Span 80 is made the same way as Span 40, by esterifying sorbitan with a fatty acid, but here the fatty acid is oleic acid, an unsaturated fat. That unsaturated, kinked-shaped chain is what keeps this ingredient liquid at room temperature, unlike the saturated, straight-chain fatty acids used in solid Spans like Span...
How is it used?
Add it to the oil phase; no heating is needed since it's already liquid. It's commonly paired with Tween 80, since both share the same oleic acid chain, for a tighter, more effective HLB blend.
Forms
Available forms and grades affect how this ingredient behaves and how it should be selected for a formula.
Appearance
Color, texture, and physical characteristics can vary between suppliers and product grades.
Usage rate
Recommended incorporation levels depend on product type, supplier guidance, and the intended result.
Why we use it
Formulators choose this ingredient for specific performance, sensory, and stability benefits.
Strengths and limitations
Its advantages, compatibility considerations, and practical tradeoffs should be weighed during development.
Alternatives and substitutions
Possible replacements depend on the ingredient's role, desired skin feel, and formulation system.
Storage and shelf life
Appropriate storage conditions help protect quality and performance throughout the ingredient's usable life.
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