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Myristyl Myristate
* A wax ester
Functions:
Myristyl Myristate is a naturally derived ester, formed by the combination of Myristyl Alcohol and Myristic Acid, which occurs naturally in animal or vegetable fats or oils. It is originally formed as a white or yellowish waxy solid, and is used as a skin conditioning agent, emulsifier and opacifier in skin care products and cosmetics, according to CosmeticsInfo.org.
It provides a pleasant, soft feel to formulas, as well as an excellent dry, powdery after-feel to lotions and creams, according to research. Myristyl Myristate is an excellent emulsion enhancer that imparts a white opacifying effect or glossy appearance, and is an effective thickening agent as well.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Myristyl Myristate is considered safe and is approved by the CIR for use in cosmetics. The EWG reports a 95% safety rating for it, although some studies have linked it to mild irritation when applied to skin directly.
Myristyl Alcohol
* A fatty-alcohol emollient
* Also known as 1-Tetradecanol
Functions:
Myristyl Alcohol is a fatty-alcohol used as an emollient in cosmetics and skin care products (Source). According to research, it is primarily used to inhibit a formula from separating into its oil and liquid components. However, Myristyl Alcohol can be drying, as can most fatty-alcohols.
Myristyl Alcohol is also used for other properties, including as an: Emulsion Stabilizer; Skin-Conditioning Agent; Surfactant; Viscosity Increasing Agent; Foaming Agent; and Fragrance Ingredient. According to The Good Scents Company, Myristyl Alcohol provides a fruity, coconut scent.
In the Human Toxome Project, a mapping of pollution levels in people throughout the world, Myristyl Alcohol was found in 1 out of 9 people. Read more about the Human Toxome Project being done by the Environmental Working Group.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Myristic Acid
* A fatty acid
* Also known as Tetradecanoic Acid
Functions:
Myristic Acid is a fatty acid found in nutmeg, palm oil, coconut oil, butter fat, and spermacetin, the oil from the sperm whale, according to Wikipedia. It has a variety of uses in the beauty industry, including as a: Fragrance Ingredient; Opacifying Agent; Surfactant; Cleansing Agent; and Emulsifier (Source). One of its primary properties is as a lubricant, due to its high rate of absorption by the skin.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
According to the Cosmetics Database, Myristic Acid is 68% safe, and the FDA has approved as a food additive, although there have been petitions filed against this status (possibly by PETA). The CIR expert panel approves it for use up to 13% concentration. Myristic Acid was found to be a primary irritant in a 1976 study, although the concentration limits imposed by the CIR should negate most reactions. It is considered a neurotoxin, although studies only show occurrences in rats and only after large doses not related to the concentrations found in cosmetics and beauty products.
Myreth-3 Myristate
* A lubricant
Functions:
Little information is available about Myreth-3 Myristate, especially regarding its use in the cosmetic and beauty industry. However, it is known to be a lubricating ingredient and is found in petroleum jelly products (Source). It is also used as an ingredient in tampon lubricants.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Although little information was found regarding specific side effects that result from using products containing Myreth-3 Myristate, it is an animal by-product, and is also known to be comedogenic (Source).
According to a search done through the National Institutes of Health, Myreth-3 Myristate, or any component of it, resulted in studies classified in the database on ToxNet. However, no specific studies were found to link Myreth-3 Myristate to any dangerous side effects.
Myo-Inositol
* A close natural relative of Vitamin B
* Please read TIA’s post on Inositol
Functions:
Myo-Inositol is an ingredient often associated with Vitamin B, even considered part of the Vitamin B complex. Myo-Inositol is the most prominent naturally occurring form of Inositol, which is often referred to as Vitamin B8. However, because Inositol can be synthesized naturally within the human body, it is not technically classified as a vitamin.
Nonetheless, Myo-Inositol is useful in cosmetic and beauty products because of its potential ability to provide cell membrane maintenance (Wikipedia). It has also been shown to strengthen the cells of the hair, helping it to retain moisture, serving as a humectant and anti-static agent. It’s Vitamin B-like properties allow it to aid in hair growth, and lower levels can lead to hair loss and skin dryness, even eczema (Source). It can be taken as a supplement, and is found in beans, peas, brown rice, wheat bran and nuts.
