A lightweight conditioning agent that helps soften and smooth skin, leaving it feeling supple and hydrated.
Formula
C21H34O3
Mol. Weight
334.50
CAS #
19666-17-2
Form
Oil
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester combining myristic acid with salicylic acid, developed in the 20th century. Created as a gentle exfoliating agent that provides chemical exfoliation properties similar to beta hydroxy acids.