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PEG-40 SORBITAN PERISOSTEARATE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-40 Sorbitan Perisostearate is a versatile non-ionic surfactant, adept at stabilizing challenging formulations by reducing surface tension. It effectively functions as an emulsifier, a solubilizer for oil-soluble components, and a gentle cleansing agent in a wide array of cosmetic products.

Summary

Cleansing Agent Emulsifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates by leveraging its amphiphilic structure, featuring both hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (oil-loving) molecular segments. This enables it to dramatically lower the interfacial tension between immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, thereby forming and stabilizing emulsions. It also facilitates the even dispersion and dissolution of difficult-to-solubilize ingredients within a solvent, and assists in effective cleansing by allowing water to mix with and lift oils and dirt from skin and hair.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

25%

Key findings

  1. 01 The CIR Expert Panel determined PEG Sorbitan/Sorbitol Fatty Acid Esters, encompassing PEG-40 Sorbitan Perisostearate, are safe for cosmetic applications at concentrations up to 25%.
  2. 02 In commercially available finished cosmetic products, PEG-40 Sorbitan Perisostearate is typically imported at concentrations below 10%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

The polymer contains hydrolysable functionalities, yet significant hydrolysis is not expected within the typical cosmetic pH range of 4.0 to 9.0. PEG derivatives generally exhibit good tolerance and are not particularly susceptible to microbial degradation, often mitigating the need for supplementary preservatives in formulations.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The CIR Expert Panel has concluded that PEG-40 Sorbitan Perisostearate, as part of the PEG Sorbitan/Sorbitol Fatty Acid Esters group, is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations not exceeding 25%, with the important caveat that it should not be applied to damaged skin. Extensive clinical studies on related Polysorbate ingredients have indicated a low potential for skin irritation, sensitization, and phototoxicity. While the ethoxylation process can yield trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, this impurity can be effectively controlled through rigorous purification steps. The ingredient is also considered safe by the FDA for certain food applications, reinforcing its general safety profile.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-40 Sorbitan Perisostearate is a valuable, well-tolerated surfactant crucial for stabilizing emulsions, solubilizing active ingredients, and enhancing cleansing efficiency across diverse cosmetic formulations, showing broad skin compatibility.

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