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PEG-40 SORBITAN TETRAOLEATE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-40 Sorbitan Tetraoleate is a versatile surfactant widely utilized in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It functions primarily as an emulsifier, enabling the stable blending of oil and water phases, and as a solubilizer for various oils and fragrances. Its cleansing properties also assist in effectively removing impurities from the skin.

emulsifying surfactant cleansing solubilizing

Science

As a polyoxyethylene sorbitan tetraoleate, this ingredient exerts its effect by reducing the surface tension between immiscible liquids, such as oils and water. This allows for the creation and stabilization of emulsions, ensuring product homogeneity. Its surfactant nature also facilitates the interaction of water with oily residues and dirt on the skin, enhancing the cleansing process, and it effectively dissolves lipid-soluble components within water-based systems.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The ethoxylation process significantly improves its water solubility, which is crucial for its role in stabilizing diverse cosmetic formulations and maintaining their efficacy over time.

Conflicts

  • Damaged skin (per CIR recommendation)
  • Potential 1,4-dioxane impurities (requires purification)

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Unknown

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed PEG-40 Sorbitan Tetraoleate safe for cosmetic use, provided concentrations do not exceed 25% and it is not applied to compromised skin. Formulators must ensure purification steps are taken to control for trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a potential ethoxylation byproduct. In the EU, if derived entirely from plant sources, its use aligns with general cosmetic regulations.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-40 Sorbitan Tetraoleate is a valuable formulating agent, critical for creating stable emulsions and solubilizing active ingredients across various product types, with a confirmed safety profile up to 25% concentration under specific conditions.


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