Polysorbate 81
What is Polysorbate 81?
Polysorbate 81, or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, is a synthetic surfactant made from sorbitol sourced from corn, oleic acid from vegetable oils, and ethylene oxide through ethoxylation. It belongs to the polysorbate family commonly used in cosmetics like lotions, creams, cleansers, shampoos, and fragranced items. This ingredient acts at the oil-water interface, reducing surface tension to form stable emulsions that keep formulas uniform and prevent separation. It solubilizes hydrophobic fragrance oils into aqueous bases for even scent delivery and masks off-notes. As a surfactant, it aids in dispersing soils during cleansing. Its structure allows mild action, supporting product stability without heavy greasiness.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Creates stable oil-in-water emulsions for smooth lotion and cream textures
Solubilizes fragrances evenly in water-based products for consistent scent
Assists gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension to lift dirt and oils
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| People using moisturizers or cleansers needing emulsion stability | Those with rare allergies to polysorbates or related ethoxylated compounds |
| Individuals enjoying scented skincare with balanced fragrance release | People sensitive to potential trace impurities from manufacturing |
| Acne-prone users, as it has a non-comedogenic profile | Users seeking only plant-derived or minimal synthetic ingredients |
Safety Notes
- Deemed safe in cosmetics at typical concentrations by expert reviews
- Low irritation risk for most, especially in rinse-off applications
Frequently Asked Questions about Polysorbate 81
What does Polysorbate 81 do in skincare?
It emulsifies oil and water for stable textures, solubilizes fragrances, and supports mild cleansing as a surfactant.
Is Polysorbate 81 comedogenic?
No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.
Is Polysorbate 81 safe for sensitive skin?
It generally shows low irritation in cosmetics, though patch testing is wise for sensitivities.