Skincare Ingredient
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Carbomer
In Skincare: Is Carbomer Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Carbomer is a synthetic polymer derived from acrylic acid, commonly used as a water-based thickening agent.
- 02
Carbomer is frequently incorporated into cosmetic formulations to achieve a gel-like texture.
- 03
Carbomer functions as a viscosity-controlling agent, influencing the consistency of cosmetic products.
- 04
Carbomer may enhance the penetration and retention of active ingredients within the skin.
- 05
Carbomer is a versatile ingredient found in various beauty products, including facial moisturizers, body lotions, hair care items, and makeup.
- 06
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel evaluated carbomer and confirmed its safety for use in cosmetics.
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Carbomer
Role of Carbomer
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
EMULSION STABILISING
Emulsion StabilizerPrevents oil and water mixtures from separating
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Emulsion stabilizers maintain dispersion of immiscible phases by preventing droplet coalescence through interfacial film formation, electrostatic repulsion, steric stabilization, viscosity enhancement, or network formation. Stabilizers include polymers (carbomers, xanthan gum), proteins, and modified celluloses. The combination of primary emulsifiers with secondary stabilizers creates robust lamellar liquid crystalline structures.
GEL FORMING
Gel Structure BuilderCreates gel-like texture and consistency
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Gel-forming ingredients transform liquids into stable, semi-solid gel structures through polymer network formation. Gelling agents include carbomers (cross-linked polyacrylic acids neutralized to form gels), natural gums (xanthan, gellan), cellulose derivatives, and carrageenan. Mechanism involves polymer chain entanglement, hydrogen bonding, or ionic cross-linking creating three-dimensional networks that trap water.
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
Thickness RegulatorAdjusts product thickness and flow properties
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Viscosity controlling ingredients modify product flow characteristics through thickening or thinning. Thickeners include natural gums (xanthan, guar), synthetic polymers (carbomers, acrylates), and inorganic thickeners (silica, clays). Mechanism varies: polymer chain entanglement, hydrogen bonding networks, particle association, or swelling. Rheology modifiers create desired texture, prevent separation, control application properties, and affect sensory perception. Can produce Newtonian (constant viscosity) or non-Newtonian (shear-thinning, thixotropic) flow behavior.
Products
containing Carbomer
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References
Scientific sources
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, January 2019 pages 1-42
Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy, February 2016, ePublication
Pharmacognosy Magazine, October-December 2013, pages S6-S10
Handbook of Cosmetic Science & Technology, 2013, pages 17-18
International Journal of Toxicology, January 2003, pages 6-11
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Carbomer — common questions
What is Carbomer in skincare?
Carbomer refers to a group of synthetic polymers primarily made from acrylic acid. They are typically supplied as white powders, but when added to liquids, they form gels and are commonly used in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products including skincare, hair care, nail treatments, makeup, and oral hygiene items.
What does Carbomer do? / Functions of Carbomer?
Common functions: EMULSION STABILISING, GEL FORMING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Carbomer? / Is Carbomer comedogenic?
Carbomer has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Carbomer is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Carbomer safe for skin?
Carbomer has a safety rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Inert thickener; CIR supports safety in cosmetics with low irritation/sensitization risk (rare mild irritation possible). Carbomer is generally well-tolerated, with a comedogenicity rating of 1, indic
Is Carbomer good for sensitive skin?
Carbomer has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Carbomer in skincare?
Known considerations: Inert thickener; CIR supports safety in cosmetics with low irritation/sensitization risk (rare mild irritation possible). Carbomer is generally well-tolerated, with a comedogenicity rating of 1, indicating minimal pore-clogging potential. Safety is further supported by its widespread use in cosmetic formulations under proper conditions of use.