Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientThickener/Gel FormerCarbomer
INCI: Carbomer
Carbomer is a family of synthetic high molecular weight polymers of acrylic acid, crosslinked with allyl sucrose or allyl pentaerythritol. When neutralised with a base such as sodium hydroxide or triethanolamine, carbomer swells dramatically to form viscous, clear gels with a non-tacky skin feel. It is one of the most widely used thickening and gel-forming agents in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.
Category
Thickener/Gel Former
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, sensitive, oily, dry, combination, acne-prone
What does this do in a formula?
gel forming, thickening, emulsion stabilisation, clear gel textures, non-tacky skin feel, suspending agent
Is Carbomer safe? Key considerations
Can Carbomer cause irritation?
Low RiskINCIDecoder rates carbomer irritancy at 0. It is a high molecular weight polymer that does not penetrate the skin. The CIR Expert Panel has concluded carbomers are safe as used in cosmetics. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply.
Does Carbomer increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskCarbomer does not increase photosensitivity. No sun protection precautions are required.
Is Carbomer safe during pregnancy?
SafeCarbomer is an inert polymer with no systemic absorption from topical use. No reproductive or developmental concerns are documented.
How does Carbomer work?
Carbomer is a family of synthetic high molecular weight polymers of acrylic acid, crosslinked with allyl sucrose or allyl pentaerythritol. When neutralised with a base such as sodium hydroxide or triethanolamine, carbomer swells dramatically to form viscous, clear gels with a non-tacky skin feel. It is one of the most widely used thickening and gel-forming agents in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.
Which products contain Carbomer?
Shop products that contain Carbomer
Caffeine Eye Cream
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Supersize Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Collagen Peptide Serum
Biome Balancing Moisturiser
Retinol Serum
Peptide Moisturiser
Vitamin B, C and E Moisturiser
Tranexamic Acid Serum
10% Urea Moisturiser
Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum
Matrixyl 10% + HA
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
