Sucrose Myristate

Benefits
Softening

What is Sucrose Myristate?

Sucrose Myristate is a non-ionic surfactant produced by esterifying sucrose, a disaccharide sugar from natural sources, with myristic acid, a medium-chain fatty acid often derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. It appears in cosmetics such as facial cleansers, body washes, moisturizers, and makeup products. Functionally, it lowers surface tension to promote foaming and cleansing while forming stable oil-in-water emulsions by creating a protective film at the interface of immiscible phases. Its emollient properties allow it to lubricate the skin, reducing friction and enhancing product spreadability. Additionally, it contributes to skin conditioning by maintaining surface hydration and smoothness. Known for biodegradability and mildness, it suits formulations targeting gentle care.

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

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.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Softens skin by filling surface imperfections for a smoother feel.

Stabilizes emulsions in lotions and cleansers for even texture.

Enables mild foaming and cleansing in washes without stripping.

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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 rare sucrose allergies.
Individuals sensitive to fatty acid esters.
Those advised to patch test new ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from safety assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sucrose Myristate

What is Sucrose Myristate made from?

It combines sucrose sugar with myristic acid from plant oils like coconut.

Is Sucrose Myristate irritating?

It has low irritation potential based on safety reviews.

What products contain Sucrose Myristate?

Common in cleansers, moisturizers, and emulsified lotions.