murphyPEG-10 Sorbitan Laurate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polysorbate 20, Tween 20
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils as the fatty acid starting material. Synthesized through esterification of sorbitan with lauric acid, followed by ethoxylation with polyethylene glycol.
Sorbitan, monododecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs. (10 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9005-64-5
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
3
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
CIR's newest survey reports no concentration of use.
CIR · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR