Sold by weight. Our Polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene [20] sorbitan monolaurate) is derived from coconut oil. It is a non-toxic, nonionic surfactant/emulsifier and a water-soluble yellowish liquid used as a dispersing agent which allows oil and water to mix without the use of alcohol. It’s a fragrance solubilizer and stabilizer; it lubricates and has a soothing effect on the skin. This skin- safe ingredient is used extensively in oil-in-water emulsions (lotions, conditioners, cream rinses, shampoos, liquid soaps, body polishes or scrubs, etc.) and also for body mists and linen sprays. Will be found as an ingredient in the majority of body toiletries, cosmetics and wipes now in the market. Polysorbates are generally used in combination with other emulsifiers such as mono- and diglycerides or sorbitan monostearates for various purposes such as to disperse flavors and colors, to make essential oils and vitamins soluble and to improve volume and texture in baked goods. Use Polysorbate 20 when very little foaming action (or none at all) is desired in the finished product.
Start with a ratio of 1:1. For example, for every ounce of essential or fragrance oil mix with one ounce of Polysorbate 20. It’s extremely important to mix well. Then add enough distilled water to allow you to make your blend or product. If the results are still too cloudy for you, you may need to increase the Polysorbate 20 to 3 parts to 1 or 4 parts to 1. Sometimes, the denser the oil the more Polysorbate 20 you will need. Remember to always try out linen sprays on a very small area first to see if the mixture affects the linens! INCI: Polysorbate 20.
Here are some guidelines: If using 2 oz. of distilled water add 5 drops of essential oils for a facial spray, add 20 drops of essential oils for a body spray, add 30 drops for a linen spray, and add 50 drops for a room spray. Feel free to adjust these proportions to suit your preference.
RECIPE--BODY MIST: 7 oz. Vodka, 1 oz. polysorbate 20, 10 drops Geranium Essential Oil, 10 drops Lemon Essential Oil. Mix the essential oils with Polysorbate 20 and add to the Vodka. Let it sit at least 24 hours. Should the product be slightly cloudy, add 1 more ounce of Vodka and ½ oz. more of Polysorbate 20. You may vary the essential oils (or fragrance oils) to your preference. You may double or triple this recipe.