surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it cleans without stripping away the skin’s natural lipids. People with very compromised or highly reactive skin should still approach new formulas carefully since any surfactant can be irritating if overused or left on too long.
The ingredient is typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil so it is considered plant derived and compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Those avoiding palm ingredients for environmental reasons may want to confirm the brand’s sourcing policies.
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is not known to be systemically absorbed so it is viewed as low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review any product they plan to use with their healthcare provider to be safe.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. There are no special application timings or daylight restrictions linked to this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Myristoamphoacetate differ from person to person. The following points outline potential but unlikely side effects when the ingredient is used in a properly formulated cosmetic.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching, most often when used in very high concentrations
- Transient eye stinging if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to coconut or palm derivatives
- Dryness or tightness if products are left on the skin far longer than directed
If any uncomfortable reaction develops stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional for tailored guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is a water soluble surfactant that rinses cleanly and leaves no oily residue behind, so it does not block pores or trap debris. Its molecular structure is too large to penetrate deeply into follicular openings and it is typically used at low levels in rinse off products, both factors that further lower clogging potential.
Because of this, the ingredient is considered suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.
No industry reports link it to fungal acne flare ups either, making it a low risk option for those managing malassezia related concerns.
Summary
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate works as a mild cleanser, foam booster, antistatic agent and light hair conditioner. It does this by surrounding dirt and oil with its amphoteric head, lifting them away while its fatty tail helps create a creamy lather and a smooth after feel on skin and hair.
Although not as widely known as sulfates or coco betaine, it has gained steady popularity among formulators looking for gentle alternatives that still deliver satisfying foam, especially in baby washes, sulfate free shampoos and micellar waters.
Safety assessments rate it as low irritation with negligible absorption, so most people can use it confidently. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a small area first to confirm personal tolerance.