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Moumoujus

MYRISTYL ALCOHOL.

Valuable CAS 112-72-1 / EMULSION STABILISING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - FOAM BOOSTING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Myristyl Alcohol is a versatile long-chain fatty alcohol employed in skincare for its conditioning and stabilizing properties. It functions as an emollient, enhancing skin hydration and supporting the skin's protective barrier, while also playing a critical role in product formulation by improving texture and stability.

Summary

Emollient Emulsion Stabilising Foam Boosting Skin Conditioning Viscosity Controlling Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

On the skin, Myristyl Alcohol acts as an emollient, delivering hydration, soothing effects, and forming a protective barrier to reduce trans-epidermal moisture loss. It conditions the skin, contributing to its overall health and appearance. Within cosmetic formulations, it is a key emulsion stabilizer, reducing surface tension to effectively combine immiscible oil and water phases, thereby enhancing product stability and shelf life. Furthermore, it functions as a thickener and viscosity controlling agent, improving product texture and ease of application, and can also act as a surfactant and foam booster to enhance foam quality.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Myristyl Alcohol presents as a white, waxy solid with a solidification point between 35-38°C. It serves as an effective emulsion stabilizer, aiding in emulsion formation and improving the overall stability and shelf life of formulations. Bulk material should be stored in a well-closed container within a cool, dry environment.

Conflicts

  • Combustible when exposed to heat or flame
  • Can react with oxidizing materials
  • Emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes when heated to decomposition

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed Myristyl Alcohol's safety for cosmetic use, a conclusion supported by its inclusion on the FDA's list of food additives. While generally exhibiting low toxicity, it carries a moderate risk of causing mild allergies or irritation, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Patch testing is recommended for sensitive skin, with concentrations of 10% in petrolatum specifically advised against due to observed irritant effects; a lower concentration of 5% in petrolatum is suggested for such tests.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Myristyl Alcohol is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, offering significant emollient and skin conditioning benefits while simultaneously enhancing cosmetic formulation stability and texture, though careful consideration is advised for highly sensitive skin types due to a moderate irritancy risk.

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