Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sorbic Acid?
Sorbic acid is a preservative naturally derived from mountain ash (also known as rowan) berries or manufactured synthetically. Its name, sorbic acid, comes from the taxonomic name of mountain ash, Sorbus aucuparia. Sorbic acid is used to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi. Its safety and effectiveness make it useful in a variety of products, including several foods, cosmetics, and even contact lens solutions. It tends to work best at an acidic pH of 4.5 or lower. In its raw form, sorbic acid is a white, crystalline powder. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review board has ruled sorbic acid safe as used up to 0.6% in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
Preservative efficacy of selected antimicrobials of natural origin in a cosmetic emulsion [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ics.12461]
-
Ingredient Profile—Sorbic Acid/Potassium Sorbate [https://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/research/literature-data/article/21835031/ingredient-profilesorbic-acid-potassium-sorbate]
-
Optimization of preservatives in a topical formulation using experimental design [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00520.x]
-
Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3109/10915818809078711]
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Potassium Sorbate
Used as a preservative in cosmetics | Also used in food to prohibit the growth of yeast and mold
Salicylic Acid
The oil-soluble acid that works inside the pore
Sodium Levulinate
Salt of levulinic acid | Levulinic acid helps condition and soften skin
Tranexamic Acid
A brightener that works on a different pathway to the rest
Benzoyl Peroxide
The acne eliminator
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Versatile polymer widely used in skin care and makeup | Aids texture and helps stabilise formulas
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.