Polysorbate 60 is a popular compound that assists with combining water and oil. Its widespread use in cosmetics is to combine these two substances. This chemical functions as a surfactant, emulsifier, solubilizer and dispersant. Its characteristics make it ideal for use in shampoos and body washes because it helps to reduce the surface tension on the skin and effectively wash away dirt. After examining the scientific data, the CIR Expert Panel established that Polysorbates 20, 21, 40, 60, 61, 65, 80, 81 and 85 are safe to use in cosmetics.
This article is missing information about cross-reaction with PEG hypersensitivity [PMID: 30557713]. (April 2021) |
Polysorbates are a class of emulsifiers used in some pharmaceuticals and food preparation. They are commonly used in oral and topical pharmaceutical dosage forms. They are also often used in cosmetics to solubilize essential oils into water-based products. Polysorbates are oily liquids derived from ethoxylated sorbitan (a derivative of sorbitol) esterified with fatty acids. Common brand names for polysorbates include Kolliphor, Scattics, Alkest, Canarcel, and Tween.
