At a glance
- INCI name
- Polysorbate 20
- Function
- emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer, dispersant
- Typical use level
- 0.5%–5%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 3–8
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Compatibility
Works well with:
Glycerin Propylene Glycol Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Phenoxyethanol Sodium Benzoate Carbomer Aloe Vera Panthenol Fragrance
Use caution with:
High-concentration electrolytes Tannic Acid Phenols Strong oxidizing agents
High electrolyte concentrations can salt out or destabilize Polysorbate 20, reducing its solubilizing efficacy. Phenolic compounds and tannins may complex with the polyoxyethylene chains, potentially reducing antimicrobial preservative efficacy in formulations. Avoid strong oxidizers as they can degrade the ethylene oxide units and cause rancidity.
Formulation notes
Primarily used to solubilize essential oils and fragrances in aqueous systems; also used as a mild o/w emulsifier at higher levels. Generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated; HLB ~16.7 making it best suited for oil-in-water systems. No significant regulatory restrictions in cosmetics at typical use levels.
Frequently asked questions
What is Polysorbate 20?
Polysorbate 20 is a emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer, dispersant used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.5%–5%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 3–8 range.
What is Polysorbate 20 used for?
Polysorbate 20 is used as emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer, dispersant in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Polysorbate 20?
Polysorbate 20 is typically used at 0.5%–5% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
At what pH is Polysorbate 20 stable?
Polysorbate 20 is generally stable in the pH 3–8 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Polysorbate 20?
Polysorbate 20 works well with Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Carbomer, Aloe Vera, Panthenol, Fragrance. Use caution when combining it with High-concentration electrolytes, Tannic Acid, Phenols, Strong oxidizing agents.
Related ingredients
- Polysorbate 80Emulsifier
- Ceteareth-20Emulsifier
- Cetearyl GlucosideEmulsifier
- PEG-100 StearateEmulsifier
- PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor OilEmulsifier
- Behenyl PEG/PPG-20/20 DimethiconeEmulsifier