myristylcontaining

Myristylcontaining is a descriptive term for chemical compounds that incorporate a myristyl moiety, a 14-carbon saturated alkyl group derived from the fatty acid myristic acid (tetradecanoic acid). In chemical nomenclature, “myristyl-” functions as a prefix indicating the presence of this specific alkyl fragment, which can be attached to a molecule through ester, ether, amide, or alcohol linkages. The resulting substances are typically lipophilic and waxy in character.

Common myristyl-containing derivatives include myristyl alcohol (tetradecanol), and myristyl esters such as myristyl palmitate, myristyl myristate, and myristyl lactate. These compounds are widely used as emollients, thickening agents, lubricants, or carriers in cosmetics and personal care products. The myristyl group increases hydrophobicity, often improving texture, slip, and moisture retention in formulations, and can also influence solubility and stability of active ingredients.

In practice, myristyl-containing ingredients appear in product labeling under INCI names such as Myristyl Alcohol, Myristyl Palmitate, or Myristyl Myristate. They are generally regarded as safe for topical use within approved concentrations, though individual sensitivities or allergies can occur. Their use is most common in cosmetics, with occasional applications in pharmaceuticals as excipients; food uses are limited and depend on specific compound regulatory status.

The term distinguishes these molecules from free myristic acid or triglycerides, focusing on the presence of the myristyl fragment in larger chemical structures.