murphyPEG-4 Sorbitan Stearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Glycosperse S-20, Polysorbate 60 CRS, PEG-3 Sorbitan stearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and stearic acid (a fatty acid from plant oils like coconut or palm). Produced through esterification of sorbitol with stearic acid, followed by ethoxylation with polyethylene glycol.
Sorbitan, monooctadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs. (4 mol EO average molar ratio)
Formula
C32H62O10
Mol. Weight
606.80
CAS #
9005-67-8
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Antioxidant Protection
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.028–1.5%
Rinse-off0.00025%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2015
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR