What Is Ozonized Polysorbate 80?
Ozonized Polysorbate 80 is a specialized version of the common cosmetic helper Polysorbate 80, which itself is made by linking sorbitan (a sugar alcohol) with oleic acid from vegetable oils then adding small chains of ethylene oxide. When pure ozone is bubbled through this liquid under carefully controlled temperature and time, the double bonds in the oleic acid portion react to form tiny, stable peroxide and ozonide groups. The result is a clear to pale yellow liquid that keeps the original surfactant qualities of Polysorbate 80 while gaining a gentle antimicrobial kick from the newly formed oxygen-rich groups.
Regular Polysorbate 80 has been used since the 1950s to mix oil and water in foods and cosmetics. Researchers looking for milder preservatives discovered that treating it with ozone boosted its germ-fighting ability, letting formulators cut back on stronger synthetic preservatives. Over the past decade this ozonized version has moved from laboratory studies into commercial skin and hair care lines.
Manufacturing involves feeding a calibrated stream of medical grade ozone into a reactor containing Polysorbate 80. Levels of ozone, temperature and reaction time are monitored so the peroxide value stays within a safe and effective range. The treated liquid is then filtered and tested before being shipped to cosmetic labs.
You will most often spot Ozonized Polysorbate 80 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, sheet masks, rinse-off and leave-on scalp products, light moisturizers for blemish-prone skin, post-shave balms and intimate hygiene washes where formulators want a mild cleanser that also helps keep microbe growth in check.
Ozonized Polysorbate 80’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula, this ingredient pulls double duty by cleaning the skin and discouraging unwanted microbes at the same time.
- Antimicrobial: The oxygen-rich ozonide groups make the surrounding environment less welcoming to bacteria and fungi. This can extend a product’s shelf life and support clearer skin without resorting to harsher preservatives.
- Cleansing: The surfactant backbone of Polysorbate 80 lifts away dirt, oil and leftover makeup while helping oil-based actives disperse evenly in water-based formulas, leaving skin feeling fresh but not stripped.
Who Can Use Ozonized Polysorbate 80
Because it is a mild, water-soluble surfactant with added antimicrobial properties, Ozonized Polysorbate 80 suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and even mildly sensitive skin. It cleans without a heavy residue yet is less likely to strip natural oils, making it friendly to dry skin as long as the overall formula contains adequate moisturizers. Those with extremely reactive or barrier-impaired skin might still experience tightness or tingling from the peroxide groups so patch monitoring by the formulator is important.
The ingredient is made from plant-derived oils and synthetic ozone treatment, with no animal by-products involved, so it is generally acceptable for vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest any particular risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically at cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider to be sure they fit their individual needs.
Ozonized Polysorbate 80 does not increase photosensitivity and can be used in both day and night products without requiring special sun precautions beyond standard daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ozonized Polysorbate 80 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, but they are not expected to be common for most users when the ingredient is correctly incorporated and used at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild stinging or burning in very sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
- Transient redness that usually settles once the product is rinsed or absorbed
- Dryness or tightness if the surrounding formula lacks sufficient emollients
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people with an existing sensitivity to polysorbates or peroxide groups
- Eye irritation if a high-foaming cleanser containing the ingredient is allowed to enter the eyes
If any discomfort, persistent redness or swelling occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5.
Ozonized Polysorbate 80 is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses away without leaving a heavy film. Its polar structure keeps it from lodging in pores and the mild peroxide groups do not increase residue, so the likelihood of clogging is very low.
This low score means the ingredient is generally friendly to acne-prone skin.
Only at unusually high percentages in leave-on formulas could secondary dryness prompt extra oil production which might indirectly worsen congestion, but this is rare at standard use levels.
Summary
Ozonized Polysorbate 80 works as a two-in-one helper: the surfactant portion lifts dirt oil and makeup, while the ozone-formed peroxides discourage bacteria and fungi, giving formulas a gentle preservative boost.
It remains a niche addition, popping up in forward-thinking indie brands and select clinical cleansers, yet its multifunctional nature is attracting wider attention.
Studies and long experience with regular Polysorbate 80 indicate a high safety margin with minimal chances of irritation when used at cosmetic levels. Still, trying a small patch before full use is wise to confirm personal compatibility.