Polysorbate 40 is a potent surfactant used in cosmetics to aid the mixing of oil- and water-based ingredients. It also prevents the separation of different ingredients in a formulation and thus maintains product efficacy. As a dispersing agent, this widely used ingredient helps distribute pigments and active ingredients evenly. While having little direct impact on skin and hair health, Polysorbate 40 works miraculously in the background to hold everything together in a product. It may sometimes function as a mild conditioning and anti-static agent as well. Also called polyoxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate, Polysorbate 40 appears as a yellow to orange viscous liquid in its raw form. It has the molecular formula C62H122O26.
Products with POLYSORBATE 40
With samples available
UNITOP POLYSORBATE-40
by Rossari Biotech
NIKKOL TP-10EX (POLYSORBATE 40)
by NIKKOL GROUP (Nikko Chemicals)
What is POLYSORBATE 40 used for?
Polysorbate 40 is a mild and non-irritating surfactant that is quite popular in the beauty industry. It aids gentle yet effective cleansing of skin and hair by reducing surface tension - making it common in facial cleansers and shampoos. It also provides a conditioning effect that feels smooth and non-greasy. Inside a product, Polysorbate 40 mixes oil- and water-based ingredients well and prevents their separation over time. It also helps in the even distribution of pigments and active ingredients, especially in makeup. In hair care products, Polysorbate 40 acts as an anti-static agent and is a staple in conditioning products. Additionally, this surfactant is commonly used in moisturizers, lotions, face washes, liquid foundations, mascaras, and body sprays.
Origin
Polysorbate 40 is derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and palmitic acid (a fatty acid) via ethoxylation. Sorbitol is first dehydrated to form sorbitan. It is then reacted with palmitic acid in the presence of a catalyst forming sorbitan palmitate. This resulting compound undergoes ethoxylation to form Polysorbate 40. It is neutralized and purified before use in cosmetics.
What does POLYSORBATE 40 do in a formulation?
EMULSIFYING|
SURFACTANT|
CLEANSING|
SMOOTHING|
MOISTURISINGSafety Profile
Polysorbate 40 is safe for use in cosmetics and well-tolerated when formulated within recommended concentrations. It is gentle on the skin and considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Further, it is also non-comedogenic and can be used on oily skin. If not formulated properly during ethoxylation, Polysorbate 40 may contain 1,4-dioxane which is a potential carcinogen. Patch testing is recommended before full application.
POLYSORBATE 40 alternatives
POLYSORBATE 40 technical profile
| Property | Values |
Boiling Point | 797.89°C |
Melting Point | 0.1°C |
pH | 5 - 7 |
Solubility | Soluble in water |
Viscosity | Medium |