INCI Name
Polysorbate 20
Functions
3 Roles
Sustainability
6/10
Category
emulsifiers
What It Does
Polysorbate 20 is a polyethoxylated sorbitan ester of lauric acid, created by reacting sorbitol with lauric acid and then ethoxylating the result. With its high HLB value of 16.7, it excels at solubilizing essential oils, fragrances, and lipophilic actives into water-based formulations, making it particularly popular in micellar waters, toners, and light serums. Formulators favor it for its mildness, stability across a wide pH range, and ability to create clear solutions without the heavy feel of traditional emulsifiers.
Technical Properties
HLB Value
16.7
Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance
pH Range
5.0-7.0
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
nonionic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Foaming Ability
low
Lather generation
Ingredient Compatibility
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
mixed
Feedstock
sorbitol (plant-derived) and lauric acid (coconut/palm), ethoxylated with petroleum-derived ethylene oxide
Related Ingredients
Similar emulsifiers to explore
Polyethylene Glycol 150 Distearate
Carbomer Copolymer
Cetearyl Alcohol Ethoxylate
Emulsifying Wax Complex
Olivem 1000
Available Variants
6 forms available
100% Liquid
100% Liquid (Naturally-derived)
100% Liquid, HLB 16.7
100% Pure Liquid
Liquid
Standard
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Polysorbate 20
- Common Name
- Polysorbate 20
- Category
- emulsifiers
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