Polysorbate 60
Polysorbate 60
- Role
- An emulsifier that helps keep the oil and water phases of a roll-on emulsion together.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Texture
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
An ethoxylated ester of sorbitan and stearic acid; polysorbates are made by ethoxylating esters of sorbitol and fatty acids. INCI functions: emulsifying and cleansing surfactant.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In the catalogue it appears in water-based deodorant roll-ons, where it stabilises the emulsion and helps the product spread evenly. It does not reduce sweating.
The CIR concluded that Polysorbate 60 is safe in the present practices of use (1984 assessment of polysorbates); the CIR summary table lists use concentrations of up to 25%.
It is used as an emulsifier; an individual reaction to the finished product is possible.
Not the same as Polysorbate 20: the fatty acid part of Polysorbate 60 is stearic acid rather than lauric acid.
Products containing Polysorbate 60
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- EU CosIng: Polysorbate 60 Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): Polysorbate 60 Supports: substance description
- CIR: Quick Reference Table (summary of conclusions, 2014) Supports: safety conclusion, use concentrations