PEG-5 Sorbitan Isostearate

AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Sorbitan Isostearate, PEG-5 Sorbitan Emulsifier

Plant-Derived

Cleanser

Emulsifier

Not Clean

Sorbitan, monoisooctadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivatives (5 mol EO average molar ratio)

CAS #

66794-58-9

Functions

Emulsifying

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

Emulsifier

Fights Bacteria

Locks In Moisture

Wound Healing

Mixes Oil & Water

Traditional Use

A modern synthetic emulsifier developed in the 20th century combining sorbitan (derived from sorbitol) with synthetic isostearic acid. Created to stabilize oil-water mixtures in contemporary cosmetics.

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-assessed2 reviews →

Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR