Skincare Ingredient
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Sodium Carbomer
In Skincare: Is Sodium Carbomer Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Sodium carbomer is a combination of sodium and the gelling agent carbomer.
- 02
This ingredient functions as both a stabilizer and film-forming agent in cosmetic formulations.
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Unlike some carbomers, sodium carbomer thickens without needing an alkaline catalyst.
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The CIR Expert Panel has determined sodium carbomer to be safe for use in cosmetics.
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Role of Sodium 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.
FILM FORMING
Protective Coating AgentCreates a continuous thin layer on surfaces
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Film-forming polymers create continuous, cohesive coatings after solvent evaporation or chemical crosslinking. These include natural polymers (shellac, chitosan), synthetic polymers (acrylates copolymers, PVP/VA copolymer, polyurethanes), and modified natural polymers. Film formation involves spreading, solvent evaporation, polymer chain interpenetration, and coalescence. Film properties depend on glass transition temperature, molecular weight, and plasticizer content.
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 Sodium Carbomer
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References
Scientific sources
Frontiers in Pharmacology, February 2021, Volume 11
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, May 2004, Volume 276, Issues 1-2, pages 59-66
International Journal of Toxicology, January 1990
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sodium Carbomer — common questions
What is Sodium Carbomer in skincare?
2-Propenoic acid, polymer with 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol 2-propenyl ether, sodium salts
What does Sodium Carbomer do? / Functions of Sodium Carbomer?
Common functions: EMULSION STABILISING, FILM FORMING, GEL FORMING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Sodium Carbomer? / Is Sodium Carbomer comedogenic?
The comedogenic rating of Sodium Carbomer has not been established in our database.
Does it clog pores?
Whether Sodium Carbomer clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.
Is Sodium Carbomer safe for skin?
Sodium 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: Crosslinked polyacrylate thickener; CIR/EWG indicate low systemic toxicity and low irritation/sensitization; no known carcinogenicity or endocrine activity in cosmetic use. It is generally considered
Is Sodium Carbomer good for sensitive skin?
Sodium 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 Sodium Carbomer in skincare?
Known considerations: Crosslinked polyacrylate thickener; CIR/EWG indicate low systemic toxicity and low irritation/sensitization; no known carcinogenicity or endocrine activity in cosmetic use. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics with minimal risk of adverse effects.