PEG-3 SORBITAN TRISTEARATE

What Is PEG-3 SORBITAN TRISTEARATE?

A polyethylene glycol sorbitan ester produced by ethoxylating sorbitan Stearic Acid (C18) with 3 moles of ethylene oxide. This nonionic surfactant/emulsifier is lipophilic (low HLB, W/O emulsifier). It is used in cosmetic formulations to blend oil and water phases, solubilize fragrances and oils, and improve product texture.

Key Skin Benefits

• + Low HLB emulsifier — suitable for W/O (water-in-oil) emulsions like cleansing balms
• + Nonionic — compatible with all ingredient types (anionic, cationic, amphoteric)
• + Thickening effect — contributes to product viscosity and texture

Pros

• + CIR-reviewed — PEG sorbitan esters considered safe in cosmetics at typical use levels
• + Versatile lipophilic — wide formulation compatibility
• + Effective at low concentrations (0.5-5%)
• + Nonionic — compatible with all surfactant and ingredient types

Cons

• − Ethoxylation process may produce trace 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide — requires purification
• − Fully synthetic — petroleum-derived PEG with modified natural fatty acid
• − Limited biodegradability of PEG chains
• − May be irritating at high concentrations or on compromised skin barriers
• − Some variants may be comedogenic at higher use levels

Specifications

Safety Ratings

Regional Regulatory Limits

Typical Usage % by Product Type

References

1. CIR (2010) — Safety Assessment of PEGs. https://www.cir-safety.org/
2. CosIng (2025) — European Commission Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
3. EWG Skin Deep — PEG sorbitan compound database. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
4. FDA (2025) — GRAS Status of PEG Compounds. https://www.fda.gov/