Low ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Polysorbate 20

Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate

Safety Notes

PEG-derived, check 1,4-dioxane contamination; widely used solubiliser

Function & Common Use

Function

Emulsifying / Solubilising

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Polysorbate 20 safe to use in skincare?

Polysorbate 20 has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. PEG-derived, check 1,4-dioxane contamination; widely used solubiliser

Is Polysorbate 20 allowed in India?

Polysorbate 20 is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Polysorbate 20 used for in cosmetics?

Polysorbate 20 functions as: Emulsifying / Solubilising. It is commonly found in: Toners, cleansers, emulsions.

TCS Assessment

Low Concern

Data Confidence

High

Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)

Permitted

US FDA

Permitted

Korea (MFDS)

Permitted

Australia (TGA)

Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made

Canada (NHPID)

Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS9005-64-5

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