PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate

PEG / Ethoxylated

Benefits

Softening

What is PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate?

PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate is a nonionic surfactant from the ethoxylated sorbitan ester group. It forms by esterifying sorbitol-derived sorbitan with peroleic acid from perilla seed oil, then adding about 40 ethylene oxide molecules for water solubility. This structure features a hydrophobic fatty chain and hydrophilic polyether tail. Primarily used in rinse-off cleansers like shampoos and body washes, plus leave-on emulsions such as lotions and creams. It works by decreasing interfacial tension, allowing oil droplets to disperse evenly in water for stable, creamy textures. As a solubilizer, it disperses fragrances and oils into aqueous bases, creating clear micellar waters and toners. Its surfactant action supports mild foaming and dirt removal while leaving a soft after-feel.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

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.

Solubilizing agent

Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Delivers a softening effect during cleansing routines

Supports stable, smooth-textured emulsions in lotions

Aids solubilization for clear, even fragrance distribution

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 daily cleansers needing gentle foam and rinse	People sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients
Individuals applying lotions for consistent, non-separating formulas	Those selecting strictly PEG-free cosmetics
Those preferring water-based products with incorporated scents	Users wary of potential trace impurities in surfactants

Safety Notes

Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory bodies when formulated properly
EWG score of 3 indicates moderate overall concern profile

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate

What does PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate do in products?

It emulsifies oils into water, solubilizes fragrances, and enables gentle surfactant cleansing.

Is it comedogenic?

No, it carries a comedogenic rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.

What are its main roles?

Serves as surfactant for foaming/cleansing, emulsifying agent for blends, and solubilizing agent for clear formulas.