Sorbitol
Sorbitol

Sorbitol

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Sorbitol was first identified in the berries of a tree called the mountain ash, Sorbus aucuparia, by a French chemist in 1872. It can naturally be found in foods such as apples, pears, peaches, and prunes. Sorbitol can also be obtained by the reduction of glucose, which changes the aldehyde group to a hydroxyl group. Thus, sorbitol is classified as sugar alcohol. The majority of sorbitol is made from corn syrup.

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that is used in skincare as a hydrating and moisturising agent. Sorbitol also functions as a thickener, improving the texture of formulations. 

Sorbitol also acts as a prebiotic ingredient, helping to feed the naturally occurring bacteria on the skin. The skin has a natural microbiome that helps to protect the skin from harmful bacteria and infection. When the balance of the microbiome is affected by over washing, harsh products, or illness, it has been linked with weakened skin barrier and a decreased resilience to infection.  

Humectant: Sorbitol is a hygroscopic substance, meaning it attracts and retains moisture. In cosmetics, it is often used as a humectant to help maintain and enhance the skin's hydration by drawing water from the air and delivering it to the skin.

Moisturiser: Due to its humectant properties, sorbitol is added to formulations, such as creams, lotions, and moisturizers, to improve the skin's moisture content. It contributes to a smoother and more hydrated skin texture.

Thickening Agent: Sorbitol can act as a thickening or viscosity-enhancing agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps provide a desirable texture to products like creams and gels, improving their spreadability and feel on the skin.

Binder: In cosmetic formulations, sorbitol may be used as a binder, helping to hold together the ingredients in a cohesive manner. This is particularly useful in the production of solid products like pressed powders and solid sticks.

Solvent: Sorbitol can act as a solvent in cosmetic formulations, assisting in the dissolution of certain ingredients. It is often utilized in oral care products and some liquid formulations.

Anti-Caking Agent: Sorbitol is used as an anti-caking agent in powder formulations, helping to prevent clumping and ensuring a free-flowing product.

Stabiliser: It may be used as a stabilising agent in cosmetic formulations to enhance the stability and shelf life of the product.

Film-Forming Agent: Sorbitol can contribute to the film-forming properties of certain cosmetic products, improving their adherence to the skin or hair.

Dermal Penetration Enhancer: In some formulations, sorbitol may act as a dermal penetration enhancer, facilitating the absorption of other active ingredients into the skin.

Dissolution: Sorbitol is water-soluble, so ensure it's properly dissolved in the aqueous phase of your formulation. Warm water can help it dissolve more easily.

Avoid Overuse: While sorbitol is effective, using too much can cause a sticky feel in the final product. A typical usage rate is between 2-10%, depending on the type of product and desired effect.

Combining with Other Humectants: Sorbitol works well when combined with other humectants like glycerin or propylene glycol. This can create a balanced moisture profile in your product.

pH Stability: Sorbitol is stable across a wide pH range, making it versatile for various formulations. However, always check the pH compatibility with other ingredients in your formulation.

Preservation: Like other humectants, sorbitol can attract and hold water, which may promote microbial growth. Ensure your formulation includes an appropriate preservative system to prevent contamination.

Texture Modification: Sorbitol can also act as a texture enhancer, adding a smooth, lubricious feel to creams and gels. Experiment with different concentrations to achieve the desired texture.

Impact on Viscosity: Sorbitol can affect the viscosity of a formulation. It may thicken the product slightly, so consider this when designing your formula, especially if you're targeting a specific viscosity.

Storage Considerations: Store sorbitol in a cool, dry place, away from moisture. It’s hygroscopic, so it can clump if exposed to humidity.

Chemical Formula: C6H14O6

Molecular Weight: Approximately 182.17 g/mol

CAS Number: 50-70-4

Appearance: Sorbitol is typically a white, crystalline powder or a clear, colorless syrup.

Solubility: Sorbitol is highly soluble in water.

Melting Point (crystalline form): 95-96 °C (203-205 °F)

Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling.

Density (syrup): The density of sorbitol syrup varies depending on the concentration.

Sweetness: Sorbitol is about 60% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar).

Humectant Properties: Sorbitol is a hygroscopic compound with excellent humectant properties, making it effective in attracting and retaining moisture.


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