Is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate Safe During Pregnancy?
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.
PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate: regulatory status at a glance
| 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 |
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.
What regulators have flagged about PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate
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.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate →
Audited products that don't contain PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate.
As an Amazon Associate, BannedPantry earns from qualifying purchases. This never influences our ratings — see Affiliate Disclosure.
PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate and pregnancy: common questions
Is PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate banned anywhere?
PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
Should I avoid PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate during pregnancy?
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.
What products contain PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate?
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.
What can I use instead of 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 →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
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.