Sucrose Benzoate

What is Sucrose Benzoate?

Sucrose benzoate is a multi-esterified derivative of sucrose, a disaccharide from glucose and fructose, combined with benzoic acid through esterification of its hydroxyl groups. This creates a tacky, resinous substance primarily used in nail care and hair styling cosmetics. In nail polishes, it forms a protective film on the nail surface, boosting adhesion and resistance to daily wear while imparting flexibility to avoid chipping. As a plasticizer, it softens rigid films, reducing brittleness for better comfort and longevity. In hair sprays and fixatives, it contributes to hold and shine without stiffness. Its non-volatile profile ensures stable performance, and it's often blended with polymers to optimize texture and application in long-wear formulations. This ingredient supports product integrity across cosmetic applications requiring durable, flexible coatings.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Plasticizer
Improves flexibility and reduces brittleness of films (e.g., nail coatings, hair sprays), helping prevent cracking and enhancing smooth application.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.

Benefits

Enhances film flexibility to prevent cracking in nail coatings and hair styling products.

Forms a durable layer for improved wear resistance and smooth application.

Supports better product hold and shine without unwanted brittleness.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of nail polishes seeking chip-resistant, flexible finishes.
Those with rare allergies to benzoic acid derivatives.
Individuals applying hair sprays for long-lasting styling hold.
Individuals sensitive to ester compounds in cosmetics.
People wanting durable films in makeup for extended wear.
People prone to contact dermatitis from film-forming agents.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental working group assessments.
  • Recognized as safe for cosmetic use by ingredient review experts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sucrose Benzoate

What is sucrose benzoate used for in cosmetics?

It functions as a plasticizer and film former mainly in nail polishes and hair styling products to improve flexibility and durability.

Is sucrose benzoate safe for skin?

It has a low safety hazard rating and is considered safe as used in cosmetics by review panels.

Does sucrose benzoate clog pores?

It carries a non-comedogenic rating, indicating low likelihood of pore blockage.