Polysorbate 60: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Polysorbate 60?

Polysorbate 60 is a liquid ingredient made by reacting sorbitol, a sugar alcohol from corn syrup or fruit, with stearic acid, a fatty acid commonly taken from vegetable oils, then adding units of ethylene oxide. This process turns the raw materials into a smooth yellow liquid that mixes easily with water and oil.

Chemists first introduced polysorbates in the 1940s as food emulsifiers. Their ability to keep oil and water together quickly caught the eye of the cosmetic industry, which adopted Polysorbate 60 for creams and lotions in the 1950s. Since then it has become a staple in both mass market and high-end formulas because it is mild, reliable and cost effective.

You will find Polysorbate 60 in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, facial masks, cleansing balms, makeup removers, hair conditioners and body washes. Anywhere a product needs oil and water to stay blended or rinse cleanly from skin or hair, this ingredient is likely doing the hidden work.

Polysorbate 60’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Here is how Polysorbate 60 supports the performance and feel of a cosmetic product:

  • Cleansing: Its surface-active nature helps loosen dirt, makeup and excess oil so they can be rinsed away with water. This makes formulas like face washes and cleansing balms more effective yet gentle.
  • Emulsifying: It binds oil and water into a stable mixture, preventing separation over time. This keeps creams, lotions and masks smooth, improving texture and ensuring each use delivers the same level of active ingredients.

Who Can Use Polysorbate 60

Because it is mild and non-comedogenic, Polysorbate 60 suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its lightweight texture does not clog pores and its soothing profile makes flare-ups unlikely. People with extremely reactive or compromised skin should still read full ingredient lists as irritation can occur from other components in the same formula.

The ingredient is typically sourced from plant-derived sorbitol and vegetable fatty acids, so products that use Polysorbate 60 are generally appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Anyone following a plant-only lifestyle should verify with the brand that no animal derivatives were used in the wider formula or manufacturing process.

No studies suggest that Polysorbate 60 poses a special risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when applied topically. That said this is not medical advice and those who are expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified health professional to be safe.

Polysorbate 60 does not increase photosensitivity. Normal sun protection practices remain sufficient.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Polysorbate 60 differ from one person to another. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.

  • Mild temporary skin redness or stinging especially on very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to sorbitan esters or other formula components
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
  • Enhanced penetration of other active ingredients which can occasionally heighten their irritant potential

If any discomfort or reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5. Although Polysorbate 60 is built from a fatty acid, the added ethylene oxide chains make it highly water loving which stops it from forming waxy deposits that can block pores. Studies and industry reports classify it as essentially non clogging even for oily complexions. Those prone to acne or breakouts can normally use products containing Polysorbate 60 without added concern.

Because it can pull oils into water, it may actually help rinse away pore-blocking grime when used in cleansers. Only if it sits in a very heavy formula packed with occlusive butters could the overall product feel too rich for some users, but that would be due to the other ingredients not the polysorbate itself.

Summary

Polysorbate 60 acts as a cleanser and an emulsifier. It lowers surface tension so dirt and makeup lift off the skin and it locks oil and water together so creams stay silky and uniform from the first pump to the last. This double duty role keeps textures light, actives evenly dispersed and rinse off products more effective.

The ingredient is a quiet workhorse found in everything from budget body wash to prestige face cream because it is reliable, mild and inexpensive. Safety reviews show low irritation risk and a virtually zero chance of clogging pores, making it suitable for most skin and hair types. As with any new product a quick patch test on a small area is the simplest way to confirm personal comfort before full use.

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