Polysorbate 20 in cosmetics. The Council has asserted that PEG-20 sorbitan laurate is another term for polysorbate 20 and PEG-20 sorbitan stearate is another term for polysorbate 60. Polysorbate 20 is an ingredient used in skincare and cosmetic formulations to improve the texture, feel, and scent of the product. We use solubilizers to solubilize small amounts of oil or oil soluble ingredients (like essential or fragrance oils) into mostly watery concoctions (like toners or hand washes), and to add water-soluble properties to anhydrous products (like a cleansing oil or … Continue reading → Among the most popular variations are: Polysorbate 20: Used in products for personal hygiene and cosmetics. May 22, 2015 · There were three polysorbate ingredients reported in the VCRP but were not listed in the Dictionary (PEG-20 sorbitan laurate, PEG-20 sorbitan stearate, and PEG-30 sorbitan beeswax). Namely Polysorbate 20 or Tween 20 is a nonionic surfactant and a sorbitol-derived emulsifier based on fruits and berries. In the skincare industry, polysorbate 20 is used as an excipient compound in emulsions and suspensions. As a non-ionic surfactant, Polysorbate 20 is valued for its ability to act as an emulsifier and solubilizer, enabling smooth blending of water and oil-based ingredients. Common concerns See how this product scores for common concerns. Apr 17, 2022 · Learn what Polysorbate 80 is, how it’s used in cosmetics, and its safety. PSorba_032015_Rep ] In 1984, these ingredients were found to be safe as used. Polysorbate 20, a versatile emulsifier that quietly transforms the landscape of skincare formulations. May 29, 2025 · If you’re committed to low-tox living and ingredient transparency, you’ve probably seen polysorbate 20, polysorbate 60, or polysorbate 80 on the ingredient lists of skincare, makeup, and even haircare products. PSorba_032015_Data1 Polysorbate 20 is one of the various types of polysorbates commonly used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It functions primarily as an emulsifier and surfactant, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients into stable, uniform formulations. The number indicates the average number of moles of ethylene oxide reacted per mole of sorbitol. Jul 1, 2025 · Because it is gentle, odorless and soluble in water, Polysorbate 20 shows up across a wide range of personal care products such as facial cleansers, micellar waters, toners, sheet masks, leave-on serums, light moisturizers, makeup-setting sprays, hair conditioners, bath oils and even baby wipes. Regulatory Inspect the ingredient list on your moisturizer, facial cleanser, body wash, or toner, and check for polysorbate 20. Polysorbate 60: Used in medicinal and baking applications. Polysorbate 80 tends to be a little ‘stronger’ but a little darker, so if you can achieve your desired solubility with Polysorbate 20 that is usually the preferred choice. It is a water-soluble yellowish liquid that is derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. In cosmetics, it enhances the texture . It is mainly used as a surfactant, emulsifier, and fragrance ingredient. This comprehensive guide aims to discover the mysteries behind Polysorbate 20, including benefits of polysorbate 20 in skin care, differences between polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80, etc. What is Polysorbate 20? Emulsifying agent consisting of laurate esters of sorbitol consisting of the monoester condensed with ethylene oxide (polyoxyethylene-20 sorbitan monostearate). It helps to dilute essential oils or perfume in water-based cosmetics like lotions, creams, gels. In this blog post, we examined the diverse uses of Polysorbate 20. Compared to Polysorbate 80 it is better suited to solubilizing essential oils and fragrance oils. Dec 7, 2018 · Polysorbate 20 is a gentle, oily, liquid cosmetic additive that functions as a nonionic surfactant and wetting agent that enhances the spreadability of liquids. Polysorbate 40: Used in food and beverage compositions. Nov 23, 2018 · What is it? Polysorbate 20 is a solubilizer with an HLB of 16. HLB Value: 16-17 (gives oil-in-water emulsions). Aug 28, 2024 · Polysorbate 20 is a multifunctional emulsifier renowned for its ability to stabilize and solubilize mixtures in various industries. In addition to its function in cosmetics, polysorbate 80 can be used to prepare a wide variety of products in the food, drug, textile, and metalworking industries. Polysorbate 20 is produced by ethoxylation. But what are these chemicals, why are they so common, and—most importantly—should you avoid them if you’re striving for a nontoxic routine? This comprehensive guide will break Polysorbate 80 is similar in function to polysorbate 20, and 60 which are used in skincare and cosmetic products as well. 7; we use it to disperse oils into otherwise watery concoctions. Nov 5, 2024 · Polysorbate 20 is a synthetic compound widely used in skincare