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PEG-20 SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE.

Valuable CAS 66794-58-9 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate is a versatile ingredient that facilitates the harmonious blending of oil and water in skincare formulations. It functions primarily as an emulsifier, stabilizing product textures, and as a surfactant, aiding in mild cleansing and solubilizing other components.

emulsifying surfactant solubilizer

Science

This ingredient operates as an effective emulsifier and surfactant due to its molecular structure, possessing both lipophilic (oil-attracting) and hydrophilic (water-attracting) parts. This dual affinity allows it to reduce surface tension between immiscible phases, enabling the formation of stable emulsions. As a solubilizer, it helps dissolve components that would not normally mix, and as a surfactant, it assists in lifting oil and dirt from the skin for easy rinsing.


Research

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The CIR Expert Panel concluded that PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate is safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 25%, with the important consideration that it should not be applied to damaged skin. Similar related ingredients demonstrated minimal irritation and no sensitization in clinical tests at concentrations up to 3%.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Polyethylene glycols, including PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate, exhibit good skin tolerance and are generally resistant to microbial degradation. The physical consistency of PEG derivatives tends to solidify with increasing polymerization. Neutralization can enhance molecular stability and broad compatibility within diverse formulations.

Conflicts

  • Avoid use on damaged skin.
  • Requires purification to control potential 1,4-dioxane impurities.
  • Individuals with very sensitive skin should perform a patch test prior to use.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel affirms its safety for cosmetic applications at concentrations not exceeding 25%, provided formulations are nonirritating. It is crucial to note that this ingredient should not be applied to compromised skin. Trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of the ethoxylation process, may be present and must be rigorously controlled through purification measures to meet safety standards.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate is a valuable functional ingredient, widely recognized for its efficacy as an emulsifier and surfactant, enabling stable and well-mixed formulations across various skin and hair care products.


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