SORBIC ACID
Sorbic acid is an unsaturated organic acid listed on labels as SORBIC ACID. Its trans,trans form occurs naturally and the compound has also been reported in some plants; it is a small substance, not a complete plant extract or oil.
SORBIC ACID: what it is
Sorbic acid is an unsaturated organic acid listed on labels as SORBIC ACID. Its trans,trans form occurs naturally and the compound has also been reported in some plants; it is a small substance, not a complete plant extract or oil.
Industrial production can use a chemical route, so the label alone cannot show whether the material in a particular product came from a natural occurrence or industrial manufacture. Sorbates, such as potassium sorbate, are salts related to sorbic acid, but have their own INCI names.
SORBIC ACID: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, sorbic acid can act as a preservative. In practical terms, it helps limit the growth of yeasts and moulds in the formula, which supports the product's smell, texture and appearance during normal use.
Its preservative action is more favourable in acidic media, so the result depends on the product's pH and on the preservation system selected for it. Its contribution is to preserving the formula, not to treating skin, scalp or hair.
SORBIC ACID: conditions and care
In the European Union, sorbic acid is allowed as a preservative at up to 0.6%, calculated as acid, in cosmetic products.
Restrictions and conditions of use
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
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