Snapshot
- Overview
- A sugar-derived humectant that draws moisture to keep skin soft.
- Category
- Hydration, Skin Conditioning
- Type
- Humectant
Sorbitol
Sorbitol is a water-soluble sugar alcohol derived from glucose, widely used in cosmetics as a humectant. It's included to attract and retain moisture in formulations, support softness and glide, and improve sensory feel in gels, cleansers, and creams.
Like this ingredient?
Our take
Is Sorbitol a Good Ingredient?
It's a well-studied humectant with strong formulation stability and a low irritation profile, which supports its Great rating. It improves hydration reliably across product formats without requiring high concentrations that could raise sensitivity risk.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It draws water to the skin's surface to help it feel soft, plump, and comfortable, and can lessen the sensation of dryness or tightness after cleansing.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's used in toners, serums, essences, and sheet masks to boost hydration and improve slip, and included in shampoos and body washes for moisture-retentive lather.
Before you use it
Safety
It's typically very well tolerated with minimal irritation potential; at high levels it can feel sticky and may briefly sting on compromised skin. No common cosmetic regulatory limits are noted.
Products with Sorbitol
