Polysorbate 60
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Polysorbates, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 80, Sorbitol
Widely used emulsifier made from sorbitol and stearic acid | Provides mild cleansing properties
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EWG Safety Score
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What Is Polysorbate 60?
Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier made from the sugar ingredient sorbitol, the fatty acid stearic acid chemically condenses with ethylene oxide, a colorless gas. Along with keeping unlike ingredients combined, polysorbate 60 also aids in the dispersion of key ingredients throughout an emulsion. This ingredient is also considered a nonionic (uncharged) surfactant, the formal way to describe a mild cleansing agent that helps enhance foam and provides thickening properties to cleansers, shampoos and body washes.
When combined with cetyl alcohol, polysorbate 60 has been shown to improve penetration of vitamin C and other antioxidants into skin. The standard usage range of polysorbate 60 in cosmetics is 1–10%. Amounts of 5% or more have been shown to irritate skin; however, other studies using amounts as high as 15% have not shown an irritant or sensitized response. As such, polysorbate 60 is generally considered safe for skin when used in amounts below 5%, with a 1% concentration considered non-irritating.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2021, pages 715–728 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ics.12747]
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, February 2012, pages 303–311 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378517311010738]
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, January 2021, ePublication [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378517320310772]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Polyhydroxystearic Acid
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Polysorbate 21
A nonionic emulsifier that stabilises oil and water-based formulations
Polysorbate 80
Surfactant composed of fatty acids (primarily oleic acid) | Often included in skin care formulations as an emulsifying or solubilizing agent
Potassium Cocoyl Rice Amino Acids
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Potassium Laurate
A natural surfactant and emulsifier derived from lauric acid with purifying properties
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