Myristyl Alcohol

Benefits
Moisturizing

What is Myristyl Alcohol?

Myristyl Alcohol is a long-chain fatty alcohol, chemically known as 1-tetradecanol (C14H29OH), sourced from vegetable oils such as coconut or palm kernel through reduction of myristic acid. Commonly found in leave-on products like moisturizers, lotions, and hair conditioners, as well as rinse-off cleansers, it acts multifunctionally. As an emollient, it lubricates the skin surface to promote smoothness and minimize transepidermal water loss. In emulsions, it strengthens the interface between oil and water phases to prevent separation, while also increasing viscosity for spreadable consistency. Its surfactant properties reduce surface tension for better foaming and cleansing, and it can subtly influence fragrance profiles. This versatile, waxy solid at room temperature provides a non-sticky feel, making it suitable for everyday personal care formulations.

Comedogenic Rating 2/5 Moderate risk
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
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.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Supports skin moisturization by softening and smoothing the surface

Stabilizes emulsions to maintain product integrity over time

Enhances texture and viscosity for improved application and feel

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 or dehydrated skin seeking hydration
Acne-prone skin due to moderate comedogenic potential
Users of creams and lotions for better spreadability
Those with sensitivities to long-chain fatty alcohols
People preferring gentle, foam-boosting cleansers
Individuals with excessively oily skin types

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating indicates minimal risk for typical use
  • Well-tolerated in cosmetics with rare irritation reports

Frequently Asked Questions about Myristyl Alcohol

What is Myristyl Alcohol used for in skincare?

It serves as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, viscosity controller, and surfactant in moisturizers, cleansers, and lotions.

Is Myristyl Alcohol safe for daily use?

It has a low hazard profile and is generally safe in cosmetic concentrations for most people.

Does it cause breakouts?

It carries a moderate comedogenic rating, so acne-prone users may want to patch test.