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SORBETH-20 BEESWAX.

Valuable CAS 8051-73-8 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sorbeth-20 Beeswax is an ethoxylated derivative of natural beeswax, functioning primarily as a multi-purpose ingredient in skincare formulations. It acts as an effective surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer, facilitating stable oil-in-water mixtures and aiding ingredient dispersion.

Emulsifying Surfactant Solubilizer Emollient Emulsion Stabilizer

Science

This ingredient reduces the surface tension between immiscible phases like oil and water, thereby forming and stabilizing emulsions critical for product texture and consistency. Its solubilizing properties allow otherwise insoluble ingredients to dissolve in solvents where they would not normally. Furthermore, its beeswax component contributes emollient benefits, which can help support and maintain the skin barrier.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 2–11%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical tests confirm minimal eye irritation for concentrations up to 30%.
  2. 02 Formulations containing 2% Sorbeth-20 Beeswax were not significant skin irritants.
  3. 03 At concentrations up to 3%, it proved minimally irritating and non-sensitizing in clinical and repeated insult patch tests.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

This ingredient functions as an emulsifier and stabilizer, not typically associated with 'dusting' concerns related to active ingredient concentration thresholds for efficacy or irritation.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Functions effectively as an emulsion stabilizer. Formulators must ensure purification steps are implemented to mitigate potential trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
11%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed Sorbeth-20 Beeswax safe for use in cosmetics, a conclusion re-affirmed in 2015 with the removal of prior general PEG-related cautions. While minor levels of 1,4-dioxane can occur, they are manageable via purification. US FDA regulations hold manufacturers responsible for cosmetic product safety, without requiring pre-market approval for ingredients.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

Sorbeth-20 Beeswax is a valuable, versatile, and well-tolerated ingredient that significantly enhances product formulation stability and texture across diverse cosmetic categories.


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