Sorbolene Moisturiser
Sorbolene Moisturiser
Product Description
Product overview
A simple, affordable Australian-made sorbolene moisturiser enriched with 10% plant-derived glycerin and natural Vitamin E from wheatgerm oil. Designed for daily hydration on dry and sensitive skin, this fragrance-free, pH-balanced cream helps soothe, soften, and protect the skin barrier for the whole family.
10% Plant-Derived Glycerin
High concentration humectant draws moisture deep into the skin for lasting hydration and improved barrier function.
Texture & feel
SENSORY10% Plant-Derived Glycerin
High concentration humectant draws moisture deep into the skin for lasting hydration and improved barrier function.
Natural Vitamin E from Wheatgerm
Antioxidant-rich wheatgerm oil soothes, nourishes, and supports skin repair for healthier-looking skin.
Occlusive Moisture Barrier
Mineral oil and stearic acid form a protective layer that locks in hydration and prevents trans-epidermal water loss.
Whole Family Friendly
Gentle enough for babies, children, and adults. Fragrance-free and pH-balanced for even the most sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains stearic acid, cetearyl alcohol, and wheatgerm oil which can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Mineral oil is confirmed non-comedogenic by the AAD. The overall formula poses a low risk of clogging pores for most skin types.
No added fragrance, parabens, dyes, sulfates, or silicones. Minimal risk of allergic reactions or irritation.
While highly refined, wheatgerm oil may very rarely contain trace gluten proteins. Use with caution if you have an extreme gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy on skin.
Widely recommended by Australian GPs and maternal health nurses for infant and child skin care, including eczema-prone skin. Always patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin 10%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture into the skin and strengthens the barrier. At 10% concentration (plant-derived), glycerin is highly effective for long-lasting hydration. A 2016 study found it outperforms both AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical moisturiser, barrier support
- Comedogenicity: 0 — Non-comedogenic
- Research: Effective at 3–40%, with optimal benefits for dry skin at 10%+
Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) ~4%Proven
A highly refined occlusive moisturiser that sits on top of the skin to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is pure, inert, and has been safely used in skincare for over 100 years.
- Function: Occlusive emollient — prevents water evaporation from skin
- Comedogenicity: 0 — Confirmed non-comedogenic by the AAD (2005 study)
- Safety: Cosmetic grade is fully purified; no carcinogenic polycyclic compounds
Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum Vulgare) <1%Promising
A natural source of Vitamin E (tocopherol), rich in linoleic and linolenic fatty acids. Provides antioxidant protection, aids wound healing, and soothes inflammation. Approximately 80% fatty acid composition.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioning, anti-inflammatory
- Key Nutrient: High in natural Vitamin E for skin repair
- Research: Studies show it can aid wound healing and reduce inflammation
Sorbitol ~3%Proven
A sugar alcohol humectant derived from glucose (typically potato starch). Draws water to the skin, helps maintain hydration, and also acts as a texture-enhancing thickener in the formula.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioning, viscosity control
- Comedogenicity: 0 — Non-comedogenic and non-irritating
- Source: Naturally found in apples and pears; commercially from potato starch
Piroctone Olamine <0.5%Proven
An anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent commonly used to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. In this formula, it provides an additional layer of microbial protection and helps maintain skin health.
- Function: Anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory
- Benefit: Helps control yeast and bacteria on the skin surface
- Safety: Well-tolerated and widely used in dermatological products
12 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Sorbitol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Tetrasodium EDTA, Piroctone Olamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final moisturising step before sunscreen in the morning. At night, apply as the last step to lock in hydration. Can also double as a soap-free cleanser or makeup remover.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash with a gentle cleanser or use Redwin Sorbolene itself as a soap-free cleanser. Pat skin dry — do not rub.
Apply to Damp Skin
Squeeze a small amount and massage into slightly damp skin in circular motions. This helps the glycerin draw moisture into the skin more effectively.
Layer If Needed
For very dry or cracked areas, allow the first layer to absorb, then reapply a second thin layer for deeper nourishment.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and evening for best results. Always reapply after showering, bathing, or exposure to wind and sun.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, sensitive, or easily irritated skin
- You need a budget-friendly daily body moisturiser
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
- You have eczema or dermatitis and need a gentle emollient
- You need a family-friendly product safe for babies and children
- You prefer Australian-made products with simple formulations
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains stearic acid and fatty alcohols)
- You want a lightweight, fast-absorbing face moisturiser
- You prefer plant-based, mineral-oil-free formulas
- You want anti-aging actives like ceramides, niacinamide, or HA
- You need a rich ointment for severe eczema (this may be too light)
- You dislike the slightly greasy finish common to sorbolene creams
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is what Redwin Sorbolene is made for. The 10% glycerin + mineral oil occlusive barrier provides deep, lasting hydration for dry and cracked skin.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, minimal ingredient formula. Widely recommended by Australian GPs for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Works well as a daily body moisturiser. Simple formula that keeps normal skin hydrated without unnecessary additives.
May feel too heavy or greasy for oily skin, especially on the face. Best reserved for dry body areas only if you have oily skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) but not fungal-acne safe. Fine for body use; use with caution on acne-prone facial skin.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSInstant Softness & Comfort
Skin feels softer and more comfortable within minutes of application. The occlusive barrier begins forming immediately to reduce water loss.
90% noticedReduced Dryness & Itching
With twice-daily use, dry patches begin to soften. Itching and flaking from eczema or dermatitis start to subside as the skin barrier is supported.
75% noticedImproved Skin Barrier
The skin barrier function improves noticeably. Cracked, irritated areas begin healing. Skin appears smoother, healthier, and more hydrated overall.
70% noticedLong-Term Skin Health
Consistent use maintains skin hydration and barrier integrity. Many users report visibly healthier, softer skin and reduced sensitivity over time.
65% noticedRatings by platform
325+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable — often $5–6 AUD for 1.1L on sale
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for babies and sensitive skin
- Effective at soothing eczema, dermatitis, and dry cracked skin
- Multi-use: moisturiser, soap substitute, makeup remover, shaving cream
- Minimal ingredient list — only 12 ingredients
- Australian-made and widely available at supermarkets and pharmacies
- Recommended by GPs and dermatologists for sensitive skin
Criticized
- Formula has become thinner and more watery in recent years
- Can feel greasy or oily, especially on the face
- Pump mechanism on larger bottles is often faulty
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Contains mineral oil, which some consumers prefer to avoid
- Lacks advanced actives like ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid
- Too light for severely dry or cracked eczema patches
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical sorbolene formula at an even lower price point. Available at Chemist Warehouse and frequently on sale. Very similar texture and ingredient list.
Paraffin-based emollient with an even simpler formula. Thicker and more occlusive. Better for severely dry skin but greasier. Pharmacy staple in Australia.
More advanced formula with ceramides, amino acids, and fatty acids. Lighter texture, better for face use. No mineral oil. A modern upgrade for those wanting more actives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and eyes.
100g squeeze tube, 550ml bottle, or 1.1L pump bottle (also available in 2L)
Yes — the 100g tube is under 100ml and suitable for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Redwin Sorbolene Moisturiser does not contain any ingredients that are considered unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, and other pregnancy-risk ingredients. Its simple, fragrance-free formula makes it a good choice for expectant and nursing mothers.
No. Redwin Sorbolene contains stearic acid, cetearyl alcohol, and wheatgerm oil — all of which are fatty acid-based ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative instead.
Yes. Redwin Sorbolene is a simple emollient moisturiser with no active ingredients that would interact with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. In fact, it can be a soothing buffer layer to reduce irritation from these actives. Apply your active first, wait for it to absorb, then seal with Sorbolene on top.
Redwin Sorbolene is best suited for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types. It excels as a body moisturiser for anyone needing a simple, fragrance-free emollient. It may feel too heavy or greasy for oily or combination skin, especially on the face. For body use, it works well across most skin types.
You will feel immediate softness and comfort upon application. Within 1–3 days of consistent twice-daily use, most people notice reduced dryness and itching. Significant improvements to skin barrier health and texture are typically seen within 1–2 weeks. For best long-term results, use consistently for 4+ weeks.
Apply Redwin Sorbolene as the moisturising step in your routine — after cleansing, toning, and any serums or treatments. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. At night, it can be your final step. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin within 3 minutes of bathing to lock in hydration.
Redwin Sorbolene has an overall low comedogenic rating of about 1 out of 5. Mineral oil (the main occlusive) has been confirmed non-comedogenic by the AAD. While cetearyl alcohol and stearic acid have a comedogenic rating of 2, their low concentrations in this formula keep the clogging risk minimal. It is primarily designed for body use and is unlikely to cause breakouts when used as directed.
Redwin Sorbolene has a shelf life of approximately 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for maximum longevity. The 1.1L pump bottle typically lasts a family several months with daily use.
Verdict: Redwin Sorbolene Moisturiser is an Australian classic — a no-frills, budget-friendly body emollient that does exactly what it promises. With just 12 ingredients, 10% glycerin, and natural Vitamin E, it delivers solid hydration for dry and sensitive skin at a price that is hard to beat. It is a go-to recommendation from Australian doctors for eczema, dermatitis, and daily family skin care. However, it lacks the advanced actives (ceramides, niacinamide, HA) found in modern competitors, is not fungal-acne safe, and recent reformulations have left some long-time users feeling the consistency is thinner than it used to be. Best for: anyone who values simplicity, affordability, and a proven track record over bells and whistles.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|