Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate

Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate molecular structure
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
D-Glucitol, ethoxylated, tetra-(9-(Z)-octadecenoate (40 mol EO average molar ratio)
Effective at 5.46%
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century as part of the polysorbate family. Created to stabilize oil-and-water mixtures in cosmetics and personal care products.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.11%
10.8%
0%15%
Reported use
CIR reported use: 0.11-10.8
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR