What it is
A gentle nonionic surfactant made from sorbitol and lauric acid with added PEG groups, polysorbate 20 helps disperse fragrances and oils into water-based formulas and stabilizes light emulsions. It is widely used as a mild solubilizer.
Safety & warnings
A mild, widely used emulsifier generally well tolerated.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, made from sorbitol, lauric acid, and ethylene oxide.
Questions everyone asks
What does polysorbate 20 do?
It is a mild emulsifier that helps blend small amounts of oil or fragrance into water.
Is it harsh?
No, it is a gentle nonionic surfactant, not a stripping cleanser.