murphyPEG-6 Sorbitan Oleate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 6 sorbitan oleate, PEG 6 sorbitan oleate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils through esterification of sorbitol and oleic acid. Synthesized by polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain attachment via ethoxylation to create the final emulsifier compound.
Sorbitan, mono-9-octadecenoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)- (6 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9005-65-6
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.
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Mixes oil and water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
3
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.43%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2015
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR