Polysorbate 20 is what is known as a solubiser, meaning it has the ability to combine oil and water together. It is most commonly used to blend an essential or fragrance oil into water. It also acts as a gentle surfactant, thickener and viscosity modifier.

Polysorbate 20 is used in a various types of liquid cosmetics and skin care like such as facial and body cleansers, toners, sprays, lotions, body creams, body washes, shampoos and shower gels.

It is often used in room sprays as it easily solubises essential oils with the water content.

Polysorbate 20 contains sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) which is a natural ingredient.Polysorbate 20 is produced by the reaction of sorbitol, lauric acid and ethylene oxide. 

The formulation of polysorbate 20 is not 100% natural, but is considered to be more natural than similar products.

So you may have noticed that there is both Polysorbate 20 and Polysorbate 80. So what is the difference?

Polysorbate 20 is commonly used in lighter formulations, such as sprays and toners. It is effective for solubizing essential oils and fragrance oils into water.

Polysorbate 80 is preferred for heavier products, such as emulsions and rich creams and lotions. It also is an effective solubizer for combining oils into water. It is a popular choice for bath bomb makers as it helps solubize shea butter, essential oils and other oils into the water. It also helps to prevent colours from floating on the surface of the bath, and sticking around the edges of the tub! If in doubt, you can purchase a 10ml size for just £1.95 and test each out in your formula.

GOLDEN YELLOW COLOUR

NEUTRAL ODOUR

SUITABLE FOR VEGANS

🌿 Quick & Easy Essential Oil Room Spray Recipe  🌿

🌿Ingredients

• 100 ml distilled water
• 10–20 drops essential oils (e.g., lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, white sage)
• You can also replace essential oils with fragrance oils, if preferred
• 5–10 ml Polysorbate 20 (acts as a solubiliser so the oils disperse evenly)
• A spritz/spray bottle

🌿 Method

• Combine the essential oils and Polysorbate 20 in a small beaker or glass.
  • Stir gently until the mixture turns clear or uniformly cloudy — this means it’s properly bound.
• Add the distilled water and mix well.
• Pour into a spray bottle (PET plastic is ideal for use with essential oils)
• Shake before each use 

  If the mixture looks cloudy or separates, increase the Polysorbate slightly.

🌿 Usage Tips

• Mist into the air, onto linens, or around entryways.
• Store away from heat and sunlight.
• Use within 2–4 weeks if you’re not adding a preservative.

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