Snapshot
- Overview
- An emulsifier that helps creams and balms feel smooth and cohesive.
- Category
- Emulsifying
- Type
- Emulsifier
Sorbitan Stearate
Sorbitan stearate is a nonionic emulsifier formed from sorbitan and stearic acid. It's used in creams and balms to stabilize water-in-oil mixtures, improve texture and spreadability, and support uniform product consistency; it can also act as a co-emulsifier with higher-HLB surfactants in some O/W systems.
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Our take
Is Sorbitan Stearate a Good Ingredient?
It's a proven nonionic emulsifier that reliably stabilizes oil-in-water systems and improves spread, which supports its Good rating. It's broadly compatible and typically low-irritating, making it a dependable texture aid, though without a standout skin benefit that would push it to Great.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It helps formulas go on smoothly with a silky glide and supports cohesive blending in water-in-oil systems; when paired with high-HLB co-emulsifiers, it can aid stability in some oil-in-water products.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's common in rich creams, balms, makeup sticks, and water-in-oil sunscreens, and also used as a co-emulsifier with polysorbates in certain lotions and liquid foundations.
Before you use it
Safety
It's generally low irritation potential and well tolerated in both leave-on and rinse-off products. Rare individuals with very sensitive skin may experience mild redness or stinging. No specific regulatory restrictions are commonly cited for cosmetic use.
Products with Sorbitan Stearate
