Comparing E432 - Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate vs E493 - Sorbitan monolaurate

Is polysorbate 20 safe for skin?

Yes—it's widely used in cosmetics and is generally considered safe at typical use levels; regulatory reviews (e.g., Cosmetic Ingredient Review) support its safety, though some people may experience mild irritation or allergy.

What is the cmc of tween 20?

Approximately 0.007% w/v in water (~0.06 mM) at about 25°C; reported values vary with temperature, ionic strength, and formulation.

Is polysorbate 20 safe?

Yes—when used as a food additive within regulatory limits it’s considered safe; authorities such as JECFA have set an ADI of 0–25 mg/kg body weight per day for polysorbates.

Is polysorbate 20 toxic?

It has low toxicity at permitted food and cosmetic use levels; very high doses or parenteral exposure can cause adverse effects, and potential impurities (e.g., ethylene oxide/1,4-dioxane) are tightly controlled.

Is polysorbate 20 natural?

No—it's a synthetic surfactant made by ethoxylating sorbitan and esterifying with lauric acid, so it isn’t considered “natural,” even if some feedstocks are plant-derived.