POLYSORBATE 60 NON-IONIC EMULSIFIER

Polysorbate 60 Description — Tween 60, the Benchmark Nonionic Emulsifier for Creams and Lotions

At Quimiconsult we offer Polysorbate 60, also known as Tween 60, polisorbato 60 (its Spanish name), polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, PEG-20 sorbitan monostearate or by its INCI name Polysorbate 60, a nonionic surfactant widely used in the cosmetics, food, pharmaceutical, cleaning, textile and manufacturing industries for its combination of properties: excellent ability to emulsify fatty phases with body and consistency, stability over a wide pH range (acidic and alkaline), no reactivity with ionic agents, water dispersibility, broad chemical compatibility and a safe handling profile.

It is a paste at room temperature with a characteristic odor, soluble or dispersible in water, with a hydroxyl value of 81 to 96, a maximum acid value of 2.2 and a maximum free ethylene oxide content of 10 ppm, parameters that guarantee consistent quality and predictable formulation performance. Unlike polysorbate 20 (a liquid with a higher HLB) or polysorbate 80 (a viscous liquid with an unsaturated chain), polysorbate 60 is the member of the family with a saturated stearic chain (C18), which gives it an intermediate HLB close to 15 and makes it especially effective at emulsifying and stabilizing fatty phases of higher molecular weight and consistency, such as those found in creams and lotions.

Polysorbate 60 belongs to the chemical family of polyethoxylated sorbitan esters (polysorbates), obtained by reacting sorbitol with ethylene oxide and a fatty acid. In the case of polysorbate 60, the fatty acid is stearic acid (saturated C18 chain), which gives it its fattier character and its semisolid state at room temperature. It is an amphiphilic molecule with a hydrophilic end (the polyethoxylated chain) and a lipophilic end (the stearic chain), which orients itself at the oil/water interface to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions.

The CAS number of polysorbate 60 is 9005-67-8, and in the European Union it is identified as food additive E435. In cosmetics it is recognized by its INCI name Polysorbate 60, and in industry it is commonly referred to by its historical trade name Tween 60. Polysorbate 60 is listed in the main pharmacopoeias (USP/NF, Ph. Eur.) in the corresponding grades and is widely recognized in international technical literature, regulations and raw material specifications for multiple sectors.

At Quimiconsult, located in San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, we distribute polysorbate 60 nationwide, with formulation technical support, batch certificates of analysis, and up-to-date technical data sheets (TDS) and safety data sheets (HDS/SDS), serving cosmetic formulators, food and beverage manufacturers, pharmaceutical laboratories, cleaning product formulators, textile plants and R&D departments throughout Mexico.

Technical Specifications and Physicochemical Properties of Polysorbate 60

The polysorbate 60 we sell meets a consistent batch-to-batch quality profile, verifiable through a Certificate of Analysis (CoA). The certified parameters according to the technical data sheet are as follows:

• Appearance @ 25 °C: Paste
• Hydroxyl value: 81 – 96
• Acid value (max.): 2.2
• Free ethylene oxide (max.): 10 ppm
• Odor: Characteristic
• Ionic nature: Nonionic
• Solubility: Soluble / dispersible in water
• pH stability: Wide (acidic and alkaline media)
• Ionic reactivity: Does not react with ionic agents

Additional reference data:

• CAS: 9005-67-8
• INCI: Polysorbate 60
• Food additive (EU): E435
• HLB: ~14 – 15
• Fatty chain: Stearic acid (C18, saturated)

Product benefits: water-soluble or water-dispersible hydrophilic agent, dispersant, wetting agent and stability over a wide pH range.

Main uses: emulsifier, solubilizer and softener.

The complete technical data sheet (TDS) and safety data sheet (HDS/SDS), as well as batch certificates of analysis, are available to registered customers and are delivered with every order.

Synonyms, Chemical Names and Search Terms Related to Polysorbate 60

In the cosmetics, food, pharmaceutical, cleaning and manufacturing markets, polysorbate 60 is known by multiple chemical names, trade names and nomenclatures depending on the region and application. The most widely used include: polysorbate 60, polysorbate-60, polisorbato 60, Tween 60, Tween-60, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate, polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, PEG-20 sorbitan monostearate, ethoxylated sorbitan ester, E435, stearic nonionic surfactant and, on finished product labels, usually "Polysorbate 60" according to the applicable regulatory format.

Likewise, in purchasing, sourcing, formulation and product development it is common to find searches such as: polysorbate 60 price, buy polysorbate 60, polysorbate 60 Mexico, bulk polysorbate 60, what is polysorbate 60 used for, where to buy polysorbate 60, cosmetic polysorbate 60, food grade polysorbate 60, pharmaceutical grade polysorbate 60, polysorbate 60 technical data sheet, polysorbate 60 safety data sheet, Tween 60 price, Tween 60 Mexico, what is Tween 60 used for, polysorbate 60 vs polysorbate 80, difference between polysorbate 20 60 80, polysorbate 60 emulsifier, polysorbate 60 cream, polysorbate 60 and sorbitan stearate, polysorbate 60 supplier Monterrey and nonionic emulsifier supplier Mexico. These variations are especially relevant for cosmetic formulators, food technologists, pharmaceutical formulators, plant engineers and industrial buyers.

How Does Polysorbate 60 Work in Formulation? — Functional Mechanisms

Unlike single-function ingredients, polysorbate 60 delivers its value through several simultaneous mechanisms that make it the nonionic surfactant of choice when fatty phases of greater consistency need to be emulsified and stabilized:

• Emulsification of oil-in-water (O/W) systems: the molecule orients itself at the oil/water interface —hydrophilic head toward the water, stearic tail toward the oil— reducing interfacial tension and stabilizing droplets of oil phase dispersed in the continuous aqueous phase. Its saturated stearic chain makes it especially effective with fatty phases of higher molecular weight and consistency (butters, waxes, fatty alcohols, higher-viscosity oils), which is why it is the preferred polysorbate for creams and lotions with body.
• Emulsifier system with sorbitan stearate: it is classic formulation practice to combine polysorbate 60 (high HLB) with a sorbitan stearate (low HLB) to reach the required HLB of the oil phase and obtain fine, stable O/W emulsions with a pleasant feel. This pair is one of the most widely used nonionic emulsifier systems in cosmetics.
• Emulsion stabilization and crystallization control: it helps maintain emulsion stability over time and, in food applications, helps control fat crystallization and improve the texture and volume of baked and whipped products.
• Solubilization and dispersion: although its strength is emulsification, it also solubilizes and disperses lipophilic substances and keeps particles in stable suspension.
• Wetting and surface tension reduction: improves surface wetting and even distribution of the product.
• Universal ionic compatibility: being nonionic, it does not react with ionic agents and is compatible with anionic, cationic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants, making it a very versatile co-emulsifier.

Applications of Polysorbate 60 by Industry

One of the great advantages of polysorbate 60 is its cross-industry versatility, with a special focus on emulsifying systems with body.

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Cosmetics is one of the most established applications of polysorbate 60, where it is a benchmark O/W emulsifier for products with consistency:

• Creams and lotions: primary emulsifier or co-emulsifier for fatty phases with body, providing stability and a pleasant feel.
• Polysorbate 60 + sorbitan stearate system: one of the most widely used emulsifier pairs for stable, fine-textured emulsions.
• Conditioners and hair masks: stabilizes fatty phases and silicones.
• Makeup and cream foundations: emulsifier and stabilizer for the oil phase.
• Emulsion sunscreens: stabilizes UV filters and emollients.
• Softeners and emollients: improves product feel and spreadability.

Food & Beverages

Listed as food additive E435 in the European Union (with maximum limits by category), regulated by COFEPRIS in Mexico and recognized by the FDA for certain applications within established limits. It is one of the polysorbates most widely used in food:

• Baked goods: dough conditioner, improves volume and texture.
• Toppings and whipped creams (whipped toppings): stabilizes the emulsion and aeration.
• Frozen desserts and ice cream: emulsifier and texture improver.
• Icings and fillings: stabilizes the fat emulsion.

Pharmaceutical & Wellness

A pharmaceutical excipient with recognized use (listed in USP/NF and Ph. Eur. in the corresponding grades): emulsifier and stabilizer in creams, ointments and topical emulsions, solubilizer for lipophilic active ingredients and wetting agent in suspensions.

