Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientEmulsifierSorbitan Isostearate
INCI: Sorbitan Isostearate
Sorbitan isostearate is a sorbitan ester formed by the esterification of sorbitol with isostearic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid. It functions primarily as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water phases into stable, homogeneous formulations. It also acts as a particle dispersant, keeping insoluble pigments and mineral UV filters evenly distributed throughout a product.
Category
Emulsifier
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, oily, dry, combination, sensitive, acne-prone
What does this do in a formula?
emulsification, texture stabilisation, particle dispersion, improved spreadability, formulation stability
Is Sorbitan Isostearate safe? Key considerations
Can Sorbitan Isostearate cause irritation?
Low RiskINCIDecoder assigns an irritancy rating of 0 — the lowest possible score. Sorbitan isostearate is not listed under EU CosIng Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted substances) and has no known concentration limits for leave-on cosmetic use. It is broadly considered non-irritating at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Does Sorbitan Isostearate increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskSorbitan isostearate is an emulsifier with no photosensitising properties. It does not increase UV sensitivity and requires no additional sun protection precautions.
Is Sorbitan Isostearate safe during pregnancy?
SafeSorbitan isostearate is a topically applied emulsifier with negligible systemic absorption. No reproductive or developmental toxicity concerns are noted in available safety databases. It is widely used in baby care products, which indicates a well-established safety profile. MANUAL REVIEW: No specific MotherToBaby or EWG pregnancy data was retrievable at time of research.
How does Sorbitan Isostearate work?
Sorbitan isostearate is a sorbitan ester formed by the esterification of sorbitol with isostearic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid. It functions primarily as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water phases into stable, homogeneous formulations. It also acts as a particle dispersant, keeping insoluble pigments and mineral UV filters evenly distributed throughout a product.
Which products contain Sorbitan Isostearate?
Shop products that contain Sorbitan Isostearate
Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturiser
Starter Retinol Serum
Caffeine Eye Cream
Dewy Sunscreen SPF 30
360° Skin Clearing Serum
10% Niacinamide Serum
Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm
Biome Balancing Moisturiser
1% Retinol Serum
Retinol Serum
Succinic Acid Treatment
10% Azelaic Acid Serum for Redness Relief
Tranexamic Acid Serum
