What Is Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate?
Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate is a synthetic ingredient created by combining sorbitol, stearic acid and roughly 150 units of ethylene oxide. The result is a large, wax-like molecule that is part oil and part water-loving chain, which gives it special handling properties in cosmetic formulas. Chemists first explored sorbitol-based esters in the mid-20th century while searching for safer, more versatile surfactants to replace older animal-derived emulsifiers. As polyethylene glycol technology advanced, longer ethylene oxide chains were attached to improve water dispersibility, leading to high-number grades like Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate that are popular today.
Production begins with plant-derived sorbitol that is reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled setting until the average “150” repeat units is reached. The resulting PEG-sorbitol is then esterified with six molecules of stearic acid, a fatty acid usually sourced from vegetable oils. This multi-step process yields a purified, food-grade waxy solid that melts into oil phases and swells slightly in water, making it easy to blend into many personal care bases.
Formulators add Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate to creams, lotions, serums, face masks, makeup primers, sunscreens and anti-aging products where a smooth, cushiony texture is desired. It is often paired with lighter oils or silicones to stabilize emulsions and give the finished product a richer feel without making it greasy.
Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The main value of Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate in skin care lies in its role as a viscosity-controlling agent. By thickening the oil phase and slightly interacting with water, it helps create a creamy, uniform texture that stays stable on the shelf and feels elegant on the skin. This improved consistency allows products to spread evenly, cling to the surface for better active delivery and resist separation when exposed to heat or cold during storage and transport.
Who Can Use Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate
Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, normal and combination skin, because it adds creaminess without heavy oiliness. Very oily or severely acne-prone skin may prefer lighter formulas since this thickener can give a richer feel that some find too occlusive if they already produce excess sebum.
The ingredient is synthesized from plant-derived sorbitol and vegetable stearic acid so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are involved in its manufacture or final form.
There is no evidence that Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate poses specific risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding when used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear every skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and has no known interactions with common topical actives such as vitamin C, retinoids or hydroxy acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, though most consumers will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished cosmetic.
- Skin irritation: very mild stinging or burning can occur in sensitive individuals, especially on compromised skin barriers
- Redness or itching: rare cases of transient erythema or pruritus have been reported, usually subsiding once the product is removed
- Allergic contact dermatitis: an uncommon immune response to the PEG portion or stearic acid component may lead to localized rash
- Breakouts or clogged pores: although low on the comedogenic scale, its thickening nature might trap oil in skin that is already congested
- Eye irritation: if the product migrates into the eyes it can cause watering or discomfort until rinsed out
If any of these effects are noticed discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate sits low on the comedogenic scale because its large, highly ethoxylated structure keeps it mostly on the skin’s surface where it helps thicken the formula without deeply blocking pores. It is oil compatible but also water friendly so it tends to rinse away better than straight waxes or heavy butters. That said the slight waxy feel can still be a bit much for very oily complexions.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in most cases though ultra congested or actively breaking out skin may prefer lighter alternatives.
Formulas that pair this ingredient with high amounts of rich oils or occlusive silicones can increase the overall pore-clogging potential so always look at the product as a whole.
Summary
Sorbeth-150 Hexastearate is mainly a viscosity controller that thickens and stabilizes emulsions, giving creams, lotions and primers a smooth cushioned glide. Its dual love of oil and water lets it sit at the interface and keep everything evenly mixed for better texture, stability and skin feel.
While not a headline-grabbing active, it is a quiet workhorse that shows up in many mid to high end moisturizers, sunscreens and makeup bases where formulators want rich slip without greasiness.
Safety reviews rate it as low risk with only occasional mild irritation or pore issues reported. As with any new skincare ingredient, patch test a small area first to make sure your skin agrees with it.