In our reference data, Polysorbate 80 can feed Malassezia (fungal acne).
Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and oleic acid, used to emulsify oil and water phases and solubilize fragrances and oils in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Possible with higher concentrations or sensitive skin |
| Contact dermatitis / allergic sensitization | Rare | Documented in case reports as a contact allergen |
| Hypersensitivity or anaphylactoid reactions | Very rare | Reported mainly with injectable/parenteral forms, not topical |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.