Morus Bombycis
* A mulberry extract high in antioxidants
Functions:
Morus Bombycis is an extract found in mulberries that is often used in cosmetics due to the presence of arbutin, a hydroquinone derivative isolated from the leaves of the bearberry shrub, cranberry, blueberry, some mushrooms, and most types of pears. Thanks to Morus Bombycis’ arbutin properties, it can potentially prevent melanin production, therefore naturally lightening skin and creating a more youthful appearance (Source). Morus Bombycis is also high in antioxidants, and although this property has made it a popular inclusion in the treatment of liver disease and other internal ailments, it is also an effective free radical scavenger.
A study was done in Korea to test the antioxidant effects of Morus Bombycis on liver damage found that “The antioxidant activity and liver protective effect of Morus bombycis Koidzumi were investigated … extracts of M. bombycis Koidzumi had higher superoxide radical scavenging activity than other types of extracts.”
Microcrystalline Wax
* A petroleum-based wax
Functions:
Microcrystalline Wax is a specific type of wax produced by de-oiling petroleum. It is used in cosmetics and beauty products as a viscosity agent, binder and emollient, and is often considered an alternative to paraffin wax. Unlike paraffin wax, Microcrystalline Wax has fine crystals, and is generally darker, more viscous, denser, tackier and more elastic than paraffin waxes. It has elastic and adhesive characteristics, which are related to its non-straight chain components. Microcrystalline Wax’s crystal structure is small and thin, making these waxes more flexible than paraffin wax as well, according to Wikipedia. “The fine crystal structure also enables microcrystalline wax to bind solvents or oil, preventing the sweating-out of compositions,” according to the International Group, Inc., the preeminent manufacturer of Microcrystalline Waxes.
Mica
* A mineral that reflects light
* Please read TIA’s article on Mineral Make Up and Why TIA Isn’t Always in Favor
Functions:
Mica is a silicate mineral used in cosmetics for its brilliant or shimmering appearance, according to Wikipedia. The word “mica” is actually thought to be derived from the Latin word “micare,” meaning “to glitter.” It is mined in thin sheets and is usually found in blue or green hues, although iron oxides are often added to create a brilliant range of bright colors.
Although many minerals are used as pigments in cosmetics, Mica’s sheer, translucent and skin-hugging properties make it a popular ingredient in mineral powders. Mica powder reflects light from the face because of its glittering or shimmering properties, and can create the illusion of a smoother, softer and more radiant skin tone (Source). It is also seen in a variety of other cosmetics (nail polishes, lip glosses) as an iridescent, reflective ingredient in formulas.
Methylsilanol Mannuronate
* A seaweed derivative
Functions:
According to research, Methylsilanol Mannuronate is an organic derivative of seaweed that binds moisture in the epidermis therefore firming and strengthening the skin. It is often used in spa wraps and treatments, but is also now seen in many beauty products and skin creams. The sea algae extra found in Methylsilanol Mannuronate has long-lasting moisturizing properties that help combat the deterioration of collagen and elastin fibers, giving it skin firming properties; it is also known to fight free radicals.
Methylsilanol Mannuronate is also known to act as an anti-oxidant to actively prevent premature aging. In vitro studies have shown that Methylsilanol Manurronate normalizes cellular metabolism, is a tissue regenerator and aids in the reduction of cellulite (Source). Seaweed has also been shown to have detoxifying properties.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate
* An amino-acid
Functions:
Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate is an amino-acid known for its skin-conditioning properties. It is found in both collagen and elastin, the protein that controls the elasticity of connective tissue fibers (Source). Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate is often used because it has been shown to help keep damaged tissue from losing its elasticity and texture. It is often seen in stretch-mark creams marketed to pregnant women and aging women concerned with encouraging elasticity in sagging skin.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
No studies were found to show any adverse side effects or warnings for Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate.
Recommended Products w/ Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate:
Methylsilanol Acetyl Tyrosine
* An anti-static conditioner
Functions:
Methylsilanol Acetyl Tyrosine, sometimes listed as Methylsilanol Acteyltyronsine, is an organic compound used in skin care and beauty products and cosmetics as a skin conditioning agent that has anti-static properties. According to CosmeticsBusiness.com, it also activates the production of melanin in the skin. This can help protect the skin from UV rays and offer sun protection. Methylsilanol Acetyl Tyrosine also contains silanol, a component known for some antioxidant activity.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There is little to no research that notes any negative side effects or warnings for the use of Methylsilanol Acetyl Tyrosine and it is considered a safe ingredient. It has not been researched or approved by the FDA or CIR, but the Environmental Working Group finds it 100% safe for use (Source).
