Sorbitan Laurate
Nonionic emulsifier from sorbitol and lauric acid. Stabilizes water-in-oil emulsions, mild.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sorbitan Laurate (Span 20) is a non-ionic emulsifier ester of sorbitol and lauric acid. HLB roughly 8.6. Stabilises water-in-oil emulsions or pairs with a hydrophilic emulsifier (Polysorbate 20). Mechanism. The amphiphilic molecule: sorbitol sits in the aqueous phase, laurate in the oil. Reduces interfacial tension and holds water droplets in oil. Does not irritate skin proteins. Where applied. Face and body creams, balms, oil-based makeup removers. In Spain – ingredient in Bioderma, Avène, Isdin formulas. Safety. CIR confirmed safety across all cosmetic types. Non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic. No systemic absorption. Pregnancy and lactation – safe.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sorbitan Laurate safe during pregnancy?
Sorbitan Laurate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sorbitan Laurate for?
Sorbitan Laurate suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Sorbitan Laurate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Nonionic emulsifier from sorbitol and lauric acid.
What's the INCI name for Sorbitan Laurate?
The INCI name is Sorbitan Laurate.
See Sorbitan Laurate in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Sorbitan Oleate, Sorbitan Olivate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Sorbitan Stearate, C12-13 Aleth-9, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate
Published: · updated: