Sodium Carbomer
Sodium salt of carbomer – a pre-hydrolysed form of polyacrylic acid. Unlike Carbomer, it does not require alkali to thicken and works directly in neutral and acidic environments. Produces clear gels with a characteristic texture and is compatible with acidic actives (vitamin C, AHA/BHA).
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sodium Carbomer is the sodium salt of carbomer, a pre-hydrolyzed form of polyacrylic acid. Differs from regular Carbomer in that it does not require alkali addition to activate thickening – it works directly at neutral and acidic pH. Produces clear gels with a characteristic silky texture. Where applied. Gel serums and toners with vitamin C, AHA/BHA, retinol (0.2-1%), formulas with actives requiring acidic pH. Carbomer requires neutralization with NaOH or triethanolamine, which can conflict with acidic actives – sodium carbomer lacks this drawback. In Spain in The Ordinary, Sesderma, Bioderma in vitamin C formulas. Technological advantage. Compatible with actives at pH 3-5.5 (vitamin C, AHA, BHA, retinol). Gives gels the same silky texture as regular carbomer but without extra neutralization – the formula is simpler, more stable, cheaper to produce. Safety. CIR confirmed acrylate and cross-polymer safety (Final Report 2002, 2018 addendum). Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Polymer molecule does not penetrate intact skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A polymer thickener without systemic absorption. No restrictions in any product.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Carbomer safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Carbomer is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Carbomer for?
Sodium Carbomer suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Carbomer and what does it do in cosmetics?
Sodium salt of carbomer – a pre-hydrolysed form of polyacrylic acid.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Carbomer?
The INCI name is Sodium Carbomer. It may also appear as: Sodium Polyacrylate.
See Sodium Carbomer in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Carrageenan, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, VP/VA Copolymer, Red 17 (CI 26100), Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone
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