Ingredient review
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate
INCI: PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate
A gentle emulsifier that helps create stable, creamy formulas without common irritation.
In plain English
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate is a mild ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in skincare products. It is often used in creams, lotions, and cleansers to give them a smooth, even texture. Because it is made from a sugar alcohol (sorbitan) and fatty acids, it is generally very gentle on the skin and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic emulsifier derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and stearic acid (a fatty acid), modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to improve its water solubility.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. This prevents products from separating and gives them a creamy, uniform consistency.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin and daily use without causing redness or stinging.
Non-comedogenic
It does not clog pores, so it is safe for acne-prone skin and won't contribute to breakouts.
Cons and cautions
Semi-synthetic origin
It is not a natural ingredient, which may be a drawback for those preferring fully plant-based or minimal processing in their skincare.
Potential sustainability issues
Stearic acid is often sourced from palm oil, which can be linked to deforestation if not certified sustainable.
Best for
- People with sensitive skin
- Those looking for a gentle, non-irritating emulsifier in their routine
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to PEG compounds (rare)
- Those seeking strictly natural or plant-based ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and is well-tolerated by most skin types. As with all PEG compounds, purity standards are important to avoid contamination with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane, but reputable manufacturers ensure these are removed during processing.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed PEG compounds and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics. No specific studies on PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate were found, but its chemical class is well-studied and considered low-risk.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed PEG compounds safe as used in cosmetics.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Sunscreens, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- The PEG chain is biodegradable, but the sourcing of stearic acid may involve palm oil. Look for RSPO-certified palm derivatives if sustainability is a concern.
Good to know
- PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used in cosmetics.
- It is often used in 'cream' type sunscreens to help distribute UV filters evenly.
Common questions
What is PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate in beauty products?
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate is a mild ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in skincare products. It is often used in creams, lotions, and cleansers to give them a smooth, even texture. Because it is made from a sugar alcohol (sorbitan) and fatty acids, it is generally very gentle on the skin and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.
What does PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. This prevents products from separating and gives them a creamy, uniform consistency.
Is PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate safe for most people?
PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and is well-tolerated by most skin types. As with all PEG compounds, purity standards are important to avoid contamination with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane, but reputable manufacturers ensure these are removed during processing.
Who should be careful with PEG-60 Sorbitan Tetrastearate?
Individuals with known allergies to PEG compounds (rare) Those seeking strictly natural or plant-based ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.