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HYDROXYPROPYL ETHYLENEDIAMINE CARBOMER.

Valuable / VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

HYDROXYPROPYL ETHYLENEDIAMINE CARBOMER is a synthetic polymer primarily utilized as a versatile rheology modifier. It functions to thicken, stabilize emulsions, and form gels, ensuring optimal product texture and consistency. Beyond its textural contributions, it helps enhance skin hydration by forming a protective, water-retaining barrier.

Summary

emulsion stabilising gel forming viscosity controlling thickening agent moisturizing texture enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a hydrophilic polymer, HYDROXYPROPYL ETHYLENEDIAMINE CARBOMER works by absorbing water molecules and swelling to create a gel-like structure, significantly increasing product viscosity. This thickening action is typically activated by neutralization with a base, which causes the polymer particles to expand due to charge repulsion. On the skin, its water-retaining properties contribute to moisturization by helping to prevent transepidermal water loss and establishing a subtle protective film on the surface. It also serves as an effective emulsifier, preventing the separation of oil and water components within formulations, ensuring product stability and uniform application.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–3%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A carbomer gel was effective in treating dry eyes, demonstrating longer precorneal residence time and greater efficacy than 1% carboxymethyl cellulose.
  2. 02 Increasing carbomer concentration facilitated drug passage through the eye tissue barrier and prevented presystemic elimination.
  3. 03 1% Carbopol hydrogels demonstrated potential as carriers for topical photodynamic therapy.
  4. 04 Carbomer 940 hydrogel, a non-toxic biomaterial, improved tissue perfusion and decreased the area of necrotic tissue in burn wounds in an in vivo rat study.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Carbomer dispersions are inherently acidic, typically around pH 3. For optimal gelation, thickening, and stability, neutralization with an alkaline agent (e.g., sodium hydroxide, triethanolamine) is essential, elevating the pH into the 5.0 to 10.0 range. This neutralization triggers polymer swelling through charge repulsion, leading to a dramatic increase in viscosity and the desired gel integrity.

Conflicts

  • Salts can reduce product viscosity by interfering with charge repulsion.
  • Alkaline earth metal ions and certain other polymers may react with carbomer to form insoluble precipitates.
  • Strong acids will lead to a loss of the ingredient's viscosity.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
50%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed acrylates copolymers, including Carbomer, safe for cosmetic use when formulated to prevent irritation. It is generally recognized as non-toxic and non-irritating, with a low risk even if accidentally ingested.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

HYDROXYPROPYL ETHYLENEDIAMINE CARBOMER is a valuable ingredient for its essential role in achieving optimal product texture, stability, and contributing to skin hydration with excellent safety and broad compatibility.

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