Carbomer

AKA: Thickener
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginProduced from acrylic acid monomers, a petrochemical compound derived from propylene or natural gas feedstocks. Synthesized through free-radical polymerization, cross-linking acrylic acid monomers to create high-molecular-weight polymer chains.
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
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
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.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
10 studies / 10 not sensitizing (CIR 244)
Not Phototoxic
Product formulation test found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 244 and 763)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
7 studies / 5 irritating / 2 mixed / reactions minimal to moderate (CIR 244 and 763)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
14 studies / 5 irritating / 2 mixed / 7 not irritating / reactions minimal to mild (CIR 244 and 763)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.0012–15%
Rinse-off0.00001–2.5%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2018 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR