Sorbeth-50 Tetraisostearate
AKA “Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Sorbeth-50 tetraisostearate
AKA: Sorbitan Polysorbate Ester
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
D-Glucitol, ethoxylated, tetraisooctadecanoate (50 mol EO average molar ratio
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
Synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century as part of the polysorbate family. Created to provide stable emulsification in cosmetic formulations with high solubilizing power.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
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
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR