Sorbitol
Sorbitol is a gentle, sugar-derived humectant commonly used in UK skincare and haircare to draw moisture into the skin and hair. It helps products feel silky and hydrated without being sticky, making it a favourite in moisturisers, serums, masks and toothpaste. Shoppers will often see it listed alongside glycerin as a natural-feeling hydrator.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, sorbitol functions as a humectant that attracts and binds water from the air to the skin’s surface, helping to maintain softness and suppleness. It also improves the texture of formulations, giving creams and lotions a smooth, non-tacky feel while enhancing spreadability. Because it is less likely to cause stickiness than some other humectants, it is frequently chosen for lightweight daily moisturisers, sheet masks, hair conditioners and lip balms sold across the UK.
Key benefits
- Draws moisture to the skin’s surface
- Helps maintain skin softness and smoothness
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Reduces tacky feel in formulations
- Supports healthy-looking, hydrated hair
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
Best for
dry skin, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, normal skin
Where it comes from
Sorbitol is naturally found in many fruits and berries, particularly rowanberries, apples and pears. Today it is most often produced by the hydrogenation of glucose derived from corn or wheat starch.