Ingredient review
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate
INCI: Sodium Myristoamphoacetate
A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that cleans effectively without over-drying, making it a good choice for sensitive or dry skin.
In plain English
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from coconut oil. It helps create a gentle foam that lifts dirt and oil from your skin and hair, then rinses away easily. Unlike harsher detergents, it is less likely to leave your skin feeling tight or irritated, which is why it is often found in products for sensitive skin or baby washes.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
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
Useful, but context matters
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate 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 Sodium Myristoamphoacetate.
- 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
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is an amphoteric surfactant, meaning it can work in both acidic and alkaline formulas. It is derived from myristic acid, a fatty acid found in coconut oil, and is chemically modified to be gentle on skin while still providing effective cleansing.
How it works
As a surfactant, it reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt and sebum to be lifted away and rinsed off. Its amphoteric nature makes it mild and compatible with other cleansing ingredients, helping to create a stable, creamy foam that cleans without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Its mild amphoteric nature means it cleans without stripping the skin's natural oils, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation.
Good for sensitive formulas
Often used in baby washes and products for eczema-prone skin because it is less likely to cause stinging or redness.
Cons and cautions
Mild cleansing only
It may not thoroughly remove heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen when used alone, so it is often paired with other cleansers.
Can be pricier
As a specialty mild surfactant, it can be more expensive than common harsher detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin who find typical cleansers too harsh
- Anyone looking for a sulfate-free or gentle cleansing option
Use caution if
- Those who prefer a very high-foam, squeaky-clean feel may find it too mild
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and sensitization potential, and is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Research notes
While not as extensively studied as some common surfactants, the available safety data and its structural similarity to other mild amphoteric surfactants support its safe use. It is recognized as a gentle alternative in cosmetic formulations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU Cosmetics Regulation and the US FDA (as part of cosmetic ingredients). No known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Baby care products
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable coconut oil and is biodegradable, making it a more sustainable choice compared to petroleum-based surfactants.
Good to know
- Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is often listed alongside other mild surfactants in 'sulfate-free' formulas.
- It is biodegradable and considered environmentally friendlier than some traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is Sodium Myristoamphoacetate in beauty products?
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from coconut oil. It helps create a gentle foam that lifts dirt and oil from your skin and hair, then rinses away easily. Unlike harsher detergents, it is less likely to leave your skin feeling tight or irritated, which is why it is often found in products for sensitive skin or baby washes.
What does Sodium Myristoamphoacetate do in a beauty product?
As a surfactant, it reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt and sebum to be lifted away and rinsed off. Its amphoteric nature makes it mild and compatible with other cleansing ingredients, helping to create a stable, creamy foam that cleans without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Is Sodium Myristoamphoacetate safe for most people?
Sodium Myristoamphoacetate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and sensitization potential, and is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Who should be careful with Sodium Myristoamphoacetate?
Those who prefer a very high-foam, squeaky-clean feel may find it too mild
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.