Sorbeth-2 Cocoate
AKA “Polysorbate Coconut Oil, Coconut Ester”
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Sorbeth-2 cocoate
AKA: Polysorbate Coconut Oil, Coconut Ester
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Sorbeth-2 Cocoate is the ester of the fatty acids derived from coconut oil and a polyethylene glycol ether of sorbitol
Effective at 0.7%
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
Developed as a synthetic polysorbate derivative in the 20th century. Used as an emulsifier and solubilizer in skincare and personal care products.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Coconut)
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%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 0.5-0.9
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR