Myristyl Alcohol
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol
Functions as a thickener, emulsion stabiliser, and emollient | Sometimes used as a surfactant
At a glance
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
Myristyl Alcohol products at Skintique
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What Is Myristyl Alcohol?
A lighter-weight fatty alcohol that functions as a thickener, emulsion stabilizer, and emollient. It is also sometimes used as a surfactant, often with other surfactants. It is considered safe as used in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Journal of Oleo Science, Volume 65, 2016, pages 27-36 [https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jos/65/1/65_ess15183/_article/-char/ja/]
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https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/115_buff3a_suppl.pdf [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/115_buff3a_suppl.pdf]
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- MYRISTYL ALCOHOL
- EC Number
- 204-000-3
- Function
- Emollient, Emulsion Stabilising, Foam Boosting, Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling
From the Clinic
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Microcrystalline Cellulose
A cellulose-derived texturiser that absorbs oil and stabilises formulations
Myristic Acid
A saturated fatty acid with cleansing and emulsifying properties found widely in nature
Neopentyl Glycol Diisostearate
A synthetic emollient and emulsifier that smooths texture and stabilises formulations
Nonoxynol-9
A surfactant that stabilises formulations and helps ingredients blend evenly
Octadecenedioic Acid
A dioic acid with emulsifying properties and potential skin-tone evening effects
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