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Sorbeth-40 Tetraoleate
AKA “Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester”
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Sorbeth-40 tetraoleate
AKA: Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester
Synthetic · Surfactant - Emulsifying | Emollient | Skin Conditioning · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
D-Glucitol, ethoxylated, tetra-(9-(Z)-octadecenoate (40 mol EO average molar ratio) Science: Functions: Surfactant - Emulsifying Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and oleic acid (an unsaturated fatty acid from vegetable oils). Produced through ethoxylation of sorbitol followed by esterification with oleic acid.
Function
Surfactant - Emulsifying | Emollient | Skin Conditioning
Benefits
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.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Concentration Guide
Industry Max
Industry typically uses up to 0.9% in leave-on products (7 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 696).
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR