Is carbomer natural or synthetic. They are primarily added to gel-like formulations, such as facial moisturizers, sunscreens, shampoos, anti-aging formulations, cleansers, and Pregnancy Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid: A list of specific ingredients to avoid in your skin care while pregnant and why you should avoid them. Myth: Carbomer 940 causes acne. ALTER-GELIJAC is a natural, plant-based gelling agent that produces translucent, high-viscosity gels. 5% in water, containing no salt Ultrez 30 (Carbomer-Lubrizol) is a universal Carbomer for broad application. Natural ‘gelling’ agent(s) should be combined with ‘thickening’ agent(s) to increase the mechanical strength of the network. Sodium carbomer is a blend of sodium (salt) and carbomer. Carbomer is a texture enhancer primarily used to create clear gel-like formulations. Oct 29, 2021 · Polyacrylic acid (also known as Carbomer) is a versatile polymer. So, how does it work in cosmetic formulations? May 14, 2025 · A science-based breakdown of natural vs. Made of 100% polysaccharide of natural origin with exceptional gelling and thickening properties, Amigel® is an incomparable stabilizing agent for the formulation of emulsions and suspensions. , Ltd is a renowned supplier of a diverse range of natural and synthetic cosmetic ingredients. It is a Natural alternative to carbomer and other synthetic agents of petrochemical origin. Examples include nylon, polyethylene, polyester, Teflon, and epoxy. Dev International is a leading cosmetic, personal care raw materials, and anthranilic acid manufacturer, supplier, and exporter in Ahmedabad, India. 25% eye gel Prescribing and dispensing information For carbomers Synthetic high molecular weight polymers of acrylic acid cross-linked with either allyl ethers of sucrose or allyl ethers of pentaerithrityl. While synthetic polymers like Carbomer 940 have long dominated the market for their performance, there's a growing interest in natural alternatives. The Influence of pH Values on the Rheological, Textural and Release Properties of Carbomer Polacril ® 40P-Based Dental Gel Formulation with Plant-Derived and Synthetic Active Components Carbopol ® Ultrez 20 polymer is a white powder, hydrophobically-modified cross-linked acrylate copolymer. I am not making any blanket statements concerning any Hydroxyethyl cellulose Hydroxyethyl cellulose is an organic chemical compound derived from cellulose. A carbomer is a synthetic polymer made from acrylic acid, used primarily as a thickening and gelling agent in skincare products, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Carbomer is one of the most researched and reviewed ingredients. Polymers are synthetic or natural substances containing very large molecules called macromolecules. Jul 7, 2024 · In conclusion, carbomer and hydroxyethylcellulose are two versatile ingredients that find applications in various industries. Learn about its topical effects, safety, and function. Carbomer is a synthetic solid polymer defined as a microplastic by the European microplastic restriction. However, it is a non-biodegradable microplastic, leading to environmental concerns about its accumulation in waterways and harm to aquatic life. Carbomer is a generic name for a family of synthetic polymers that are widely used as thickening, suspending, and stabilizing agents in a variety of industries including cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. It is a synthetic high-molecular-weight polyacrylic acid that swells in water to form a gel after neutralization. The present invention also relates to a blend Nov 29, 2013 · The original synthetic powdered alkali swellable Carbomer was trademarked as Carbopol (US patent 2798503) and commercialized in 1958 by BF Goodrich (now known as Lubrizol). Xanthan gum), each one having its significant characteristics, advantages and limitations. Top regulatory bodies like CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review thoroughly investigates the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics), EU Cosmetics Regulation (It ensures the safety of the consumers while using the cosmetic products) and EWG (Environmental Working Group Skin Deep is a cosmetic database for ensuring the safety of Sodium Carbomer is the sodium salt of crosslinked polyacrylic acid used as a rheology modifier. How do you make a Carbomer? Jul 25, 2025 · The answer to whether carbomer can be used in natural skincare is complex: While carbomers are synthetic polymers, their role in creating stable and aesthetically pleasing natural formulations is sometimes