What is Isopropyl Myristate?
Isopropyl myristate is a chemical compound formed from the esterification of myristic acid (a 14-carbon saturated fatty acid) and isopropyl alcohol. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid with a mild odor. The compound has the molecular formula CโโHโโOโ and is lipophilic, meaning it dissolves readily in oils and fats but poorly in water.
Common Uses
Isopropyl myristate is widely used in the cosmetics and personal care industry as an emollient, lubricant, and penetration enhancer in creams, lotions, sunscreens, and makeup products. It is also employed in pharmaceutical topical formulations to improve skin penetration of active ingredients. In industrial applications, it serves as a solvent and carrier in various formulations. However, its application in food products is not well-documented or established, and it does not appear to have an approved function in food manufacturing.