Polysorbate 80

Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier widely used in cosmetics and skincare. Its main role is to blend oil and water, making it essential in formulations like lotions, creams, sprays, and bath oils. It also helps solubilize essential oils and fragrance oils into water-based products (like toners or body sprays) so they don’t separate.

What is Polysorbate 80

• A synthetic compound made by reacting sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) + oleic acid (from vegetable oils) with ethylene oxide.
• Cosmetic grade = purified and safe for external use.
• Used in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals as an emulsifier and solubilizer.

Properties

• Appearance: Thick, yellow-orange viscous liquid.
• Texture: Sticky, water-soluble.
• Charge: Nonionic (neutral, works with most ingredients).
• Main function: Allows oils + water to mix evenly.
• Comparison: More effective with heavier oils than Polysorbate 20 (better for fragrances/essential oils).

Benefits & Uses

Cosmetic Benefits

• Solubilizer → helps dissolve essential oils/fragrances in water.
• Emulsifier → blends oil and water into lotions, creams, and sprays.
• Stabilizer → prevents separation of ingredients.
• Dispersant → distributes oils evenly in bathwater.

Applications

• Lotions & creams → stable oil-water emulsions.
• Body sprays & toners → keep fragrance oils evenly dispersed.
• Bath oils → make oils disperse in water (no greasy film).
• Shampoos & conditioners → improves texture and solubility of active ingredients.
• Makeup removers → help break down oil-based makeup.

Recommended Usage

• Fragrance solubilization: 1 part fragrance: 4–6 parts Polysorbate 80.
• Lotions/creams: 1–5%.
• Bath oils: 10–20%.
• Sprays/toners: 1–10%.

Safety & Precautions

• Considered safe in cosmetics when used at recommended levels.
• Can cause mild irritation in very high concentrations.
• Not natural (it’s synthetic), but widely accepted in commercial skincare.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and light.

✅ Quick DIY – Essential Oil Body Spray

• 90ml distilled water
• 5ml witch hazel
• 3ml Polysorbate 80
• 2ml essential oil blend (e.g., lavender + orange)
• Mix well → refreshing, non-separating body mist.