Ingredient review
Methyl Myristate
INCI: Methyl Myristate
A lightweight emollient that softens skin but may clog pores for some people.
In plain English
Methyl myristate is a synthetic oil-like ingredient made from myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm oil) and methanol. It spreads easily on skin, leaving a silky, non-greasy feel, and helps other ingredients absorb better. However, because it is a fatty ester, it has a moderate chance of clogging pores, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
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
Methyl 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 Methyl 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
Methyl myristate is the methyl ester of myristic acid, a saturated fatty acid naturally present in coconut oil, palm oil, and nutmeg butter. It is produced synthetically for cosmetics to provide a lightweight, non-sticky emollient feel.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface to fill in gaps between skin cells, smoothing rough texture and reducing water loss. Its small molecular size allows it to penetrate slightly, softening the outer layer without leaving a heavy residue.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Methyl myristate spreads easily and leaves a silky, non-greasy finish, making it comfortable for daily use under makeup or sunscreen.
Enhances absorption
Its small molecular size helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively, boosting the overall performance of your product.
Cons and cautions
May clog pores
With a moderate comedogenic rating, methyl myristate can trigger breakouts or clogged pores in people with oily or acne-prone skin.
Synthetic origin
It is manufactured in a lab, which may be a drawback for those seeking exclusively natural or plant-derived ingredients.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a lightweight moisturizer
- Those who prefer a non-greasy finish in their skincare products
Use caution if
- Individuals with oily or acne-prone skin who are sensitive to pore-clogging ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Methyl myristate is considered safe for most skin types at typical cosmetic concentrations. It has low irritation potential, but its moderate comedogenic risk means it may not suit acne-prone individuals. No serious toxicity concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
Studies confirm methyl myristate is a safe emollient with low acute toxicity and skin irritation. Its comedogenic potential is documented in cosmetic ingredient databases, but peer-reviewed human studies are limited. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar fatty esters and found them safe for use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5% in leave-on products; up to 10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the U.S. FDA and the European Commission as a safe skin-conditioning agent at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Makeup removers, Body lotions
- Environmental note
- Methyl myristate is biodegradable, but its production from palm oil may contribute to deforestation if not sourced sustainably.
Good to know
- Methyl myristate is often found in 'lightweight' or 'quick-absorbing' moisturizers.
- It is chemically similar to other fatty esters like isopropyl myristate, which also have moderate comedogenic ratings.
Common questions
What is Methyl Myristate in beauty products?
Methyl myristate is a synthetic oil-like ingredient made from myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm oil) and methanol. It spreads easily on skin, leaving a silky, non-greasy feel, and helps other ingredients absorb better. However, because it is a fatty ester, it has a moderate chance of clogging pores, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
What does Methyl Myristate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface to fill in gaps between skin cells, smoothing rough texture and reducing water loss. Its small molecular size allows it to penetrate slightly, softening the outer layer without leaving a heavy residue.
Is Methyl Myristate safe for most people?
Methyl myristate is considered safe for most skin types at typical cosmetic concentrations. It has low irritation potential, but its moderate comedogenic risk means it may not suit acne-prone individuals. No serious toxicity concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Methyl Myristate?
Individuals with 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.