Isopropyl myristate is a polar emollient and is used in cosmetic and topical pharmaceutical preparations where skin absorption is desired.

It is used to remove bacteria from the oral cavity as the non-aqueous component of the two-phase mouthwash product "Dentyl pH".

Isopropyl myristate is also used as a solvent in perfume materials, and in the removal process of prosthetic make-up.

Hydrolysis of the ester from isopropyl myristate can liberate the acid and the alcohol.

The acid is theorized to be responsible for decreasing of the pH value of formulations.