Polysorbate 20 Cosmetic Grade Emulsifier CAS NO 9005-64-5 Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant made by ethoxylation of sorbitan monolaurate. It is a yellow transparent liquid with an HLB value of up to 16.7. It is a classic oil-in-water emulsifier. It is easily soluble in water, ethanol and glycerol, insoluble in mineral oil and vegetable oil, and can maintain functional stability in the pH range of 3-10, and is suitable for a variety of cosmetic formulas. The recommended addition amount is 1%-5%, and it is often used in transparent or opaque formulas to enhance dispersibility, emulsification effect and product consistency.
Mechanism of Action
Polysorbate 20 reduces the interfacial tension between the oil and water phases, allowing the oil droplets to be evenly dispersed in the water-based matrix to form a stable emulsion. When compounded with other emulsifiers (such as spans and glyceryl stearate), it can significantly improve the stability of the emulsion and reduce the risk of stratification.
Application and Performance
Widely used in skin care, cleaning and makeup products: in cleansers, toners, and micellar water, it gently dissolves oil and improves rinsing properties while ensuring skin comfort; in emulsions such as creams and lotions, it helps to make the texture uniform, maintain long-term stability, and improve the dispersibility of oil-based active ingredients; in fragrance systems, it can maintain clarity and uniformity. The high HLB value makes it suitable for pairing with low HLB emulsifiers to build a more stable emulsified system.
Formulation Application
Typical uses include oil-in-water emulsions, makeup removers, facial sprays, light creams, and toners. Because it is mild, non-irritating, and has strong formula adaptability, it is also commonly used in sensitive skin and baby care products. As a nonionic surfactant, it plays an important role in simplifying the formula structure and enhancing compatibility with other raw materials.