Very Disliked
Sorbitan Oleate
May cause Acne
Some ingredients have a higher likelihood of clogging pores or triggering breakouts, especially for acne-prone skin. However, skin reactions are individual - what causes breakouts for one person may work fine for another. Patch test if you're concerned.
May feed Fungal Acne
Non-fungal acne-safe products contain ingredients that can worsen fungal acne. If you suspect fungal acne, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.
Explained
Sorbitan Oleate is a PEG-free emulsifier made by esterifying sorbitol with oleic acid.
You'll likely see it paired with Polysorbate 80 to create the right emulsification balance.
Typical use levels in formulas range from 2-10%.
The CIR Expert Panel has concluded this ingredient to be safe as a cosmetic ingredient.
Since this ingredient is an ester of oleic acid, it may not be fungal acne safe. Oleic acid is a fatty acid that falls into the C11-24 range that Malassezia can metabolize.
See all 2,353 products with Sorbitan Oleate
What it does
Emulsifying
The act of emulsion: a suspension of small globules of one liquid in a second liquid with which the first will not mix
Prevalence
Uncommon
Percentage of products that contain it
1.8%
Top categories
Moisturizers
Treatments
Makeup
Position
Predominant list placement
Bottom 50%
References
CosIng Data
CosIng ID
38181
INCI Name
SORBITAN OLEATE
INN Name
sorbitan oleate
EC #
 215-665-4
All Functions
Emulsifying