Methylpropanediol
* Absorbing aide
Functions:
Methylpropanediol is an organic glycol that functions as a solvent in beauty products and cosmetics. According to research, it can can enhance the penetration of ingredients (such as salicylic acid) into the skin. It is primarily used in products to aid in delivery of other active ingredients, but not as an active ingredient itself.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Methylpropanediol is considered a safe ingredient and has no adverse side effects or warnings associated with its use. The Cosmetics Database assess its safety level at 99% and there are no studies that show it to be a toxin or irritant. However, any ingredient that facilitates penetration of the skin should be used thoughtfully because it could increase the likelihood of other dangerous chemicals gaining easy access to the body.
Recommended Products w/ Methylpropanediol:
Methylparaben
* An anti-fungal and preservative
* Also known as Methyl Paraben
* Read the following TIA articles concerning ethylparaben and its link to cancer: Preservatives and Parabens and Are They Safe? and What Is It: Estrogen in my Shampoo
Functions:
Methylparaben is an antifungal and preservative that is widely used in cosmetics. Because it is easily absorbed through the skin and is generally considered non-irritating, it is a very popular beauty product ingredient (Wikpedia) and is used to prevent fungal growth and to generally preserve formulas.
Although it is thought to be non-irritating, the CIR Expert Panel has acknowledged the “paraben paradox,” in which paraben-sensitive patients can tolerate paraben-containing cosmetics applied to normal, unbroken skin but not when applied to eczematous or ulcerated skin (Source).
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
* A preservative
* Please read TIA’s articles on Preservatives and Are They Safe and Why Products Need Preservatives
Functions:
Methylisothiazolinone, or MIT as it is sometimes known, is a preservative used in cosmetics and beauty products. It is a powerful biocide, or “chemical substance capable of killing living organisms, usually in a selective way.” Biocides are a general term that includes antimicrobial, germicide, antibiotic, and antifungal. Ultimately, Methylisothiazolinone is used to prevent a wide variety of bacteria and fungi from growing in cosmetics and beauty products, most often in shampoo. It is only approved for use in rinse-off formulas and at low concentrations.
Although many connections are made between Methylisothiazolinone and Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions, research by CTFA.org and News-Medical.net shows that the concentration levels found in cosmetics and beauty products are so low that there is no risk in using products with this preservative.
Methyldihydrojasmonate
* A jasmine-based fragrance
Functions:
Methyldihydrojasmonate is an ester and fragrance ingredient used in cosmetic products and perfumes (Wikipedia). According to The Good Scents Company, it is known for its jasmine scent, although it is also reminiscent of floral, or tropical aromas as well.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Methyldihydrojasmonate is considered a safe ingredient for use in cosmetics, although it is not CIR approved or reviewed. It is not listed on the EWG, but is used as a food additive, and independent studies have been done to determine its toxicity and found it to be safe for use in beauty products.
Recommended Products w/ Methyldihydrojasmonate:
Revlon Age Defying Spa Foundation, Niacin and the Nia24 Range
Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile
* A preservative
*Please read TIA’s articles on Preservatives and Are They Safe and Why Products Need Preservatives
Functions:
Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile is a preservative used to limit the growth of bacteria and other micro-organisms in beauty products in cosmetics. It is seen most often in hand creams and body lotions, although in recent years, it has been found to cause an increase in cases of eczema and other allergic reactions (source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
According to a study done in Europe, despite the use of Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile as a preservative in cosmetic products since the early 1980s, it seems that allergic reactions are increasing. Analysis from 16 dermatology clinics in 11 countries of more than 50,000 patients showed an increase allergic reactions from 0.7% in 1991 to 3.5% in 2000. Because of this increase, it has been banned in leave-on products in the European Union.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
* A preservative
* Please read TIA’s articles on Why Products Need Preservatives and Preservatives and Are They Safe
Functions:
Methylchloroisothiazolinone is a preservative often used in cosmetics and beauty products for its antibacterial and anti-fungal effects, according to Wikipedia. It’s most often seen in shampoos and other rinse-off products. It is part of a group of chemicals known as isothiazolinones, the most potent allergens on the consumer market. However, they are very effective preservatives and can be used safely.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone is a potential allergen used in beauty products, although most reactions occurred in the 1980s and 1990s with leave in products, and it is now only used in much lower concentrations and in rinse off products, leading to much lower rates of allergic and irritant reactions, according to research.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Methyl Sufonyl Methane (MSM)
* Enhances tissue pliability
* A sulfur compound that helps ingredients dissolve
* Also known as Methylsufonylmethane and Dimethyl Sulfone
Functions:
Methyl Sufonyl Methane (MSM) is a sulfur compound that occurs naturally in some primitive plants and is often used as a dietary supplement in the health food industry (Wikipedia). It is used two-fold in cosmetics and beauty products for its sulfur properties, which is thought to make it an anti-inflammatory and anti-aging ingredient, and as a dissolving agent in formulas.
According to Dermaxime.com, Methyl Sufonyl Methane (MSM) prevents the cross-linking of collagen fibers. Methyl Sufonyl Methane (MSM) is a sulfur compound, and approximately half of the total body sulfur is concentrated in the muscles, skin and bones. Methyl Sufonyl Methane (MSM) decreases the pressure inside the cell and removes fluids and toxins, restoring flexibility and permeability to cell walls, and allowing fluid to pass through the tissues more easily, according to research.
Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether
* A solvent
Functions:
Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether is a mild solvent used in cosmetics to thin formulas, according to research. It is a fluorinated ether solvent that is very compatible with many other ingredients, and is thought to have good sliding properties and serve as a good solvent in oil-based formulas (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Because Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether is generally used for industrial, not cosmetic, purposes, little research is available regarding its effects when applied topically, or in cosmetic or beauty product formulas. It is considered a mild solvent, and is generally considered to be a safe solvent for its normal usage.
Methyl Nicotinate
* A counter-irritant that causes redness (safely)
Functions:
Methyl Nicotinate is a nicotinic acid methyl ester, used as rubefacient in cosmetics to produce a redness or inflammation for a short period of time, often in lip plumpers or other lip products (Drugs.com). According to Wikipedia, a rubefacient works by that producing redness of the skin after topical application from dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation. This effect also categorizes Methyl Nicotinate as a counter-irritant, or an ingredient that causes irritation (albeit intentionally, and at a safe level).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Very little research is available regarding Methyl Nicotinate’s side effects, although as a counter-irritant, some irritation is expected. It is not known to cause any adverse reactions beyond a temporary inflammation, and is FDA approved. However, the EWG reports that Methyl Nicotinate has been shown to cause toxicity in mice and may increase the risk of exposure to other additives that are often included in formulas along with Methyl Nicotinate.
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
* A film former
Functions:
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a film former used in cosmetics and beauty products, as well as a viscosity increasing agent, according to research. It is a porous polymer that absorbs excess of sebum or acne-producing oils. It is formed when a copolymer of methyl methacrylate (an organic ester) is crosslinked with glycol dimethacrylate (Wikipedia).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is considered a safe filler in cosmetics and beauty products and was given a safety rating of 100% by the EWG.
Recommended Products w/ Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer:
Methyl Gluceth-20
* A mild humectant and emollient
Functions:
Methyl Gluceth-20 is a water soluble emollient and humectant produced from Glucose and Methyl Alcohol and originally derived from corn sugar and corn starch. It is a versatile, gentle, effective humectant, emollient, and foaming agent that imparts a smooth feel to the skin. Methyl Gluceth-20 is specifically used for its moisture retentive qualities and ability to open pores and follicles (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Methyl Gluceth-20 is considered extremely gentle and safe for use. It is not listed as an irritant, but no studies or research was found to document its safety by the FDA, CIR, etc.
Recommended Products w/ Methyl Gluceth-20:
Billy Jealousy Hot Towel Pre Shave Treatment, John Allan’s Matte But Never Dull Pomade, Dermaheal Two Weeks Miracle, Renee Rouleau Vitamin C & E Complex, Gold Bond Ultimate Restoring Skin Therapy Lotion, Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion SPF 15, Neutrogena Micromist Tanning Sunless Spray, Dermalogica Daily Defense Block SPF 15
Methyl Cocoate
* A surfactant
Functions:
Methyl Cocoate is a methyl ester derived from coconut oil. It is utilized as a surfactant in skin care products and cosmetics, used to that lower the surface tension of a formula and create easier spreadability (Wikipedia). Very little research is available for Methyl Cocoate, but coconut oil has long been used for its moisturizing and skin softening properties. A surfactant derived from coconut oil enjoys the properties of this moisturizing natural oil while also serving to stabilize a cosmetic formula.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There is no research regarding any adverse side effects of Methyl Cocoate. Coconut oil is generally considered safe for use as well, as are methyl esters.
Methicone
* A silicone
* Please read TIA’s article on What Is It: Silicones and Should We Avoid Them?
Functions:
Methicone is a silicone based polymer that is used as a skin conditioning agent and surface modifier in beauty products, cosmetics, and skin creams. It is primarily used to create a film or barrier for makeup to stick to. This barrier prevents sweat and oils from coming through underneath which would normally cause makeup to wear off. Methicone and all silicone polymers, have a large molecular weight; it is unlikely to be absorbed into the skin, helping it to serve as this barrier between the skin and other products, and also preventing it from penetrating the skin itself (RealSelf.com). The CIR has approved Methicone for use in concentrations up to 15%.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Menthoxypropanediol
* A cooling derivative of menthol
* Also known as Cooling Agent 10
Functions:
Menthoxypropanediol is a cooling agent synthetically derived from menthol that is used as a fragrance or masking ingredient in cosmetic and beauty products. It is known to produce effects that are twice as strong as menthol and is used at concentrations up to 20-25% that of menthol, exhibiting a cool feeling 2.0 to 2.5 times stronger than menthol, according to research.
Because of this effect, it is often seen in lip plumpers. However, because menthol is a known irritant, Menthoxypropanediol’s ability to be twice as effective at menthol in plumping lips and producing an effect that is twice as strong as natural menthol suggests that it may be twice as irritating (CosmeticsCop.com).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Menthone Glycerin Acetal
* A menthol derivative
Functions:
Menthone Glycerin Acetal is a menthol derivative used in cosmetics and beauty products as a flavoring agent and fragrance ingredient for its cooling effects. It is also used in cellulite treatments because of its properties as a cooling agent, although menthol has no proven effects on cellulite. Instead, its tingly reaction is thought to create the impression that something is occurring. Menthol is instead just irritating the skin, according to research. However, as a chemical derivative of menthol, Menthone Glycerin Acetal is a nice alternative because it is considered less irritating than menthol.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Menthone Glycerin Acetal has been approved by the FDA for use as a food additive, but has not been evaluated for safety in cosmetics or beauty products by any governing agency, including the CIR. The Environmental Working Group finds it relatively safe for use, but does not that it is an irritant, although no conclusive studies were found with scientific data to explain how frequently irritation occurred.
Mannitol
* A humectant
Functions:
Mannitol is a sugar alcohol found in abundance in nature, particularly from trees, and in marine algae and fresh mushrooms. It is an isomer of Sorbitol and is typically produced today by the hydrogenation of specialty glucose syrups and sweeteners (Source). In cosmetics and beauty products, it is used primarily as a humectant, but can also be found serving as a binder, masking agent, moisturizing agent, flavoring agent (in lip balms, etc.) and skin conditioner.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Very little research is available on Mannitol as it exists in cosmetics and beauty product ingredients, but it has been FDA approved for use in food for over 60 years and is non-carcinogenic (EWG).
Recommended Products w/ Mannitol:
Ren Sirtuin Phytohormone Replenishing Cream, Payot Optimale Regenerating Care, Vivite Antioxidant Facial Serum
Mannan
* A plant sugar used for viscosity
Functions:
Very little research is available about Mannan, a plant polysaccharide that is a polymer of the sugar mannose, accoring to Wikipedia. It originates from the Japanese Konjac plant and is used to create highly viscous gels that still maintain a silky feeling. Because of this silky texture, Mannan is popular in hair products and conditioners. Because of its high polysaccharide content, it is also considered a great moisturizer ingredient (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
No research was found that documented any adverse side effects or warnings in regards to the use of products containing Mannan.
Recommended Products w/ Mannan:
Dermaxin with Matrixyl 3000, Sophytos Polyphenol Skin Drops 2, Jan Marini Age Intervention Hair
Mandelic Acid
* An AHA
* Please read TIA’s article on Mandelic Acid for Age Spots
Mandelic Acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) made from the extract of bitter almonds. Its anti-bacterial and AHA properties make it an ideal ingredient for skin care products, although it has also been used as an antibiotic for over a century as well, according to Wikipedia.
Mandelic Acid has larger molecules than most of its AHA counterparts; therefore, it is less irritating to the skin, but can still deliver the same anti-aging benefits that AHAs traditionally provide: accelerated cellular turnover rate, the ridding of dead skin cells, and increased collagen production (MandelicAcid.org). Mandelic Acid’s antibacterial properties allow it to serve as an effective acne treatment as well.
Maltodextrin
* A binding agent
* May increase anti-aging properties of other ingredients when used in combination with them
Functions:
Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide and carbohydrate derived from rice, corn, or potato starch. By cooking it down, natural enzymes and acids help to break down the starch break down the starch, resulting in a simple white powder (Source). While this powder is most commonly used as a food additive and sweetener (with a very low calorie count), it is also used in cosmetics and beauty products because of its ability to bind other compounds and stabilize formulas. It also serves as a film former and suspending agent.
In a patent filed by Unilever in 2002, research was submitted to note the effectiveness of Maltodextrin as an anti-aging ingredient as well as an anti-irritant. Unilever found that while Maltodextrin itself was not an anti-aging compound, it enhanced the anti-aging activity of the weak acids and reduced skin irritation that is sometimes caused by other acids. It was also shown to decrease irritation associated with the use of weak carboxylic acids and enhance the anti-aging efficacy of hydroxy acids.
Magnesium Sulfate
* A natural anti-inflammatory
* Familiarly used as Epsom Salts
Functions:
Magnesium Sulfate is a natural compound used in beauty products because of its numerous benefits. According to Wikipedia, Magnesium Sulfate’s popularity as a bath salt or soak is partially cosmetic: the increase in ionic strength prevents some of the temporary skin wrinkling, which is caused by prolonged immersion of extremities in pure water. This does not seem to indicate, however, that the same effect would last for longer periods of time when applied topically in a beauty product. However, Magnesium Sulfate can also be absorbed into the skin and serve as an anti-inflammatory, sometimes fighting acne and blemishes. This ionic strength and anti-inflammatory property makes Magnesium Sulfate a popular ingredient in beauty products.
Magnesium Sulfate is also known to be an effective toxin and oil absorber in skin as well as hair (Source) although no studies were found to scientifically prove this.
Magnesium Myristate
* A mineral used in the adhesion of cosmetics
Functions:
Magnesium Myristate is the combination of Magnesium, a is mineral that has strong absorbent properties and some disinfecting properties, and Myristate a fatty acid. Magnesium Myristate contributes the following noticeable aspects to cosmetics: adhesion, free flow, slip, soft feel, rub resistance, lubricity, surface smoothness, and water repellency, according to research.
Sensient Cosmetic Technologies, a cosmetic supplier with offices in the United States, France, Brazil, Poland and China, finds that “Magnesium Myristate treated pigments can frequently be used to replace untreated materials in existing pressed powder formulations … The resulting product may display improved slip, spreadability and wear over the original without compromising the integrity of the tablet … Cosmetic pigments and fillers treated with Magnesium Myristate exhibit a moist softness, and improved adhesion characteristics.” Magnesium Myristate is also more economical than other cosmetic adhesives.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Magnesium Laureth Sulfate
* A surfactant found in shampoos
Functions:
Magnesium Laureth Sulfate is the salt of Sodium Laureth Sulfate. It is a cleansing agent and surfactant used in a large numbers of shampoos because of its gentle formula. It is less irritating than many other surfactants and can be used by people with sensitive skin; it also works in hard water (The Beauty Brains and Wikpedia).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Magnesium Laureth Sulfate is generally considered a safe ingredient, although the EWG does have concerns that contamination can occur by Ethylene Oxide and 1,4 Dioxane, two known toxins. This chance is slim, however, and contamination can be monitored and controlled. No other research to suggest that Magnesium Laureth Sulfate had adverse side effects was found. The Material Safety Data Sheet says that mild eye irritation may be caused.
Recommended Products w/ Magnesium Laureth Sulfate:
Magnesium Chloride
* A salt compound used to increase viscosity
Functions:
Magnesium Chloride is a naturally occurring mineral that is highly soluble in water; it can also be extracted from brine or sea water and mining out of ancient seabeds, according to Wikpedia. Magnesium Chloride is often found in non-beauty uses, such as food production (specifically tofu and baby milk) and anti-icing products. However, it is also taken as a supplement to regulate magnesium levels in the body, important for muscle and nerve maintenance (Drugs.com).
In cosmetics and beauty products, Magnesium Chloride is used as a viscosity increasing agent, or thickening agent, according to research.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Magnesium Chloride is FDA approved and has received its GRAS rating. However, the Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, in 2002, found neurotoxic reactions in rabbits, and some studies in the 1970s showed genetic mutation linked to high doses of Magnesium Chloride. These were all linked to high dose ingestion, however. Magnesium Chloride, as a cosmetic ingredient, is considered safe for use (Source).
Magnesium Aspartate
* A binding agent in cosmetic formulas
Functions:
Magnesium Aspartate is the Magnesium Salt of Aspartic Acid, a mineral supplement. According to Wikipedia, Aspartic Acid salts are believed to be mineral transporters to metabolizing cells, aiding in the metabolic process by replenishing vital electrolytes thereby contributing to efficient energy production. Magnesium Aspartate may be used in cosmetic and beauty product formulas to aid in this transportation and deliver minerals to skin cells; however, little research is available on Magnesium Aspartate’s actual use in these formulas. It is only noted to be a skin conditioning agent by the EWG, and most often as a binder and chelating agent.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
No safety warnings or adverse side effects could be found in conjunction with the use of Magnesium Aspartate in beauty products in cosmetics. The Environmental Working Group gave it a 98% safety rating, but it is not approved by the CIR, FDA, or any other organization for use.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP)
* A form of Vitamin C
* Please read TIA’s article on What Is It: Vitamin C Derivatives
Functions:
According to SmartSkincare.com, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a water-soluble, non-irritating, stable derivative of Vitamin C. It has the same potential as vitamin C to boost skin collagen synthesis but is effective in significantly lower concentrations, and can be used at concentrations as low as 10% to suppress melanin formation (in skin-whitening solutions). It is also important to note that Magnesuim Ascorbyl Phosphate may be better choice than Vitamin C for people with sensitive skin and those wishing to avoid any exfoliating effects since many Vitamin C formulas are highly acidic (and therefore produce exfoliating effects).
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
* A naturally occurring thickener
Functions:
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate is a naturally occurring mineral derived from refined and purified clay that is used primarily as a thickener in cosmetics and beauty products. It is naturally of a flaky, white consistency and is used most often as a filler in deodorants, shaving creams and thick lotions. It is also important to note that Magnesium Aluminum Silicate has unusually large molecules; because of these large molecules, it is unable to be absorbed into the skin (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
According to the Cosmetic Database, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate is approved by the CIR Expert Panel, but only in limited concentrations. The CIR’s concern stems from the known risk of any ingredient that contains aluminum compounds, which are known neurotoxins.
Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract
* Sea kelp
Functions:
Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract is an extract of a giant brown seaweed, Macrocystis Pyrifera, found in the Antarctic. According to research, sea kelp as a whole is thought to be useful in skin care products thanks to its high iodine, vitamin and mineral content. It is considered an anti-septic and anti-irritant that can not only heal sun-damaged skin, but can prevent wrinkles. It is also used in beauty products because of its gelatinous quality that adds shine to hair and glow to skin (Source).
Little research exists specifically on Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract, although one study published in Cosmetics and Toiletries in 2001 did find that “An extract of the Macrocystis pyrifera seaweed showed the ability to inhibit the expression of metalloproteinases in a bicellular culture study. When the extract was included in a topical formulation and applied to the skin of human volunteers, the skin showed a reduction in wrinkles, suggesting its use in formulations making an anti aging claim.”
