Emollient ingredient
Sorbitan Palmitate
Sorbitan Palmitate (Span 40) is a non-ionic surfactant formed by partial esterification of sorbitol with palmitic acid (C16 saturated fatty acid). It has a low HLB value (~6.7), making it a lipophilic emulsifier suited for water-in-oil emulsions and W/O/W multi-emulsions. Used in eye creams and moisturizers as a co-emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent.
Also known as: Span 40
emulsifyingemollientskin-conditioning
Benefits
- ✓Sorbitan ester of palmitic acid (also known as Span 40) — a lipophilic emulsifier with a low HLB value that stabilizes water-in-oil emulsions and contributes a smooth, conditioned skin feel
- ✓More gentle and less comedogenic than older-generation sorbitan esters (e.g., Sorbitan Monostearate); the palmitate chain provides a soft, skin-conditioning character
- ✓Often used as a co-emulsifier alongside polysorbate-type (PEG-sorbitan) emulsifiers to balance the HLB of the emulsion system
No known watch-fors.
Compatibility
✓ Works well with
+ Sorbitan Olivate+ Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride+ Cetearyl Alcohol
