What Is Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate?
Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate is a plant-derived surfactant that belongs to the polysorbate family of ingredients. It starts with sorbitol, a sugar alcohol usually sourced from corn or other starchy crops. Sorbitol is first dehydrated to make sorbitan, which is then reacted with isostearic acid, an oily fatty acid obtained from vegetable oils. Finally the molecule is treated with about 160 units of ethylene oxide, giving it the long “PEG-160” tail that lets it mix oil and water with ease.
This style of chemistry appeared in the mid-20th century when cosmetic chemists were on the hunt for gentle alternatives to soap. The polysorbates proved to be mild yet effective emulsifiers, so they quickly found a place in creams and lotions. Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate is one of the higher-weight versions, prized for its silky feel and strong emulsifying power.
You will most often spot it in rich moisturizers, cleansing balms, makeup removers, creamy face masks and hair conditioners. Its ability to keep oil and water perfectly blended also makes it useful in sun care and color cosmetics where a smooth, stable texture is vital.
Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker supports a formula in several practical ways.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature loosens dirt, makeup and excess oil so they can be rinsed away without stripping skin or hair
- Emulsifying: Helps oil and water stay blended, giving creams and lotions a uniform texture that feels smooth and spreads evenly
Who Can Use Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate
This ingredient is considered gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its mild surfactant action cleanses without stripping so even sensitive skin often tolerates it, though those with a history of fragrance or surfactant allergies should stay alert to any irritation.
Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate is made from plant-derived sorbitol and vegetable fatty acids, plus synthetic ethylene oxide, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-based raw materials are involved in its standard production.
Current toxicology reviews show no evidence that the ingredient is harmful in pregnancy or while breastfeeding when used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics at typical levels. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it does not interfere with sunscreen filters, so no special photoprotection steps are required beyond everyday sun safety.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, most often in very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to polysorbate-type emulsifiers
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Breakouts in acne-prone skin when used in extremely high concentrations or heavy occlusive formulas
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate has a very large, water-loving PEG chain that keeps the molecule relatively soluble and easy to rinse. Its fatty portion is branched isostearic acid, which is less likely to clog pores than straight-chain fats. Most cosmetic formulas use it at low levels for emulsifying, further reducing any pore-blocking risk. In short, it poses minimal concern for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Formula context matters: a heavy balm packed with waxes may still feel occlusive even if this particular emulsifier is low risk, so always look at the whole product, not just one ingredient.
Summary
Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate is a plant-derived surfactant and emulsifier that lifts away grime while holding oil and water together in a stable mix. Its PEG side gives it water affinity, the fatty tail loves oil, and together they lower surface tension so creams spread smoothly and rinses wash off clean.
It is a behind-the-scenes workhorse rather than a headline ingredient, showing up quietly in cleansers, moisturizers, sun care and makeup where reliable texture and mild cleansing are needed.
Safety data class it as low irritation with no major red flags, making it suitable for most skin types including sensitive and acne-prone. As with any new skincare product, do a simple patch test before full use to be on the safe side.