Polysorbate 80 in eye drops

Polysorbate 80 is one of Quell’s active ingredients, listed on the Drug Facts panel as Polysorbate 80 (1.0%), with the purpose “lubricant.”

Its role on the label

Alongside glycerol, it is one of the two lubricants that make Quell a lubricating eye drop. The third active, light mineral oil, is listed as an emollient.

An oil-and-water formula

Quell combines watery and oily ingredients, which is part of why the solution is milky. Polysorbate 80 is widely used in products that bring oil and water together.

That combination is deliberate. The formula is designed to reinforce the tear film’s oil layer, not only its watery one, so it needs ingredients from both sides. The tear film’s oil layer explains why.

Reading the label

The percentage is its concentration in the solution. Compare it only with the same ingredient in another product. See the active ingredients section.

Allergies

If you have reacted to polysorbates before, mention it to your doctor or pharmacist before using Quell, together with the label’s own caution: Caution should be used in those with egg or bird allergies — For use in the eyes only.