and cosmetic products. Polysorbate 20 is a type of oily liquid ingredient that is used in the cosmetic industry because it acts as an emulsifier and helps bind oil and water together. Surfactants are often used in combination to equally meet all desired requirements – like dissolution of soil and formation of foam in combination with a good skin tolerance – in the best possible manner. Ethylene Oxide & 1,4-Dioxane Makes it Carcinogenic One major polysorbate 20 concern is related to its production process. Short-term exposure poses minimal health risks for most individuals, though some may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation. Polysorbate 20 is an emulsifying agent consisting of laurate esters of sorbitol consisting of the monoester condensed with ethylene oxide (polyoxyethylene-20 sorbitan monostearate). Dec 15, 2023 · Polysorbate 20 in skin care is an important ingredient that enhance product efficacy and user experience. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated the scientific data and concluded that Polysorbate 20, 21, 40, 60, 61, 65, 80, 81 and 85 were safe as cosmetic ingredients. We covered its extensive applications in the food, skincare, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. Jul 3, 2013 · Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate (INCI: Polysorbate 20), is a ubiquitous nonionic surfactant employed in the formulation of countless cosmetic and personal care products. The surfactants used in cosmetic products are primarily produced synthetically on the basis of vegetable raw materials. From Croda: … Continue reading → Apr 11, 2025 · Abstract Polysorbate 20 is a versatile and widely used compound that plays an essential role across various industries, including cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and household products. Sep 2, 2021 · What’s the Problem with Polysorbate 20? Although the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed polysorbate 20 to be a safe ingredient to use on the skin, there are still safety concerns surrounding it. Its broad applications span from food and skincare to pharmaceuticals and industrial processes. Emulsifying efficacy is increased further when combined with cetyl alcohol or sorbitan stearate. If you find it on the label, you might need to consider a different brand—primarily if your child uses the same product. Mar 31, 2015 · Polysorbate 20 Polysorbate 65 Polysorbate 21 Polysorbate 80 Polysorbate 40 Polysorbate 81 Polysorbate 60 Polysorbate 85 Polysorbate 61 Other polysorbates, which are also polyethoxylated sorbitan or sorbitol esters of fatty acids and contain a PEG moiety, have been reviewed by the CIR Panel. Learn more at Paula's Choice. It helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients together, making it a versatile ingredient in various formulations like creams, lotions, serums, and cleansers. Jul 7, 2024 · Polysorbate 20 is an ethoxylated sorbitan ester, a popular non-toxic hydrophilic oil-in-water emulsifier, and solubilized, allowing the dissolution of oils into water-based formulations without alcohol. Acts as Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20) is a surfactant and emulsifier used in cleaners and personal care products. Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant commonly used as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and stabilizer in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. Feb 21, 2025 · Polysorbate 20 extends the shelf life of cosmetic products by improving stability and reducing the risk of ingredient separation. Polysorbate 80: Used in the food, industrial, and pharmaceutical industries. Gentle on Skin: The non-ionic nature of Polysorbate 20 makes it suitable for sensitive skin formulations. Long-term effects are less clear, with ongoing research into potential endocrine disruption and reproductive effects. Polysorbate 20 is a mild skin cleansing agent derived from coconut that has been proven safe to use in cosmetics. It enhances the spreadability of formulations and is also gentle on skin and hair. Date: February 20, 2015 Subject: Re-review of Polysorbates as Used in Cosmetics Attached is the re-review of polysorbates 20, 21, 40, 60, 61, 65, 80, 81, and 85 as used in cosmetics. Jun 25, 2021 · The two most common polysorbates for perfumery are Polysorbate 20 and Polysorbate 80. Discover key differences between Polysorbate 20 vs 80 for skincare formulations. Dec 20, 2023 · Polysorbate 20 is a mild skin cleansing agent derived from coconut that has been proven safe to use in cosmetics. Polysorbate-20 is commonly used in skincare products as an emulsifier, surfactant, and solubilizer. Nov 12, 2024 · Short answer Polysorbate 20 is considered safe for general use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals within regulated levels. Non-ionic emulsifier (enables water and oil to mix). 8iz ywlzxd 8jhp 3mkx 9iinng naf mwlk ebwelc xbzm vyauv