Quick answer
Preservative naturally derived from mountain ash berries; Used to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi; In addition to cosmetics, it is also used to preserve foods; Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Sorbic Acid
Updated
Hexa-2,4-dienoic acid
Purpose
A preservative that can be naturally derived or made synthetically. It prevents the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi and is considered safe as used in cosmetics.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Preservative
INCI Purpose
FRAGRANCE, PRESERVATIVE
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Preservative naturally derived from mountain ash berries
Used to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi
In addition to cosmetics, it is also used to preserve foods
Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Article
Sorbic acid is a preservative naturally derived from mountain ash (also known as rowan) berries or manufactured synthetically. Its name, sorbic acid, comes from the taxonomic name of mountain ash, Sorbus aucuparia.
Sorbic acid is used to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi. Its safety and effectiveness make it useful in a variety of products, including several foods, cosmetics, and even contact lens solutions. It tends to work best at an acidic pH of 4.5 or lower.
In its raw form, sorbic acid is a white, crystalline powder.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review board has ruled sorbic acid safe as used up to 0.6% in cosmetics.
References