PEG-5 Sorbitan Isostearate
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol Sorbitan Isostearate, PEG-5 Sorbitan Emulsifier
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Peg-5 sorbitan isostearate
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Sorbitan Isostearate, PEG-5 Sorbitan Emulsifier
Synthetic · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together, creating a smooth, stable texture that feels light on skin.
CAS #
66794-58-9
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emulsifier
Fights Bacteria
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic emulsifier developed in the 20th century combining sorbitan (derived from sorbitol) with synthetic isostearic acid. Created to stabilize oil-water mixtures in contemporary cosmetics.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR