Carbomer 940 is a type of synthetic polymer commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and stabilizer. It’s a member of the Carbomer family, which is derived from acrylic acid. Here’s more about its use and benefits in cosmetics:
Key Properties of Carbomer 940:
- Thickening Agent: Carbomer 940 is often used to increase the viscosity of formulations, giving products a gel-like consistency. It is commonly found in creams, gels, lotions, and other similar products.
- Stabilizer: It helps to stabilize emulsions by preventing the separation of ingredients (like oil and water), ensuring that the product remains uniform over time.
- Texture Improvement: Carbomer 940 provides a smooth, non-greasy feel in products, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
- Effective in Formulations with High Water Content: It works particularly well in formulations that contain a high percentage of water, making it popular in moisturizers, serums, and cleansing gels.
Benefits in Cosmetics:
- Enhanced Product Consistency: Carbomer 940 improves the texture and viscosity of formulations, ensuring a pleasant user experience.
- Supports Product Performance: By stabilizing emulsions and suspensions, it helps to maintain the efficacy of active ingredients.
- Low Irritation: It is generally considered safe and non-irritating when used at the proper concentrations (usually up to 1% in formulations).
- Versatile: It can be used in a wide range of cosmetic products such as sunscreens, hair care products, and even makeup.
Use in Formulations:
- Gels and Creams: Commonly found in gel-based products, such as facial gels and hair styling gels.
- Lotions: Often used in lotions for a smooth, thick consistency without making the product greasy.
- Hair Care Products: Used in conditioners and shampoos for its stabilizing properties.
Usage Instructions:
- Neutralization: Carbomer 940 is typically neutralized with a base, such as triethanolamine (TEA) or sodium hydroxide, to activate its thickening properties. Once neutralized, it forms a gel-like structure.
- Viscosity Control: The amount of Carbomer used in a formulation determines the final viscosity, so formulators can adjust this depending on the desired texture.
It’s an ingredient that’s considered quite safe in cosmetic formulations, though people with very sensitive skin should still do a patch test to ensure compatibility.