Polysorbate 61

What is Polysorbate 61?

Polysorbate 61 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant created through the ethoxylation of sorbitan monostearate, combining sorbitol—a sugar alcohol—and stearic acid, a fatty acid often sourced from vegetable oils. This process attaches polyoxyethylene chains, yielding a molecule with balanced hydrophilic and lipophilic properties, ideal for emulsification. In cosmetics, it appears in lotions, creams, shampoos, and fragranced items within the cleansers, moisturizers, and hair care categories. It works by lowering surface tension at interfaces, forming protective films around oil droplets in water, preventing separation and ensuring uniform texture. Additionally, its solubilizing action disperses hydrophobic fragrance oils into aqueous bases, enhancing scent delivery without altering product clarity or stability.

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

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.

Benefits

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent lotion and cream textures that resist separation.

Solubilizes fragrances, providing even scent distribution in water-based products.

Facilitates gentle cleansing and foaming in shampoos and body washes.

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 products like lotions seeking long-lasting stability.
People with known sensitivities to ethoxylated surfactants.
Individuals enjoying fragranced skincare with reliable scent profiles.
Those avoiding synthetic emulsifiers in favor of natural alternatives.
Those preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in daily routines.
Individuals prone to reactions from polysorbate family ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe for use in cosmetics by expert reviews, with low comedogenic potential.
  • Potential for trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane exists but is minimized in regulated products.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polysorbate 61

What does Polysorbate 61 do in cosmetics?

It emulsifies oil and water phases for stable products and solubilizes fragrances.

Is Polysorbate 61 comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.

Is Polysorbate 61 safe for sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation potential, but patch test if sensitivities exist.