Organic-acid preservative most effective against yeast and mould at acidic pH (below about 6). Often used with its salt potassium sorbate. Efficacy depends on formula pH; can occasionally cause mild irritation at higher levels.
Function & Common Use
Preservative (antimicrobial, antifungal)
Preservative / Antimicrobial
Rinse-off and leave-on skincare, hair care, wet wipes
Synthetic or natural (occurs in rowanberries)
Concentration Limits
No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked
0.6% (as acid) per Annex V
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
0.6% (as acid)
Baby restriction: None identified for standard cosmetic use
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sorbic Acid safe to use in skincare?
Sorbic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Organic-acid preservative most effective against yeast and mould at acidic pH (below about 6). Often used with its salt potassium sorbate. Efficacy depends on formula pH; can occasionally cause mild irritation at higher levels.
Is Sorbic Acid allowed in India?
Sorbic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted preservative under CR 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked.
What is Sorbic Acid used for in cosmetics?
Sorbic Acid functions as: Preservative (antimicrobial, antifungal). It is commonly found in: Rinse-off and leave-on skincare, hair care, wet wipes.
Is Sorbic Acid safe for babies?
Sorbic Acid has baby/child restrictions: None identified for standard cosmetic use. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex V entry 20
Identifiers
Want to check if your product contains Sorbic Acid?
Analyse a Product