Sorbitan Tristearate ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a low-HLB nonionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier, used mainly to stabilize water-in-oil systems, anhydrous balms, sticks, and richer creams. It also helps structure oil phases and improve texture.
What does Sorbitan Tristearate do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a low-HLB nonionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier, used mainly to stabilize water-in-oil systems, anhydrous balms, sticks, and richer creams. It also helps structure oil phases and improve texture.
Is Sorbitan Tristearate clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well tolerated, non-sensitizing, and not a common restricted-list issue. The main watchpoint is sourcing transparency rather than skin compatibility.
Is Sorbitan Tristearate sustainable?
This material is commonly made from plant-derived sugar chemistry and C18 fatty acids, though the fatty acid source can include palm or other vegetable oils. It is expected to biodegrade well because it is an ester that can break down into familiar fatty components.
Is Sorbitan Tristearate COSMOS-approved?
It is generally permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic formulations when made from acceptable natural-origin feedstocks and compliant processing. Its Green Chemistry profile is favorable because it uses renewable inputs, has low aquatic persistence concerns, and does not rely on ethoxylation.
How does Sorbitan Tristearate work chemically?
The molecule is a nonionic triester with a very low HLB, typically around 2, which makes it better suited to water-in-oil emulsification or oil-phase structuring than high-water systems on its own. Typical use is often around 0.5% to 5%, with good heat stability in melt phases and possible ester hydrolysis only under strongly acidic or alkaline conditions.
Last updated 2026-05-13