Ingredient review
Isopropyl Myristate
INCI: Isopropyl Myristate
A lightweight emollient that makes products feel silky, but can clog pores for some people.
In plain English
Isopropyl myristate is a synthetic oil that helps skincare products feel smooth and non-greasy. It's made from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, a fatty acid found in nutmeg and other plants. In formulas, it spreads easily, reduces stickiness, and helps other ingredients absorb. However, it has a moderate chance of clogging pores, so people with acne-prone skin may want to be cautious.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is relatively strong for its common cosmetic role.
Main practical flags: irritation is low; clogging risk is moderate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- strong
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- moderate
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Isopropyl 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 Isopropyl 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
strongThere is a stronger practical or research basis for the ingredient role described here.
What it is
Isopropyl myristate is an ester, a compound formed from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid. It is a clear, odorless liquid that mimics the feel of natural oils but is lighter and more spreadable.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface to soften and smooth, reducing water loss and improving the texture of creams and lotions. It also helps dissolve other ingredients and enhances the absorption of active compounds.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Provides a silky, non-greasy texture that makes creams and lotions feel luxurious without heaviness.
Improves absorption
Helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively, boosting product performance.
Cons and cautions
Pore-clogging potential
Rated as moderately comedogenic, meaning it can trigger breakouts in acne-prone individuals.
Synthetic origin
Made from petrochemical-derived isopropyl alcohol, which may not align with natural or clean beauty preferences.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin
- Those who prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
Use caution if
- People with acne-prone or oily skin
- Those with very sensitive skin who react to esters
Usage tips
Safety summary
Isopropyl myristate is generally safe for most skin types at typical use levels. Its main concern is a moderate risk of clogging pores, especially for acne-prone individuals. Rarely, it can cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Multiple safety reviews by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that isopropyl myristate is safe for use in cosmetics at current levels. Studies confirm its low acute toxicity and skin irritation potential, though comedogenicity is noted.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission, with no concentration restrictions in leave-on or rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Makeup, Sunscreens, Hair products
- Environmental note
- Synthetic and derived from petrochemicals, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in aquatic environments.
Good to know
- Isopropyl myristate is also used in some hair products to reduce frizz.
- It is sometimes listed as 'IPM' on ingredient labels.
Common questions
What is Isopropyl Myristate in beauty products?
Isopropyl myristate is a synthetic oil that helps skincare products feel smooth and non-greasy. It's made from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, a fatty acid found in nutmeg and other plants. In formulas, it spreads easily, reduces stickiness, and helps other ingredients absorb. However, it has a moderate chance of clogging pores, so people with acne-prone skin may want to be cautious.
What does Isopropyl Myristate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface to soften and smooth, reducing water loss and improving the texture of creams and lotions. It also helps dissolve other ingredients and enhances the absorption of active compounds.
Is Isopropyl Myristate safe for most people?
Isopropyl myristate is generally safe for most skin types at typical use levels. Its main concern is a moderate risk of clogging pores, especially for acne-prone individuals. Rarely, it can cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Isopropyl Myristate?
People with acne-prone or oily skin Those with very sensitive skin who react to esters
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.