Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientEmulsifierPolysorbate 60
INCI: Polysorbate 60
Polysorbate 60 is a polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate — a synthetic, water-soluble emulsifier derived from sorbitol, stearic acid, and ethylene oxide. It works by reducing surface tension between water and oil phases, allowing them to blend into stable emulsions. It is widely used across cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food as a well-tolerated and effective emulsifying and solubilising agent.
Category
Emulsifier
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, dry, oily, combination, sensitive, acne-prone
What does this do in a formula?
emulsification, oil and water blending, texture stabilisation, solubilisation of oils in water-based formulas
Is Polysorbate 60 safe? Key considerations
Can Polysorbate 60 cause irritation?
Low RiskWell tolerated at all cosmetic concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel has concluded that polysorbate 60 is safe as used in cosmetics. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply. Rare sensitivity reactions are possible in individuals with known polyethylene glycol (PEG) hypersensitivity.
Does Polysorbate 60 increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskPolysorbate 60 is not a photosensitising ingredient. No additional sun protection is required based on its presence in a formulation.
Is Polysorbate 60 safe during pregnancy?
SafePolysorbate 60 is considered safe for use during pregnancy at normal cosmetic concentrations. It is widely used in pharmaceutical products including those approved for use in pregnancy. No reproductive or developmental toxicity concerns are noted in available safety literature.
How does Polysorbate 60 work?
Polysorbate 60 is a polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate — a synthetic, water-soluble emulsifier derived from sorbitol, stearic acid, and ethylene oxide. It works by reducing surface tension between water and oil phases, allowing them to blend into stable emulsions. It is widely used across cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food as a well-tolerated and effective emulsifying and solubilising agent.
Individuals with known PEG (polyethylene glycol) hypersensitivity should review the considerations above before use.
Which products contain Polysorbate 60?
Shop products that contain Polysorbate 60
Starter Retinol Serum
Caffeine Eye Cream
Dewy Sunscreen SPF 30
360° Skin Clearing Serum
10% Niacinamide Serum
Collagen Peptide Serum
Biome Balancing Moisturiser
1% Retinol Serum
Retinol Serum
Succinic Acid Treatment
10% Azelaic Acid Serum for Redness Relief
Tranexamic Acid Serum
20% Niacinamide Serum
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
