Sorbitan olive oil is a mixture of the fatty acids from olive oil plus a dehydrated sugar known as sorbitol. Sorbitan oil can be synthetic or plant derived. It acts as an emulsifier and a mild cleanser. Sorbitan-derived ingredients are considered safe for use on the skin. https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/ingredient-sorbitan-olivate.html?q=Sorbitan%20Olivate&fdid=ingredients