murphyPEG-40 Sorbitan Diisostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polysorbate 40 derivative, PEG sorbitan diisostearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitol (a glucose derivative) and isostearic acid, then ethoxylated with polyethylene glycol. Created by esterifying sorbitol with isostearic acid, then reacting with ethylene oxide.
1,4-Anhydro-D-glucitol, diisooctadecanoates, ethoxylated (40 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
-
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
Antioxidant Protection
Wound Healing
Removes Impurities
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
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR