murphyPEG-40 Sorbitan Tetraoleate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PEG sorbitan tetraoleate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitan (a sorbitol derivative) and oleic acid, typically sourced from plant oils. Produced through ethoxylation, whereby polyethylene glycol chains are chemically bonded to the sorbitan tetraoleate base.
1,4-Anhydro-D-glucitol, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivatives, tetraesters with 9-(Z)-octadecenoic acid (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
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Antioxidant Protection
Wound Healing
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
CIR's newest survey reports no concentration of use.
CIR · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR