As environmental factors and daily stressors continue to challenge our skin’s health, the role of IPM in protective and restorative skincare becomes increasingly significant. Whether you’re formulating the next best-selling lotion, investing in the burgeoning beauty market, or simply nurturing a curiosity about the ingredients behind your daily skincare regime, this article will illuminate the secret behind the efficacy and luxury of your favourite products.
Isopropyl myristate (IPM) is an ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid. It is an essential ingredient used in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. Isopropyl myristate is a widely used emollient ester in cosmetics and is one of the most common ingredients in skin and hair care products. When applied to the skin, isopropyl myristate has excellent spreading qualities and gives products a light, non-greasy feel.
Isopropyl myristate reduces the product’s viscosity and helps the active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively. It’s an excellent solvent for many ingredients like pigments and sunscreens. Hence, it’s an ideal addition to products like lotions, creams, makeup, sunscreens and hair conditioners.
This article will thoroughly explore this chemical compound to help you understand what makes IPM outstanding. We will review its history, applications, benefits, market value, future trends, and more.
Let’s get right into it if you are as eager as we are.
History of Isopropyl Myristate
The exploration of isopropyl myristate began in the laboratories of early 20th-century chemists who sought ingredients to enhance the skin feel and stability of cosmetic products. Derived from myristic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid, IPM was synthesised to create a practical and versatile ester. Its introduction marked a turning point in cosmetic formulations, offering an alternative to more greasy or irritating ingredients.
Isopropyl myristate is an ester that has existed naturally for thousands of years but was only first intentionally synthesised in the early 1900s.
Its discovery and early synthesis are credited to Belgian chemist Jules Boussu, who prepared isopropyl myristate in 1913. Boussu worked for a company now known as Unilever and experimented with modifying natural oils to create new materials.
Through his chemical research, Boussu took myristic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid found in coconut and palm kernel oils, and reacted with isopropanol to produce isopropyl myristate. This reaction had an ester with unique emollient properties, making it ideal as an additive for creams and lotions.
Though Boussu’s early research focused on soap-making applications, it laid the foundation for broader uses of isopropyl myristate in cosmetic and skincare formulations in the following decades. The ester remained relatively obscure until the 1950s when chemists at companies like Elizabeth Arden began using it in high-end moisturising products. At this point, the versatility and benefits of isopropyl myristate became more widely recognized.
Over the decades, IPM has evolved from a novel ingredient to a staple in cosmetic science. Its ability to blend seamlessly with other components, improve product absorption, and leave a light, non-oily finish has made it a favourite among formulators. The evolution of IPM is also a testament to the industry’s ongoing quest for ingredients that meet consumers’ increasing demand for high-quality, skin-friendly products.
Isopropyl Myristate for Skin
At a molecular level, IPM is known for its ester structure, which gives it the ability to enhance the skin’s absorption of various substances. Its compatibility with the skin’s natural oils allows it to penetrate effectively without leaving an unpleasant residue. Its emollient properties make it an excellent moisturiser, softening and soothing the skin.
From luxurious body butter to lightweight sunscreens, IPM finds its way into a diverse range of skincare products. Here are some specific examples:
- Lotions and Creams: IPM is a mainstay in these moisturisers, contributing to their smooth texture and enhanced absorption of beneficial ingredients.
- Sunscreens: IPM helps sunscreen spread evenly and adhere better to the skin, ensuring consistent protection from harmful UV rays.
- Hair Care Products: Shampoos and conditioners often contain IPM to soften hair, prevent frizz, and add shine.
- Makeup Removers: Its ability to dissolve oils and impurities makes IPM a valuable ingredient in makeup removers, leaving skin clean without feeling stripped.
Effects of Isopropyl Myristate on the skin:
- When applied, IPM forms a thin film on the skin’s surface, which helps lock in moisture and protect against harsh environmental elements. This film is exceptionally lightweight and doesn’t clog pores, making it an ideal choice for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Its moisturising effects are not just superficial; IPM helps to promote healthier, more resilient skin over time.
- IPM acts as a lubricant and skin softener. Its molecules mimic the natural lipids found in healthy skin, filling in gaps and creating a smooth, supple surface. This feels luxurious and helps retain moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and radiant.
- IPM doesn’t just sit on the surface. Its polar nature allows it to penetrate the outer layers of the skin, carrying other beneficial ingredients along for the ride. This enhances the effectiveness of active components like vitamins, antioxidants, and moisturisers.
- IPM transforms heavy oils into light, silky emulsions. This is why lotions containing IPM have that luxurious, non-greasy feel that melts into the skin without leaving behind a sticky residue.
Chemical Properties of Isopropyl Myristate
Isopropyl myristate (IPM) is the ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid. Its chemical structure is:
CH3CH(OC(CH2)12CH3)CH3
It has a molecular weight of 270.451 g/mol.
Some key properties include:
- Melting point: 6°C
- Boiling point: >100°C at 0.1mmHg
- Density: 0.85 g/mL at 25°C
- Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, methanol, ethyl acetate, acetone and oils; insoluble in water
- Viscosity: 7.0 cSt at 25°C
- Refractive Index: 1.4320-1.4380 at 20°C
IPM is a colourless, transparent liquid with very low viscosity. It is non-toxic and non-irritating. The ester is stable under normal conditions but may hydrolyse in the presence of alkalis. It is combustible, so care must be taken in handling and storage.
Uses in Skincare and Cosmetics
Isopropyl Myristate is widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations for its excellent moisturising and emollient properties. When applied to the skin, it provides an occlusive barrier that prevents moisture loss from the epidermis. Its non-greasy texture is an ideal carrier for other active ingredients in lotions, creams, and serums.
Some of the critical uses of Isopropyl Myristate in skincare include:
- Moisturizer: Isopropyl Myristate has strong humectant properties that help skin retain moisture. It penetrates deep into the dermis, binds water, and hydrates the skin for long periods. This helps treat dry, cracked skin.
- Emollient: When applied topically, the compound softens and smoothens rough, scaly skin. It fills gaps between skin cells and smooths out flaking, cracked skin.
- Carrier: Isopropyl Myristate efficiently carries active ingredients like vitamins, botanical extracts and other moisturising agents. It enhances penetration and absorption of these actives into the skin.
- Texture Enhancer: It provides a light, non-greasy after-feel when used in skincare products. This improves application aesthetics in lotions, creams and butter.
- Conditioning Agent: Isopropyl Myristate coats both hair and skin with a lightweight film that conditions and protects them from environmental damage.
Due to these remarkable properties, Isopropyl Myristate is a staple ingredient in moisturising creams, anti-ageing serums, hair care products, conditioners, cleansers and other cosmetic preparations. It softens skin and hair without clogging pores or irritating sensitive skin.
Other Applications of Isopropyl Myristate
Besides being a common ingredient in skincare and cosmetics, isopropyl myristate has other versatile applications.
Use in Food Products
Isopropyl myristate is approved for use in food products as a flavouring agent and adjuvant. It helps enhance the flavour profile of foods and aids in the dispersion of flavours. Some common examples of foods containing isopropyl myristate include baked goods, confectionery, non-alcoholic beverages, frozen dairy, gelatins, and more. It provides a creamy, fatty mouthfeel. The FDA has approved isopropyl myristate for food use when utilising Good Manufacturing Practices.
Pharmaceutical Applications
In pharmaceutical preparations, isopropyl myristate functions as a solvent and absorption enhancer. It can help increase the permeability of drugs through the skin when used in topical products. Isopropyl myristate also facilitates deep penetration into the skin’s layers when used in transdermal patches and ointments. This allows for improved drug delivery. Additionally, it can act as a non-aqueous binder and lubricant in tablet manufacture.
Use as an Industrial Lubricant
Isopropyl myristate finds application as an industrial lubricating agent as well. It is used to lubricate precision machinery and tools where heavy oils could contaminate and create issues. The low viscosity and high stability of isopropyl myristate make it well-suited for such applications. It can provide lubrication under a wide temperature range without solidifying. Isopropyl myristate also protects metal surfaces from corrosion. Overall, it performs well as a speciality lubricant for industrial uses.
Isopropyl Myristate Global Market Overview
The global IPM market is estimated to have reached USD 550.82 million in 2023, with a steady CAGR of 4.25% expected until 2028. Asia Pacific dominates the market, accounting for over 40% of the global share, primarily driven by booming cosmetics industries in China, Japan, and South Korea. Europe and North America follow closely behind.
Key growth Drivers include;
- Personal Care & Cosmetics: IPM’s emollient and thickening properties make it a star ingredient in lotions, creams, sunscreens, and hair styling products.
- Pharmaceuticals: Its solvent and lubricant properties find applications in topical creams, gels, and controlled-release drug delivery systems.
- Other Applications: IPM also finds uses in food additives, industrial lubricants, plastics, and even textiles.
Challenges and Trends:
- Sustainability Concerns: Dependence on petroleum-based IPM faces scrutiny due to environmental impact. Bio-based alternatives like coconut oil-derived IPM are gaining traction.
- Stringent Regulations: Some countries restrict IPM use in cosmetics due to safety concerns, impacting market dynamics.
- Regional Variations: Consumer preferences and regulatory frameworks differ across regions, impacting market demand and product formulations.
The leading producers of isopropyl myristate are concentrated in Asia Pacific, specifically China and India, which account for over 70% of global production. Other major producing regions include North America and Europe.
Some of the major global manufacturers include:
- KLK Oleo (Malaysia)
- Mosselman S.A. (Belgium)
- PMC Biogenix Inc. (USA)
- IOI Oleochemical (Malaysia)
- Stepan Company (USA)
- Croda International Plc. (UK)
- BASF SE (Germany)
- Akzo Nobel N.V. (Netherlands)
Future Outlook
- The IPM market is expected to maintain steady growth, driven by increasing demand in developing economies and continued innovation in sustainable sourcing and applications.
- Research and development efforts will focus on bio-based alternatives, improved safety profiles, and targeted functionalities for specific industries.
(Factors driving growth in the IPM market include increasing demand from personal care and cosmetics industries, especially in emerging economies, as well as innovations expanding the applications of IPM into lubricants, plasticisers, and surfactants. The personal care sector accounts for over 50% of global consumption).
Isopropyl Myristate in Africa
Isopropyl Myristate (IPM) plays a vital role in diverse industries across the globe. Its reach extends beyond personal care, finding applications in pharmaceuticals, food additives, and even textiles. While the global IPM market enjoys steady growth, Africa and Nigeria present inspiring opportunities for this versatile ingredient. Let’s dive deeper into the professional landscape of IPM in these regions.
IPM in Africa
- Booming Demand: Africa’s rising disposable income and expanding middle class are driving a surge in demand for personal care products like moisturisers, sunscreens, and hair styling aids – all key beneficiaries of IPM’s emollient and thickening properties.
- South Africa Leads the Way: With a well-established cosmetics industry and robust distribution channels, South Africa currently dominates the continent’s IPM consumption.
- Untapped Potential: Despite high demand, local production of IPM still needs to grow across Africa. This presents significant investment opportunities for infrastructure development and import substitution, fostering regional self-sufficiency.
IPM in Nigeria
- Market Leader in West Africa: Nigeria’s youthful population and growing awareness of personal care products make it the leading IPM market in the region.
- Import Reliance: Like Africa, Nigeria relies heavily on imported IPM. Building domestic production capacity could unlock substantial cost savings and create local employment opportunities.
- Sustainability Focus: Environmental consciousness is gaining traction in Nigeria, creating demand for bio-based IPM alternatives. Local production of coconut oil-derived IPM could be a sustainable solution and a competitive advantage.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Infrastructure Development: Limited infrastructure and access to raw materials pose hurdles for local IPM production in Africa and Nigeria. Public-private partnerships and international collaborations can bridge these gaps.
- Regulatory Landscape: Navigating the evolving regulatory environment regarding cosmetic ingredients is crucial for manufacturers operating in these regions. Staying abreast of updates and adhering to compliance standards is critical.
- Consumer Education: Raising awareness about the benefits and safety of IPM, particularly bio-based alternatives, can build consumer confidence and drive market expansion. Educational campaigns and targeted marketing strategies can play a vital role.
The future of IPM in Africa and Nigeria is bright. This market can contribute significantly to the global demand for this versatile ingredient by addressing the challenges and capitalising on the opportunities. For professional stakeholders, understanding the nuances of these regional landscapes, from local regulations to consumer preferences, will be crucial for success. Companies can thrive in this dynamic and promising frontier by adapting strategies and forging strategic partnerships.
Trends and Innovations in IPM
The skincare and cosmetics industry rapidly evolves as consumer preferences and product innovations shift. Some key trends related to isopropyl myristate include:
Changing Consumer Preferences
- Increased demand for natural ingredients: Consumers are becoming more aware of potentially harmful chemicals in beauty products. This drives demand for formulations with naturally derived emollients like coconut oil instead of synthetic options like isopropyl myristate.
- Rise of personalisation: Customers want products tailored to their skin type and concerns. Brands offer more customisable products with isopropyl myristate included or excluded depending on individual needs.
- Focus on multifunctional ingredients: Shoppers want streamlined routines with fewer products. Isopropyl myristate’s versatility makes it useful for delivering multiple benefits in one formula.
Product Innovations
- Advanced delivery systems: Encapsulation techniques and layered emulsions allow more targeted delivery of isopropyl myristate to deeper skin layers. This enhances moisture retention.
- Combinations with new actives: Isopropyl myristate combines novel ingredients like peptides, probiotics, and antioxidants for additional anti-ageing, soothing, and protective benefits.
- Sustainable processing: Some brands are developing green chemistry methods of manufacturing isopropyl myristate, reducing environmental impact.
- High-tech monitoring: Digital technology and AI enable better quality and purity monitoring during isopropyl myristate production.
The cosmetics industry seeks better ways to leverage isopropyl myristate’s desirable properties. As a practical, versatile ingredient with proven benefits, it will likely remain a staple in many skincare and beauty formulations.
Growth Potential
- The global cosmetics market is projected to reach $458 billion by 2025, indicating potential solid demand for ingredients like isopropyl myristate. This growth is driven by emerging markets, increasing disposable incomes, and rising beauty consciousness.
- Advances in skincare, like anti-ageing and natural products, require effective emollients like isopropyl myristate. Its light feel makes it suitable for innovative formulations.
- Beyond skincare, isopropyl myristate has potential uses as a solvent, lubricant, and plasticiser across pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and other industries when safer alternatives are needed.
- Developing sustainable production methods can expand applications by reducing environmental impact. This includes using bio-based feedstocks instead of petrochemicals.
Challenges for Wider Adoption
- Higher costs than ingredients like mineral oil may limit adoption, especially in low-cost consumables. Improving production efficiency can help address this.
- Concerns about skin irritation for some consumers may impede the use of certain products. Further testing and innovative formulations can expand suitable applications.
- Increased regulations on chemicals and cosmetic ingredients require robust safety data, especially in Western markets. More research on ecological impacts is also needed.
- Limited awareness and availability outside established markets like North America and Europe hinder penetration of developing regions. Marketing, localisation, and secure supply chains can unlock new markets.
Wrapping Up…
Isopropyl myristate has come a long way since its discovery in the 1950s. This colourless liquid has become an indispensable ingredient in skincare and cosmetics. The combination of emollient, thickening and solubilising properties make it the perfect addition for luxurious lotions, creams, soaps and makeup products.
Throughout this article, we explored the origins, chemical composition, benefits and varied usage of isopropyl myristate. As a non-ionic emollient ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, it hydrates and nourishes the skin while also improving product texture and feel. Its excellence as a solvent and penetrant allows other nourishing oils and actives to be better absorbed.
While skincare dominates usage, isopropyl myristate has found other innovative applications, from pharmaceuticals to pesticides and lubricants. It continues to enable more effective products across industries.
Global demand has steadily risen, with Asia Pacific dominating production and consumption. Market size is expected to surpass $500 million by 2025. While highly effective and safe at recommended dosages, formulation experts must remain prudent with isopropyl myristate to avoid reactions in sensitive individuals.
In summary, isopropyl myristate has cemented its place as a critical ingredient. Its versatile properties solve multiple formulation needs while providing luxurious sensorial benefits.
Thanks to the ongoing innovations with isopropyl myristate, consumers and manufacturers have much to look forward to.
We hope you loved reading this as much as we enjoyed researching and writing it.
