Polysorbate-60

Benefits
AntisepticSoothing
Concerns
Malassezia Feeding

What is Polysorbate-60?

Polysorbate-60 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant created through ethoxylation of sorbitan monostearate, combining sorbitol-derived sorbitan (often from corn) with stearic acid sourced from vegetable oils or animal fats. Commonly found in lotions, creams, shampoos, body washes, and micellar waters, it serves as a key ingredient in personal care formulations. By possessing a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance around 14.9, it effectively stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions through interfacial film formation, preventing phase separation for consistent product texture. It also lowers surface tension to boost foaming and cleansing while solubilizing lipophilic fragrances and oils into aqueous systems, yielding clear, non-cloudy solutions ideal for sprays and rinses.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Supports mild antiseptic action via surfactant cleansing properties.

Contributes soothing qualities in emulsion-based formulas.

Facilitates non-comedogenic (rating 0) texture in lotions and cleansers.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of emulsified moisturizers needing stable, smooth application.
Those susceptible to Malassezia-related skin issues like fungal acne.
Individuals incorporating scented toners or sprays for fragrance solubility.
Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients or surfactants.
People seeking gentle surfactant cleansing in shampoos and washes.
Persons preferring minimal-ingredient products due to moderate safety profiles.

Safety Notes

  • Cosmetic safety assessments affirm use in typical concentrations.
  • Low comedogenic potential supports suitability for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polysorbate-60

What does Polysorbate-60 do in products?

It emulsifies oils in water, solubilizes fragrances, and aids cleansing as a surfactant.

Is Polysorbate-60 safe for daily use?

Safety reviews support its use in cosmetics at standard levels with low irritation risk.

Does it feed skin fungi?

Listed as a Malassezia feeding concern, so caution advised for prone individuals.