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Sorbeth-20 Tetraisostearate
AKA “Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester”
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Sorbeth-20 tetraisostearate
AKA: Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Polyethylene Glycol 1000 Sorbitol Tetraisostearate
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
A synthetic polysorbate emulsifier created in the 20th century. Functions to bind multiple oil phases into stable cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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 Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR