Isopropyl Myristate

Emollient that softens and smooths the skin, can be comedogenic for some. Isopropyl Myristate acts as an emollient, forming a non-occlusive film on the skin surface that helps to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and enhance skin hydration, resulting in a smoother and softer feel. It also functions as a solvent for other cosmetic ingredients, improving their spreadability and reducing the greasy feel of oils. Additionally, it can act as a penetration enhancer, temporarily disrupting the lipid bilayer structure of the stratum corneum to facilitate the absorption of other active ingredients.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed Isopropyl Myristate safe for use in cosmetics. While generally well-tolerated and not considered an irritant or sensitizer, it has been noted to have mild comedogenic potential in some individuals, particularly at higher concentrations.

Look for products with 1-20% (most formulas use 5-10% for emolliency and texture modification; can be up to 30-40% in specific anhydrous products like bath oils). for clinical efficacy.