Very Disliked
Polysorbate 20
May feed Fungal Acne
Fungal acne-safe products avoid ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast, the cause of fungal acne. Unlike regular acne, fungal acne appears as small, uniform bumps and won't respond to typical acne treatments. If you suspect fungal acne, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.
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 6,471 products with Polysorbate 20
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
Products with Polysorbate 20
CosIng Data
CosIng ID
79318
INCI Name
POLYSORBATE 20
All Functions
Emulsifying, Surfactant
