Polysorbate 20
A cosmetic ingredient used as surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - emulsifying in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Sorbitan, monododecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs.
What does it do?
Polysorbate 20 is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Surfactant - cleansing
surfactant whose primary cosmetic role is cleansing — the active workhorse in soaps, shampoos, and body washes
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Surfactant - emulsifying
surfactant that forms and stabilises emulsions of oil and water — without it, creams and lotions would separate
EU regulatory status
Polysorbate 20 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Polysorbate 20?
Polysorbate 20 is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Sorbitan, monododecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs.
Is Polysorbate 20 allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Polysorbate 20 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Polysorbate 20 do in cosmetic products?
Polysorbate 20 is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - emulsifying.
What is the CAS number of Polysorbate 20?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Polysorbate 20 is 9005-64-5.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010