Snapshot
- Overview
- An emulsifier that helps blend fragrance oils into watery formulas.
- Category
- Emulsifying, Cleansing
- Type
- Emulsifier
Polysorbate-20
Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant and solubilizer derived from sorbitan, ethoxylates, and lauric acid. It helps blend essential oils and fragrances into water-based products, lowers surface tension, and stabilizes light emulsions.
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Our take
Is Polysorbate-20 a Good Ingredient?
Good rating as a gentle solubilizer that helps disperse aromatic oils in watery formulas with a strong safety record and low irritation profile. Slight irritation is possible for very sensitive skin or when used at higher levels in eye-area products.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Promotes product clarity and smooth application in light, watery systems. Helpful for gently blending aromatic oils without heaviness.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Common in facial mists, toners, micellar waters, and gentle gel cleansers to help incorporate perfume oils and essential oil blends into aqueous bases.
Before you use it
Safety
Typically nonirritating, though mild stinging or redness can occur in sensitive individuals or near the eyes. Widely used without notable regulatory limits in cosmetics.
Products with Polysorbate-20
