Sorbitan Olivate

Sorbitan Olivate

Sorbitan Olivate represents a significant advancement in skincare emulsifier technology, particularly notable for its ability to work in harmony with your skin's natural structure. What makes this ingredient special is its ability to form liquid crystal structures that mirror your skin's own lipid organization [1], essentially speaking your skin's language rather than disrupting it.

For those with dry or sensitive skin (Types 1 and 2), research using advanced microscopy techniques has shown that unlike traditional emulsifiers, Sorbitan Olivate doesn't strip or disrupt your skin's protective lipid barrier [2]. This makes it particularly valuable if you're prone to sensitivity or struggling with maintaining skin hydration. Those with balanced skin (Type 3) will appreciate its ability to maintain optimal skin conditions without over-moisturizing, while people with oily or oily-sensitive skin (Types 4 and 5) can benefit from its non-comedogenic nature and ability to create stable formulations without adding excessive oiliness [3].

Perhaps most intriguingly, recent research has shown that Sorbitan Olivate is "microbiome-friendly," meaning it helps preserve the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria on your skin's surface [3]. This property makes it particularly valuable for those dealing with conditions like acne, rosacea, or sensitive skin where microbiome balance plays a crucial role. Furthermore, its gentle nature has been confirmed through clinical testing, showing minimal potential for irritation or sensitization [4].

When used in skincare formulations (typically at 2.5-7.5%), Sorbitan Olivate helps create products with excellent spreadability and a silky texture [3]. However, what sets it apart from other emulsifiers is its dual role - not just as a formulation stabilizer, but as an active ingredient that supports skin barrier function and health [5]. This makes it particularly valuable in therapeutic skincare formulations where maintaining skin barrier integrity is crucial.

References:

  1. Erinç H, Okur I. Determination of physical and chemical properties of oleogels prepared with olive oil and olive-based emulsifier. Journal of Food Processing and Preservation. 2021;00:e15545. DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.15545

  2. Liu Y, Lunter DJ. Systematic Investigation of the Effect of Non-Ionic Emulsifiers on Skin by Confocal Raman Spectroscopy—A Comprehensive Lipid Analysis. Pharmaceutics. 2020;12(3):223. DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12030223

  3. B&T Srl. Cosmetic ingredient chemical description of Sorbitan Olivate. Unpublished data submitted by CTFA. 1998.

  4. Lanigan RS, Yamarik TA. Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Sorbitan Caprylate, Sorbitan Cocoate, Sorbitan Diisostearate, Sorbitan Dioleate, Sorbitan Distearate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Sorbitan Olivate, Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate, Sorbitan Sesquistearate, and Sorbitan Triisostearate. International Journal of Toxicology. 2002;21(Suppl 1):93-112. DOI: 10.1080/10915810290096414

  5. Formula Botanica. OliveM 1000 Information Sheet. 2022.