Polysorbate 80 ( Tween 80 ) USP/NF

Polysorbate 80, also known as Tween 80, is a nonionic surfactant that is used as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and stabilizer in various pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. It is a yellow to amber-colored viscous liquid that is soluble in water and alcohol. Polysorbate 80 is derived from polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate and consists of a sorbitan ester of oleic acid with an attached chain of ethylene oxide (polyoxyethylene). Polysorbate 80 is used in various pharmaceutical formulations, including oral suspensions, injections, and ointments, to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. It is also used as a solubilizing agent for lipophilic drugs and as a stabilizer for protein-based drugs. In cosmetic products, Polysorbate 80 is used as an emulsifier and dispersant for essential oils, fragrances, and other hydrophobic ingredients. It is also used as a surfactant in hair conditioners and shampoos to improve the spreadability and consistency of the products. Polysorbate 80 is considered safe for human use and is listed in the United States Pharmacopeia/National Formulary (USP/NF) as a monograph ingredient. It is also approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food products as a food additive.

Polysorbate 80

POLYSORBATE 80, sometimes referred to by trade names like Poly 80 or Tween 80, is a non ionic emulsifier and surfactant used for blending many oil based and water based ingredients and additives in to formulations together for dispersing, emulsifying and more.

Polysorbate 80 is soluble in alcohol and water; insoluble in oils. It is used in oil in water recipes for lotions, body washes, hair creams, lip gloss, scrubs, dispersing bath oils, conditioners, bath bombs, shampoos, body sprays/linen sprays.

Environmentally readily biodegradable. Polysorbate 80 is typically derived from vegetable oils like olive oil.