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Isopropyl Myristate came from the mid-20th century drive for better emollients and cosmetic carriers. Early makers saw that natural oils left greasy residues and could spoil fast, so chemists looked to synthesize alternatives. The reaction between isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid opened a new path. Isopropyl Tetradecanoate joined the family not long after, showing better skin feel and lighter sensory properties. As global beauty and pharma brands sprang up, these esters gained favor for their long shelf life and silky texture. Over time, safety studies and consumer feedback helped refine the formulas and hike standards for purity and traceability.
Both Isopropyl Myristate and Isopropyl Tetradecanoate fall under the ester group, each made by combining isopropyl alcohol with a fatty acid—myristic acid for the former, tetradecanoic acid for the latter. You’ll find these compounds in skincare, topical medicine, and even fragrances. The non-greasy finish and quick absorbency improved user experiences of creams and ointments. Cosmetic formulators have always aimed for products that glide on and disappear fast, and these esters fit the bill. The improved skin penetration properties brought faster relief in medicated products, which customers noticed and appreciated.
The two esters come as clear, almost odorless liquids at room temperature, their molecular weight and length setting them apart. Isopropyl Myristate contains 17 carbon atoms and tilts toward a lightweight texture, evaporating without much fuss. Isopropyl Tetradecanoate, with its own chain structure, resists rancidity better and handles heat and formulation pH swings more robustly. Both dissolve well in oil-based mixtures, resist water, and show a low freezing point—handy for products stored at different temperatures. Their low surface tension helps them spread fast on the skin, a feature welcomed by users who dislike sticky buildup.
Proper labeling and quality matters, as both esters land in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products that touch bare skin. Makers list these esters with purity levels above 98%, trace limits on residual alcohol or acids, and tight color index standards. Regulatory agencies expect manufacturers to include their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) names—Isopropyl Myristate and Isopropyl Tetradecanoate—on packaging. If a product heads to multiple markets, labels must address EU REACH, US FDA, and Asian INCI lists. Anyone with allergies or skin sensitivity looks for confidence in the listed specification, proven by third-party quality reports.
The two esters form mainly through direct esterification, where isopropyl alcohol and the fatty acid react, releasing water as a byproduct. Lab technicians add acid catalysts like sulfuric acid, maintain precise temperatures, and strip the water out to push the reaction forward. The process might seem simple, but achieving high purity requires vacuum distillation and careful removal of leftover reactants. Chemical engineers learned through years of refining that impurities can throw off skin feel and increase the risk of irritation, making diligence a must at every step.
Both esters show strong resistance to oxidation and basic hydrolysis, which protects them in oily, acidic, or basic products. Chemists might tweak the molecules further for niche roles, like making cationic, anionic, or even PEG-modified esters for specific solubility or skin delivery goals. Over time, research at universities and industry labs spawned a whole range of derivatives, providing tools for those formulating in extreme climates, with challenging active ingredients. These esters don’t just hold their own—they open the door to new product textures, combinations, and performance thresholds.
The naming of these esters often trips up new formulators or ingredient buyers. Isopropyl Myristate goes by IPM, myristic acid isopropyl ester, or sometimes just “ester 377” on supply documents. Isopropyl Tetradecanoate gets called isopropyl tetradecanoate in the US and by various trade names in Asian and European markets. Well-known companies stamp their own brand trade names and may note food/pharma/cosmetic grades, so buyers and end-users need to cross-check technical sheets before purchasing or formulating.
Skin contact rules demand close attention. Both esters meet standard safety assessments for cosmetic and topical uses. The EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety lists them as safe within current use ranges, but warns about strict limits for certain impurities, including unreacted alcohols or acids. Facilities must handle raw and final products in closed systems to avoid contamination, using gloves, goggles, and air filtration. Storage involves stainless steel tanks and cool, dry areas to prevent breakdown. Annual safety training at production sites makes sure operators and quality staff know what good handling looks like, while incident logs and traceability have become routine checks following regulatory changes in major markets.
The biggest footprint for these esters shows up in skin and hair care. Creams, lotions, massage oils, and serums use Isopropyl Myristate for slip and quick absorption, especially in leave-on products. Dermatology clinics rely on it to deliver steroids, antifungals, or soothing agents deep into skin layers. Isopropyl Tetradecanoate finds its place in lighter formulas, non-pore-clogging lotions, or specialist hair oils for people with sensitivity to richer esters. Both esters also play a role behind the scenes as carriers in fragrance or even as part of non-woven wipes. The pharma industry turns to these esters in transdermal patches, where controlled release meets steady, safe absorption.
R&D teams dig deep into these molecules, searching for ways to marry fast absorption with fading concerns about environmental impact. Many focus on green synthesis, using bio-based fatty acids and alcohols, ditching petrochemical sources in favor of renewables. Recent studies also target improved mildness for hypoallergenic products and even explore nanoencapsulation for new drug delivery systems. University research groups publish on the interaction of these esters with skin barrier proteins, giving clearer insights into safety and efficiency. Consumer trends demand traceability from field to finished product, pushing developers to find new manufacturing tricks that answer both sustainability and quality demands.
Repeated toxicity reviews support safe use in intended applications, with isopropyl esters showing low irritation and no links to systemic absorption or hormone disruption at recommended levels. A big part of risk comes from impurities, so toxicologists pay close attention to production residues. Patch tests on sensitive volunteers and two-year rodent studies all support their trusted role in personal care and pharma. A few case reports warn of rare allergic responses, usually tracing back to impurities or personal skin conditions rather than the molecule itself. Monitoring continues as regulatory bodies expand focus beyond just acute reactions, now tracking environmental breakdown and microplastic formation after wash-off.
The demand for these two esters only grows as new beauty and pharma trends take off worldwide. With the spread of wellness and clean beauty, future products need to deliver performance and safety, all backed by traceable and eco-friendly supply chains. Producers look to next-gen esterification using low-waste or enzymatic catalysts. Research teams chase after new blends that promise fresher skin feel, improved delivery of cutting-edge actives, and lower risk of contamination. As knowledge and consumer expectations evolve side by side, more attention falls on transparent sourcing, full ingredient disclosure, and proven safety—not just for people, but for water systems and wildlife as well. Each new study and production advance aims for solutions that bring real benefits to both consumers and the planet.
People like personal care items that feel good, don't leave greasy fingerprints, and actually deliver on their promises. Isopropyl myristate has become popular in skincare and cosmetics for this reason. Companies add it to lotions, creams, and makeup because it spreads easily and helps other ingredients get absorbed by the skin. If you’ve ever used a body oil that vanishes quickly rather than leaving you slick, there's a good chance isopropyl myristate had a hand in that.
This compound tackles tough jobs in more ways than one. It softens and smooths skin, which feels especially important as temperatures drop and humidity fades. People dealing with dry elbows, chapped hands, or cracked feet often appreciate how their moisturizer sinks in without much fuss. Since it helps break down sebum, it pops up in products that target clogged pores, like makeup removers or treatments for acne-prone skin.
Isopropyl myristate’s versatility stands out in pharmaceutical settings too. Some topical medications for skin conditions use it for better penetration, getting active ingredients where they’re needed without hanging around on the surface.
Isopropyl tetradecanoate has a similar background, but its texture leans lighter and drier. You find it in sunscreens, facial serums, and foundations designed to feel elegant and barely-there. Beauty formulators like it because, unlike old-school oils, it doesn’t drag or clump. A personal observation—after trying various products on sensitive skin, items with isopropyl tetradecanoate tend to feel lighter, less sticky, and more pleasant overall.
Beyond feel, the ingredient also boosts spreadability. Brands working to perfect a hydrating cream or a high-end sunscreen want consumers to buy it again, not toss it aside for being too heavy or leaving residue. The addition of isopropyl tetradecanoate often solves that problem.
Whenever one talks about cosmetic ingredients, people worry about side effects. Some individuals notice acne breakouts after using products with isopropyl myristate, especially if they already have oily skin. Reading labels and patch testing before slathering something all over the face or body saves a lot of frustration. To improve user safety, companies watch for feedback, tweak their formulas, and opt for alternatives if complaints stack up.
A few studies have looked at irritation potential, especially in leave-on products. These cases remain relatively rare, but anyone with a history of allergies or easily upset skin needs to listen to their body. Open communication between skin-care brands and dermatologists goes a long way in fine-tuning what shows up on store shelves.
Ingredient transparency builds trust. More brands now list all ingredients on their packaging and websites, letting people choose for themselves. I find it useful to check not just for the active compound, but also for additives and fragrances that can trigger reactions.
Ongoing research keeps ingredient safety in the spotlight. Regulatory bodies, like the FDA and the European Commission, monitor safety data and set limits for use in consumer products. By staying updated, both brands and consumers play a part in responsible self-care.
Isopropyl myristate and isopropyl tetradecanoate helped shift personal care toward lighter, faster-absorbing products—something most of us appreciate as part of daily routines. Awareness, balanced with real information, goes a long way toward using these ingredients effectively, without unwanted surprises.
People spot isopropyl myristate and isopropyl tetradecanoate in ingredient lists for a reason. These ingredients give products that smooth, slick feeling that makes lotions sink in fast. They come from fatty acids and alcohol, which sound technical but really just mean they help spread formulas and trap in moisture. Most drugstore and luxury skincare brands still reach for these ingredients when crafting creams, serums, and cleansers that need to glide over dry or delicate skin.
For some, these two work as reliable boosters for soft skin. My own dry, flaky winter skin sometimes finds relief in a thick cream featuring isopropyl myristate. It seems to lock in hydration when cold air does its best to pull it back out. Plenty of dermatologists have pointed this out. These emollients don’t just soften—they also help other ingredients penetrate, which can make actives like vitamins or ceramides more effective for folks with tough outer skin layers.
The problem shows up in others. Oily skin types tend to notice more blackheads and breakouts with regular use. Isopropyl myristate, in particular, ranks high on the comedogenic scale. That means it can clog pores, especially for teens and adults managing excess oil. For acne-prone skin or people who already get bumps from coconut oil or similar ingredients, creams heavy in these substances create more problems than they solve.
Clinical studies back up what people experience. A 2019 review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that isopropyl myristate worked well as a moisturizing agent, but test subjects with oily or combination skin types showed an uptick in clogged pores and breakouts during longer trials. By contrast, those with dry or sensitive complexions typically reported fewer negative reactions. Isopropyl tetradecanoate, though less famous, shares a similar chemical structure, and research hasn't shown a major difference in terms of pore blockage or allergic reactions.
Sensitization happens on rare occasions. Some people develop redness, itching, or even rash after prolonged exposure. In most cases, irritation stems from pre-existing eczema, rosacea, or a weak skin barrier, making them more likely to react to almost anything. Still, patch testing every new product for a few days before slathering it over the face or body makes sense, no matter your skin type.
Not everyone has to avoid these ingredients. People with dry or aging skin who don't struggle with acne can benefit from the richness these emollients provide. For those who notice bumps or breakouts, non-comedogenic alternatives such as squalane, dimethicone, or jojoba oil often work out better. Reading labels closely and checking for “non-comedogenic” claims, though no guarantee, helps steer clear of formulas most likely to cause congestion. Visiting a board-certified dermatologist before overhauling a routine offers insight tailored to unique skin needs. Everyone’s skin story tells its own tale, and it never hurts to listen to what yours says in response to a new product.
I’ve tested loads of lotions and creams over the years, both for my own stubborn skin and in writing about beauty. One ingredient people talk about a lot is isopropyl myristate. This oil-based chemical can leave skin with a silky, non-greasy feel. Manufacturers go wild for it because it makes a product smooth and easy to use.
Isopropyl tetradecanoate works in a similar way. Brands use it for the same “slip,” helping serums and foundations glide over the face. Both show up in all sorts of skincare and makeup you’d find at the supermarket or pharmacy.
Here’s where things get tricky. Both of these ingredients can clog pores in some people. The American Academy of Dermatology lists isopropyl myristate as comedogenic. That means it can trap oil and dead skin cells inside pores—prime real estate for a pimple to move in, especially if you’re breakout-prone already.
I’ve spoken with friends and readers who can spot clogged pores after just a few uses of a product containing isopropyl myristate. Dermatologists often recommend steering clear of it if you’re struggling with acne or you have oily skin. I see the same advice echoed by reputable sources—Harvard Medical School and DermNet NZ both caution about comedogenic ingredients for acne-prone folks.
Isopropyl tetradecanoate doesn’t have quite as many warnings attached, but it belongs to the same family of esters and can also feel heavy or greasy. That slick texture brings comfort to dry skin, but for my combination skin, it sometimes spells trouble, especially on humid days.
Beyond acne, skin irritation is part of the conversation. Neither isopropyl myristate nor isopropyl tetradecanoate are known top allergens. Still, if your skin is sensitive, they can draw out a rash or red patches, especially in spots where the formula sits for hours.
Nobody should walk away from a beauty aisle feeling confused or burnt by a breakout. Brands have a responsibility, and so do we as consumers. Research matters. Patch-testing new products can save a lot of discomfort. Even a dab inside the elbow for a night gives some warning before slathering a new cream across the whole face.
There’s plenty of science supporting the need for moderation with comedogenic products. The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology keeps a long-running list of ingredients ranked by their acne-causing risk. Reading those lists, anyone with tricky skin learns how ingredients like isopropyl myristate score near the top.
Luckily, more brands label their products as “non-comedogenic” these days. Skincare enthusiasts can use resources like INCIDecoder or CosDNA to break down a product’s formula and see if isopropyl myristate or isopropyl tetradecanoate landed in the mix. Alternatives like squalane or certain silicones have filled in for people who need hydration but don’t want clogged pores.
Nobody gets flawless skin overnight — but a little knowledge about what these common ingredients actually do can help anyone find products that offer comfort and confidence, rather than unwanted surprises.
People are often on the lookout for skincare that promises softness, quick absorption, and relief from that dry, tight feeling. Two ingredients, isopropyl myristate and isopropyl tetradecanoate, pop up frequently in lotions and creams. They show up on the label right next to the “for sensitive skin” claim. So, can folks with easily irritated skin trust these names?
I remember the first time I tried a high-end moisturizer. My cheeks got blotchy and itchy within minutes. Like most people dealing with sensitive skin, I started reading labels, researching, and asking my dermatologist what might be the culprit. Isopropyl myristate tends to come up often. It comes from fatty acids and alcohol, designed to give that silky, light slip many love. Isopropyl tetradecanoate, another synthetic emollient, wears a similar hat in the world of textures. These ingredients help creams sink in fast without a greasy feel, which is great if you hate sticky residue. But, speed and smoothness sometimes come at a cost.
Isopropyl myristate earned a reputation among dermatologists and cosmetic chemists for a reason. Studies and clinical experience point out its tendency to clog pores. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology reports a higher risk of comedone formation with regular use, especially for people who naturally produce more oil. Sensitive skin doesn’t always mean acne-prone, but the overlap is real. The American Academy of Dermatology flags isopropyl myristate as a possible irritant for certain people, especially those with eczema or rosacea. Redness, burning, and breakouts can flare up, making it a questionable choice for delicate skin barriers.
Isopropyl tetradecanoate hasn’t attracted as many negative headlines. It’s considered less likely to clog pores based on current data. But research remains limited, and skin reactions still happen—particularly for individuals sensitive to multiple esters and alcohols. It lacks the long-term safety studies attached to some older, simpler moisturizers like plain glycerin or squalane. Without that evidence, it’s a bit of a guessing game for people who react at the drop of a hat.
In my experience and in feedback from friends and readers, skincare remains deeply personal. A product that calms one person might set off a rash in another. Many dermatology clinics say the same: patch testing makes the difference. Before switching entirely to a product with isopropyl myristate or tetradecanoate, try a swatch behind the ear or on your inner wrist. Wait a couple of days for any sign of hives, itching, or swelling.
People dealing with eczema, rosacea, or stubborn breakouts might skip both compounds altogether. Studies show simpler always wins out for easily stressed skin. Look for shorter ingredient lists, and reach for humectants like glycerin and mineral oil when in doubt. If you’re determined to test a trendy moisturizer, consult a board-certified dermatologist—especially if your skin reacts in unpredictable ways.
Many brands put “suitable for sensitive skin” on the front of their packaging, but that badge means little without proof. Isopropyl myristate and isopropyl tetradecanoate deliver on texture and absorption, sure. For truly sensitive complexions, though, the simplest path often leads to the healthiest skin.
Standing in a drugstore aisle, bottle after bottle of moisturizer blur together. It's easy to skip the small print on the back, but that's where you find ingredients like Isopropyl Myristate and Isopropyl Tetradecanoate. These names don’t exactly roll off the tongue, but you come across them in creams, lotions, makeup, and even some sunscreens. They aren’t new; cosmetic chemists have leaned on them for decades because they help products feel smoother and absorb faster into the skin. Touch the back of your hand after using a lotion with one of these esters and there’s a silkiness, not a greasy film.
Big skincare brands aren’t the only folks adding Isopropyl Myristate to their formulas. Indie companies follow suit because it knocks down the waxy feel that heavy moisturizers once suffered from. Isopropyl Tetradecanoate, a close cousin, acts in much the same way. They dissolve other ingredients, spread easily, and carry the good stuff deeper into the skin’s upper layers. My own shelf at home sports a handful of leave-in conditioners and a couple of gentle cleansers with these esters. Less drag, fewer white streaks—that smooth experience is tough to ignore.
Dermatologists I’ve worked with raise a flag for certain skin types. If your face gets oily quick, or acne shows up often, pay attention. These ingredients can clog pores for some people, especially Isopropyl Myristate. In clinical circles, it’s known as a comedogenic compound, which means it’s more likely to cause breakouts for those prone to them. I’ve talked with friends whose skin handles these esters just fine, but others stay away to avoid extra blemishes. Checking ingredient lists and patch testing always makes sense before diving in.
Isopropyl Myristate isn’t just about better skin feel. It helps certain medicines (like retinoids or anti-fungals) penetrate with less irritation. Makeup artists have told me they rely on products with these ingredients for smooth blending and a non-cakey finish. A lip balm goes on evenly, sunscreen rubs in faster, and makeup looks less chalky. These effects aren’t marketing fluff—they’re real, backed up by consumer trials. Studies show people prefer the texture and spread offered by formulas using esters like these.
Many companies look toward plant-based esters to pick up where Isopropyl Myristate or Isopropyl Tetradecanoate leave off, especially as more shoppers demand “clean” beauty. Some alternatives, like coco-caprylate or squalane, offer similar skin feel with a lower risk for breakouts. Reading ingredient labels before purchase helps narrow down what fits your skin’s unique needs.
If you’re a regular user of products with these ingredients, don’t toss everything just because of a rumor. Track how your skin behaves, and ask your healthcare provider if irritation or acne gets worse. One person’s holy grail product is another’s troublemaker, so skin care always takes a little experimentation. Reliable brands and dermatology-backed products use these esters for good reason, but you get the last word on what works best for you.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | Propan-2-yl tetradecanoate |
| Other names |
Isopropyl Myristate Isopropyl Tetradecanoate |
| Pronunciation | /aɪˈsɒprəʊpɪl maɪˈrɪsteɪt aɪˈsɒprəʊpɪl ˌtɛtrəˈdeɪkəʊneɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 110-27-0 |
| Beilstein Reference | 4157160 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:47445 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL416271 |
| ChemSpider | 12054 |
| DrugBank | DB14141 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 01b17967-2aaf-44ef-bb2a-7d44503d9c39 |
| EC Number | 228-663-4 |
| Gmelin Reference | 8477 |
| KEGG | C19659 |
| MeSH | D007017 |
| PubChem CID | 8907 |
| RTECS number | OG8200000 |
| UNII | NZL3CLM0XV |
| UN number | UN3272 |
| CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | DTXSID9020302 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C17H34O2 |
| Molar mass | 370.66 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 0.850 g/cm3 |
| Solubility in water | Insoluble in water |
| log P | 5.8 |
| Vapor pressure | <0.1 mmHg (20°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | ~16 (string) |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -7.84e-6 |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.434–1.438 |
| Viscosity | 10-15 mPa.s |
| Dipole moment | 2.72 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 779.7 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -825.7 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -9022.7 kJ·mol⁻¹ |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D11AX |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Causes serious eye irritation. |
| GHS labelling | GHS07; Warning; H317; P280, P302+P352, P333+P313, P362+P364 |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | Hazard statements: Not a hazardous substance or mixture according to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008. |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P310, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P312, P321, P332+P313, P333+P313, P337+P313, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P235, P405, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-1-0 |
| Flash point | > 168°C |
| Autoignition temperature | 399°C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 (oral, rat): >10,000 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (oral, rat): >5000 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | NT0125000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) for Isopropyl Myristate / Isopropyl Tetradecanoate is not specifically established by OSHA. |
| REL (Recommended) | 30% |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | NIOSH: Not listed |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Myristic acid Isopropyl alcohol Myristate Propyl myristate |
