Ingredient review
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate
INCI: Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate
A mild, amino acid-based surfactant that cleanses effectively while respecting the skin barrier.
In plain English
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from myristic acid (found in coconut or palm oil) and the amino acid glutamate. It works by attracting both water and oil, allowing it to lift dirt and makeup from your skin without stripping away its natural moisture. Unlike harsh soaps, it leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable.
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
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate 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 Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate.
- 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
A mild anionic surfactant derived from natural fatty acids and the amino acid glutamic acid. It is part of the amino acid surfactant family, known for their gentle cleansing properties.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its molecular structure is large and mild, so it cleans without penetrating deeply or disrupting the skin's lipid barrier.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Its large molecular structure means it cleans without penetrating or irritating the skin barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.
Maintains moisture
Unlike sulfates, it does not strip natural oils, so your skin feels soft and hydrated after cleansing.
Cons and cautions
May not foam as much
It produces a creamy, low foam rather than big bubbles, which some users associate with less cleansing power.
Sustainability concerns
It is often derived from palm oil, which can be linked to deforestation unless certified sustainable.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those who prefer sulfate-free cleansers
- Anyone looking for a gentle daily face wash
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to coconut or palm derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Research notes
Amino acid surfactants like this one are well-studied for their mildness and skin compatibility. They are widely used in gentle cleansers and are supported by dermatological consensus as safe alternatives to sulfates.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 5–15% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA as a safe surfactant.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources, but sustainability depends on sourcing practices. Look for RSPO-certified palm oil derivatives.
Good to know
- It is often combined with other mild surfactants to improve foam and cleansing performance.
- It is considered biodegradable and less harmful to aquatic life than many traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate in beauty products?
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from myristic acid (found in coconut or palm oil) and the amino acid glutamate. It works by attracting both water and oil, allowing it to lift dirt and makeup from your skin without stripping away its natural moisture. Unlike harsh soaps, it leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable.
What does Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its molecular structure is large and mild, so it cleans without penetrating deeply or disrupting the skin's lipid barrier.
Is Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Potassium Myristoyl Glutamate?
Individuals with known allergies to coconut or palm 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.