Carbomer is a synthetic polymer used as a thickening, dispersing, and emulsifying agent in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. It is not a single compound but rather a generic name for a class of synthetic polymers. Carbomers are typically synthesized by the polymerization of acrylic acid or its derivatives with a cross-linking agent to form a highly cross-linked polymer network. They are available in a variety of grades, each with different properties and characteristics, such as particle size, cross-link density, and molecular weight. Some common types of carbomer include carbomer 934, carbomer 940, and carbomer 980.
Carbomers are generally considered safe and well-tolerated when used as intended in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. They have low irritancy and non-sensitizing properties even with repeated use. Carbomers have good thermal stability and can increase the shelf life of beauty and cosmetic products. Due to its high molecular weight, Carbomers are not able to penetrate the layers of the skin and remain on the surface, without affecting the therapeutic efficiency of the formulation.
In summary, carbomer is a synthetic polymer used as a thickening, dispersing, and emulsifying agent in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. It is generally considered safe and well-tolerated when used as intended in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. Carbomers have low irritancy and non-sensitizing properties even with repeated use, good thermal stability, and can increase the shelf life of beauty and cosmetic products.
