murphyPEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polysorbate 56, Sorbitan Isostearate PEG-20
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitan monostearate, a compound typically made from sorbitol and plant-derived fatty acids. Created through polyethylene glycol (PEG) ethoxylation of sorbitan isostearate via chemical synthesis.
Sorbitan, monoisooctadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivatives (20 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
66794-58-9
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.
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and 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
Leave-on0.3%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR