Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate

Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate 1
AKA: Sorbitol Sesquiisostearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
Sorbitan, isooctadecanoate (2:3)
CAS #
71812-38-9
Form
Wax
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Surfactant Emulsifying
Improves Elasticity
Moisturizing
Boosts Collagen
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol). Created as a stable alternative to soap-based emulsifiers for water-in-oil and oil-in-water cosmetic formulations.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed4 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR