Polysorbate 60 Non-Ionic Surfactant for Cosmetics

Polysorbate 60 Non-Ionic Surfactant for Cosmetics CAS NO 9005-67-8
Polysorbate 60 (also known as Tween-60) is a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB value and is commonly used to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion systems. This ingredient is a yellow viscous liquid and is widely used in creams, lotions, skin care products and pharmaceutical preparations. The standard packaging is 25kg/barrel, which is suitable for large-scale production and laboratory formula development.

General characteristics
Polysorbate 60 is easily soluble in water, ethanol, ethyl acetate and toluene, insoluble in mineral oil and vegetable oil, has significant hydrophilicity, and is suitable for emulsification systems dominated by water phase. It has good chemical stability and can continue to function under various pH conditions. It is not easy to fail due to changes in the acidity and base of the system. The recommended addition amount is 1–5%, which can be flexibly adjusted according to the specific formula structure and emulsification strength requirements.

From a chemical point of view
This ingredient is prepared by the reaction of sorbitan monostearate and ethylene oxide. The molecular structure has both lipophilic segments and multi-segment polyoxyethylene hydrophilic chains. Its high HLB value comes from the proportional advantage of the polyoxyethylene chain, which enables it to quickly arrange at the oil-water interface, forming an emulsified membrane structure with the hydrophilic end facing outward and the lipophilic end facing inward, preventing oil droplets from coalescing and stabilizing the dispersed system.

Uses in cosmetics
Polysorbate 60 is mainly used in cosmetic formulas to improve the uniformity of oil-water mixing, make the emulsion texture stable, smooth to the touch, and enhance the storage stability of the product. It is often compounded with dehydrated sorbitan esters such as Sorbitan Stearate to enhance viscosity control and emulsion structure. As an Emulsifier for cosmetics, its non-ionic properties bring low irritation and are suitable for a variety of skin types, including sensitive and dry skin, and help develop mild skin care or cleansing products.