Sodium Carbomer 941
What is Sodium Carbomer 941?
Sodium Carbomer 941 is the sodium salt of Carbomer 941, a high molecular weight cross-linked polyacrylate polymer used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and suspending agent in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It swells in water to form clear, viscous gels and is particularly effective in electrolyte-containing systems, providing enhanced stability and texture in products like moisturizers, serums, and cleansers. This ingredient is easy to disperse and process, making it popular in water-based formulations for achieving desired viscosities without compromising clarity.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Gel forming
Builds a gel network to increase viscosity and structure, improving suspension, spread, and stability in serums, gels, and some emulsions.
Suspending agent
Keeps insoluble particles (pigments, beads, actives) evenly dispersed by increasing viscosity or forming a network, preventing settling and separation.
Binding
Provides cohesion by helping ingredients stick together, improving the strength and integrity of pressed powders, tablets, or solid bars.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.