INCI: Polysorbate 20 · CAS: 9005-64-5
Polysorbate 20
A non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer for fragrance and oils.
About Polysorbate 20
Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from the ethoxylation of sorbitan monolaurate, often used in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. It stabilizes emulsions and facilitates the mixing of oil and water in formulations. It appears as a clear to pale-yellow viscous liquid and is widely regarded as safe for use in personal care products.
Function: emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer, dispersant
Recommended Usage
Skin care: 0.5-5%, recommended for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions and solubilizing essential oils and fragrances.
Hair care: 0.5-5%, ideal for shampoos and hair conditioners to enhance texture and clarity.
Regulatory Status
- EU (max No regulatory maximum specified.): Approved for cosmetic use without specific concentration limits. Complies with EU Cosmetics Regulation.
- US (max No regulatory maximum specified.): FDA-approved for use in cosmetics and food products as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe).
- ASEAN (max No regulatory maximum specified.): Approved under ASEAN Cosmetics Directive, subject to formulation-specific reviews.
Suppliers & Distributors
- Croda International (Manufacturer)
- BASF SE (Manufacturer)
- Evonik Industries (Manufacturer)
- Univar Solutions (Distributor)
- Brenntag North America (Distributor)
- IMCD (Distributor)
Common questions about Polysorbate 20
What is Polysorbate 20?
A non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer for fragrance and oils.
What is the INCI name for Polysorbate 20?
The INCI name for Polysorbate 20 is Polysorbate 20. INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) is the standardized naming system used on cosmetic product labels worldwide.
What is the CAS number for Polysorbate 20?
The CAS number for Polysorbate 20 (Polysorbate 20) is 9005-64-5. The CAS number is the unique chemical identifier assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service.
What does Polysorbate 20 do in cosmetic formulations?
In cosmetic formulations, Polysorbate 20 (Polysorbate 20) functions as: emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer, dispersant.
What percentage of Polysorbate 20 is typically used in cosmetics?
Typical use levels for Polysorbate 20 (Polysorbate 20) in cosmetic formulations: In skin care: 0.5-5%, recommended for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions and solubilizing essential oils and fragrances.. In hair care: 0.5-5%, ideal for shampoos and hair conditioners to enhance texture and clarity.. Always confirm against the supplier's technical data sheet and the regulatory limits for your target market.
Is Polysorbate 20 allowed in cosmetics in major markets?
Polysorbate 20 (Polysorbate 20) is regulated as follows in major markets: EU (max No regulatory maximum specified.); US (max No regulatory maximum specified.); ASEAN (max No regulatory maximum specified.). See the Regulatory Status section above for the specific restrictions and conditions in each territory.
Who manufactures Polysorbate 20?
Polysorbate 20 (Polysorbate 20) is manufactured by suppliers including Croda International, BASF SE, Evonik Industries, Symrise AG. Sign in to Chemdex to see full contact details, SDS / TDS documents, and regional offices for every supplier.