Is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
INCI name PEG-80 SORBITAN LAURATE. Also called PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate. CAS 9005-64-5.
Other names: Polysorbate laurate, Ethoxylated sorbitan laurate
Is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, L'Oreal Paris Micellar Water |
| CAS number | 9005-64-5 |
What is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate?
PEG-80 sorbitan laurate is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier produced by ethoxylating sorbitan monolaurate with 80 moles of ethylene oxide. It is highly water-soluble and used primarily for its solubilizing and mild cleansing properties.
Why is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate used in personal-care products?
Used to solubilize fragrances and oils in aqueous systems, and as a mild cleansing surfactant in toners, micellar waters, and gentle washes.
Is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate dangerous? Documented risks
PEG-80 sorbitan laurate is considered safe at cosmetic use levels. As an ethoxylated compound, there is potential for trace 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide contamination from manufacturing; FDA and EU regulations set acceptable limits and modern manufacturing minimizes these impurities. No carcinogenic or endocrine-disrupting effects at cosmetic concentrations are established. The CIR has assessed sorbitan esters and polysorbates as safe.
Products that may contain PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate
- Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
- Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
- L'Oreal Paris Micellar Water
How to avoid PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate: safer alternatives
Polysorbate 20 or coco-glucoside for similar solubilizing and surfactant functions.
Frequently asked questions about PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate
Is PEG-80 sorbitan laurate safe?
Yes, at typical cosmetic use concentrations. The main concern is trace manufacturing impurities (1,4-dioxane), which are regulated and minimized by reputable manufacturers.
What does PEG mean in cosmetics?
PEG stands for polyethylene glycol. PEG compounds are ethoxylated (reacted with ethylene oxide) to become water-soluble. The number (e.g., 80) indicates the approximate number of ethylene oxide units added.
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Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Polysorbates and Sorbitan Esters — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.