Ingredient

Carbomer

Neutral in 12

What is Carbomer?

Carbomer refers to a series of synthetic high molecular weight polymers made from acrylic acid. These are commonly used as thickening agents in various cosmetic and personal care products.

Carbomers are primarily used to stabilize and thicken formulations, providing a desired smooth texture. They are found in a range of products like skin care creams, lotions, and gels, as well as toothpaste and hand sanitizers due to their ability to maintain consistency and spreadability.

While generally considered safe when used appropriately, carbomers can sometimes cause mild irritation in sensitive skin types. It's important to note that they are not absorbed by the skin, and their safety has been broadly recognized by various regulatory bodies.

Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Skin Care, Toothpaste, Whitening, Hand Sanitizer

What to watch

May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps to stabilize and thicken cosmetic products, improving texture and application.

FDA

Carbomers are recognized as safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products by the FDA.

Research

Research generally supports the safety of carbomers, although some cases of mild irritation have been noted.

Vegan

Carbomers are synthetic and do not contain animal-derived ingredients, making them suitable for vegan products.

Sources: Cosmetic Ingredient Review Safety Assessment

Scout's take

Synthetic polymer used as a thickener/gel-former. Inert and not absorbed through skin.

The case against

There are minimal risks associated with Carbomer, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 · echoed in 1 other analysis

There are minimal risks associated with carbomer in cosmetics.

from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )

The case for

It enhances the texture and stability of the product, improving user experience.

from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Carbomer helps to maintain the structure and consistency of the lotion.

from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian Vanilla

It helps to improve product texture and stability.

from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )

More from Scout's analyses

Carbomer is a synthetic polymer used to thicken and stabilize cosmetic formulations. It helps create a smooth and gel-like texture. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics and skincare products.

from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Carbomer is a thickening agent used to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It helps to create a smooth and consistent product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )

Carbomer is a synthetic polymer used as a thickening agent. It is safe for use in oral products, although it does not provide any direct benefits to teeth whitening.

from the analysis of berlix Whitening Strips Coconut Oil