Ingredient review
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate
INCI: Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate
A gentle, non-irritating emulsifier that creates stable, lightweight formulas without stripping the skin.
In plain English
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is a mild ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It is made from glycerin (a natural moisturizer) and myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut or palm oil). Because it is very gentle, it is often used in products for sensitive skin. It does not foam like soap, but it helps cleanse without drying out the skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Polyglyceryl-2 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
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is a semi-synthetic emulsifier created by combining glycerin with myristic acid. It belongs to the polyglyceryl ester family, known for being milder than traditional emulsifiers like sodium lauryl sulfate.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable, uniform cream or lotion. This helps the product feel smooth and spread easily on the skin, while also helping other ingredients mix evenly.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Unlike harsher emulsifiers, Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is unlikely to cause irritation or dryness, making it ideal for sensitive skin and daily use.
Improves product texture
It helps create lightweight, non-greasy creams and lotions that absorb quickly, improving the user experience.
Cons and cautions
Potential sustainability concerns
Myristic acid is often derived from palm oil, which can be linked to deforestation unless sourced responsibly.
Limited standalone benefits
This ingredient primarily functions as an emulsifier and does not provide active skincare benefits like hydration or anti-aging on its own.
Best for
- People with sensitive or dry skin
- Anyone looking for gentle, non-stripping cleansers or moisturizers
Use caution if
- Those with a known allergy to glycerin or myristic acid derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on polyglyceryl esters indicates they are mild and well-tolerated. Specific studies on Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate are limited, but the broader family is recognized as safe by cosmetic safety panels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (USA) and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Serums, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- While derived from natural sources, the palm oil origin may have environmental impacts. Look for RSPO-certified or sustainably sourced versions.
Good to know
- Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is considered a 'green' emulsifier because it is biodegradable and made from renewable resources.
- It is often used in 'oil-in-water' emulsions, which are the most common type of moisturizer.
Common questions
What is Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate in beauty products?
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is a mild ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It is made from glycerin (a natural moisturizer) and myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut or palm oil). Because it is very gentle, it is often used in products for sensitive skin. It does not foam like soap, but it helps cleanse without drying out the skin.
What does Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable, uniform cream or lotion. This helps the product feel smooth and spread easily on the skin, while also helping other ingredients mix evenly.
Is Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate safe for most people?
Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Polyglyceryl-2 Myristate?
Those with a known allergy to glycerin or myristic acid derivatives (rare)
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.