Potassium myristate is a smooth, fine, white crystal powder that possesses exceptional lubricating, dispersing, and emulsifying properties. It is soluble in hot water and hot ethanol, but only slightly soluble in cold ethanol, ether, and other organic solvents.
potassium myristate is a cleansing and emulsifying agent that's a constituent of soap; it can be drying and aggravate skin for some people.
Potassium myristate is used as a surfactant and emulsifier in cosmetic products. As a surfactant, it lowers the surface tension between two components of the product like two liquids or a liquid and a solid. It contains a hydrophilic and hydrophobic end. It attracts dirt, oil, and other impurities accumulated on the surface of the skin which then can be washed off easily with water. This way it cleanses the surface of the skin or hair.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Myristic Acid and its salts and esters were safe as a cosmetic ingredient in the present practices of use and concentration. Potassium myristate is a potassium salt of Myristic acid that has a non-comedogenic rating and a risk factor of 1. It also has a stimulating effect on dry and sensitive skin.
