Ingredient dictionary

Myristyl Myristate

Myristyl myristate is an ester, a waxy fat-like ingredient made by joining two fatty compounds. Its main job is to soften and smooth skin. It is on the label of 18 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Myristyl Myristate does

Softens and smooths dry skin
Adds a silky, cushioned feel
Helps thicken and stabilize creams
Gives brow products a smooth finish

Myristyl myristate is made by combining a fatty alcohol with a fatty acid, both common building blocks in cosmetic oils and butters. Depending on the supplier, these starting materials can come from plant sources such as coconut or palm kernel oil, or from synthetic routes.

Formulators use it as an emollient, a term for ingredients that soften skin and help limit water loss from its surface. It also adds body, so creams and lotions feel less watery. On skin it spreads smoothly and leaves a soft, cushiony finish. It appears often in moisturizers, body lotions, sunscreens, and acne products, where it helps offset the dryness that some other actives can cause.

Good for

It suits people who want a soft, comfortable feel in lotions, creams and sunscreens, including those with dry skin.

Frequently asked questions

Is myristyl myristate safe for sensitive skin?

It is widely used and generally well tolerated. Like any cosmetic ingredient, it can cause irritation for some people, so patch testing a small area first is a sensible step if your skin is sensitive.

Does myristyl myristate clog pores?

Fatty esters can feel rich on oily or acne-prone skin, and responses vary from person to person. If you are prone to breakouts, try a small amount first and see how your skin responds over several days.