Carbomer

Carbomer is a high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid (2-propenoic acid) used widely in cosmetic formulations. It functions primarily as a viscosity controller, gel-forming agent, and emulsion stabilizer. It typically requires neutralization with a base such as sodium hydroxide to activate its thickening properties, producing clear, non-tacky gels. It is generally used at 1% or less in most formulations.