Sorbitan Oleate
SOR-bih-tan OH-lee-ate
What Is Sorbitan Oleate?
A non-ionic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. It stabilizes water-in-oil emulsions and is commonly paired with polysorbates for balanced emulsification.
Source: Sorbitol and oleic acid
Origin: Semi-synthetic
Also known as: Span 80
What Does Sorbitan Oleate Do to Your Hair?
Acts as a lipophilic (oil-loving) emulsifier that stabilizes the oil phase in hair product emulsions. Often combined with polysorbates to create stable, well-balanced creams and lotions.
Best For
All hair types, dry hair
Not Recommended For
None known
Concentration Matters
1-5% in products
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Very safe for cosmetic use. Non-PEGylated so does not carry the 1,4-dioxane concern. Non-toxic, non-irritating, and well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA permits use in food and cosmetics. Long safety record.
EWG Score: 1/10
HairAide Verdict
A clean emulsifier that does its job without controversy. Not PEGylated so it avoids the concerns associated with PEG compounds. A good choice for clean formulations.
Products That Contain Sorbitan Oleate
Conditioners, hair creams, styling products, hair masks
Alternatives to Sorbitan Oleate
If you want to avoid Sorbitan Oleate, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Polysorbate 80, Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-20
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Sorbitan Oleate has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe for cosmetic use. Non-PEGylated so does not carry the 1,4-dioxane concern. Non-toxic, non-irritating, and well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
Sorbitan Oleate is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Sorbitan Oleate is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Sorbitan Oleate include: Polysorbate 80, Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-20
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