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SORBITAN DIISOSTEARATE.

Valuable CAS 68238-87-9 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sorbitan Diisostearate is a versatile surfactant primarily functioning as an emulsifier, helping to stabilize formulations by blending oil and water. It also contributes to the cleansing and solubilizing properties of skincare products, enhancing overall texture and performance.

Emulsifying Agent Surfactant Cleansing Agent Solubilizing Agent Skin Conditioning Agent

Science

As a surfactant, Sorbitan Diisostearate reduces the surface tension between immiscible substances, facilitating the formation and stabilization of emulsions. This allows oil and water to mix effectively. It also aids in dissolving other ingredients within a solvent and assists in cleansing by helping water mix with oily impurities for easier rinsing. Related sorbitan esters are known to offer moisturizing and skin conditioning benefits, improving the skin's feel.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–10%
Optimal

Formulations commonly incorporate Sorbitan Diisostearate, or related sorbitan fatty acid esters, at concentrations ranging from 1% to less than 10% for effective emulsification and conditioning properties.

Key findings

  1. 01 Sorbitan fatty acid esters, including Sorbitan Diisostearate, are safely and commonly used in cosmetic formulations at concentrations below 10%.
  2. 02 Related Sorbitan Isostearate is typically utilized in cosmetic formulations at concentrations of 1-5% for its emulsifying and conditioning attributes.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

While no specific optimal pH range for Sorbitan Diisostearate was identified, related Sorbitan Isostearate maintains a neutral pH. As an emulsifier, it inherently contributes to the stability of emulsions. For ethoxylated derivatives, careful control and purification are necessary to manage potential 1,4-dioxane impurities.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel considers Sorbitan Diisostearate and other sorbitan fatty acid esters safe for use in cosmetic formulations, typically at concentrations less than 10%. For the broader category of PEG Sorbitan/Sorbitol Fatty Acid Esters (which includes ethoxylated forms), usage is deemed safe up to 25%, with the important caveat that they should not be applied to damaged skin due to potential kidney toxicity observed with PEG-based topical ointments on burn patients. Ethoxylated forms may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, which can be mitigated through purification processes. The FDA has approved PEG-40 Sorbitan Diisostearate as an excipient for specific food uses, indicating a high level of safety when properly formulated.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

Sorbitan Diisostearate is a valuable ingredient, serving as a safe and effective emulsifier and surfactant, suitable for a broad range of skin types and cosmetic applications.


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