Carbomer
Carbomer
Also known as: Polyacrylic Acid · Carbopol · Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Thickener
“The ingredient that turns watery serums into satisfying gels.”
What it does
Carbomer is a synthetic polymer derived from acrylic acid, used primarily as a thickening and gelling agent. It gives products a gel-like texture without adding much to the actual skin benefit. It is not absorbed into the skin and is considered inert and safe at cosmetic use levels.
Benefits
- Creates gel textures in serums and moisturisers
- Helps suspend other active ingredients evenly
- Stable across a wide pH range
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
All skin
Heads up
- ⚠Inert — provides no direct skin benefit
How to use
Used as a base/texture ingredient. No special application needed.
Typical concentration: 0.1–2% in gels and serums