Polysorbate 80 (E433)

Polysorbate 80 is a non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer that helps mix oil and water, ensuring smooth, stable emulsions in lotions, creams, cleansers, and bath products. Derived from from sorbitol, vegetable oils and ethylene oxide, Polysorbate 80 allows heavier oils like castor, avocado, or hemp seed oil to blend seamlessly with water. It also improves the dispersion of essential oils and fragrances in water-based formulations. Key benefits of Polysorbate 80 include its gentle nature, its ability to emulsify oil-in-water formulations with high stability (HLB 15), its function as a solubilizer for essential oils and fragrances, and its capacity to enhance texture, consistency, and rinse-off in cleansers and lotions. Additionally, it acts as a dispersing agent and thickener. Polysorbate 80 is typically used in body washes, hair shampoos, lotions, creams, bath oils, oil cleansers and solubilized fragrances. It can be added directly to formulations at levels of 1–20%. It is better suited than Polysorbate 20 for heavier oils, making it perfect for getting started with DIY cosmetics.