Ingredient review
Myreth-3 Myristate
INCI: MYRETH-3 MYRISTATE
A synthetic emollient that makes products feel silky, but may clog pores for some skin types.
In plain English
Myreth-3 Myristate is a man-made ingredient that helps lotions and creams feel smooth and spread easily on your skin. It works by forming a thin, non-greasy film that softens the skin's surface. However, because it is an emollient with a moderate comedogenic rating, it could potentially clog pores in people 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
Myreth-3 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 Myreth-3 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
Myreth-3 Myristate is a synthetic ester created from myristyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol) and myristic acid (a fatty acid), modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to improve water solubility and skin feel.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface as an emollient, filling in gaps between skin cells to create a smoother texture. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly and can reduce the greasy feel of oils.
Pros
Silky texture
Creates a smooth, non-greasy feel on skin, making creams and lotions more pleasant to apply.
Improves spreadability
Helps products glide easily, reducing tugging and improving the user experience during application.
Cons and cautions
May clog pores
With a moderate comedogenic rating, it can potentially cause blackheads or breakouts in acne-prone individuals.
Synthetic with PEG
Made with polyethylene glycol, which some consumers prefer to avoid due to concerns about manufacturing impurities.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a silky moisturizer feel
- Those who prefer lightweight, non-greasy emollients
Use caution if
- Individuals with oily or acne-prone skin who are sensitive to comedogenic ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Myreth-3 Myristate is considered safe for most skin types at typical cosmetic concentrations. The main concern is its moderate comedogenic potential, which may cause breakouts in acne-prone individuals. Regulatory bodies have not flagged significant toxicity, but PEG compounds are monitored for purity.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on Myreth-3 Myristate, but it is structurally similar to other fatty esters used safely in cosmetics. Comedogenicity ratings are based on historical rabbit ear tests and expert consensus, not large human trials.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU, and other major markets, subject to concentration limits for PEG compounds.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Makeup, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ingredient, it is not biodegradable and may persist in water systems; however, it is used in small amounts in rinse-off products.
Good to know
- Often found in combination with other emollients to balance texture
- PEG compounds are generally considered safe in cosmetics at low concentrations
Common questions
What is Myreth-3 Myristate in beauty products?
Myreth-3 Myristate is a man-made ingredient that helps lotions and creams feel smooth and spread easily on your skin. It works by forming a thin, non-greasy film that softens the skin's surface. However, because it is an emollient with a moderate comedogenic rating, it could potentially clog pores in people prone to acne.
What does Myreth-3 Myristate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface as an emollient, filling in gaps between skin cells to create a smoother texture. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly and can reduce the greasy feel of oils.
Is Myreth-3 Myristate safe for most people?
Myreth-3 Myristate is considered safe for most skin types at typical cosmetic concentrations. The main concern is its moderate comedogenic potential, which may cause breakouts in acne-prone individuals. Regulatory bodies have not flagged significant toxicity, but PEG compounds are monitored for purity.
Who should be careful with Myreth-3 Myristate?
Individuals with 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.