Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate

Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and isostearic acid in a sesquiester ratio. It's used to create water-in-oil emulsions, wet pigments, and improve slip and cushion in balms, foundations, and sunscreens.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that gives makeup a silky, cushioned application.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It delivers a silky slip and cushioned feel while helping color apply smoothly and look uniform, improving comfort in richer textures without a heavy drag.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's found in balm cleansers, rich creams, foundations, and tinted sunscreens to create creamy bases and evenly wet pigments.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

It carries generally low irritation potential, with occasional sensitivity possible in very reactive skin. No specific regulatory limits are commonly referenced.

Is Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as an effective nonionic emulsifier for water-in-oil systems that wets pigments well and usually remains gentle on skin while providing cushion and stability.

Products with Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate

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