Ingredient review
Butylene Glycol Myristate
INCI: Butylene Glycol Myristate
A synthetic emollient that softens skin but may clog pores for some people.
In plain English
Butylene Glycol Myristate is a man-made ingredient that helps moisturizers and creams feel smooth and silky on your skin. It works by forming a light, non-greasy film that reduces water loss and leaves skin feeling soft. However, because it can be moderately comedogenic, it might cause breakouts if you are prone to acne.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Main practical flags: irritation is low; clogging risk is moderate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- moderate
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Butylene Glycol 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 Butylene Glycol 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
Butylene Glycol Myristate is an ester created by combining butylene glycol (a humectant) with myristic acid (a fatty acid found naturally in coconut oil and palm oil). It is a synthetic ingredient used primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent.
How it works
It sits on the surface of the skin, filling in gaps between skin cells to create a smoother texture. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly and reduces the feeling of dryness by slowing water evaporation from the skin.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Provides a silky, non-greasy texture that makes moisturizers and creams pleasant to apply without heavy residue.
Improves product performance
Helps other ingredients spread evenly and enhances the overall sensory experience of a formula.
Cons and cautions
Moderate comedogenic risk
Can clog pores for some people, especially those with acne-prone or oily skin, potentially leading to breakouts.
Synthetic origin
Not derived from natural sources, which may be a drawback for consumers seeking plant-based or naturally-derived ingredients.
Best for
- People with dry or normal skin looking for lightweight moisture
- Those who enjoy smooth, silky textures in creams and lotions
Use caution if
- Individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin who are sensitive to comedogenic ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Butylene Glycol Myristate is considered safe for most skin types when used as directed. The main concern is its moderate comedogenic potential, which may cause breakouts in acne-prone individuals. No significant toxicity or irritation has been reported in standard cosmetic use.
Research notes
Research on Butylene Glycol Myristate is limited, but it is widely used in cosmetics with a long history of safe use. Studies on similar esters suggest low irritation potential, though comedogenicity varies by individual.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 1–10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Creams, Lotions, Makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ester, its environmental impact is generally low, but it is not biodegradable in all conditions.
Good to know
- Butylene Glycol Myristate is often found in products labeled as 'non-greasy' or 'lightweight'.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Butylene Glycol Myristate in beauty products?
Butylene Glycol Myristate is a man-made ingredient that helps moisturizers and creams feel smooth and silky on your skin. It works by forming a light, non-greasy film that reduces water loss and leaves skin feeling soft. However, because it can be moderately comedogenic, it might cause breakouts if you are prone to acne.
What does Butylene Glycol Myristate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the surface of the skin, filling in gaps between skin cells to create a smoother texture. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly and reduces the feeling of dryness by slowing water evaporation from the skin.
Is Butylene Glycol Myristate safe for most people?
Butylene Glycol Myristate is considered safe for most skin types when used as directed. The main concern is its moderate comedogenic potential, which may cause breakouts in acne-prone individuals. No significant toxicity or irritation has been reported in standard cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Butylene Glycol Myristate?
Individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin who are sensitive to comedogenic 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.