Tween 20 (POLYSORBATE 20)
Commonly Found In
Overview
POLYSORBATE 20 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol, lauric acid, and ethylene oxide. It is widely used to solubilize oils and fragrances in water-based products, stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, and prevent separation in formulations. With an HLB value of 16.7, it is particularly effective for creating lightweight, non-greasy lotions and for dispersing essential oils in toners and mists. Polysorbate 20 is valued for its mildness and compatibility with sensitive skin formulations.
Also known as: Tween 20, Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monolaurate, Alkest TW 20
Key Benefits
Polysorbate 20 is primarily an emulsifier and solubilizer rather than a skin-active ingredient. Studies suggest it is well tolerated and may help improve the delivery of oil-soluble actives in water-based formulations. Clinical evidence from the CIR indicates it is safe at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β safety assessment of polysorbate 20 confirming safety for cosmetic use
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Very low comedogenic potential; widely used in lightweight formulations including toners
Source: Kligman & Mills comedogenicity scale
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating at cosmetic use concentrations; no significant sensitization potential
Source: CIR Expert Panel Final Report
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.1β5%
Optimal
0.5β2%
Used at 0.1β1% in toners/mists as a fragrance solubilizer, 0.5β3% in lightweight lotions as emulsifier, 1β5% in cleansing products.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
High HLB value (16.7) makes it ideal for lightweight O/W emulsions and oil solubilization in aqueous systems. 1,4-dioxane byproduct from ethoxylation must be controlled. Stable across pH 3β10.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | Must meet 1,4-dioxane limits | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | FDA recommends <20 ppm 1,4-dioxane | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Allowed | - | Follows EU standards | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Polysorbate 20 is permitted across all major markets. The primary regulatory constraint is 1,4-dioxane control from ethoxylation process. EU requires compliance with dioxane limits; FDA recommends <20 ppm. No significant cross-market divergence.
Regulation Analysis
Category Comparison
94% of SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING ingredients (88 of 94) are banned in the EU, but this one is approved.
πΏ Natural Sources
Polysorbate 20 is derived from three starting materials: (1) Sorbitol: a sugar alcohol obtained by hydrogenating glucose from corn or wheat starch. (2) Lauric acid: a C12 fatty acid from coconut oil (Cocos nucifera, 48% lauric acid) or palm kernel oil (Elaeis guineensis, 48% lauric acid). (3) Ethylene oxide: a synthetic petrochemical gas used for ethoxylation. While sorbitol and lauric acid have natural origins, the ethoxylation process and ethylene oxide are synthetic, so polysorbate 20 cannot be classified as 'natural' despite having plant-derived components. Sorbitol was first isolated from mountain ash berries (Sorbus aucuparia), giving it the name 'sorbitol.'
π How It's Made
Polysorbate 20 is synthesized through a multi-step process: (1) Dehydration: Sorbitol is dehydrated at high temperature (150-200Β°C) with acid catalyst to form sorbitan, a cyclic ether. This removes two molecules of water. (2) Esterification: Sorbitan reacts with lauric acid (C12) at 200-250Β°C to form sorbitan monolaurate (also known as Span 20). This creates an ester bond between one of sorbitan's hydroxyl groups and the lauric acid. (3) Ethoxylation: Sorbitan monolaurate is reacted with approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide (EO) under pressure at 120-180Β°C with alkaline catalyst (potassium hydroxide). The ethylene oxide inserts into the remaining hydroxyl groups, creating polyoxyethylene chains. The '20' in polysorbate 20 refers to the total 20 moles of ethylene oxide added. (4) Purification: The product is neutralized, bleached, and purified to remove unreacted materials, byproducts like 1,4-dioxane (which must be reduced to <10 ppm), and catalyst residues. The final product is a mixture of polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate esters with varying ethylene oxide chain lengths averaging 20 units.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Polysorbate 20 is used in lightweight lotions (0.5-3%), facial toners and mists (0.1-1%), makeup removers (1-5%), serums (0.5-2%), fragrance solubilizers in body sprays (1-3%), and cleansing waters (0.5-2%). Its primary functions are: (1) Emulsifier: creates stable oil-in-water emulsions with a light, non-greasy feel. (2) Solubilizer: disperses oils, fragrances, and essential oils in water-based products without cloudiness. (3) Wetting agent: helps formulations spread easily. (4) Surfactant: provides mild cleansing in rinse-off products. Polysorbate 20 has a high HLB value of 16.7, making it ideal for very light emulsions and oil solubilization (HLB >15 is water-soluble and good for O/W emulsions). It is particularly effective for dispersing small amounts of oil-soluble ingredients like fragrances, essential oils, or lipophilic vitamins in predominantly aqueous formulations. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) is approximately 0.006% (very low), meaning it functions efficiently at low concentrations. It is stable across pH 3-10 and compatible with most cosmetic ingredients. Unlike anionic surfactants, it does not foam significantly, making it ideal for leave-on products.
π¬ Other Applications
Polysorbate 20 has extensive applications outside cosmetics. In pharmaceuticals, it is used as an emulsifier in oral medications, topical creams, and injectable formulations. It helps solubilize poorly water-soluble drugs and stabilize protein-based biologics and vaccines. The food industry uses polysorbate 20 (E432 in EU) as an emulsifier in ice cream, salad dressings, baked goods, and vitamin supplements to improve texture and prevent separation (typical use 0.1-0.5%). Industrial applications include its use as a wetting agent in agrochemical formulations (pesticides, herbicides), a dispersant in paints and coatings, and an emulsifier in metalworking fluids. Laboratory and research settings employ polysorbate 20 extensively as a blocking agent in immunoassays (ELISA), a component in cell culture media, and a surfactant in protein purification buffers. It is also used in veterinary medicines and cleaning products.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ The 'Tween' trade name comes from 'between' - it was developed in the 1940s as a surfactant 'between' the Span series (sorbitan esters) and soap, offering intermediate properties. Tween 20, 40, 60, and 80 were developed by Atlas Powder Company.
- β’ The number '20' in polysorbate 20 indicates that approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide were used in its synthesis. This determines its HLB value and solubilizing properties. Higher numbers mean more ethylene oxide and higher water solubility.
- β’ Polysorbate 20 has an HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) value of 16.7, making it highly hydrophilic (water-loving). HLB values range from 0 (completely oil-soluble) to 20 (completely water-soluble). Values above 15 are used for oil-in-water emulsions and solubilizers.
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ CIR Expert Panel Final Report on polysorbates
- β’ EU CosIng database
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ Japan MHLW cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
Tween 80
POLYSORBATE 80
SLES
SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE
COCAMIDE DEA
LANOLINAMIDE DEA
TRIETHANOLAMINE
UNDECYLENIC ACID
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is POLYSORBATE 20 used for in cosmetics?
POLYSORBATE 20 is primarily used for surfactant - emulsifying in cosmetic products. It also serves as surfactant - solubilising, surfactant - cleansing. The ingredient is commonly found in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes.
Which countries regulate POLYSORBATE 20?
POLYSORBATE 20 is approved for cosmetic use in all major markets: EU, US, JP, UK, KR, with no significant restrictions.
Where can I find official regulation information about POLYSORBATE 20?
Official information about POLYSORBATE 20 regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.