Polysorbate 60 is a valuable tool in food technology. It is commonly added to baked goods, dairy products, and dressings to stabilize and homogenize mixtures, enhancing the product's overall quality and shelf life. Compared to its counterparts, Polysorbate 60 is more lipophilic due to the presence of stearic acid, which contributes to its effectiveness in creating oil-in-water emulsions. It can also be combined with other emulsifiers to achieve the desired hydrophilic-lipophile balance (HLB) for food products ensuring a smooth consistent texture.

In cosmetics, Polysorbate 60 is essential for creating stable emulsions in products like creams, lotions, and makeup by preventing ingredient separation ensuring a consistent texture and performance of the final product. Additionally, it acts as a solubilizer for essential oils and fragrances, aiding in their incorporation into water-based formulations, thus enhancing the sensory experience of the product. Polysorbate 60 also functions as a surfactant aiding in the removal of oils and impurities from the skin and boosting the effectiveness of skincare products.