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Catalog Number | CI-HC-0113 |
Product Name | Carbomer |
CAS | 9007-20-9 |
Structure | |
Synonyms | Carboxypolymethylene resin;Poly(acrylic acid); |
Description | Carbomer is a term used for a group of synthetic high molecular weight polymers, such as polyacrylic acid, Cross-linked polyacrylic acid, or polymethacrylic acid. These polymers are generally used as thickening agents, emulsifiers, and stabilizers in cosmetic and personal care products. Carbomers work by absorbing and swelling in water, forming a gel-like consistency. When added to lotions, creams, gels, or other skincare products, carbomers give the product a thicker and more luxurious feel. They can also help to stabilize the formula and prevent it from separating or becoming runny. |
Molecular Formula | C3H4O2 |
Melting Point | 12.5ºC |
Flash Point | 61.6ºC |
Density | 1.063 g/mL |
Appearance | white, fluffy powder |
Application | 1. Carbomer is used as a thickening and suspending agent in various pharmaceuticals and personal care products like gels, creams, and lotions. 2. It helps to increase the viscosity of the product and improve its texture and stability. 3. Carbomer is also used in ophthalmic solutions, nasal sprays, and oral suspensions as a suspending agent to ensure uniform drug distribution. 4. Due to its excellent hydration and film-forming properties, it is utilized as a lubricant in contact lenses. 5. Carbomer is widely used in the food industry as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifying agent. |
Features And Benefits | 1. Thickening agent 2. Emulsifying agent 3. Stabilizing agent 4. Provides excellent clarity 5. Enhances spreadability 6. Helps to control the viscosity of the final product 7. Increases the effectiveness of active ingredients 8. Provides a smooth texture to the formulation 9. Improves the shelf life of the product. |
HS Code | 3906909090 |
Refractive Index | n20/D 1.442 |
Carbomer, an acrylic polymer, serves as a versatile and cost-effective component in skincare formulations, functioning as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener. Its ability to build viscosity makes it an appropriate choice for use as a co-stabilizer, while its crystal-clear appearance is ideal for applications such as hair gels. Available as a fine white acrylic powder, carbomer is commonly incorporated into gels, lotions, and creams. It demonstrates excellent tolerance to electrolytes and can perform effectively in formulations with low pH values, ranging from 4 to 12. Additionally, carbomer is highly resistant to high concentrations of ethanol or aminopropanol-up to 75%-facilitating the creation of bactericide hand gels with a smooth, pleasant after-feel. Typically used at concentrations between 0.1% and 0.5%, carbomer's efficacy depends on the specific formulation and desired viscosity. Furthermore, when combined with sodium polyacrylate, carbomer exhibits synergistic properties, offering fresh quick-breaking effects with a cushion feel, while providing cost-efficient solutions for gel cream, cream, and lotion formulations.
What is Carbomer and how is it used in skincare and hair care products?
Carbomer is an acrylic polymer that serves as an effective emulsifier, stabilizer, or thickener in skincare and hair care formulations. It is a fine white powder that plays a crucial role in building viscosity, which makes it particularly suitable as a co-stabilizer in various applications. Additionally, its crystal-clear appearance renders it ideal for use in hair gels.
What are the typical uses and benefits of Carbomer in formulation?
Carbomer is prominently used in gels, lotions, creams, and hair gels due to its ability to stabilize and thicken formulations. It possesses excellent tolerance to electrolytes and can function effectively in formulations with low pH values, such as those containing AHA, DHA, and other whitening agents. Carbomer's efficacy range is broad, operating best between pH values of 4 to 12.
Can Carbomer be used in formulations containing alcohol, and if so, to what extent?
Yes, Carbomer is highly resistant to high levels of alcohol, particularly ethanol or aminopropanol, and can be used in formulations containing up to 75% alcohol. This property is especially beneficial for creating bactericidal hand gels, providing a pleasant and smooth after-feel.
What is the recommended usage level of Carbomer in formulations?
The typical use level of Carbomer in formulations ranges from 0.1% to 0.5%, depending on the type of product and the desired viscosity. This flexibility allows formulators to achieve varying textures and consistencies tailored to specific product needs.
How do Carbomer and sodium polyacrylate work together in formulations?
When combined with sodium polyacrylate, Carbomer exhibits synergistic properties. This combination results in a fresh quick-breaking effect balanced by a cushioned feel, offering low-cost solutions to developing future gel creams, creams, and lotion formulations. The partnership enhances the sensory experience of the end product, providing an appealing texture and aesthetic.