Carbomer

AKA: Thickener
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Clean
2-Propenoic acid, polymer with 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol 2-propenyl ether
CAS #
9007-20-9, 9003-01-4, 76050-42-5, 9062-04-8, 9007-16-3, 9007-17-4
Form
Powder
State
Solid
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Gel Forming
Viscosity Controlling
Stabilizes Emulsion
Controls Viscosity
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Keeps product blended
Creates gel consistency
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer (acrylic acid copolymer) developed in the mid-20th century for cosmetic formulations. Created to replace natural gums as a thickening and stabilizing agent with superior consistency control.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-2
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper
⚖️Regulatory1 listing
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR