PEG-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 160 Sorbitan Triisostearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Sorbitan, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs. triisooctadecanoates, (160 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
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.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A complex polyethylene glycol-based emulsifier and surfactant developed in the mid-20th century. Created as a synthetic replacement for natural emulsifying agents to improve product stability and texture.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR