Polysorbate 20 is a gentle, nonionic solubilizer commonly used to blend essential oils, fragrances, and other oil-based ingredients into water-based formulations such as gels, washes, serums, and toners. By reducing oil molecules to a smaller size, it allows them to disperse evenly without causing cloudiness. This makes it especially valuable in creating clear cosmetic products with stable scent or active incorporation.
INCI: Polysorbate 20
Used to incorporate fragrance and oils into clear washes, gels and serums without going cloudy. It essentially reduces oil molecules to a smaller size allowing it to disperse in the product. Typically mixing 1 part solubilizer with 1 part scent or oils, is a good starting point. Some scent and oils require a higher ratio of solubilizer.
Usage: 0.5-3%. In a separate container, measure equal parts of scent/oil to solubilizer. Mix well and test the clarity adding a little bit to a glass of water. Stir while adding and if it goes clear, it should work well in the gel. If it is still cloudy, bump up the solubilizer ratio.
Polysorbate 20
Combine Polysorbate 20 with fragrances or oils in a separate container before adding to your formulation. A good starting ratio is 1:1 (solubilizer to oil), though some oils may require more solubilizer for full clarity. Usage levels typically range from 0.5%–3%, depending on the formulation and oil load. To test, mix the blend with water—if it stays clear, the ratio is correct; if cloudy, increase the solubilizer ratio.