Industrial Cleaning and Institutional & Household Cleaning

As a co-emulsifier and wetting agent in cleaning formulations, it improves the emulsification of greasy soil and the compatibility between surfactants of different ionic nature. Useful in cleansing creams, emulsified degreasers and products with an oil phase.

Textiles

Wetting agent, softener and finishing auxiliary; emulsifier for oils and waxes in spin finish baths and textile finishes.

Other industries

• Paints & Coatings: co-emulsifier and dispersant in waterborne systems.
• Plastics & Rubber: antistatic auxiliary and emulsifier in emulsion polymerization processes.
• Animal Health & Nutrition: emulsifier and vehicle in topical veterinary formulations.
• Agrochemicals: co-emulsifier for oil phases in specific formulations.

Polysorbate 60 vs Polysorbate 20 vs Polysorbate 80 — Which One to Choose?

All three belong to the same family of ethoxylated sorbitan esters, but they differ in their fatty chain, HLB and physical state:

Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60)

• Fatty chain: Stearic C18 (saturated)
• State at 25 °C: Paste / semisolid
• Approximate HLB: 14 – 15
• CAS: 9005-67-8
• EU additive: E435
• Best for: Emulsifying fatty phases with body (creams, lotions); food use in baked and whipped products

Polysorbate 20

• Fatty chain: Lauric C12
• State at 25 °C: Yellow, free-flowing liquid
• Approximate HLB: 16 – 17
• CAS: 9005-64-5
• EU additive: E432
• Best for: Solubilizing essential oils and fragrances; light O/W emulsions

Polysorbate 80

• Fatty chain: Oleic C18 (unsaturated)
• State at 25 °C: Viscous liquid
• Approximate HLB: 15
• CAS: 9005-65-6
• EU additive: E433
• Best for: Emulsifying medium/heavy fatty phases; widely used in food and pharma

Choose Polysorbate 60 when you need to emulsify and stabilize fatty phases of greater consistency (creams, lotions, butters, waxes), obtain O/W emulsions with body and a pleasant feel, or are looking for a food emulsifier for baked goods, whipped toppings and frozen desserts.

Choose Polysorbate 20 when you are looking for the highest HLB in the group, maximum ability to solubilize essential oils and fragrances with clarity, or a liquid nonionic surfactant for liquid cosmetics and laboratory use.

Choose Polysorbate 80 when you need to emulsify medium to heavy fatty phases with a liquid, unsaturated-chain emulsifier, widely used in food and pharmaceuticals.

Usage, Dosage and Incorporation Recommendations

Polysorbate 60 is a semisolid (paste) at room temperature, so it usually requires gentle heating to melt it before incorporation. Typical concentrations in the final formulation by application:

• Cosmetic emulsions (creams and lotions): 1.0% – 5.0% as part of the emulsifier system.
• System with sorbitan stearate: adjust the ratio to match the required HLB of the oil phase.
• Co-emulsifier in cleaning products: 0.5% – 3.0%.
• Food use (E435): according to the regulated limits by product category.

How to incorporate: in hot-processed emulsions, it is usually melted and added to the oil phase (or split between phases), heating both phases to approximately 70–75 °C before emulsification, followed by homogenization and cooling under stirring. No special equipment is required beyond heating to melt the paste.

Performance verification: run accelerated stability tests (temperature cycles, centrifugation, viscosity and appearance validation) on the finished product before scaling up to production. The exact value must be determined in the specific system of each formulation.

Compatibilities and Incompatibilities of Polysorbate 60

It is compatible with water and aqueous solutions; alcohols and glycols (propylene glycol, glycerin, PEG); anionic, nonionic, cationic and amphoteric surfactants; sorbitan esters (combined emulsifier systems); water-soluble polymers; salts, weak acids and bases within the stability range; oils, butters, waxes and emollients; and most cosmetic actives and standard preservatives. It is stable over a wide pH range and does not react with ionic agents.

Use caution with:

• Strong oxidizing agents (peroxides, peracetic acid, hypochlorites at high concentration): can oxidize the polyethoxylated chain.
• Very high electrolyte concentrations: can alter the cloud point and emulsion stability.
• Sustained extreme pH at high temperature: can promote slow hydrolysis of the ester bond.
• Preservation: in dilute aqueous systems it can be a substrate for microbial contamination; use a suitable preservative system.

