Ingredient review

Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates

INCI: ALUMINUM MYRISTATES/PALMITATES

A safe, functional thickener and opacifier that helps give products a creamy texture and uniform appearance.

beautyskincarecosmetic

In plain English

Aluminum myristates/palmitates are a blend of aluminum salts of fatty acids (myristic and palmitic acids). In cosmetics, they are used to thicken formulas and make them look more opaque or creamy. They are not active ingredients for skin benefits but rather help improve the texture and feel of a product.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A mixture of aluminum salts derived from myristic acid (found in nutmeg) and palmitic acid (a common saturated fat). It is produced synthetically for consistent quality.

How it works

When added to a formula, these salts form a network that increases viscosity (thickness) and scatters light, giving the product a creamy, opaque appearance. They also help stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating.

Pros

Effective thickener

Provides a rich, creamy texture that improves the feel and application of creams and lotions.

Stabilizes formulas

Helps keep oil and water mixed together, preventing separation and extending product shelf life.

Cons and cautions

Aluminum concerns

Some consumers avoid aluminum compounds due to unconfirmed links to health issues, though cosmetic use is considered safe by regulators.

Limited skin benefit

This ingredient is purely functional—it does not moisturize, soothe, or provide any active skincare benefit.

Best for

  • Anyone using creams, lotions, or makeup who wants a smooth, creamy texture
  • Formulators looking for a reliable thickener and opacifier

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known aluminum sensitivity or allergy
  • Those seeking completely aluminum-free products for personal reasons

Usage tips

Use in oil-in-water emulsions at 1–3% for a creamy, opaque finish.
Combine with other thickeners like cetyl alcohol for a richer texture.
Avoid high heat during formulation to prevent degradation.

Safety summary

Aluminum myristates/palmitates are considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. The CIR panel reviewed data and found no significant irritation or sensitization. However, individuals with aluminum allergies should avoid products containing this ingredient.

Research notes

Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this blend, but the individual fatty acids and aluminum salts have been evaluated. The CIR panel concluded it is safe as used in cosmetics.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe at concentrations up to 5%.
Common uses
Creams, Lotions, Foundations, Lipsticks
Environmental note
Aluminum salts are generally not biodegradable, but their low concentration in rinse-off products minimizes environmental impact.

Good to know

  • Aluminum myristates/palmitates are not the same as aluminum chlorohydrate used in antiperspirants.
  • They are considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.

Common questions

What is Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates in beauty products?

Aluminum myristates/palmitates are a blend of aluminum salts of fatty acids (myristic and palmitic acids). In cosmetics, they are used to thicken formulas and make them look more opaque or creamy. They are not active ingredients for skin benefits but rather help improve the texture and feel of a product.

What does Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates do in a beauty product?

When added to a formula, these salts form a network that increases viscosity (thickness) and scatters light, giving the product a creamy, opaque appearance. They also help stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating.

Is Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates safe for most people?

Aluminum myristates/palmitates are considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. The CIR panel reviewed data and found no significant irritation or sensitization. However, individuals with aluminum allergies should avoid products containing this ingredient.

Who should be careful with Aluminum Myristates/Palmitates?

Individuals with known aluminum sensitivity or allergy Those seeking completely aluminum-free products for personal reasons

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of Aluminum SaltsOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) - Aluminum myristates/palmitatesOpenPubMed - Aluminum in cosmetics: a reviewOpen

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.