At a glance
- INCI name
- Polysorbate 80
- 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 Carbomer Xanthan Gum Phenoxyethanol Fragrance Essential Oils Vitamin E Retinol Niacinamide
Use caution with:
High-concentration Electrolytes Strong Oxidizing Agents Phenols (high conc.) Tannic Acid
High salt concentrations can cause salting-out, reducing emulsification efficiency. Strong oxidizers may degrade the polyoxyethylene chains, reducing stability. At high concentrations, phenolic compounds may interact with the ethylene oxide units and reduce efficacy.
Formulation notes
Commonly used to solubilize fragrance and essential oils into aqueous systems; HLB ~15, making it best suited for O/W emulsions. May cause sensitization in some individuals at higher concentrations; EU and US leave-on products should be formulated thoughtfully. Can reduce the efficacy of some preservatives (e.g., parabens) through micellar entrapment — compensate by adjusting preservative levels.
Frequently asked questions
What is Polysorbate 80?
Polysorbate 80 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 80 used for?
Polysorbate 80 is used as emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer, dispersant in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Polysorbate 80?
Polysorbate 80 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 80 stable?
Polysorbate 80 is generally stable in the pH 3–8 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Polysorbate 80?
Polysorbate 80 works well with Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, Essential Oils, Vitamin E, Retinol, Niacinamide. Use caution when combining it with High-concentration Electrolytes, Strong Oxidizing Agents, Phenols (high conc.), Tannic Acid.
Related ingredients
- Polysorbate 20Emulsifier
- Ceteareth-20Emulsifier
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- PEG-100 StearateEmulsifier
- PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor OilEmulsifier
- Behenyl PEG/PPG-20/20 DimethiconeEmulsifier