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The facts: PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, L'Oreal Paris Micellar Water.
TL;DR: PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, L'Oreal Paris Micellar Water |
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.
Used to solubilize fragrances and oils in aqueous systems, and as a mild cleansing surfactant in toners, micellar waters, and gentle washes.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, L'Oreal Paris Micellar Water. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate.
Polysorbate 20 or coco-glucoside for similar solubilizing and surfactant functions. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.
Audited products that don't contain PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate.
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