murphyPEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polysorbate 20, Tween 20
Synthetic
Cleanser
Not Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitan (a sorbitol derivative) and lauric acid, typically sourced from coconut oil. Synthesized through esterification of sorbitan with lauric acid, followed by ethoxylation with polyethylene glycol.
Sorbitan, monododecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs. (80 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.
Cleansing Surfactant
Removes Impurities
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️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-on0.0002–0.059%
Rinse-off2–4.2%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR