Sorbitan Oleate is a cosmetic-grade nonionic surfactant. Due to its low HLB value, it is often used in oil-in-water (O/W) systems in personal care formulations to play an emulsifying and stabilizing role. This ingredient is made by dehydrating sorbitol and esterifying it with oleic acid. It has a mild structure and multiple properties and is often used as a stabilizing agent in oil systems. The packaging specification is 25kg/barrel, which is convenient for production and transportation, and is also suitable for laboratory development.
General characteristics
Sorbitan Oleate has an amber liquid appearance, a smooth texture, and moderate fluidity. It has outstanding lipophilicity, is insoluble in water, and is only slightly soluble in ethanol. It has good compatibility with a variety of oils, waxes, and lipophilic ingredients, and can be quickly integrated into the oil phase system. The recommended dosage is 1–5%, within which a good emulsification effect can be achieved while maintaining the softness and balance of the formula skin feel.
From a chemical point of view
Its molecular structure has typical amphiphilicity: the cyclic skeleton formed by dehydration of sorbitol retains some hydroxyl groups, providing a certain degree of hydrophilicity; while the unsaturated long-chain structure of oleic acid gives strong lipophilicity, and the overall HLB value is about 4.3. This structure makes it suitable for O/W emulsion systems, forming a stable emulsified layer at the oil-water interface, evenly wrapping water in the oil phase, enhancing the stability of the emulsion, and reducing stratification and water precipitation. At the same time, this structure also gives it good lubricity and dispersion ability.
Uses in cosmetics
Sorbitan Oleate is often used for the stability and optimization of oil phase systems. It is widely used in products such as creams, lotions, and lipsticks to help water disperse evenly in oils and improve product texture and structural stability. In sunscreen products, it can help inorganic powders such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to disperse evenly in the oil phase, avoid agglomeration, and improve application uniformity. In lip makeup, its lubricating properties help improve the user experience and enhance heat resistance. In addition, this ingredient is mild and low-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin and baby care formulas. It can also improve the lubrication of hair in hair products and reduce friction when combing.