Snapshot
- Overview
- A thickening agent that stabilizes gels and creams.
- Category
- Emulsifying
- Type
- Rheology Modifier
Sodium Carbomer
Sodium Carbomer is the sodium salt of crosslinked polyacrylic acid used as a rheology modifier. It's used to thicken water-based systems, stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, and suspend particles with predictable, pH-responsive viscosity.
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Our take
Is Sodium Carbomer a Good Ingredient?
It earns a Great rating as a well-established, inert polyacrylate thickener with strong formulation stability and low irritation potential, backed by extensive cosmetic use data for predictable, pH-responsive gelling.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It creates smooth, cushiony gels that spread evenly and feel stable on skin, helping keep formulas uniform so actives are distributed consistently during application.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's widely used in water-gel serums, lightweight moisturizers, and hair gels to build body and maintain a steady texture.
Before you use it
Safety
It's considered low risk for irritation at typical levels and doesn't meaningfully penetrate skin. Minor dryness or tightness can occur if overused; no notable regulatory restrictions apply.
Products with Sodium Carbomer
