Polysorbate 20

Description

One of the most commonly used variations of polysorbates used in the cosmetic industry is Polysorbate 20 (Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate). It is a lauric acid with an approximate hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of 16.7⁶. The main components of PS 20 are: sorbitol, fatty acids with an average alkyl chain length of 12 carbon atoms, and ethylene oxide (EO).

Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant and finds use in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products. Due to its oily, liquid, and gentle nature, PS 20 acts as a nonionic surfactant and wetting agent, therefore enhancing the spreadability of liquids. It is also commonly used as a solubilizer, as it enables the attachment of fragrance and essential oils to various types of cosmetic bases. This substance prevents the separation of oils and bases such as cream, liquid, or gel bases. Polysorbate 20 often acts as a dispersant, as it helps to diffuse oils throughout the water and as an anti-static agent that prevents the build-up of static charges. Adding this compound to oil-based cosmetics may also reduce and prevent them from clumping or settling. Moreover, it is used as a thickener and viscosity modifier, as it stops the changes to a product’s viscosity at changing temperatures. It helps products retain both fragrance and clarity⁷.

Polysorbate 20 is usually added to water-based cosmetics to ensure the blend of essential oils and fragrance oils with the bases to which they are added.

As it is non-irritant and soothing, it is often used in bath products, facial cleansers, baby products, and shampoos. Other applications of Polysorbate 20 include face creams, linen sprays, body lotions, balms, ointments, pomades, hair spray, and sunblocks.

Cosmetic Benefits of Polysorbate 20:

• Excellent solubilizer for essential oils and fragrance oils
• Functions as an effective surfactant and wetting agent
• Helps improve product spreadability and texture
• Assists in stabilizing emulsions and preventing ingredient separation
• Functions as a dispersing agent for oil-in-water systems
• Supports viscosity modification and formulation consistency
• Helps maintain product clarity and fragrance stability
• Reduces clumping and settling of oil-based ingredients
• Suitable for gentle and mild cosmetic formulations

CAS NUM:  9005-64-5

INCI Name: Polysorbate 20

Classification: Synthetic (S)

Charge: Nonionic

Country of Origin: USA

Packaging: Our water/Oil based ingredients are bottled in plastics avoid spillage.

DISCLAIMER:  All SOPHIX NATURAL PRODUCTS  are for external use only, unless otherwise STATED. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. SOPHIX NATURAL is not responsible for ingredient purchase decisions, ingredients research and testing, or inability to follow recommended usage directions.