Sorbitan Sesquioleate
W/O emulsifier from oleic acid and sorbitol. Known contact allergen in patients sensitive to lanolin.
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
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sorbitan Sesquioleate is a non-ionic emulsifier ester of sorbitol and oleic acid. Known in dermatology as a contact allergen in some patients reactive to lanolin and in 'lanolin-sensitised' eczema. Mechanism. Stabilises water-in-oil emulsions and provides mild slip. Used mostly in rich creams and balms. Where applied. Pharmaceutical creams and ointments (Eucerin, Vichy Lipidiose), colour cosmetics, body products. Less common in face skincare. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations but listed it as a contact allergen: 5-15% of lanolin-reactive patients also react to sorbitan sesquioleate (Hannuksela 1996). Non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Patients with confirmed lanolin-derivative allergy should avoid it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sorbitan Sesquioleate safe during pregnancy?
Sorbitan Sesquioleate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sorbitan Sesquioleate for?
Sorbitan Sesquioleate suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Sorbitan Sesquioleate and what does it do in cosmetics?
W/O emulsifier from oleic acid and sorbitol.
What's the INCI name for Sorbitan Sesquioleate?
The INCI name is Sorbitan Sesquioleate.
See Sorbitan Sesquioleate 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
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