Isopropyl Myristate

Benefits
Softening
Concerns
Malassezia Feeding

What is Isopropyl Myristate?

Isopropyl myristate is a synthetic ester formed from myristic acid, a saturated fatty acid typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils, and isopropyl alcohol. In cosmetics, it belongs to the emollient and solvent category, commonly found in lotions, creams, foundations, and hair products. It functions by mimicking skin lipids to fill surface irregularities, providing a smooth, non-greasy feel while reducing the oily texture of heavier emollients. As a solvent, it dissolves fragrances and actives, improving spreadability and even application. Its low viscosity helps control product consistency, enhancing slip without tackiness. In makeup, it binds pigments for better adhesion and wear. Derived through esterification, it offers stability across formulations, contributing to lightweight hydration and sensory appeal in oil-free claims.

Comedogenic Rating 5/5 Higher risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
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.
Binding
Provides cohesion by helping ingredients stick together, improving the strength and integrity of pressed powders, tablets, or solid bars.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Solvent
Dissolves and carries other ingredients, helping control viscosity, evaporation rate, and delivery of actives in both water- and oil-based systems.

Benefits

Provides softening effect by smoothing skin surface and reducing roughness.

Enhances product spreadability as a solvent and emollient for better application.

Improves texture in formulations like creams and makeup for a non-greasy finish.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry skin seeking lightweight softening without heavy oils.
Those with oily skin due to high comedogenic potential.
People with normal skin wanting smoother texture in daily moisturizers.
People prone to acne as it may clog pores.
Users of makeup products needing better blendability and wear.
Individuals susceptible to malassezia-related issues like fungal acne.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1.
  • Determined safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Isopropyl Myristate

What is isopropyl myristate used for in skincare?

It acts as an emollient to soften skin, solvent for fragrances, and binder in products like creams and makeup.

Is isopropyl myristate safe for daily use?

Yes, it has a low hazard rating and is considered safe in cosmetics by authoritative reviews.

Does it clog pores?

Yes, with a comedogenic rating of 5, it may clog pores, especially for oily or acne-prone skin.