What is Carbomer? Uses of Carbomer in cosmetics

Carbomers often appear in cosmetic products such as: Gels, moisturizers, sunscreens, shampoos, cleansers, … with a benefit that few people know. Do you know what Carbomer is and what uses it has in cosmetics? If not, follow this article for more information!

What is Carbomer?

Carbomer is the trade name for polyacrylic acid (PAA) with the chemical formula (CH2-CHCO2H)n , which is essentially a high molecular weight synthetic polymer of acrylic acid.

Carbomer polymers are chemically similar but differ in molecular weight and viscosity. Normally they exist in the form of fine white powder, odorless, tasteless.

Chemical Formula of Carbomer

If you come across the codes: 910, 934, 940, 941 and 934P on the cosmetic ingredient list it is Carbomer, the numbers are information about the molecular weight and specific components of the polymer.

The smaller the molecular weight, the better it can penetrate the skin . Carbomer has a mechanism to hydrate, fill and bind ingredients in cosmetics. Besides, this mechanism of hydration also helps to better retain moisture in the skin.

Uses of Carbomer in cosmetics

Creates adhesion, thickening, emulsifying and stabilizing in cosmetic formulations

When these substances are added to water at neutral pH, they will absorb, retain water, and swell to many times their original volume . Therefore, Carbomer is often used in cosmetics for the purpose as a texture enhancer, thickener for cosmetics .

In addition, Carbomers are used to stabilize emulsions, control viscosity, remove insoluble solids from liquids , thereby preventing the oil and liquid components of the solution from separating . Ensure consistency for products such as: Gel, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, …

Carbomers create adhesion, thickening, emulsifying and stabilizing cosmetic formulations

Preventing acne

Carbomer when in contact with the skin will not feel dry, tight, heavy or clogged pores and Carbomer can also tighten pores.

With a small molecular structure, easy to penetrate deep into the skin , Carbomer can push excess oil from the skin, limiting the formation of acne.

Create shine, healthy skin

Carbomer, when used , penetrates quickly into the skin, does not cause greasiness or creates a film on the skin , although it is used to create moisture and adhesion for cosmetics. This substance is also suitable for dry skin by providing moisture, giving skin a more shiny appearance.

Carbomer creates shine, healthy skin

Anti-Bacterial Ability

Carbomer is a substance with high antibacterial ability, preventing the growth of mold, bacteria or the penetration of dirt that causes acne on the skin.

As a result, when using cosmetics containing Carbomer, it will help improve the condition of inflammatory acne, pustules and acne will dry faster than usual, effectively reducing acne for the skin.

Prevents UV rays from damaging the skin

Carbomer is often used in sunscreen as a substance to help the skin avoid harmful effects from ultraviolet rays as well as take care of the skin . Accordingly, when meeting water, Carbomer will create substances that resist harmful ultraviolet rays to the skin, effectively protecting the skin.

Carbomer prevents ultraviolet rays from damaging the skin

Acts as a preservative

Besides the above uses, under normal conditions, Carbomer in cosmetics also acts as a preservative without causing irritation and sensitization to the skin, so it is safe and effective.

But be careful when using Carbomer

Although Carbomer has certain benefits for the skin, is also considered a safe ingredient in cosmetics and care products, but you also need to keep a few things in mind during use:

• Do not combine Carbomer with products containing vitamin C or acids with high concentrations .
• Should choose products of clear origin , avoid buying fake goods, which are dangerous to the skin when used.
• If you want to process cosmetics using Carbomer, you need to find a source to ensure quality of production materials.
• Carbomer is a UV sensitive substance so you need to use dark packaging or add UV absorbers to the product.

Some notes when using Carbomer

Above is the information that Tnhelearning.edu.vn summarizes about what Carbomer is, as well as the use of Carbomer in cosmetics today for your reference.

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