Glyceryl Myristate

Glyceryl myristate is a fatty acid ester used primarily as an emollient, slip agent, and emulsifier, typically present at low concentrations (about 0.5–5%) in creams and cleansers. Clinical experience and patch-test data generally show low irritation and low sensitization potential, with reactions being uncommon and usually related to overall formula factors (e.g., occlusion or comedogenicity) rather than inherent irritancy. For severely sensitive or eczematous skin it is usually well tolerated, so it fits a very gentle profile rather than completely inert. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, glyceryl myristate is most often used as a secondary emollient/texture modifier and co-emulsifier, showing up at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) in lotions, serums, and facial moisturizers where it primarily improves slip and feel. Mid-range usage (~0.5–3%) is common in richer creams, cleansing creams, and some wash-off products to boost emollience and viscosity. The upper end (~5–10%) is observed in consumer-available anhydrous balms, body butters, and high-occlusive barrier products (leave-on) where fatty esters/waxes are used at higher loadings; higher levels are less typical in rinse-off due to cost/feel and cleansing performance constraints.