Isopropyl Myristate is a prosthetic-grade, oil-based makeup remover formulated to remove special effects makeups, acrylic adhesives such as PROTAC and other character makeup residues without irritating the skin. Odourless and gentle in action, it also works as a softening and polishing agent for professional sculpting clays such as Monster Clay.
Technical specifications
| Property |
Data |
| Chemical name |
Isopropyl Myristate |
| Base |
Oil-based |
| Odour |
Odourless |
| Dermal safety |
Skin safe |
| Evaporation rate |
Slow (slower than mineral alcohols) |
| Applications |
FX makeup remover, adhesive remover, clay polisher |
| Available formats |
Various sizes |
What it is used for
Isopropyl Myristate is an essential tool in the kit of any special effects makeup artist and prosthetic character designer. Its oil base makes it gentler on the skin than alcohol-based solvents, and its low evaporation rate allows you to work at a comfortable pace during cleaning or polishing.
- Remove special effects makeup (paints, pigments, character coverage)
- Dissolve and lift prosthetic acrylic adhesives such as PROTAC
- Clean residues of prosthetic latex foam from the skin
- Polish and smooth the surfaces of sculpting clays such as Monster Clay Medium, Soft or Hard to achieve a mirror finish
- Act as a softening agent on clay working areas
- Remove character makeup residues from tools and work surfaces
How to use it
- Apply a small amount of Isopropyl Myristate to a cotton pad, gauze or soft brush. Always use the minimum amount needed.
- To remove makeup or adhesives from skin, pass the cotton pad or brush with gentle movements over the area, allowing the product to work as it slowly evaporates. Do not scrub hard.
- Work in small sections, especially in areas with adhered prosthetics, to ensure the adhesive releases in a controlled manner without irritating the skin.
- To polish clay surfaces (for example, Monster Clay Gray Medium), pour a small amount onto clean paper or a lint-free cloth and rub in circular motions over the sculpture until the desired finish is achieved.
- Always start with a small area to check the effect before extending the application to the rest of the surface.
- After skin cleansing, remove oily residues with water and mild soap.
Usage tips
For makeup removal and prosthetic lifting
Always work with patience. Being slow-evaporating, Isopropyl Myristate needs a few seconds to penetrate and soften the adhesive. Forcing removal before it has had time to act can irritate the skin or damage the prosthetic. Use a soft-bristle brush to work the edges of the prosthetic from the inside outwards.
For polishing clay sculptures
Always use very small amounts. Too much product will soften the surface excessively and can ruin the detail of the sculpture. Start on flat or lower-detail areas to gauge the right amount and rubbing time needed before moving on to more complex zones.
Storage and preservation
Store the product in a cool place, away from heat sources and direct light. Close the container tightly after each use to prevent the product from becoming contaminated or going rancid over time. Being oil-based, it does not mix with water, so refrigeration is not necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to use this makeup remover directly on the skin?
Yes. Isopropyl Myristate is a cosmetic ingredient widely used in dermal formulations. It is safe to apply to the skin of the face and body under normal conditions, always following the usage instructions and avoiding contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Can I use it to remove prosthetic adhesives?
Yes, it is one of its primary uses. It effectively dissolves water-based acrylic adhesives such as PROTAC without irritating the skin, making it a gentler alternative to alcohol-based solvents.
What is the difference between this product and a mineral alcohol makeup remover?
Isopropyl Myristate is oil-based and evaporates much more slowly than mineral alcohols, making it gentler on the skin and giving you more working time. Alcohols are more aggressive and can dry out or irritate the skin when used frequently. For FX makeups and prosthetic character work, Isopropyl Myristate is the preferred option in professional environments.
Does it work to remove makeup from silicone or latex prosthetics?
Isopropyl Myristate is intended for cleaning makeup and adhesive residues from the skin. For cleaning the prosthetics themselves (silicone, latex foam), it may be useful in some cases, but you should always test on a small area before treating the entire piece, as oily materials can affect the paints or intrinsic colouring of some prosthetics.
Can it be used to polish any type of sculpting clay?
It is especially recommended for oil-based clays such as Monster Clay in its various hardnesses (Medium, Soft, Hard and Gray). On other types of clay with different compositions, it may behave differently, so it is always advisable to carry out a prior test on a small area.
Does it leave an oily residue on the skin after use?
Being oil-based, it can leave a slight oily film. To remove it completely, simply wash the area with warm water and mild soap after the makeup removal process.
How much product should be applied each time?
The minimum amount needed is always the right amount. For makeup removal, a few drops on a cotton pad or gauze are sufficient to treat a wide area. For polishing clay, a small amount on clean paper or a cloth is enough. Too much product can over-soften the clay or leave excessive oily residue on the skin.
Does it have an odour?
No. Isopropyl Myristate has no perceptible odour, making it very comfortable to use on set, during extended character sessions or in enclosed spaces where ventilation may be limited.
