





Polysorbate 20
Sold by weight (g or Kg) for formulation accuracy. Reference only: 250 g ≈ 250 mL (at 20°C).

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Quick specs
Use for fragrance solubilising
Suitable for sprays & toners
Easy to use
INGREDIENT OVERVIEW
Polysorbate 20
Polysorbate 20 is a solubiliser used in cosmetic formulations to disperse oils and fragrance into water-based systems. It is commonly used in toners, mists, cleansers, and other aqueous products where clarity and stability are required.
Our polysorbate 20 is supplied as a cosmetic-grade liquid with a verified assay of 99.53%. It is selected for its clarity, stability, and consistent performance across formulation systems.
In formulation, it enables the incorporation of small amounts of oil into water while maintaining a clear or stable system.
QUALITY & SOURCING
- High purity (99.53% assay, batch verified)
- Low acid value (0.8 mg KOH/g) for stability
- Controlled peroxide value (3.2 meq/kg)
- Natural tocopherol content (0.07%) supports stability
- Clean microbial and heavy metal profile
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
- Ingredient: Polysorbate 20
- INCI: Polysorbate 20
- CAS: 9005-64-5
- Solubility: Water soluble
- Typical use level:
- Solubilisation: 1–5%
- Ratio dependent on oil/fragrance load
- Starter: 1–3% (depending on oil load)
FORMULATION NOTES
Processing notes
Add to water phase or pre-mix with oil phase before dilution into water.
Compatibility notes
- Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
- Works well in surfactant systems
- Suitable for mild formulations
pH notes
Stable across typical cosmetic pH ranges.
Formulation examples
Toner / mist
- Polysorbate 20: 1–2%
- Fragrance or essential oil: 0.1–0.5%
- Water phase to 100%
Cleanser
- Polysorbate 0: 1–3%
- Surfactant system
- Humectants
Troubleshooting
- Cloudiness → increase ratio vs oil
- Separation → insufficient solubiliser
- Foam reduction → adjust surfactant balance
- Irritation risk → review total surfactant load
COMPARISON & ALTERNATIVES
- Heavier solubiliser: Polysorbate 80
- Alternative: PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- Full emulsifier: Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
SENSORY PROFILE
Polysorbate 20 contributes a light, non-greasy feel and helps maintain clarity in formulations. It may slightly reduce foam in surfactant systems depending on concentration.
STORAGE & HANDLING
- Store in a cool, dry place, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
- Shelf life: 2 years when properly stored
PRODUCT SAFETY
- Suitable for cosmetic use within recommended levels.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Avoid inhalation of dust. Use appropriate PPE during handling and formulation.
- Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contained within documents tab.
DOCUMENTATION
- Cosmetic grade
- Assay: 99.53%
- Acid value: 0.8 mg KOH/g
- Peroxide value: 3.2 meq/kg
- Tocopherol: 0.07%
- Heavy metals: compliant
- Microbial limits: compliant
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