Tween™ 28-LQ-(SG) (PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate) – Water-Soluble Emulsifier by Croda

Tween™ 28-LQ-(SG) (PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate) by Croda is the water-phase counterpart to the Span series — a high-HLB nonionic emulsifier that excels at bringing oils, fragrances, and oil-soluble actives into clear, stable, water-based formulations. Derived from sorbitan, lauric acid, and polyethylene glycol, it is water-soluble, clear to slightly yellow in appearance, and remarkably effective at the low concentrations that make it practical for professional formulation.

Its real strength lies in its dual role: as an emulsifier, it creates and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions with excellent long-term consistency; as a solubilizer, it enables the seamless incorporation of essential oils, fragrances, and actives into water-based systems — including clear sprays, micellar waters, and transparent serums where cloudiness is not an option. For formulators building lightweight, elegant, water-based products that need to stay stable and look beautiful, Tween™ 28 is an indispensable tool.

Key Benefits

• Strong O/W Emulsification – creates stable, smooth oil-in-water emulsions for creams, lotions & serums
• Powerful Solubilizer – dissolves essential oils, fragrances & actives into water-based formulations
• Surfactant Action – reduces surface tension for better spreadability and product performance
• Formulation Stabilizer – prevents ingredient separation and improves shelf-life consistency
• Uniform Dispersion – evenly distributes insoluble ingredients for a professional, high-quality finish

Applications

• Skincare — creams, lotions & serums
• Haircare — shampoos, conditioners & styling products
• Body washes & shower gels
• Perfumes, body sprays & facial mists
• Sunscreens & SPF formulations

Recommended Usage Levels

Technical Profile

• INCI: PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate
• Trade Name: Tween™ 28-LQ-(SG)
• Manufacturer: Croda
• Appearance: Clear to slightly yellow liquid
• Type: Nonionic surfactant / emulsifier
• Solubility: Water-soluble (hydrophilic)
• HLB Value: High (ideal for O/W emulsion systems)
• Grade: Cosmetic

Formulation Tips

Add to the water phase of formulations — its water solubility means it incorporates easily without heating in most systems. For fragrance solubilization in clear sprays or micellar waters, mix the fragrance with Tween™ 28 first before adding to the water phase for the clearest result. Pair with Span 83 (Sorbitan Sesquioleate) to achieve a balanced HLB system for complex emulsions requiring both stability and elegant texture. Works well across a wide pH range and is compatible with most cosmetic actives and preservatives.