Polysorbate-85

What is Polysorbate-85?

Polysorbate-85, also known as polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate, is a synthetic ingredient derived from sorbitol, oleic acid, and ethylene oxide through ethoxylation. This non-ionic surfactant features a hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chain attached to a lipophilic sorbitan trioleate backbone, enabling it to bridge oil and water phases effectively. Commonly found in lotions, creams, cleansers, and makeup removers, it reduces surface tension at interfaces, preventing phase separation and ensuring product uniformity. In formulations, it solubilizes oils and fragrances into aqueous systems, supports micelle formation for gentle cleansing, and maintains suspension of pigments or actives, contributing to smooth textures and consistent performance across cosmetic categories like emulsions and rinse-off products.

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:

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.
Suspending agent
Keeps insoluble particles (pigments, beads, actives) evenly dispersed by increasing viscosity or forming a network, preventing settling and separation.

Benefits

Stabilizes emulsions for even texture in creams and lotions.

Facilitates gentle cleansing in shampoos and washes by aiding foam and oil removal.

Prevents settling of particles like pigments for uniform product application.

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 skincare like moisturizers seeking stable formulas.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated compounds or PEG derivatives.
Individuals with oily skin preferring non-comedogenic cleansers.
Individuals concerned about potential impurities from manufacturing.
People using makeup removers or pigmented products for consistent dispersion.
Users preferring fully natural or minimal-ingredient products.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to possible contamination risks, but safe as used per cosmetic reviews.
  • Non-comedogenic with low pore-clogging potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polysorbate-85

What is Polysorbate-85 used for in skincare?

It acts as an emulsifier and surfactant to mix oils and water, stabilizing lotions, cleansers, and creams.

Is Polysorbate-85 safe for daily use?

Cosmetic reviews deem it safe at common concentrations, with moderate EWG rating mainly from impurity concerns.

Does Polysorbate-85 clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low risk of pore clogging.