considered acceptable by certain natural skincare brands and certifying bodies, albeit with stringent criteria. CONCLUSION Suspending agent consist of 3 types which is natural agent, inorganic salt and synthetic compound. A remarkable Guangzhou Guanpai Biotechnology Co. Products within the Carbopol® polymer family are chemically similar in that they are all high molecular weight, crosslinked polyacrylic acid polymers. Nov 13, 2022 · What Is Carbomer? Carbomer is the commonly used name for an ingredient called polyacrylic acid (PAA). CMC, a cellulose derivative, possesses high viscosity, film-forming ability, biodegradability and cytocompatibility and is a well-known biopolymer with wide abundance in nature. This rheology modifier and stabilizer also provides electrolyte tolerance and unique May 16, 2022 · Carbomer is a term used for a series of polymers primarily made from acrylic acid. Feb 23, 2022 · The composition excludes water and hydrochloric acid/sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment. Carbomer is a group of synthetic high molecular weight polymers of acrylic acid used in cosmetics and skincare products as thickening agents. Is Carbomer a chemical? Yes, Carbomer is a chemical compound, specifically a class of synthetic polymers used in various industries. It is especially popular in oil-free skincare, hyaluronic acid serums, vitamin C formulations, and niacinamide gels, where clarity and consistency matter most. Natural Gelling Agents: Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Carbomer from China Supplier Tianjin YR ChemSpec Technology Co. Dive into the details of its role in moisturizing, thickening, and enhancing textures in "What Is Carbomer In Skin Care ?". It's created through chemical processes and has been used in the cosmetics and personal care industry for several decades as a versatile ingredient that thickens and stabilizes formulas. Sep 6, 2023 · Carbomer 940 is a widely used synthetic polymer in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care industries. Cannot be easily dispersible. This polymer offers many substantial benefits for formulators and marketers of personal care products. Dezember 2013 Working with Carbomer (part I) Preparing stable gels and viscosity control are among the most significant challenges of each formulator. Carbopol Ultrez 20 polymer is exceptionally easy to use as it self-wets and disperses within minutes. CARBOMER 940 Carbomer 940 is a synthetic high-molecular-weight polymer widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, and suspending agent in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Let's take a look at the science behind how carbomer works, including polymer structure, swelling and hydration, neutralisation, three-dimensional networks, thickening and texture Carbopol®, also known by the generic name Carbomer®, is a synthetic polymer derived from cross-linking of poly (acrylic acid). A . polyacrylates) or natural polymers (e. Nov 17, 2025 · Quick Summary Carbomer is a synthetic polymer used as a thickener and stabilizer in many products, posing little risk to human health, as affirmed by regulators like the FDA. Carbomers are synthetic ingredients that cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies use in products due to their suspending, emulsifying, and thickening Mar 20, 2013 · For this purpose, eight hydrophilic polymers, either natural (Ceratonia siliqua gum, xanthan gum), or natural modified (hydroxypropyl guar gum, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose) or synthetic (carbomer, polyacrylamide (and) C13–14 isoparaffin (and) laureth-7, Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP copolymer), were selected. This study focused on replacing carbomers using combinations of natural polymers of the polysaccharide type. Sodium carbomer functions as a stabilizer and film-forming agent in skin care products. Myth: Carbomer 940 is a natural ingredient. A synthetic thickening agent used to create gels and stabilize formulations. In addition to the homopolymers, a variety of copolymers and crosslinked polymers, and partially deprotonated derivatives thereof, are known and of commercial value. It is a non-ionic water-soluble, biocompatible and biodegradable polymer, known since the beginning of the last century (Kamel et al. It is used, for example, as an emulsifier and thickener in personal care products, to make medical implants, as a superabsorber in self-healing concrete and as a binder in a coating formulation for paper. HOW WE USE IT Indications and dose Show all indications and