Beauty Elixir

Emulsifier

Is Polysorbate 80 comedogenic?

Comedogenic rating 0/5

No, it is non-comedogenic.

An emulsifier derived from oleic acid that can feed Malassezia yeast.

Comedogenic
0 / 5
Irritancy
0 / 5
Fungal acne
Trigger
Type
Emulsifier
INCI name
Polysorbate 80

Who should avoid it?

Suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

Acne-safe breakdown

Polysorbate 80 scores 0/5, so it is one of the ingredients acne-prone skin can use freely, though it is still a fungal-acne trigger. If a product containing it breaks you out, look at the other ingredients. Our scanner will flag them.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Polysorbate 80 comedogenic?

No, it is non-comedogenic. Polysorbate 80 has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. An emulsifier derived from oleic acid that can feed Malassezia yeast.

Is Polysorbate 80 safe for fungal acne?

No. Polysorbate 80 can feed Malassezia yeast, so people with fungal acne usually avoid it.

Does Polysorbate 80 cause acne?

It is unlikely to. Breakouts usually come from other ingredients in the formula, or from non-cosmetic causes.

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