Carbomer

Carbomer is a crosslinked polyacrylic acid polymer commonly found in gels, creams, and serums. It's used to build viscosity, form clear gels, suspend actives or pigments, and stabilize emulsions after neutralization to an appropriate pH.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gel-forming ingredient that thickens creams and serums.
Category
Emulsifying
Type
Rheology Modifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Creates a smooth, cushiony glide and helps formulas feel more elegant on the skin, and reduces runniness so products apply evenly without dripping.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in gel masks, lightweight serums, and leave-on moisturizers to build bouncy textures and keep particles evenly dispersed.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally low risk in finished products; mild, transient irritation can occur, especially from contact with raw powder or from inadequately neutralized formulas. Typically non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic for most users.

Is Carbomer a Good Ingredient?

This inert, high-molecular-weight polymer consistently builds viscosity and suspendability at low use levels, with an extensive formulation history and minimal irritation when properly neutralized, which is what earns it a Great rating; its stability and low reactivity with common actives make it a dependable texture builder.

Products with Carbomer

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