Very Disliked

Polysorbate 20

Explained

Polysorbate 20 is made by combining ethoxylation of sorbitan, ethylene oxide, and lauric acid. It is a mild cleansing agent, surfactant, and emulsifier.

As a surfactant, it helps collect dirt and oils for washing. Emulsifiers prevent oils and water from separating.

Polysorbate 20 also adds scent to a product. Since it is made using sorbitol, it has a sweet scent. Sorbitol can also be found in fruits such as apples and peaches.

The lauric acid used to create Polysorbate 20 is often derived from coconuts.

Polysorbate 20 may not be fungal acne safe.

See all 6,105 products with Polysorbate 20

Comedogenic Rating
0
Irritancy Rating
0
Users who like it
7%
Users who avoid it
93%

What it does

Emulsifying The act of emulsion: a suspension of small globules of one liquid in a second liquid with which the first will not mix

Alternative names

Tween 20
Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Monolaurate

Prevalence

Somewhat common Percentage of products that contain it
6.9%
Top categories
Treatments
Cleansers
Moisturizers
Position Predominant list placement
Bottom 50%
Concentration Concentrations we've seen
74%

References

CosIng Data

CosIng ID 79318
INCI Name POLYSORBATE 20
All Functions Emulsifying, Surfactant