Carbomer 940

Carbomer is a synthetic polymer used in cosmetic formulations to create clear gels and control viscosity.

What is Carbomer 940 & why is it used?

Carbomer is used to thicken and stabilise formulations and to create clear gel systems.

QUALITY MATTERS

Why specification quality matters

High-purity cosmetic grade carbomer 940 with strong viscosity performance and low residual
solvent content, supporting consistent formulation results.

Solubility Water dispersible

Primary function Thickener

Use level 0.1–0.5%

Behaviour in formulations

Carbomer swells in water and forms a gel network when neutralised, increasing viscosity.

Sensory notes

Carbomer creates smooth, clean, non-stringy gels with a more refined sensory profile compared to natural gums. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.

Formulation considerations

PROCESSING

Disperse in water phase, then neutralise (e.g. NaOH or TEA) to activate thickening.

COMPATIBILITY

Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
Sensitive to electrolytes at high levels
Works well in controlled systems

pH

Requires neutralisation (typically pH ~5.5–7) to develop viscosity.

FORMULATION EXAMPLES

Clear gel serum

Carbomer: 0.2–0.3%
Neutraliser: as required
Humectants and actives

Gel cream

Carbomer: 0.1–0.2%
Emulsion system
Water phase

Use level considerations

Recommended range 0.1–0.5%

Suggested starting level 0.2–0.3% for most cosmetic formulations%

Typically used at 0.1–0.5% depending on desired viscosity.

Formulation summary

Carbomer is a high-performance thickener used to create stable, clear gel systems.

Quality notes

High-purity cosmetic grade carbomer 940 with strong viscosity performance and low residual
solvent content, supporting consistent formulation results.