PEG-6 Sorbitan Stearate

What is PEG-6 Sorbitan Stearate?

PEG-6 Sorbitan Stearate is a synthetic, non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier produced by ethoxylating sorbitan stearate with six moles of ethylene oxide. Sorbitan stearate forms from sorbitol, a sugar-derived polyol, condensed with stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid typically from vegetable sources like palm or coconut. This modification boosts hydrophilicity, making it ideal for oil-in-water emulsions. Commonly found in skincare creams, lotions, shampoos, and cleansers, it works by positioning at the oil-water interface, reducing interfacial tension to create stable droplets and prevent phase separation for consistent product texture. As a surfactant, it facilitates wetting and dispersion of hydrophobic materials, supporting dirt removal in rinse-off products. Its balanced hydrophilic-lipophilic properties suit mild formulations.

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.
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

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for smooth, even-textured creams and lotions.

Facilitates gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension to lift oils and impurities.

Assists in solubilizing fragrances, contributing to pleasant product sensory profiles.

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 stable, non-separating formulas.
Those with sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients or PEG derivatives.
Individuals using daily cleansers needing mild surfactant action.
Individuals avoiding potential trace impurities from manufacturing.
People preferring scented skincare without heavy residues.
People preferring natural, non-synthetic emulsifiers.

Safety Notes

  • Cosmetic review panels consider it safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on products at typical concentrations.
  • Low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-6 Sorbitan Stearate

What does PEG-6 Sorbitan Stearate do in skincare?

It emulsifies oil and water for stable textures and acts as a mild surfactant for cleansing.

Is PEG-6 Sorbitan Stearate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low risk of pore clogging.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Generally mild with low irritation potential, but patch test if sensitive to PEGs.