Storage, Packaging and Shelf Life

Polysorbate 60 is offered in presentations that suit different consumption scales:

• Jerrycans / pails for development laboratories and small-scale production.
• Drums for medium-scale production and formulators with regular supply.
• Larger presentations and continuous supply, with the option of a fixed volume price for established manufacturing programs.
• Laboratory samples available for evaluation.

Storage: in the original closed container, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from heat sources, direct sunlight, strong oxidizers and excessive moisture. As it is a semisolid, keep the container tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination. Typical shelf life: 24 months from the date of manufacture under suitable conditions. For batches stored for extended periods, check color, odor and appearance before use in critical applications.

Safety, Handling and Regulatory Considerations

Polysorbate 60 has a low toxicological profile and a long history of safe use in cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical applications within regulated concentrations. It is not classified as a carcinogen by any leading regulatory agency (IARC, FDA, EFSA, SCCS). Concerns circulating online are usually based on studies at doses far higher than those of commercial use or on models that cannot be extrapolated to consumers under normal conditions.

Typical GHS classifications indicate minimal hazards under normal handling conditions (possible mild eye/skin irritation from prolonged direct contact). Recommended personal protective equipment includes safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile), work clothing and adequate ventilation. In operations where the product is melted with heat, use appropriate thermal protection.

The grade described on this page is for general/industrial use. For applications requiring food grade (E435 / FCC) or pharmaceutical grade (USP/NF, Ph. Eur.), check the availability of the specific grade, since industrial grade is not a substitute for regulated grades. The product's safety data sheet (HDS/SDS) details toxicological parameters, occupational exposure limits and precautionary measures.

Certifications and Regulatory Compliance

Each batch of polysorbate 60 comes with a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) documenting the critical parameters (appearance, hydroxyl value, acid value, free ethylene oxide, odor). Technical, quality and purchasing departments can request the complete documentation: technical data sheet (TDS), safety data sheet (HDS/SDS), CoA per batch and specific technical statements for inclusion in supplier approval files and operating records.

Why Buy Polysorbate 60 from Quimiconsult

Quimiconsult is not just a raw materials distributor: we are a Mexican manufacturer with more than 30 years of experience in chemical formulation, with our own R&D laboratory and a technical team that visits customer facilities directly. When you buy polysorbate 60 from us, you get:

• Batch-by-batch verified quality: each lot is analyzed in-house before shipment.
• Formulation advice included: guidance on concentration, emulsifier system (required HLB) and combinations with sorbitan esters, at no additional cost.
• Custom formulation development: complete emulsifier systems, validated in our laboratory.
• Field team at your plant: we evaluate your emulsification process and identify opportunities for improvement.
• National supply without dependence on imports: production and supply in Mexico, with short response times.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polysorbate 60

What is polysorbate 60 and what is it used for?

Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60) is a nonionic surfactant from the ethoxylated sorbitan ester family, with a saturated C18 stearic chain and an HLB close to 15. It is used mainly as an emulsifier for oil-in-water systems with body (creams, lotions), as a food emulsifier in baked goods, whipped toppings and frozen desserts, and as a stabilizer, solubilizer and wetting agent. It is used in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, cleaning and textiles.

Are polysorbate 60 and Tween 60 the same thing?

Yes. "Tween 60" is the best-known trade name for polysorbate 60 (INCI: Polysorbate 60; CAS 9005-67-8). They are exactly the same ingredient.

How does it differ from polysorbate 20 and 80?

Polysorbate 60 has a saturated C18 stearic chain and is semisolid (paste), ideal for emulsifying fatty phases with body. Polysorbate 20 (C12, lauric) is a liquid with a higher HLB, better for solubilizing essential oils and fragrances. Polysorbate 80 (unsaturated C18) is a liquid that emulsifies medium/heavy phases, widely used in food and pharma.

Why is polysorbate 60 a paste while polysorbate 20 is a liquid?

Because of the fatty chain. Polysorbate 60 is derived from stearic acid (saturated C18), a fat that is solid at room temperature, which makes the product semisolid. Polysorbate 20 is derived from lauric acid (C12), which has a shorter chain and keeps it liquid.

How do you incorporate polysorbate 60 if it is a paste?

It is melted with gentle heating and usually added to the oil phase (or split between phases), heating both phases to approximately 70–75 °C before emulsifying, followed by homogenization and cooling under stirring.

What is the polysorbate 60 and sorbitan stearate system?

It is one of the most widely used nonionic emulsifier pairs in cosmetics: polysorbate 60 (high HLB) is combined with a sorbitan stearate (low HLB) to match the required HLB of the oil phase and achieve fine, stable O/W emulsions.

Is polysorbate 60 bad, toxic or carcinogenic?

It is not classified as a carcinogen by any leading regulatory agency (IARC, FDA, EFSA, SCCS). For cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical use at regulated concentrations, its safety profile is extensively documented.

Is polysorbate 60 plant-derived?

The stearic acid portion is usually derived from plant sources. The specific status depends on the supplier and grade; we can provide the corresponding documentation.

What concentration of polysorbate 60 should I use?

In cosmetic emulsions, typically 1%–5% as part of the emulsifier system; as a co-emulsifier in cleaning products, 0.5%–3%; in food use, according to regulated limits. It is advisable to confirm through stability testing in each system.

Can polysorbate 60 be used in food?

Yes, within regulated limits. It is listed as E435 in the EU, regulated by COFEPRIS in Mexico and recognized by the FDA for certain applications. Food use requires the appropriate grade.

What is the difference between industrial grade and USP or food grade?

General/industrial grade meets specifications appropriate for cosmetics, cleaning, textiles and related applications. USP/NF (pharmaceutical) and food grade (E435/FCC) meet monographs with stricter controls on purity, impurities and microbiology, required for regulated applications. Industrial grade is not a substitute for regulated grades; check availability.

What are the appearance and specifications of polysorbate 60?

It is a paste at room temperature with a characteristic odor, a hydroxyl value of 81 to 96, a max. acid value of 2.2 and max. free ethylene oxide of 10 ppm. It is soluble or dispersible in water and stable over a wide pH range.

Where can I buy polysorbate 60 in Mexico, and at what price?

At Quimiconsult we distribute polysorbate 60 from our warehouse in San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, with nationwide coverage. Presentations range from laboratory samples to drums and larger volumes, with TDS, SDS and CoA per batch. The price depends on volume, presentation and specification. Request a quote stating the volume, application sector and specifications.

Request a Polysorbate 60 Sample or Quote

If you are looking for polysorbate 60 (Tween 60) with guaranteed quality, real technical support and the backing of a Mexican manufacturer with more than 30 years of experience, Quimiconsult is your natural supplier. We can send you samples for evaluation, support you in developing your formula or quote the volume you need, with delivery from our facilities in Mexico. Write to us through our contact page and a formulation specialist will respond within 24 business hours. Our own laboratory, a technical team on site and more than three decades serving the Mexican chemical industry.

Related products

Polysorbate 60 is part of Quimiconsult's line of surfactants, emulsifiers and additives. If you are choosing the right polysorbate for your formula, putting together a complete emulsifier system or looking for other ingredients for a cosmetic or food formulation, explore these related products and categories.

The polysorbate (Tween) family

• Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20) — liquid nonionic surfactant with the highest HLB in the group, ideal for solubilizing essential oils and fragrances and for light O/W emulsions.
• Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80) — liquid nonionic emulsifier with an unsaturated oleic chain, for medium to heavy fatty phases; widely used in food and pharmaceuticals.

Emulsifier system and co-emulsifiers for cosmetics

• Sorbitan stearate (Span 60) — the low-HLB partner of polysorbate 60; together they form one of the most widely used nonionic emulsifier systems for stable creams and lotions.
• Nonionic emulsifiers and surfactants — complete catalog for choosing the right HLB and combination for your oil phase.

Ingredients for food formulation

• Food grade guar gum — thickener and texture stabilizer.
• Xanthan gum — emulsion and suspension stabilizer, rheology control.
• Calcium propionate — preservative for baked goods.
• Potassium sorbate — antifungal preservative widely used in food.

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