Polysorbate-60

• Stable and non-irritating emulsifier
• Solubilizes essential oils, fragrances, and actives
• Ideal for creams, lotions, masks, and scrubs
• Improves texture, stability, and feel of emulsions
• Non-comedogenic and safe for all skin types

Polysorbate 60 is a non-ionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and stearic acid, commonly used in skincare and personal care products. It functions as a primary emulsifier in oil-in-water systems, especially in creams, lotions, and masks. It also serves as a solubilizer, allowing oil-soluble ingredients like essential oils and fragrances to blend into water-based products. It improves product texture, ensures long-term stability, and reduces the greasy feel of oil-containing formulas. Ideal for beginners and advanced formulators alike.

INCI Name: Polysorbate 60

CAS Number: 9005-67-8

Solubility: Water-dispersible, soluble in alcohol

Add Phase: Heated oil or water phase

pH Stability: 4.0 – 7.5

Processing Temperature: 60–75°C

Appearance: Creamy white to pale yellow waxy solid or beads

Odor: Slight fatty odor

Molecular Weight: ~1,300 g/mol

Flash Point: > 200°C

Density: ~1.1 g/cm³

• Usage Rate: 1% – 10%
• Add to heated water or oil phase depending on formulation
• Ideal for: Creams, lotions, scrubs, masks, and emulsified serums

🌀 For rich, stable creams, combine Polysorbate 60 with Cetyl Alcohol and Stearic Acid for luxurious texture and long-term stability — even without fancy equipment.

✔️ Safe for all skin types, including dry, oily, and combination skin

✔️ Non-comedogenic and non-irritating in recommended concentrations

1. Moisturizing Day Cream

Use Polysorbate 60 as the primary emulsifier with shea butter and panthenol. Creates a light, creamy texture ideal for daily hydration.

2. Cream Cleanser

Formulate a non-foaming, nourishing cleanser using Polysorbate 60, jojoba oil, and glycerin. Gently removes makeup without drying the skin.

3. Hydrating Face Mask

Blend it into a cream-based face mask with aloe vera gel and cucumber extract for improved spreadability and absorption.

4. Body Scrub Emulsion

Use it to emulsify oil and sugar/salt in body scrubs so they rinse off clean, leaving no greasy residue behind.

5. Fragrance Mist Base

Create a base with Polysorbate 60 to disperse essential oils or fragrance oils into water-based sprays.

Q1: Can Polysorbate 60 be used as the only emulsifier?

A1: Yes, in many lotion and cream formulas it works well on its own, but pairing with a co-emulsifier like cetyl alcohol can improve stability and feel.

Q2: Is it natural or synthetic?

A2: Polysorbate 60 is semi-synthetic, derived from natural sorbitol and fatty acids, processed for stability and performance.

Q3: Is it safe for sensitive skin?

A3: Yes, it’s non-irritating and suitable for all skin types when used at recommended levels.

Q4: Can it solubilize essential oils in water?

A4: It has limited solubilizing power compared to Polysorbate 20 or 80, but can work in light fragrance sprays.

Q5: Does it affect pH?

A5: No, it is pH-stable and does not alter the pH of your product.

Product evaluation

Review the specifications, supplied grade, intended use and compatibility of Polysorbate-60 before ordering for production. Test a small quantity in the actual application and document the result before scaling.

Quality control

Inspect the received batch for expected appearance, odor, texture, packaging condition and labeling. Keep supplier and batch records, use accurate measurements, and retain a reference sample when the material is used commercially.

Storage and responsible use

Store tightly closed in a clean, cool and dry location away from direct sunlight. Follow the current supplier instructions and all safety, labeling and regulatory requirements that apply to the intended finished product.