PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate
A PEGylated non-ionic emulsifier from sorbitol and oleic acid. Stabilizes oil-rich formulas and complex emulsions – body creams, cleansing oils, nourishing masks. PEG-40 indicates the ethylene oxide chain length and does not affect the safety profile.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate (Atlas G-1086) is a non-ionic PEGylated emulsifier. Made by ethoxylating sorbitol and esterifying with oleic acid; the 40 indicates the number of ethylene oxide units. Where applied. Body creams and lotions with high lipid load, cleansing oils, nourishing masks, protective emulsions (0.5-3%). Holds oil-soluble actives well – retinol, tocopherol, plant oils. In Spanish brands appears in Bioderma Atoderm, Sesderma, ISDIN, in La Roche-Posay lines for very dry skin. Safety. CIR confirmed PEGylated sorbitan emulsifier safety (Final Report 1985 with 2010, 2015 amendments) at concentrations typical of finished formulas. Does not penetrate intact skin, no systemic absorption. Non-comedogenic. PEG controversy. The eco-marketing complaint is residual 1,4-dioxane in PEGs. Modern EU manufacturing standards (EFfCI GMP) purify raw materials below 10 ppm, which the SCCS confirms. With proper manufacturing this does not affect the safety of the finished product. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Does not penetrate skin, no systemic effect. Suitable for any product including body creams during pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Is PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate safe during pregnancy?
PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate for?
PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A PEGylated non-ionic emulsifier from sorbitol and oleic acid.
What's the INCI name for PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate?
The INCI name is PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate. It may also appear as: Atlas G-1086.
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Similar role in the formula
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