FAQs: Polysorbate

Q1. What is Polysorbate?
Polysorbates are a class of nonionic emulsifiers commonly used in pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and food preparation. They help mix oil and water by solubilising essential oils and other hydrophobic ingredients into water-based formulations.

Q2. How are Polysorbates derived?
Polysorbates are oily liquids derived from ethoxylated sorbitan (a derivative of sorbitol), which is then esterified with fatty acids. This structure gives them their hydrophilic and emulsifying properties.

Q3. What are the key applications of Polysorbates?

Used as emulsifiers in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Act as solubilisers to incorporate essential oils into water-based systems.

Improve the stability and texture of topical formulations.

Also used in food processing for blending oil and water phases.

Q4. What dosage forms are Polysorbates suitable for?
Polysorbates are primarily used in topical formulations, though they are also found in oral and food applications depending on the grade.

Q5. What are the different grades/variants of Polysorbates?

Polysorbate 20 – commonly used in cosmetics and skin care.

Polysorbate 60 – often used in creams and lotions as an emulsifier.

Polysorbate 80 – widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, and personal care products.

Q6. What is the INCI name of Polysorbates?
All grades are registered under the INCI name Polysorbate.

Q7. What is the CAS number of Polysorbates?
The CAS number for Polysorbates is 9005-64-5.

Q8. Why are Polysorbates important in formulations?
Polysorbates ensure stability by preventing oil and water from separating. They also enhance the texture, appearance, and usability of products while being safe and widely accepted across industries.