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PEG-60 SORBITAN STEARATE.

Valuable CAS 9005-67-8 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

PEG-60 Sorbitan Stearate is a versatile ethoxylated ester primarily functioning as a surfactant and emulsifier, critical for blending immiscible phases. It additionally acts as a humectant, contributing to sustained skin hydration and barrier support.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant/Cleansing Humectant Emollient

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as an effective surfactant, significantly reducing the interfacial tension between oil and water phases to facilitate the formation and stabilization of emulsions. It enhances the solubilization of challenging ingredients and aids in cleansing by allowing water to efficiently mix with and rinse away oily residues. As a polyethylene glycol derivative, it also attracts and binds water molecules through hydrogen bonding, thereby increasing skin hydration, diminishing transepidermal water loss, and bolstering the skin's natural barrier function.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤25%
Optimal

25%

Key findings

  1. 01 CIR Expert Panel found PEG Stearates generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing, concluding safety for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 25%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits robust skin compatibility and minimal susceptibility to microbiological degradation. PEGylation generally enhances its stability, with an optimal operational pH range of 4.0 to 8.0.

Conflicts

  • Should not be incorporated into products intended for use on compromised or damaged skin, due to potential for increased systemic absorption of polyethylene glycols.
  • Formulations must include purification steps to control and minimize the presence of 1,4-dioxane, a potential ethoxylation byproduct.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel affirms PEG-60 Sorbitan Stearate's safety for cosmetic applications at concentrations not exceeding 25%, with a critical restriction against use on damaged skin. While the SCCS has not provided a specific opinion, similar PEG Sorbitan/Sorbitol Fatty Acid Esters are generally permissible in Europe if plant-derived and compliant with EU cosmetic regulations. Although the FDA lists it, the record is incomplete. Manufacturers must implement purification measures to control trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-60 Sorbitan Stearate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, effectively stabilizing emulsions, enhancing cleansing, and providing hydration, provided its use adheres to established concentration limits and avoids application on compromised skin.

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