What Is Carbomer and Why Is It Essential in Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals?

Technical Introduction

Carbomer is the general name for a family of synthetic, high-molecular-weight polymers of acrylic acid, crosslinked with polyalkenyl ethers or divinyl glycol. It is typically supplied as a white, fluffy powder that swells in water and neutralizes into a clear gel when mixed with bases such as triethanolamine (TEA) or sodium hydroxide.

Carbomers are valued for their ability to:

• Thicken and stabilize emulsions

• Control viscosity and flow properties

• Suspend insoluble ingredients

• Form transparent gels

Because of these properties, carbomers are widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.

Applications

• Cosmetic Formulations:

  • Used in lotions, creams, serums, gels, and sunscreens for viscosity control and smooth texture.

  • Creates clear, stable gels in hair styling products and facial cleansers.

• Pharmaceutical Gels & Ointments:

  • Forms the base for topical gels, ophthalmic gels, transdermal drug delivery systems, and mucoadhesive formulations.

  • Used in oral suspensions to prevent sedimentation.

• Hand Sanitizers:

  • A key thickener in alcohol-based sanitizing gels, giving them smooth flow and non-drip consistency.

• Controlled Release Systems:

  • In solid dosage forms, carbomers can modify drug release rate due to their swelling ability.

• Household & Industrial Products:

  • Thickener in detergents, polishes, and cleaning gels.

Advantages

• Strong Thickening Ability: Small amounts (0.1–1.0%) create significant viscosity increase.

• Excellent Clarity: Produces transparent gels ideal for cosmetic and ophthalmic use.

• Stable Emulsions: Prevents separation of oil-in-water systems.

• pH Versatility: Functions in a wide pH range (5–10 after neutralization).

• Suspending Power: Holds insoluble particles in suspension without settling.

• Low Dosage Efficiency: Provides performance at very low concentrations.

• Non-toxic & Safe: Widely recognized as safe for topical and oral applications.

Specifications (Typical Parameters)

FAQ

Q1: What is Carbomer used for in cosmetics?
A: It acts as a thickener, suspending agent, and gel-former, providing smooth texture and viscosity control.

Q2: How does Carbomer work in gels?
A: When neutralized, Carbomer molecules repel each other, expanding and forming a stable gel matrix.

Q3: What is the difference between Carbomer 940 and 980?
A: Both are high-viscosity grades, but Carbomer 940 gives higher clarity, while Carbomer 980 offers better salt tolerance.

Q4: Is Carbomer safe for skin?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic, non-irritating, and widely approved for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use.

Q5: Why is Carbomer used in hand sanitizers?
A: It thickens alcohol-based formulas, preventing them from being too runny, while keeping a smooth gel texture.