PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate

What is PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate?

PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate is a nonionic surfactant created by ethoxylating sorbitan stearate with four units of polyethylene glycol. Sorbitan stearate derives from sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, and stearic acid, a common fatty acid from plant or animal fats. This ingredient functions primarily in water-based cosmetic formulations like lotions, creams, shampoos, and body washes. It reduces surface tension at the oil-water interface, forming stable micelles that prevent separation and ensure even distribution of ingredients. As an emulsifying agent, it supports creamy consistencies and spreadability. Its surfactant properties enable mild cleansing and foaming, while also aiding fragrance solubility to enhance scent profiles without overpowering base notes. Overall, it contributes to product stability and user-friendly sensory experiences in daily skincare routines.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Supports stable oil-in-water emulsions for smooth, non-separating textures in lotions and creams.

Facilitates gentle cleansing and foaming in shampoos and washes.

Helps disperse fragrances evenly for balanced scent in formulas.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking creamy moisturizers with consistent blend.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of daily cleansers needing mild surfactant action.
Individuals preferring strictly natural or PEG-free formulations.
People wanting products with subtle, stable fragrance notes.
People with a history of reactions to ethoxylated surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for use in cosmetics by expert reviews.
  • Typically shows low potential for irritation in formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate

What does PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate do in products?

It emulsifies oil and water phases for stable creams and lotions, while aiding mild cleansing and fragrance dispersion.

Is PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

How safe is PEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate for skin?

Rated low hazard overall, with assessments showing it suitable for typical cosmetic concentrations.