Polysorbate 20

Polysorbate 20

8.2

Ingredient Info

Polysorbate 20 is a mild emulsifier and solubilizer commonly used in skincare products to help mix oil and water-based ingredients together and keep them stable. It's also used to help dissolve fragrance and active ingredients evenly throughout a formula.



Benefits

  • Helps create stable, smooth textures by blending incompatible ingredients
  • Improves product consistency and shelf life
  • Allows even distribution of active ingredients and fragrance

Potential concerns

  • May cause irritation or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin
  • Can occasionally strip skin's natural oils if used in high concentrations
  • Some individuals report sensitivity to polysorbates, though this is relatively uncommon

Science: The provided study examined polysorbate 20 as a formulation component in a clinical cancer treatment (vidutolimod), not as a cosmetic ingredient. Limited peer-reviewed data exists specifically evaluating polysorbate 20 safety in topical skincare; however, it is widely used globally and recognized as safe by major regulatory bodies (FDA, EU) at typical cosmetic concentrations (typically under 5%).



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