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SORBETH-40 TETRAOLEATE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate is a versatile, hydrophilic nonionic surfactant and emulsifier. It effectively reduces surface tension, enabling the harmonious blend of otherwise immiscible oil and water components, forming stable emulsions crucial for product integrity and performance. Primarily utilized for its ability to integrate oils and water, it is especially valuable in cleansing formulations to ensure easy rinsability.

Summary

emulsifying surfactant/cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by significantly lowering the surface tension of liquid phases within a formulation. This action permits the creation of finely dispersed mixtures of oil and water, known as emulsions, which remain stable over time and resist separation. In cleansing applications, Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate facilitates the mixing of water with lipid-soluble impurities and dirt, allowing them to be efficiently rinsed away from the skin. Its emulsifying properties are vital for achieving uniform texture and consistent delivery in complex cosmetic systems.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 10–25%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate, encompassing related PEG Sorbitan/Sorbitol Fatty Acid Esters, is safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations up to 25%.
  2. 02 For a related surfactant, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, a concentration range of 10-15% is recommended for oil-based cleansers to optimize the interaction between oils and water, facilitating effective rinsability.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate exhibits general stability but is susceptible to oxidation. It can also undergo hydrolysis under conditions of strong acidity or alkalinity. Contact with potent oxidizing agents should be avoided due to the risk of adverse reactions.

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • strong alkalis
  • strong oxidants

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has determined that PEG Sorbitan/Sorbitol Fatty Acid Esters, including Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate, are safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations not exceeding 25%. This conclusion initially carried a caveat regarding use on damaged skin; however, a re-review of related Polysorbates and Sorbeth beeswax ingredients in 2015 subsequently removed this restriction when formulations are designed to be non-irritating. Small quantities of 1,4-dioxane, a potential byproduct of the ethoxylation process, may be present, but its levels can be effectively controlled through stringent purification methods.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate is a valuable functional ingredient, broadly compatible with all skin types and deemed safe for use up to 25%, primarily excelling as an emulsifier and gentle cleansing agent in a wide range of formulations.

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