SORBIC ACID ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a preservative used mainly to control yeast and mold, with some support against bacteria in acidic formulas. It is most relevant in water-containing products such as creams, gels, toners, and cleansers.
What does SORBIC ACID do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a preservative used mainly to control yeast and mold, with some support against bacteria in acidic formulas. It is most relevant in water-containing products such as creams, gels, toners, and cleansers.
Is SORBIC ACID clean?
It is generally accepted in clean-beauty frameworks when used within regulatory limits. The main practical watchout is mild stinging or irritation potential in low-pH formulas or on sensitive skin.
Is SORBIC ACID sustainable?
This material is readily biodegradable and is not known for environmental persistence or bioaccumulation. Conventional supply is usually synthetic and may rely on nonrenewable feedstocks, although the molecule itself is nature-identical.
Is SORBIC ACID COSMOS-approved?
It is permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic as an approved nature-identical preservative within allowed preservative limits. From a Green Chemistry view, it scores well for biodegradability and low use levels, with a weaker fit on renewable sourcing when made through conventional routes.
How does SORBIC ACID work chemically?
The molecule is a small, conjugated unsaturated carboxylic acid, and its antimicrobial activity depends on the protonated form, so performance is strongest below about pH 6. Typical cosmetic use is often around 0.05% to 0.3%, with regulatory limits commonly up to 0.6% calculated as acid, and formulators account for limited water solubility plus possible oxidation or discoloration in poorly protected systems.
Last updated 2026-05-13