Polysorbate 81
AKA “Polysorbate 81, Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate”
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Polysorbate 81
AKA: Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
Sorbitan, mono-9-octadecenoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)-
CAS #
9005-65-6
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
UV Protection
Antioxidant Protection
Locks In Moisture
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic nonionic surfactant and emulsifier developed as part of the polysorbate family. Designed to provide emulsification properties in modern cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR