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humectant

Sorbitol

Generally safe·Moderate evidence

A humectant sugar alcohol that draws water into the skin. It is well tolerated and widely used in skincare and food. Not known to cause concern at the concentrations used in cosmetics.

Questions

Is sorbitol safe in skincare products?
Sorbitol is graded as safe in published reviews and functions as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin. It is a natural sugar alcohol derived from glucose and is commonly used in hydrating formulas.
What does sorbitol do?
Sorbitol supports hydration by binding water to the stratum corneum and also acts as a humectant, helping formulas feel less sticky than glycerin. It is often used in serums, masks, and moisturizers.
Can sorbitol be used daily?
Published data supports daily use of sorbitol in skincare; safety concerns are not documented at typical concentrations. It is well-tolerated across skin types, though those with extremely sensitive skin should patch test first.

Products with Sorbitol

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.