Sorbeth-30 Pentaisostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Polyethylene Glycol (30) Sorbitol Pentaisostearate
Effective at 0.7%
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
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Developed in late-20th-century cosmetics chemistry as a high-HLB emulsifier. Used in complex multi-phase formulations requiring strong emulsifying power.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.5%
0.9%
0%1%
Reported use
CIR reported use: 0.5-0.9
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR