Sorbitan Palmitate
Ingredient Info
Sorbitan Palmitate is a mild emulsifier derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and palmitic acid (a natural fatty acid). It helps blend water and oil-based ingredients together in skincare formulas, creating smooth, stable products.
Benefits
- Helps stabilize and blend ingredients in creams and lotions
- Generally minimal skin irritation in testing
- Non-sensitizing for most users
Potential concerns
- Mild skin irritation possible in sensitive individuals
- Rare allergic reactions reported with related sorbitan esters (less than 1% of patch-tested patients)
Science: Expert panel review found sorbitan palmitate safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations typically under 10%. Clinical studies showed it to be a minimal to mild skin irritant with low sensitization potential; no reproductive, developmental, or mutagenic concerns were identified.
×