PEG-30 Sorbitan Tetraoleate

AKA: Polysorbate 85, Sorbitan Tetraoleate Ethoxylate

Synthetic

Cleanser

Emulsifier

Not Clean

1,4-Anhydro-D-glucitol, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivatives, tetraesters with 9-(Z)-octadecenoic acid (30 mol EO average molar ratio)

Functions

Emulsifying

Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.

Emulsifier

Antioxidant Protection

Locks In Moisture

Reduces Inflammation

Mixes Oil & Water

Traditional Use

A synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century from sorbitan (derived from sorbitol) and oleic acid combined with polyethylene glycol to provide improved stability and emulsifying power in modern skincare formulations.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

Restricted By

Credo Beauty Whole Foods Premium Body Care Beauty Heroes MADE SAFE EWG VERIFIED

CIR Safety Findings

Not a Sensitizer

medical-approval

all-shades-safe

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

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