murphyPolysorbate 61
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from sorbitol and oleic acid, both commonly sourced from plant oils or synthetic routes. Produced through ethoxylation and esterification of sorbitol with oleic acid under controlled conditions.
Sorbitan, monooctadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs.
CAS #
9005-67-8
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-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 201)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 201)
Eye Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating / reactions minimal (CIR 201)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1–1.8%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR