Is Polysorbate 20 Safe During Pregnancy?
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.
Polysorbate 20: regulatory status at a glance
| 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 |
What is Polysorbate 20?
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.
Why is Polysorbate 20 used in personal-care products?
Used to solubilize essential oils, fragrance oils, and other oil-soluble ingredients into aqueous systems such as toners, serums, and mists without cloudiness.
What regulators have flagged about Polysorbate 20
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.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Polysorbate 20 →
Audited products that don't contain Polysorbate 20.
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Polysorbate 20 and pregnancy: common questions
Is Polysorbate 20 banned anywhere?
Polysorbate 20 is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
Should I avoid Polysorbate 20 during pregnancy?
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.
What products contain Polysorbate 20?
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.
What can I use instead of 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.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Polysorbates — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Polysorbate-20 — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.