murphyPolysorbate 40
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Tween 40, Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monopalimitate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitol and oleic acid, both petroleum-derived or plant-based fatty acid sources. Synthesized through ethoxylation and esterification of sorbitol with oleic acid chains.
Sorbitan, monohexadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs.
CAS #
9005-66-7
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
UV Protection
Antioxidant Protection
Locks In Moisture
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
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
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 201)
Not a Skin Irritant
2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 201)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing / plus 1 case report (CIR 201)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.008–5%
Rinse-off1.5–3%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR