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Catalog Number | CI-SC-0049 |
Product Name | Sorbitol |
CAS | 50-70-4 |
Structure | |
Synonyms | Hexahydric alcohol |
Description | Natural polyhydric alcohol derived from a sugar solution (dextrose) from wheat (gluten-free), consists of the alcohols D-glucitol & D-mannitol. |
IUPAC Name | (2R,3R,4R,5S)-Hexane-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexol |
Molecular Weight | 182.17 g/mol |
Molecular Formula | C6H14O6 |
Canonical SMILES | C(C(C(C(C(CO)O)O)O)O)O |
InChI | InChI=1S/C6H14O6/c7-1-3(9)5(11)6(12)4(10)2-8/h3-12H,1-2H2/t3-,4+,5-,6-/m1/s1 |
InChI Key | FBPFZTCFMRRESA-JGWLITMVSA-N |
Melting Point | 98-100 °C(lit.) |
Flash Point | >100 °C |
Purity | 99% |
Density | 1.28 g/mL at 25 °C |
Solubility | Very soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol |
Appearance | Liquid |
Application | Creams, lotions, gels, pastes (e.g. tooth pastes), protecting creams, ointments, makeup & sun care & personal care products. |
Storage | Room temperature |
Composition | Sorbitol |
Features And Benefits | Effective moisturizing properties (avoids moisture loss)Stabilizes gels and provides good clarityHas skin softening and conditioning effectsCan support thickening effects of viscosity enhancersFairly resistant to acids and alkalisStable at temperatures up to 180°C (356°F) |
GMO | GMONo data available |
HS Code | 2905440000 |
INCI | Sorbitol |
Isomeric SMILES | C([C@H]([C@H]([C@@H]([C@H](CO)O)O)O)O)O |
Manufacture | Sorbitol is produced by hydrogenation of a sugar solution using a nickel or ruthenium catalyst. Using ion exchange, the crude sorbitol solution is then purified and evaporated to its final concentration. |
pH | 5-7 |
Preservation | Preservative-free |
Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
Raw Material Source | Wheat-derived sugar (dextrose) |
Refractive Index | n20/D 1.46 |
Topological Polar Surface Area | 121 Ų |
Uses | Can be added to formulas as is; add to water phase. Typical use levels 5-50%. For external use only. |
Sorbitol, also known as glucitol, is a sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in a variety of fruits, such as ripe mountain ash berries, cherries, plums, pears, and apples. Esteemed in skincare formulations, Sorbitol offers moisturizing, softening, and conditioning benefits, enhancing the absorption of vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients into the skin while boosting the efficacy of other active ingredients. By improving the viscosity and sensory attributes of products and stabilizing gels with its high refractive index, Sorbitol contributes to clearer and more aesthetically pleasing preparations. Its role as a probiotic facilitates a healthy balance of skin microbiota, thereby promoting a radiant complexion. As a humectant, it attracts water, enhancing the skin's moisture retention, volume, and hydration. With a lighter feel than glycerin, Sorbitol serves as a humectant, thickening, and slip agent in various cosmetics, including creams, lotions, shower gels, and hair gels, with standard concentrations ranging from 1-10%. It also acts as a preservative in higher concentrations due to its ability to inhibit microbial growth, thus preventing spoilage. Additionally, Sorbitol is a sustainable, biodegradable ingredient derived from renewable resources, offering numerous advantages for skincare applications.
What is Sorbitol, and where is it commonly found?
Sorbitol, also known as glucitol, is a sugar alcohol that functions as a humectant in skincare products. It occurs naturally in the ripe berries of the mountain ash and is also found in other fruits such as cherries, plums, pears, and apples. Apart from its natural occurrence, Sorbitol can also be derived synthetically.
What are the primary benefits of using Sorbitol in skincare products?
Sorbitol is highly valued in skincare formulations for its moisturizing, softening, and conditioning effects on the skin. It boosts the penetration of other vital ingredients like vitamins and antioxidants, enhances moisture retention, and improves the overall hydration, volume, and density of the skin. In addition, Sorbitol thickens preparations, enhances viscosity, and stabilizes gels, offering a pleasant sensory profile and transparency.
How does Sorbitol help in maintaining skin health?
Sorbitol acts as a probiotic for the skin, balancing the skin's microbiota due to its inability to be metabolized by most harmful bacteria. This contributes to a healthier appearance of the skin. Moreover, its several hydroxy groups attract water molecules, providing optimal hydration and enhancing moisture retention.
How is Sorbitol similar to and different from glycerin?
Both Sorbitol and glycerin function as humectants, thickening agents, and slip agents in skincare formulations. However, Sorbitol has a lighter feel compared to glycerin, making it preferable in formulations like creams, lotions, shower gels, and hair gels. It's typically used at levels ranging from 1-10%.
Does Sorbitol have any preservative properties?
Yes, at higher concentrations, Sorbitol can suppress the growth and replication of microbes, acting effectively as a preservative. This property helps prevent drying out and spoilage of skincare formulations.
Is Sorbitol environmentally friendly?
Sorbitol is considered safe and environmentally friendly, as it is rapidly biodegradable. It is derived from renewable raw materials, making it an eco-conscious choice in skincare products.