Isopropyl myristate
Isopropyl myristate is the ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid (C14), a clear, colorless, low-viscosity liquid with little odor. It is made by esterifying myristic acid, usually from palm kernel or coconut oil, with isopropanol, then neutralizing, washing and deodorizing. Cosmetic brands buy it as a fast-spreading emollient ester and as a solvent in creams, lotions, bath oils, hair products and fragrances.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Isopropyl myristate meeting pharmacopeial monographs, used in pharmaceutical and OTC topical products.
Refined grade for personal care, typically 90% or more isopropyl myristate.
Grades made from certified palm kernel feedstock.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Store isopropyl myristate sealed in drums or totes at room temperature, protected from light, heat and moisture, which can slowly hydrolyze the ester. Use compatible containers, because it can soften some plastics and rubber seals. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with a retest of acid value and odor to extend it.
Record ester assay, acid value and feedstock (palm kernel or coconut) for each lot. Rising acid value or odor in stored drums signals hydrolysis, so rotate FIFO.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists isopropyl myristate for topical use only, up to 82% when formulated to be non-irritating, and not permitted in pediculicide-type products, citing CIR.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)FDA's Substances Added to Food inventory lists isopropyl myristate (CAS 110-27-0) with FEMA No. 3556 and JECFA Flavor Number 311.
Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Distributor · Blue Bell, PA
Pennsylvania distributor of oleochemicals and personal care ingredients, including castor products, fatty alcohols, esters, glycerin and natural oils and butters.
Manufacturer · Philadelphia, PA
Sells it as Lexol IPM-NF MB
Philadelphia maker of personal care ingredients, including esters, emollients, emulsifiers and preservation components, with its main production site in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include nF / EP grade, cosmetic grade and rSPO palm-based. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect ester assay, acid and saponification values, iodine value, water, color, odor and refractive index and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Store isopropyl myristate sealed in drums or totes at room temperature, protected from light, heat and moisture, which can slowly hydrolyze the ester. Use compatible containers, because it can soften some plastics and rubber seals. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with a retest of acid value and odor to extend it.
Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists isopropyl myristate for topical use only, up to 82% when formulated to be non-irritating, and not permitted in pediculicide-type products, citing CIR. FDA's Substances Added to Food inventory lists isopropyl myristate (CAS 110-27-0) with FEMA No. 3556 and JECFA Flavor Number 311.
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