Is Myristyl Alcohol fungal acne safe?

No, Myristyl Alcohol is considered a trigger for fungal acne (Malassezia) as it typically contains lipids or esters that feed the yeast.

Is Myristyl Alcohol safe for pregnancy?

Yes, Myristyl Alcohol is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy.

Is Myristyl Alcohol vegan?

Yes, Myristyl Alcohol is typically vegan.

Is Myristyl Alcohol comedogenic?

Yes, Myristyl Alcohol has a comedogenic rating of 3/5, meaning it has a high likelihood of clogging pores.

Myristyl Alcohol

1-Tetradecanol

Average

Red Flag

Pores

3/5

Irritancy

2/5

FA Safe

❌ No

Pregnancy

✅ Safe

Vegan

✅ Yes

Science & Benefits

Myristyl Alcohol is a straight-chain $C_{14}$ fatty alcohol. While it acts as an emollient, it is significantly more comedogenic (Rating 3) than its longer-chain relatives like Cetyl ($C_{16}$) or Stearyl ($C_{18}$). Its shorter chain allows for easier penetration into the follicular canal, where it can exacerbate hyperkeratosis. In an acne-safe database, it is best limited to wash-off products or used at very low concentrations in leave-on formulas.

Safety Alerts

🍄

Fungal Acne: This ingredient is a lipid/ester that can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active FA bumps.