PEG-40 Sorbitan Stearate

What is PEG-40 Sorbitan Stearate?

PEG-40 Sorbitan Stearate is a nonionic surfactant created by reacting sorbitan stearate—derived from sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, and stearic acid from plant or animal fats—with 40 molecules of ethylene oxide. This ethoxylation process enhances its water solubility and emulsifying properties. Primarily used in oil-in-water emulsions like moisturizers, sunscreens, shampoos, and cleansers, it stabilizes mixtures of immiscible ingredients, preventing separation for consistent product texture. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension, promoting even spreading and rinse-off. It also solubilizes hydrophobic components like essential oils and fragrances into clear aqueous solutions, supporting sprayable or micellar formats. Its high HLB value suits hydrophilic applications, making it a staple in diverse rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics for reliable performance without altering sensory qualities.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2-4 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.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

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

Facilitates gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension in washes and shampoos.

Enables clear incorporation of fragrances and oils in toners and sprays.

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 emulsion-based moisturizers seeking consistent application.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients or PEG derivatives.
Individuals using daily cleansers or shampoos for reliable lathering.
Individuals preferring strictly natural or PEG-free products.
People preferring non-comedogenic formulas in their routines.
Users with known reactions to sorbitan esters.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by expert panels when formulated properly.
  • Opt for products from brands testing for potential impurities like ethylene oxide residues.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-40 Sorbitan Stearate

What is PEG-40 Sorbitan Stearate used for?

It emulsifies oils in water, cleanses gently, and solubilizes fragrances in cosmetics.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation potential per reviews, but patch test if sensitive to PEGs.

Does it cause breakouts?

Non-comedogenic rating indicates low pore-clogging risk.