Sodium Carbomer
AKA “Carbomer Sodium Salt, Polymer Thickener
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Sodium carbomer
AKA: Carbomer Sodium Salt, Polymer Thickener
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
A natural-origin thickener that creates a smooth, lightweight gel texture while keeping all ingredients evenly blended throughout the formula.
CAS #
73298-57-4
See origin →
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Gel Forming
Viscosity Controlling
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a synthetic polymer crosslinked acrylic acid. Created as a versatile thickening and stabilizing agent to replace natural gums in modern cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR