What it is
Aluminum dimyristate is a metallic soap formed from aluminum and myristic acid, used mainly to coat mineral powders and pigments so they disperse evenly and resist clumping. In sunscreens it commonly serves as a surface treatment that improves the dispersion and feel of pigments and mineral UV filters. It can also help structure and stabilize oil phases in anhydrous and emulsion systems.
Safety & warnings
Used as a powder coating and texturizer, it is generally regarded as well tolerated in cosmetic use. As a fatty-acid metal soap it sits in the oil phase, so very rich formulas may not suit those prone to congestion, but it is not notably associated with irritation.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic metallic soap made from aluminum combined with myristic acid, a fatty acid that may be plant- or animal-derived.
Questions everyone asks
Why coat pigments with aluminum dimyristate?
Coating helps mineral powders and pigments disperse uniformly, resist caking, and feel smoother in the finished product.
Is it a UV filter?
No. It is a surface-treatment and texture ingredient, often used alongside mineral UV filters and pigments rather than providing protection itself.