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The facts: Polysorbate 20 is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Polysorbate 20 on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Toner, Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Thayers Witch Hazel Toner.
TL;DR: Polysorbate 20 is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Toner, Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Thayers Witch Hazel Toner |
Polysorbate 20 is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier made by ethoxylating sorbitan monolaurate with 20 units of ethylene oxide. It is highly water-soluble and widely used to solubilize oils and fragrances in water-based formulas.
Used to solubilize essential oils, fragrance oils, and other oil-soluble ingredients into aqueous systems such as toners, serums, and mists without cloudiness.
Polysorbate 20 is considered safe at cosmetic use concentrations. Like other PEG-based ingredients, trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide may be present from manufacturing, but these are regulated by FDA and EU to acceptable levels. There is no meaningful evidence of carcinogenicity or endocrine disruption at typical cosmetic use concentrations. The CIR has reviewed polysorbates as a group and concluded they are safe for cosmetic use.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Polysorbate 20 with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Polysorbate 20 is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Toner, Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Thayers Witch Hazel Toner. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Polysorbate 20.
Coco-glucoside or olivem 300 (olivoyl PEG-6 esters) for a more natural-origin solubilizer. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Polysorbate 20 or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Polysorbate 20.
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