Sorbitan Laurate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Sorbitan monolaurate, Sorbitan, monododecanoate, Span 20
Works as a cleansing agent and emulsifier | Also used to enhance the overall texture of skin care products
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sorbitan Laurate?
Sorbitan laurate is an ester of fatty acid lauric acid and portions of the sugar ingredient sorbitol. This ingredient works as a cleansing agent and emulsifier and may be naturally derived or synthetic. It can be used to enhance the overall texture of skin care formulas.
Depending on how it’s sourced, sorbitan laurate comes in different physical forms as a raw material ranging from an oily liquid to hard waxy solid.
Amounts above 5% are likely to cause skin irritation; however, sorbitan laurate is typically used as a supporting player in lower amounts (up to 3%), along with other cleansing agents. As such, it’s considered a safe ingredient for use on skin. This ingredient also happens to be a food additive, a testament to its safety when used topically.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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PubChem, Accessed August 2021, ePublication [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/11046239]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2019, pages 60S-80S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581819871877]
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Dermatitis, July-August 2008, pages E22-E23 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18674450/]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sorbitan Caprylate
A plant-derived emulsifier with emerging purifying properties
Sorbitan Fatty Acid Ester
A surfactant derived from sorbitol and fatty acids that stabilises oil and water in formulations
Sorbitan Isostearate
Similar to the liquid fatty acid isostearic acid | Works as a mild cleansing agent and emulsifier
Sorbitan Oleate
Emulsifier and cleansing agent | Also used in food preparations
Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer
A synthetic emulsifier and cleanser that stabilises formulations and reduces foam
Sorbitan Olivate
Mixture of fatty acids from olive oil and dehydrated sugar sorbitol | Functions as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent
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