Tag: Polysorbate 20

Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20), a versatile non-ionic surfactant, is essential for B2B formulators seeking stable, clear formulations in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. With its HLB value of 16.7, it excels as a hydrophilic emulsifier and solubilizer, bridging natural and synthetic performance to ensure compliance with global standards like E432 (EU) and 21 CFR 172.846 (FDA).

Technical Properties and Applications
Derived from plant-based sorbitan monolaurate ethoxylated with 20 moles of ethylene oxide, Polysorbate 20 appears as a yellow to amber viscous liquid, fully soluble in water, ethanol, and methanol but dispersible in oils. Its low CMC of 0.06 mM enables efficient O/W emulsions, preventing phase separation in essential oil solubilization (1:1 to 1:5 ratios based on oil type). Compared to Polysorbate 80 (HLB 15.0, oleic acid-based), it offers superior clarity for lightweight applications like fragrance sprays and mild cleansers, reducing irritation from anionic surfactants.

Cosmetics/Personal Care: Solubilizes fragrances in toners and shampoos; vegan-certified options available.
Food & Beverage: Emulsifies flavors in beverages and stabilizes bakery textures.
Pharma/Industrial: Enhances drug bioavailability; aids agrochemical wetting and textile lubrication.
Safety/Compliance: GRAS status, biodegradable, exempt from microplastics bans (REACH EU 2023/2055); impurities like 1,4-dioxane controlled <10 ppm.

Partner with us for high-purity, RSPO-certified Polysorbate 20 to optimize your formulations. Contact our technical team for COAs, samples, and custom sourcing.