Glyceryl Myristate

What is Glyceryl Myristate?

Glyceryl Myristate is a monoacylglycerol compound produced by esterifying one molecule of glycerol with myristic acid, a saturated 14-carbon fatty acid commonly sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils. In cosmetics, it belongs to the category of lipid-derived conditioning agents and appears in creams, lotions, cleansers, and shampoos. It works by mimicking natural skin lipids to provide a smoothing effect on the skin's surface, while its amphiphilic structure—having both hydrophilic and lipophilic parts—allows it to reduce surface tension between oil and water phases. This enables the formation of stable emulsions, enhances product spreadability, and supports gentle cleansing without stripping the skin's barrier. Derived through controlled esterification processes, it contributes to the texture and performance of various personal care formulations.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Provides a softening effect by filling surface imperfections and improving skin smoothness.

Helps create stable oil-in-water mixtures for consistent lotion and cream textures.

Supports mild cleansing action in washes and shampoos by lowering surface tension.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with dry or rough skin seeking gentle softening agents.
People with known sensitivity to fatty acid esters.
Individuals using emulsions like moisturizers or cleansers for better texture.
Those experiencing irritation from coconut-derived components.
Those preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in daily skincare routines.
Individuals with very oily skin prone to formulation sensitivities.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores from 1 to 3.
  • Non-comedogenic with a rating of 0, suitable for pore-friendly products.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glyceryl Myristate

What is Glyceryl Myristate used for in cosmetics?

It serves as an emollient to soften skin, emulsifier for stable blends, and surfactant for mild cleansing.

Is Glyceryl Myristate safe for sensitive skin?

It carries low hazard ratings and shows minimal irritation potential in cosmetic use.

Does it clog pores?

With a comedogenic rating of 0, it is unlikely to contribute to pore blockage.