dose (2) Show For carbomers Show For Liquivisc® 0. Mar 18, 2024 · Carbomer is an essential synthetic polymer used in personal care products for its thickening, suspending, and emulsion-stabilizing properties, transforming product consistency and enhancing consumer experience. After reviewing data on clinical Nov 30, 2020 · Tamburic, Slobodanka and Xin Yee, Peh and Baltazar, Diogo (2020) Can Carbomer be effectively replaced with natural polymers? In: 31st IFSCC Congress, Yokohama, Japan, 21-30 Nov 2020, Online. Ultrez 21 (Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer-Lubrizol) A . White, hygroscopic powders with a slight characteristic odour. The key to replacing carbomer effectively is defining what function it has in the selected formulation. What Is Xanthan Gum? Xanthan gum is a natural thickener made by fermenting sugar with a bacteria called Xanthomonas campestris. Sensory testing can not be completely replaced by instruments; the two methods should be combined. May 6, 2024 · The texture and skin feel of carbomer make it a difficult product to replace effectively with natural alternatives. Carbomer is a synthetic, high molecular weight polymer of acrylic acid. Aug 4, 2025 · Why Switch from Carbomer? Traditional carbomers are synthetic and don’t break down easily, which means they can add to microplastic pollution. Jul 18, 2025 · Get all the information about thickeners and learn its properties, key applications, types and regulatory considerations. INCI Hydroxyethylcellulose Appearance Fine off-white powder Usage rate 0. Different types of Carbomer gel-forming excipients (Synthalen K, Carbopol 974P and Pemulen TR1) were used for the formulation of gels. Jan 25, 2025 · Discover the benefits of carbomer in skin care in our comprehensive guide. Every type of suspending agent should have suitable pH to maintain their viscosity. Main outcomes of ingredients contained in marketed artificial tears. Propylene glycol is also used to make polyester compounds, and as a base for deicing solutions. Jul 1, 2022 · Carbomers are versatile and stable rheology modifiers but are synthetic and cannot be formulated in a natural-claimed product. Each types of suspending agents have their own function and examples. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified propylene glycol as an additive that Jan 20, 2023 · Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) - Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) based materials have gained popularity over the years due to ease in synthesis and surface modifications coupled with diverse morphological features. EWG’s Skin Deep rates thousands of personal care product ingredients, culled from ingredient labels on products, based on hazard information pulled from the scientific literature and industry, academic and regulatory databases. Propylene glycol is used by the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries as an antifreeze when leakage might lead to contact with food. Fact: Carbomer 940 is a synthetic polymer made from acrylic acid. synthetic cosmetic ingredients and why the distinction matters less than function, safety, and performance. These are t, κ, λ, μ, ν, θ, ξ carrageenans (5). It obtain from silicon dioxide. Elevate your cosmetic creations with Lotioncrafter's thickeners—high-quality ingredients for achieving desired texture and stability in formulations. These include the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and personal care product sectors: Other types including synthetic, semisynthetic, natural gelling agent can also be employed. The ingredient's clean status is therefore contested, highlighting a Carbopol ® polymers still dominate the market over 60 years later. It presents as a light tan or cream to white-coloured, odourless and tasteless hygroscopic powder. offers a natural alternative to synthetic gelling agents like carbomer. Apr 20, 2018 · Recommended synthetic-based polymer, . Oct 28, 2020 · The Influence of pH Values on the Rheological, Textural and Release Properties of Carbomer Polacril® 40P-Based Dental Gel Formulation with Plant-Derived and Synthetic Active Components The present invention relates to the replacement of carbomer in personal care products with a natural based solution that has a desirable rheology, texture, and viscosity. Jan 1, 2016 · They have been explained in two categories (1) synthetic and (2) natural. It is a perfect alternative to synthetic polymers. Manufacture: Carbomer is produced by polymerization of acrylic acid to form high-molecular weight, cross-linked polymers of acrylic acid (polyacrylic acid) and then crosslinked with ethers of pentaerythritol. It is generally considered safe for use on the skin, with a low risk of irritation and sensitization. Apr 2, 2023 · The main difference between carbomer and Carbopol is that carbomer is a generic name used to refer to any polymer derived from acrylic acid, whereas Carbopol is a trademark name owned by the Lubrizol Corporation for a specific type of carbomer. Dec 22, 2023 · Carbomer is the trade name for polyacrylic acid. These personal care products contain a specific mixture of carrageenans (including iota, lamda, and kappa carrageenan) and a substituted starch to yield these desired properties. In addition, a new associative acrylate/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer exhibits thickening in high electrolyte media, acts synergistically with surfactants Jun 23, 2025 · Carbomer 940 by Medikonda Nutrients is a synthetic polymer used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier. Q: Are carbomers safe to use on my skin? Carbomer is a synthetic, high molecular weight polymer of acrylic acid. Jan 16, 2026 · Carbomer is a thickening agent that helps improve the texture of the products and also binds the other ingredients together - preventing them from separating. Fact: Carbomer 940 is non-comedogenic, which means it does not clog pores or cause acne. , 1950). Ideal to obtain colorless gels with hight viscosities. A: Carbomer is a synthetic polymer used as a thickening agent, emulsion stabilizer, and suspension agent in skincare products. Thanks to artificial intelligence, Cargill has been able to design a new area of association: Actigum™ Care, the ideal ratio between a biopolymer and a modified starch. Carbomer is a synthetic compound and does not have a natural source. While it is not a natural element, its safety and efficacy make it an important component in many formulations. 1–3% (you could use more, but it would be very … Continue reading → From a technical point of view, replacing high-performing synthetic raw materials with sustainable natural ingredients can be quite challenging due to instability and aesthetic limitations normally associated with their use [11, 12]. Table 2. Natural alternatives do the job just as well, for thick, stable, and smooth formulations, but with a much lighter footprint. No other polymer delivers such brilliant clarity, easy dispersion and controlled release properties while inspiring boundless formulating opportunities for skin care, hair care and cleansing products. A pre-neutralized carbomer is shown to impart a lighter, smoother texture than traditional carbomer while increasing process flexibility. Learn what carbomer is, how it works, and why it's essential for your favorite products. Jun 13, 2024 · However, the environmental concerns associated with synthetic packaging waste have led to the development of new biodegradable alternatives 2. Jun 1, 2022 · Carbomer is an emulsifier - To give skincare products a little help, we use an ingredient like carbomer to keep ingredients from separating. Drug polymer conjugates, block copolymers, hydrogels and other water soluble drug polymer complexes have also been explained. However, polyacrylic acid is of fossil origin, is hardly ever recovered or recycled after use and is not biodegradable, which Stability Testing for Cosmetics Formulation Development Case Study of Carbomer Thickener Carbomer is one of the most popular thickener raw materials on the market. They are high molecular weight polymers derived from the crosslinking of the polyacrylic acid. Carbomer is a synthetic polymer commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and stabilizer. A high purity grade version of this polymer, Carbopol® 934P, was designed for the pharmaceutical industry in the 1960's by Lubrizol (Wickliffe, OH) and have been used in many commercial ophthalmic gels and ointments. This column will explore the chemistry and properties of carbomers that have earned them this well-deserved reputation. , 2008; Reese et al. Apr 26, 2020 · What is carbomer used for? Due to its vast variety of features and applications, carbomer is a synthetic polymer that finds widespread use in many industries. Dec 3, 2025 · Find out what does carbomer do to your body by exploring its role as a key excipient in personal care and pharmaceutical products. According to one supplier, sodium carbomer is advantageous because it does not require an alkaline catalyst to be added to its formulation to thicken it (many other Apr 20, 2018 · Recommended synthetic-based polymer, . The synthetic