Polysorbate 60
Non-ionic oil-in-water emulsifier. Frequently paired with Sorbitan Stearate to form stable medium-rich cream emulsions.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60, PEG-20 Sorbitan Monostearate) is a non-ionic PEGylated emulsifier. One of the most widely used in 20th- and 21st-century cosmetics. Where applied. Creams and lotions (0.5-5%), cleansers, masks. Often paired with Sorbitan Stearate – the duo produces stable medium-rich oil-in-water emulsions. Safety. CIR confirmed polysorbate safety (Final Report 1984, reassessment 2010). FDA approves as a food additive. EWG hazard score 3 (low-medium) due to theoretical residual 1,4-dioxane in raw material – modern EFfCI GMP standards purify below 10 ppm. No systemic absorption through intact skin. On damaged skin (open eczema, extensive wounds) PEGylated emulsifiers should be limited. Pregnancy and lactation – safe.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polysorbate 60 safe during pregnancy?
Polysorbate 60 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polysorbate 60 for?
Polysorbate 60 suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Polysorbate 60 and what does it do in cosmetics?
Non-ionic oil-in-water emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Polysorbate 60?
The INCI name is Polysorbate 60. It may also appear as: Tween 60, PEG-20 Sorbitan Monostearate.
See Polysorbate 60 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Polysorbate 80, Polyurethane-64, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Polyvinyl Laurate, Stearyl Stearate, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Ethyl Ferulate, Octyldodecyl Xyloside
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