Benefits of Polysorbate 60

A dependable nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer for smooth, stable oil-in-water formulas.

• Reliable O/W Emulsification: Binds oil and water into stable, uniform creams and lotions.
• Solubilizer: Disperses fragrance and oil-soluble actives evenly into water-based products.
• Elegant Skin Feel: Contributes a light, smooth, non-greasy finish.
• Mild & Nonionic: Gentle and broadly compatible with other ingredients.
• Versatile: Works across a wide pH range in many formats.

How It Works

Polysorbate 60 is a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB (~15), meaning it strongly favors water. Its sorbitan-and-polyethylene-glycol “head” anchors in the water phase while its stearate “tail” associates with oils, so it sits at the oil–water interface, lowering interfacial tension and holding tiny oil droplets suspended in water — the basis of a stable oil-in-water emulsion. The same surfactant action lets it solubilize small amounts of fragrance or oil into water.

Formulating with Polysorbate 60

Polysorbate 60 is typically used in the oil or water phase of o/w emulsions, often paired with a co-emulsifier such as sorbitan stearate or a fatty alcohol (like cetearyl alcohol) to fine-tune stability and texture. As a solubilizer it is used at low levels to clarify fragrance or oil into toners and mists. It is compatible across a broad pH range; observe good manufacturing and preservation practice.