polymers S1 (carbomer) and S2 (sodium polyacrylate) are positively loaded on both F1 and F2. Jun 30, 2023 · Some examples include Tragacanth, Pectin, Starch, Carbomer, Sodium alginate, Gelatin, cellulose derivatives, and Polyvinyl alcohol [10], [11]. , Ltd. Propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water. Our innovative plant-based gelling agent provides exceptional gelling properties similar to carbomer without the use of synthetic chemicals. INCI Name: Carbomer Common Name: Carbomer Category: Thickener / Stabilizer SKIN BENEFITS Carbomer is used in skincare to help thicken formulations and create smooth gel textures. Carbopol ® Ultrez 20 polymer is a white powder, hydrophobically-modified cross-linked acrylate copolymer. Mar 5, 2024 · Is Carbomer safe on skin? Yes, Carbomer is generally considered safe and non-irritating for the skin, making it a suitable ingredient in skincare products. Unlike active ingredients that offer results-driven value to a product, carbomers are inactive ingredients that help active ingredients work better. They are produced in several grades characterised by the viscosity of a defined solution. Polyacrylic acid Poly (acrylic acid) (PAA; trade name Carbomer) is a polymer with the formula (CH 2 −CHCO 2 H) n. For those asking, "What is the alternative to carbomer?", the answer lies in a diverse array of natural and advanced synthetic options, each with unique properties suitable for different Myth: Carbomer 940 is a natural ingredient. With its exceptional versatility and efficiency, Carbomer 940 plays a crucial role in the formulation of a wide range of products. It serves as a crucial thickening, dispersing, suspending, and emulsifying agent in a wide array of pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. g. How do you make a Carbomer? Oct 24, 2013 · Carbomers, a family of crosslinked acrylic acid polymers, are essential ingredients in numerous products, including: pharmaceuticals; cosmetics and personal care items; household, industrial and institutional care products; printing inks; adhesives and coatings. It’s used to thicken water-based systems, stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, and suspend particles with predictable, pH-responsive viscosity. If you want the good list of non -comedogenic products, see this alternate post. It is highly effective in increasing the viscosity of aqueous solutions, imparting a gel-like consistency to formulations. Carbomer is a synthetic polymer that thickens, suspends, and stabilises skincare and cosmetic formulas through a remarkable process of molecular interaction. Nov 17, 2023 · This review provides an updated discussion of the leading natural and synthetic hydrogels utilized in wound healing, details the latest advancements in hydrogel technology, and explores alternate approaches in this field. It is a derivative of acrylic acid (CH 2 =CHCO 2 H). The major drawback of natural gelling agents is that they are prone to microbial degradation. Trusted by brands worldwide, we ensure quality and reliability. Mar 15, 2022 · Many personal care products include synthetic polymers, which may pollute the environment and contain potentially harmful contaminants. Carbomer cannot be replaced by a single natural polymer. Let's take a look at the science behind how carbomer works, including polymer structure, swelling and hydration, neutralisation, three-dimensional networks, thickening and texture Commonly listed as Carbomer on ingredient labels, this synthetic polymer helps create smooth, lightweight, non-greasy textures while improving product stability and performance. Carbomers work for all skin types - Given how different each skin type can be, it’s no easy feat to find something that works for everyone. Feb 26, 2015 · Described here are two acrylic rheology modifiers for novel thickening properties in formulations. It comes in the form of white fluffy powder, but in the cosmetic industry, it is used in the form of gel or liquid. It contributes to improved consistency and application. Viscosity control is most often performed with synthetic (e. It is not a natural substance but is produced in laboratories for use in various pharmaceutical formulations and cosmetic products. Our portfolio includes Natural Vitamin E, Vegetable Squalane, Vitamin B5, Natural Arbutin, and Carbomer, essential for creating innovative and effective beauty products. Carbomers These are synthetic high molecular weight polymers of acrylic acid cross-linked with polyalkenyl ethers of sugars or polyalcohols. Characteristics of selected natural and synthetic viscosity-enhancing agents used in tear substitutes. Consult the glossary of laundry detergent ingredients below to learn more. What are the benefits of Carbomer on skin? Carbomer is a synthetic compound and does not have a natural source. Powdered carbomer polymers have properties such as thickening suspension, antibacterial, transparency, and controllable rheology. 