Octyldodecyl Myristate
An emollient ester. It softens skin and gives a soft slip and body. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional emollient. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Octyldodecyl Myristate is a fatty ester that acts as an emollient. It softens skin, gives a pleasant slip and adds body to the formula, so it is used in creams, makeup and oil-based makeup removers. This is a functional texture ingredient, not a skincare active. It improves the feel and spreadability of the product and leaves skin instantly soft, but it does not treat skin or provide a biological benefit. Its role is sensory. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Irritation and allergy are unlikely, so it is generally well tolerated. A useful caveat: with a comedogenicity rating of 2, on oily or acne-prone skin it can contribute to clogged pores, especially in rich textures.
Frequently asked questions
Is Octyldodecyl Myristate safe during pregnancy?
Octyldodecyl Myristate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Octyldodecyl Myristate for?
Octyldodecyl Myristate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Octyldodecyl Myristate and what does it do in cosmetics?
An emollient ester.
Is Octyldodecyl Myristate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 2/5 – low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Octyldodecyl Myristate?
The INCI name is Octyldodecyl Myristate.
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Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Olive Oil, Shea Butter, Baobab Fruit Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Collagen
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