What Is Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate?
Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate is a gentle surfactant made by linking sarcosine, a naturally occurring amino acid, to myristic acid, a fatty acid most often sourced from coconut or palm oil. The resulting compound is then neutralized with sodium hydroxide to create its stable, water-soluble salt form.
The ingredient first appeared in personal care products in the 1960s when formulators looked for milder alternatives to traditional soaps. Its ability to create a rich yet low-irritation lather quickly made it popular in cleansers and shampoos aimed at sensitive skin. Over the years it has become a staple in sulfate-free and pH-balanced formulations.
You will typically spot Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate in facial cleansers, body washes, sulfate-free shampoos, micellar waters, toothpaste, shaving foams, baby washes and lightweight cream or gel masks where a mild but effective cleansing action is needed.
Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators value this multifunctional ingredient for several key reasons:
- Antistatic: Helps reduce static buildup on hair so strands lie smoother and are easier to comb
- Cleansing: Gently lifts away dirt oil and product residue without over-drying skin or hair
- Foaming: Produces a creamy stable lather that gives users the sensory feedback they expect from a cleanser or shampoo
- Hair Conditioning: Leaves a light conditioning film on hair fibers adding softness and improving manageability
- Viscosity Controlling: Contributes to the right thickness in formulas so products feel rich and stay put during use
Who Can Use Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate
Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate is generally well tolerated by most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it cleans without stripping natural moisture. Those with a known allergy to sarcosine derivatives or coconut and palm sourced fatty acids should avoid it.
The ingredient is usually made from vegetable oils and synthetic agents rather than animal by-products, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If the product label specifies plant-based sourcing, it can be used with confidence by those following cruelty-free lifestyles.
Current safety reviews show no evidence that topical use poses risks to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used as intended. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor check any skincare or personal care routine.
Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known interactions with common photosensitising medications.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate vary from person to person. The points below outline possible side effects, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness, itching or a tight feeling, especially on already compromised skin barriers
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes, common with cleansers and shampoos
- Contact dermatitis in people who are allergic to amino acid-based surfactants or coconut and palm derivatives
- Temporary dryness if used in very high concentrations or followed by inadequate moisturising
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate is water soluble and rinses off easily so it does not sit in pores or mix with skin oils for long periods. Its molecule is also relatively large compared with traditional fatty acids which makes it less likely to clog follicles. For those reasons it earns a low comedogenic score of 1.
Most people who get blackheads or pimples can use products containing this surfactant without extra breakouts.
Because it is usually blended with other ingredients, overall pore-clogging potential will depend on the full formula not just this one component.
Summary
Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate works as a mild cleanser, foam booster, antistatic agent, light hair conditioner and thickener. It does this by lowering the surface tension of water so dirt and oil lift away, trapping air to create a creamy lather, coating hair strands for slip and helping formulas reach a pleasing gel-like texture.
The ingredient has stayed popular since the rise of sulfate-free skin and hair care because it gives the feel of a rich soap without the harsh side effects that sulfates can bring. You will see it in everything from micellar waters to kids’ shampoos.
Safety reviews find it non-toxic and low irritation at the levels used in cosmetics. As with any new product it is wise to patch test first to make sure your own skin agrees with it.