Emollient

Sorbitan Olivate

Sorbitan Olivate — a natural emulsifier based on olive oil and sorbitol. It forms unique lamellar structures that mimic the skin's lipid barrier. Widely used in natural and organic cosmetics as a substitute for synthetic PEG emulsifiers.

natural emulsifierlamellar structureskin barrierorganic

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Sorbitan Olivate (INCI: Sorbitan Olivate) — a non-ionic emulsifier, an ester of sorbitol with fatty acids from Olea Europaea (olive). HLB ~3-4 (low HLB: W/O emulsifier). Chemical nature: monoester of sorbitol with oleic + palmitic + stearic acids from olive oil. Key feature: forms lamellar liquid crystalline structures in emulsions — similar to the lipid layers of the stratum corneum. Certified COSMOS, Ecocert, BDIH. Often used in conjunction with Cetearyl Olivate (Olivem 1000 system).

Certified natural and organic formulas (W/O and W/O/W emulsions), barrier-repair creams, sensitive skin products, baby cosmetics.

Key Benefits

✦

Lamellar structure — mimicry of the skin's lipid barrier

A unique property of sorbitan olivate: when combined with cetearyl olivate (Olivem system) or on its own, it forms lamellar liquid crystalline structures in water — similar to the lipid bilayers of the stratum corneum. Lamellar structure: enhances the barrier function of the finished product, improves the penetration of active components (channeling effect), reduces TEWL. Emulsions with lamellar structure have better stability without synthetic stabilizers. Skin-identical effect: the skin perceives lamellar emulsion as close to its natural lipids.

◈

Natural certified substitute for PEG emulsifiers

Sorbitan olivate is of completely natural origin — sorbitol + olive oil. Certified by Ecocert and COSMOS: meets the standards of organic and natural cosmetics. Replaces polysorbate-80, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and other synthetic PEG emulsifiers. Non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Well tolerated by sensitive skin and atopic conditions. Biodegradable and environmentally safe. Popular among zero-waste and clean beauty brands.

✧

Olivem 1000 system — the benchmark for natural emulsification

Sorbitan olivate in combination with cetearyl olivate forms the commercial Olivem 1000 system — one of the most well-known natural emulsifiers on the market. Stable W/O and W/O/W emulsions without synthetic auxiliary components. Uniquely: emulsified Olivem systems have clinically proven barrier restoration in atopic dermatitis. The effect of increased TEWL protection — confirmed by clinical studies. Widely used from mass market to prestige in the natural category.

Suitable for

sensitive and atopic skindry skinall skin types

Main Actions

✓ lamellar emulsification for barrier restoration✓ natural certified emulsifier✓ improving the penetration of active components

Sorbitan Olivate: technical aspects of formulation

Sorbitan olivate — low HLB (~3-4), used as W/O or co-emulsifier. Olivem 1000 system = sorbitan olivate + cetearyl olivate in a 1:2 ratio. Use in the hot phase (>70°C). pH stability: 4-8. Recommended concentrations: 2-5% (solo) or 5-8% (Olivem system). INCI: Sorbitan Olivate. No added alcohol or preservatives in the composition — pure substance.

CategoryEmollients

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sorbitan Olivate do for skin?

Certified natural and organic formulas (W/O and W/O/W emulsions), barrier-repair creams, sensitive skin products, baby cosmetics.

Who should use Sorbitan Olivate?

Sorbitan Olivate is suitable for: sensitive and atopic skin, dry skin, all skin types.

Are there any warnings about Sorbitan Olivate?

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