Very Disliked
Polysorbate 80
May feed Fungal Acne
Non-fungal acne-safe products contain ingredients that can worsen fungal acne. If you suspect fungal acne, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.
Explained
Polysorbate 80 is a synthetic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid.
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water phases to help them stay mixed and stable in a formulation. In other words, it prevents your formulas from separating into an oily mess.
The CIR Expert Panel has evaluated the scientific data and found this ingredient to be safe, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing at concentrations up to 5% (it's even approved by the FDA as an OTC eye drop ingredient).
See all 3,346 products with Polysorbate 80
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
Surfactant
When added to liquid, surfactants may act as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and dispersants
Prevalence
Uncommon
Percentage of products that contain it
2.6%
Top categories
Moisturizers
Treatments
Makeup
Position
Predominant list placement
Bottom 50%
References
CosIng Data
CosIng ID
36902
INCI Name
POLYSORBATE 80
INN Name
polysorbate 80
Ph. Eur. Name
polysorbatum 80
All Functions
Denaturant, Emulsifying, Surfactant
