Ізопропілміристат

Isopropyl myristate is the ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, a saturated fatty acid with 14 carbons. Its preferred IUPAC name is propan-2-yl tetradecanoate. It has been reported in Solanum tuberosum and Siraitia grosvenorii.

Chemistry

Its molecular formula is C₁₇H₃₄O₂ and its molar mass is 270.5 g/mol. It is insoluble in water and glycerol and soluble in alcohol. It withstands oxidation and does not readily become rancid. Hydrolysis of the ester can liberate the acid and the alcohol.

Uses

Isopropyl myristate is a polar emollient. It is used in cosmetic and topical pharmaceutical preparations as a penetration enhancer where skin absorption is desired. It leaves the skin soft and smooth without an oily surface film. It is used in bath oils, perfumes, creams, lotions, lipsticks, hair preparations, shaving lotions, aerosol toiletries and pharmaceutical ointments.

It disrupts the lipid membranes of the stratum corneum, which helps the active ingredient enter the lipid matrix below. It is an effective agent for solubilizing lanolin. Mixtures of up to about 50% lanolin in isopropyl myristate remain stable, free-flowing liquid at room temperature. In decorative cosmetics it serves as a dispersing agent for pigments. It is also used as a treatment for head lice. In the United States, production in 2023 fell in the range of 10 million to under 25 million pounds.

Adverse effects

Isopropyl myristate is frequently classified as a comedogenic compound and may worsen acne vulgaris, especially when used in high concentrations.

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