Myristyl Myristate (Waxy Emollient Ester)

Myristyl Myristate is a wax-like ester formed from myristyl alcohol and myristic acid, valued in cosmetic formulations as a texture enhancer, structuring agent, and emollient that delivers a distinctive dry, velvety slip. It helps build body and improve payoff, reducing the perception of greasiness while contributing to a smooth, “powdery” after-feel—making it particularly useful in products designed for a soft-focus, matte-touch finish. In anhydrous systems it can increase firmness and heat stability, while in emulsions it supports richer cream structure and improved spreadability. Myristyl Myristate is commonly used in creams and lotions, balms, deodorant sticks, sunscreens, makeup (foundations, primers, pressed powders), and hair styling products where a refined, non-tacky sensory profile and controlled glide are desired. Use level is formulation-dependent and typically optimized with complementary waxes, esters, and emulsifiers to achieve the target hardness, slip, and finish.