5% dispersion has a viscosity of 45-65K cps. Figure 2. Carbomer is the trade name for polyacrylic acid. This is the BAD LIST of what to avoid in your skin care products. Its unique properties allow for the creation of stable, aesthetically pleasing products with desirable textures and Carbopol 974P is defined as a type of carbomer that contains a low residual solvent content and is utilized as a binder or matrix tablet former in oral solid dosage forms. This rheology modifier and stabilizer also provides electrolyte tolerance and unique Cargill’s polymer mapping predicts that one carbomer, a cross-linked homopolymer of polyacrylic acid, lies just between a sclerotium gum and a hydroxypropyl starch phosphate. Carbomers are white fluffy powders frequently used as gels in cosmetics and personal care products. This comparison delves into Carbomer 940 and natural thickeners, highlighting their distinct properties and best-use scenarios. Discover how to replace it in our latest post. Whether it’s an enzymatic detergent or one for sensitive skin , ARM & HAMMER™ detergents harness the cleaning and deodorizing power of natural baking soda and many are among the gentlest detergents for your skin – while still being tough on stains and odors. Buy the best quality anthranilic acid at the best price in India. Various kinds of synthetic and semisynthetic gelling agents are replacing natural gelling agent now these days. Natural and Synthetic Polymers Scientists discovered how to make synthetic polymers in the chemistry lab. Aug 21, 2012 · Comedogenic: Tending to produce or aggravate acne. While carbomer is a synthetic polymer primarily used as a thickening agent in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, hydroxyethylcellulose is a natural polymer used for similar purposes in personal care and food products. May 7, 2022 · Amigel® is an alternative to carbomer and other synthetic agents of petrochemical origin. This product is perfect for a diverse range of personal care Carbomer 940 Carbomer 940, also known as Carbopol or Carboxypoly-methylene, is a synthetic high molecular weight polymer of acrylic acid. In this context, natural biopolymers have emerged as Nov 22, 2024 · Among these renewable resources, lignin—a natural aromatic polymer and byproduct of the pulp and paper industry—holds considerable promise due to its abundance, biodegradability, and unique Nov 20, 2018 · What is it? A water soluble thickening agent that creates beautiful crystal clear gels without the tacky skin feel of other gums. Amigum: a non-ionized form of Amigel® that meets COSMOS standards for natural and organic cosmetics. ALTER-GELIJAC Gelling agent Description of the item A gelling agent allowing high viscosity, plant alternative to carbomer. In recent years, polymers have been widely used as gelling agents for semi-solid pharmaceutical products. Carbomers are synthetic ingredients that cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies use in products due to their suspending, emulsifying, and thickening properties. Jul 13, 2025 · Natural thickeners: Like xanthan gum, derived from plants or fermentation Synthetic thickeners: Like carbomer or acrylates, made in labs Both types do the same job. Jul 25, 2025 · The answer to whether carbomer can be used in natural skincare is complex: While carbomers are synthetic polymers, their role in creating stable and aesthetically pleasing natural formulations is sometimes considered acceptable by certain natural skincare brands and certifying bodies, albeit with stringent criteria. Carbomer is a synthetic high-molecular weight polymer of acrylic acid that helps to formulate low irritancy topical dosage forms, providing optimal aesthetics, feel, and drug penetration [28]. Nov 18, 2025 · Over 80% of personal care product formulators are exploring alternatives to synthetic polymers like carbomer due to the rise of the 'clean beauty' movement and environmental concerns regarding microplastics. . But when your skin is sensitive, how they do it matters. This post lists comedogenic ingredients and products containing those ingredients above a certain threshold. This is purely informational. fjsh jgrh xikp emgzhc hbvr pkrayb zoubh dou zowcy schyeu