Polysorbate 20 (also known as PEG-20 Sorbitan Monolaurate) is a widely used non-ionic solubiliser. Its job is simple: it helps small amounts of oily materials (like fragrance oils and essential oils) disperse more evenly in water-based blends.
If you’ve ever mixed fragrance into water and ended up with floating droplets, cloudiness, or separation, Polysorbate 20 is one of the standard tools formulators use to improve stability and appearance.
What it’s commonly used for
- Room sprays and linen sprays
- Mists and lightly fragranced water-based products
- Cosmetic formulations where fragrance/EO needs help dispersing
- Rinse-off products (where a cleaner-looking blend is preferred)
How to use it (practical guidance)
Polysorbate 20 is typically blended with your fragrance or essential oil first, then mixed into the water phase. Ratios depend on the oil type, fragrance load, and the clarity you’re aiming for.
Ratio:
- 1:1 to 4:1 Polysorbate 20 : oil (by weight)
If you want a clearer product, you usually need more solubiliser. If you’re fine with a slight haze, you may need less. Always test small batches and assess stability over time.
Product handling notes
- Usually a viscous liquid
- Mixes best with gentle heat if needed (not always necessary)
- Store sealed, in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
Important compliance note (UK/EU)
Polysorbate 20 is a raw material. Final product compliance depends on your full formula, labelling, intended use, and applicable regulations (cosmetic rules, CLP where relevant, allergens/fragrance compliance, etc.).
Key features
- Cosmetic-grade solubiliser / dispersing aid
- Helps blend fragrance oils & essential oils into water-based products
- Useful in sprays, mists, rinse-off and leave-on formulations (subject to your formula)
- Non-ionic and widely used across cosmetic making
Specification
- INCI: Polysorbate 20
- Also known as: PEG-20 Sorbitan Monolaurate
- Function: Solubiliser / surfactant (non-ionic)
- Appearance: Viscous liquid
- Solubility: Dispersible in water; solubilises oils into water-based systems
FAQ
Q: Is Polysorbate 20 an emulsifier?
A: It’s commonly used as a solubiliser for small amounts of oil in water-based products. For heavier oil phases you typically need a true emulsifier system.
Q: What ratio should I use?
A: Start testing around 1:1 to 4:1 (Polysorbate 20 : oil) by weight, then adjust for clarity and stability.
Q: Can I use it with essential oils?
A: It’s commonly used to help disperse essential oils into water-based formulations. Always test for stability and suitability in your final product.
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50ml, 100ml, 250ml, 500ml, 1000ml, 5kg |
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