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Sorbeth-6 Tetraoleate
AKA “Polysorbate 6 Tetraoleate”
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Sorbeth-6 tetraoleate
AKA: Polysorbate 6 Tetraoleate
Synthetic · Surfactant - Emulsifying | Emollient | Skin Conditioning · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-sorbitol-.omega.-hydroxy-, tetraoleate (6 mol EO average molar ratio) Science: Functions: Surfactant - Emulsifying Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Derived from sorbitol and oleic acid, both commonly sourced from plant oils like palm or coconut. Synthesized through esterification of sorbitol with oleic acid, followed by ethoxylation with ethylene oxide.
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. Designed to stabilize oil-and-water mixtures in cosmetics using sorbitol and oleic acid esters.
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