Ingredient review
Aluminum Myristate
INCI: ALUMINUM MYRISTATE
Aluminum Myristate is a synthetic thickener and opacifier that improves product texture but may be moderately comedogenic for acne-prone skin.
In plain English
Aluminum Myristate is a man-made ingredient that helps give creams, lotions, and makeup a smooth, creamy texture. It also makes liquids look opaque (not see-through) and helps keep powders pressed together. Think of it as a helper that makes your foundation or moisturizer feel nice and spread easily, but it can sometimes clog pores if you're prone to breakouts.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Aluminum Myristate can be useful, but watch for possible clogging concerns.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Aluminum Myristate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
moderateMay be fine for many users but deserves caution if you are breakout-prone.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Aluminum Myristate is a salt formed from myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm oil) and aluminum. It is a white, waxy powder used primarily to thicken and stabilize cosmetic formulas.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Aluminum Myristate acts as a viscosity modifier, meaning it thickens the liquid so the product feels richer and less runny. It also scatters light, making the product appear opaque, and helps bind powders together in pressed makeup like eyeshadows and foundations.
Pros
Improves texture
Aluminum Myristate gives creams and lotions a smooth, velvety feel that many people find pleasant and luxurious.
Stabilizes formulas
It helps keep ingredients evenly mixed and prevents separation, so your product stays consistent from first use to last.
Cons and cautions
May clog pores
With a moderate comedogenic rating, this ingredient can contribute to breakouts in people with oily or acne-prone skin.
Synthetic origin
It is not a natural ingredient, which may be a drawback for those seeking plant-based or minimally processed cosmetics.
Best for
- People who enjoy rich, creamy textures in moisturizers and foundations
- Those using pressed powder makeup who want a smooth, non-crumbly product
Use caution if
- Individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin who are sensitive to pore-clogging ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Aluminum Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The aluminum in this compound is bound in a salt form and is minimally absorbed through skin. The main practical concern is its moderate potential to clog pores, especially for acne-prone individuals.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that aluminum fatty acid salts like Aluminum Myristate are safe in cosmetic formulations. Studies indicate low skin irritation and sensitization potential, but comedogenicity data is limited and based on historical testing.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) with no specific concentration restrictions, though general safety guidelines apply.
- Common uses
- Creams, Lotions, Foundations, Lipsticks, Eye shadows
- Environmental note
- Aluminum Myristate is synthetic and not readily biodegradable; its environmental impact depends on disposal and wastewater treatment.
Good to know
- Aluminum Myristate is different from aluminum salts used in antiperspirants; it is not designed to block sweat.
- It is often used alongside other thickeners like cetyl alcohol or stearic acid for a balanced texture.
Common questions
What is Aluminum Myristate in beauty products?
Aluminum Myristate is a man-made ingredient that helps give creams, lotions, and makeup a smooth, creamy texture. It also makes liquids look opaque (not see-through) and helps keep powders pressed together. Think of it as a helper that makes your foundation or moisturizer feel nice and spread easily, but it can sometimes clog pores if you're prone to breakouts.
What does Aluminum Myristate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Aluminum Myristate acts as a viscosity modifier, meaning it thickens the liquid so the product feels richer and less runny. It also scatters light, making the product appear opaque, and helps bind powders together in pressed makeup like eyeshadows and foundations.
Is Aluminum Myristate safe for most people?
Aluminum Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The aluminum in this compound is bound in a salt form and is minimally absorbed through skin. The main practical concern is its moderate potential to clog pores, especially for acne-prone individuals.
Who should be careful with Aluminum Myristate?
Individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin who are sensitive to pore-clogging ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.