• Natural humectant that retains moisture in skin and hair
• Improves spreadability and viscosity of cosmetic formulations
• Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin
• Compatible with glycerin and other hydrating agents
• Used in lotions, creams, serums, gels, oral care, and shampoos

Sorbitol – Natural Humectant & Moisture Lock for Skincare

 Sorbitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol (polyol) derived from fruits or corn syrup. It functions as a hydrating humectant, pulling water into the skin and helping maintain suppleness and smoothness. Often used as a substitute or complement to glycerin, Sorbitol adds texture, slip, and moisture retention to creams, gels, cleansers, and even toothpaste. Its non-irritating and non-comedogenic profile makes it ideal for sensitive skin, baby care, and oral care formulations.

INCI Name: Sorbitol

CAS Number: 50-70-4

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Aqueous phase (heated or cool-down)

pH Stability: 4.0 – 8.5

Processing Temperature: Stable up to 80°C

Appearance: Clear, viscous liquid or crystalline powder

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Formula: C6H14O6

Molecular Weight: 182.17 g/mol

Flash Point: > 100°C

Density: ~1.28 g/cm³ (liquid)

Chemical Type: Polyol (Sugar Alcohol)

Functional Groups: Hydroxyl (-OH)

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Moisturizers, face washes, oral care, lotions, baby care, shampoo

• Usage Rate: 1% – 10%
• Phase: Water phase (hot or cool)
• Ideal For: Creams, serums, gels, toothpaste, shampoos

🔬 Sorbitol can be used in place of or in combination with Glycerin for enhanced skin hydration with less tackiness. Use it in formulas with Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol to mimic the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF).

✔️ Suitable for all skin types

✔️ Especially beneficial for dry, sensitive, or mature skin

✔️ Safe for baby care and oral hygiene products

1. Hydrating Face Serum

Use 3% Sorbitol with Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid for enhanced long-lasting hydration.

2. Creamy Face Wash

Blend 5% Sorbitol into a foaming face wash to improve skin softness post-rinse.

3. Toothpaste Base

Use 10–15% as a sweetening, moisturizing agent in fluoride-free toothpaste.

4. Hair Serum or Leave-In Spray

Include 3–4% in water-based hair products to reduce dryness and improve shine.

5. Natural Lotion Base

Use 4% Sorbitol with aloe vera and panthenol for a daily-use body lotion.

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Provides deep moisture and glide.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Enhances hydration and smoothness.



Toners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Boosts water retention in light toners.



Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds humectancy and prevents dryness.



Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Leaves skin soft and non-stripped.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds moisture and combability to strands.



Deodorants
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Use in gel deodorants for hydration.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Gentle and hydrating for delicate areas.



Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Moisturizes scalp and improves texture.



Soaps
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Prevents soap bars from becoming too harsh.



Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Enhances slip and softness.



Lip Balms
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Use sparingly; may feel sticky in waxy formulas.



Body Butters
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Lightens heavy butters and boosts hydration.



Ointments
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Increases moisture content and skin healing effect.

Q1: Is Sorbitol safe for all skin types?

A1: Yes! It’s non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and suitable for babies, sensitive skin, and mature skin.

Q2: Can I use Sorbitol with glycerin?

A2: Absolutely. They work synergistically to increase water binding and reduce TEWL (transepidermal water loss).

Q3: Is Sorbitol only for skincare?

A3: No — it’s also used in oral care, hair products, gels, and body lotions.