Oleth 2 Polysorbate 20

Oleth 2 Polysorbate 20 molecular structure
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Tween 20
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
Restricted:EWG VERIFIED products cannot contain this ingredient without adequate substantiation.
CAS #
9005-64-5
Form
Liquid
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Surfactant
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Antioxidant
Provides scent
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic emulsifier developed in the 20th century to improve stability and texture in cosmetic formulations by blending ethoxylated ingredients.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-2
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory0 listings
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR