Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Sorbitan Sesquioleate (CAS 8007-43-0) is a mainly oil-loving emulsifier chemically positioned between Sorbitan Oleate and Sorbitan Trioleate, formed by attaching sorbitan (a dehydrated sorbitol/sugar molecule) to the unsaturated fatty acid Oleic Acid in a 2:3 ratio. It is capable of forming water-in-oil emulsions on its own, but is most commonly used alongside water-loving emulsifiers to produce smooth oil-in-water creams. It also functions as a wetting and dispersing agent, helping insoluble particles such as color pigments and inorganic sunscreen actives (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) to disperse evenly in liquids.
Primarily serves as an emulsifier to stabilize and blend water and oil phases in cosmetic formulations. Additionally aids in the even dispersion of pigments and inorganic sunscreen particles. No direct skin-benefit claims are made in the source beyond its functional role in formulation.
