Polysorbate 20
Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
PEG-derived, check 1,4-dioxane contamination; widely used solubiliser
Function & Common Use
Emulsifying / Solubilising
Emulsifier
Toners, cleansers, emulsions
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
No limit
No limit
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
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.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies
Identifiers
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Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.