murphyPEG-40 Sorbitan Laurate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 40, PEG sorbitan laurate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitol and lauric acid, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils. Synthesized through esterification of sorbitol with lauric acid, then ethoxylated with polyethylene glycol.
Sorbitan, monododecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs. (40 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9005-64-5
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-on2%
Rinse-off0.25–0.5%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2015
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR