Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that is found naturally in fruits and vegetables. It is also a common ingredient in many skin care products, where it is used as a humectant. Humectants are ingredients that attract water, and sorbitol is particularly effective at absorbing moisture from the air. This makes it a valuable ingredient for preventing skin dryness.
Sorbitol offers several advantages in skincare formulations, making it a popular choice for beauty professionals and estheticians:
- Hydration: Sorbitol’s primary function as a humectant is to attract and retain moisture on the skin’s surface. By doing so, it helps maintain the skin’s hydration levels, resulting in a smoother, healthier appearance.
- Texture: Sorbitol is often used in skincare products for its ability to improve product texture, making it easier to apply and spread evenly on the skin. This can enhance the overall experience and effectiveness of the product.
- Safety: Sorbitol is considered safe for use in skincare products, with a low risk of irritation or adverse reactions. It is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Stability: Sorbitol is resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making it a stable ingredient in skincare formulations.
In skincare and beauty products, sorbitol is rarely used in its pure, separate form. Typically, it appears as a performance or functional ingredient, a little down within the ingredients list of the products. Nonetheless, sorbitol’s humectant properties and stability make it an effective and functional component in the formulation.