Sorbitan Laurate is a widely used non-ionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and lauric acid, both of which are naturally occurring raw materials. It plays a crucial role in industries that require effective emulsification, stabilization, and gentle surfactant activity without compromising safety standards. Known for its versatility, Sorbitan Laurate is frequently adopted in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial applications.
From a chemical perspective, Sorbitan Laurate belongs to the sorbitan ester family. These esters are formed through the esterification of sorbitol with fatty acids, giving them a balance of hydrophilic and lipophilic characteristics. This dual affinity makes Sorbitan Laurate an effective emulsifier, ensuring the smooth blending of oil and water-based ingredients.
Its mildness on the skin and compatibility with other emulsifiers and surfactants make it particularly valued in personal care products such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and cleansing systems. It not only stabilizes formulations but also enhances spreadability and sensory experience, making the final product more pleasant for consumers.
The global demand for safer, plant-derived, and eco-friendly surfactants has amplified interest in Sorbitan Laurate. With increasing regulatory scrutiny on synthetic chemicals, businesses are pivoting toward naturally sourced ingredients, and Sorbitan Laurate stands out as a reliable option for both performance and sustainability.
When evaluating an ingredient for industrial and consumer products, businesses focus on three pillars: performance, safety, and compliance. Sorbitan Laurate delivers on all three, which explains its broad adoption across multiple sectors.
Performance Benefits:
Emulsification Power: Strong capability to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, ensuring smooth, lump-free formulations.
Mild Surfactant Action: Gentle cleansing effect, reducing irritation potential compared to harsher surfactants.
Synergistic Use: Works effectively with other emulsifiers like polysorbates, boosting formulation flexibility.
Moisturizing Support: Helps maintain skin hydration by reducing the stripping effect of cleansers.
Safety and Regulatory Profile:
Biodegradability: Derived from renewable resources and breaks down naturally, reducing environmental footprint.
Non-Toxic: Classified as safe for human use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food-grade applications.
Low Irritancy: Well tolerated by sensitive skin, making it suitable for baby care and dermatological products.
Global Compliance: Approved by major regulatory authorities such as the EU, FDA, and other international boards.
Key Industries Using Sorbitan Laurate:
Cosmetics & Personal Care: Foundations, moisturizers, cleansing oils, hair conditioners, and sunscreens.
Pharmaceuticals: Topical ointments, creams, drug delivery systems, and emulsified suspensions.
Food Industry: Acts as an emulsifier in baked goods, dairy products, and sauces.
Industrial Applications: Lubricants, coatings, and agrochemical emulsions.
For buyers and formulators, precise technical data is essential. Below is a summary of standard product specifications for Sorbitan Laurate, ensuring transparency and consistency in supply.
Parameter | Specification |
---|---|
Chemical Name | Sorbitan Laurate |
INCI Name | Sorbitan Laurate |
CAS Number | 1338-39-2 |
Molecular Formula | C18H34O6 |
Appearance | Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid or waxy solid |
Odor | Characteristic mild odor |
Acid Value | ≤ 10 mg KOH/g |
Saponification Value | 150 – 170 mg KOH/g |
Hydroxyl Value | 330 – 360 mg KOH/g |
HLB Value | 8.6 (indicating moderate hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) |
Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and organic solvents |
Stability | Stable under recommended storage conditions |
Applications | Emulsifier, dispersant, stabilizer, and wetting agent |
This parameter set shows why Sorbitan Laurate is highly adaptable to different formulation needs. The HLB value, for instance, indicates its suitability for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions, making it particularly relevant in cream and lotion formulations.
Storage and Handling Recommendations:
Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry environment.
Protect from direct sunlight and moisture exposure.
Recommended shelf life: 24 months under optimal storage conditions.
The decision to integrate Sorbitan Laurate into formulations often comes down to consumer expectations and corporate responsibility. Today’s consumers demand transparency, eco-conscious ingredients, and high-performance products. Sorbitan Laurate addresses all these requirements in a single package.
Consumer-Driven Advantages:
Eco-Friendly Origin: Plant-based and biodegradable, aligning with green product claims.
Enhanced Skin Comfort: Improves product texture and reduces skin dryness or irritation.
Trust Factor: Recognized globally as a safe and reliable emulsifier.
Business-Centric Advantages:
Cost-Effective: Provides stability at relatively low inclusion levels, reducing overall formulation cost.
Versatility: Applicable in a wide range of product categories without reformulation challenges.
Market Adaptability: Meets international standards, simplifying global market entry.
By choosing Sorbitan Laurate, companies align themselves with the growing trend toward safer, sustainable, and consumer-friendly products, while still maintaining strong functional performance.
Q1: Is Sorbitan Laurate safe for sensitive skin formulations?
Yes. Sorbitan Laurate is well known for its low irritancy and mild surfactant profile. It is widely used in baby care products, facial cleansers, and dermatological creams, where skin sensitivity is a priority. Its ability to emulsify and stabilize without harsh effects makes it a preferred choice for sensitive applications.
Q2: Can Sorbitan Laurate be used in both cosmetic and food formulations?
Yes. Sorbitan Laurate has multi-industry approvals, making it suitable for both personal care and food industries. In cosmetics, it stabilizes emulsions in creams, lotions, and shampoos. In food, it serves as an emulsifier in baked goods, dairy, and sauces. Its safety profile ensures compliance with international regulations in both categories.
Sorbitan Laurate is more than just a functional emulsifier—it represents the future of safe, sustainable, and versatile formulation design. Its balance of performance, safety, and eco-compatibility makes it an indispensable ingredient for industries striving to meet modern consumer and regulatory demands.
At Polykem, we are committed to supplying premium-quality Sorbitan Laurate with strict adherence to international standards. Our expertise in chemical sourcing and product innovation ensures that clients receive consistent, reliable, and cost-effective solutions tailored to their unique needs.
For businesses looking to enhance their product portfolio with Sorbitan Laurate, we welcome you to connect with us. Contact us today to explore how Polykem can support your formulations with trusted quality and technical excellence.