PEG-80 Sorbitan Palmitate

AKA “Polysorbate 40, Tween 40”

Surfactant

Ingredient Facts

Peg-80 sorbitan palmitate

AKA: Polysorbate 40, Tween 40

Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4

Synthetic

Cleanser

Emulsifier

Plant Oil

Not Clean

Sorbitan, monohexadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs. (80 mol EO average molar ratio)

CAS #

9005-66-7

Form

Liquid

See origin →

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

A synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century combining polyethylene glycol, sorbitan, and palmitic acid. Used in cosmetics to stabilize oil-water mixtures, replacing earlier emulsifiers that were less effective or more irritating to skin.