Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates by efficiently absorbing and retaining substantial volumes of water, leading to significant swelling and the formation of a stable, viscous gel. When applied to the skin, TEA-Carbomer establishes a thin, protective barrier that actively reduces transepidermal water loss, thereby enhancing skin hydration and moisturization. Additionally, its properties facilitate the uniform distribution and improved absorption of other active ingredients within cosmetic products.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Carbomer gels at concentrations of 0.3-0.4% demonstrated efficacy and safety in improving symptoms of moderate-to-severe dry eye syndrome, suggesting its potential for hydrating film-forming benefits in related applications.
- 02 For optimal skin feel in cosmetic products, carbomer concentration should be controlled to be less than 0.8% to prevent the formation of an undesirable film.
- 03 Human studies indicate a low potential risk of sensitization and skin irritation when carbomer is used at concentrations up to 1%.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Carbomer solutions are naturally acidic (pH 2-3) and require neutralization with a base like Triethanolamine (TEA) to a pH greater than 6.0, ideally around neutral (e.g., pH 7.0), to achieve a stable gel structure and desired viscosity. Clear gels containing carbomer can permanently lose viscosity if exposed to high temperatures and direct sunlight, especially when packaged in clear containers.
Synergies
- Triethanolamine (TEA) is crucial for neutralizing carbomer to the optimal pH range, ensuring proper gel formation, rheological properties, and solution homogeneity. Concentrations of 500-700 ppm TEA are noted to prevent fungal growth when used as a neutralizer.
- EDTA can be incorporated as a stabilizer to mitigate the viscosity-reducing effects of various metal ions.
Conflicts
- Quaternary amine salts can lead to product precipitation.
- Strong electrolytes can significantly reduce product viscosity.
- Metal ions may decrease viscosity, though EDTA can be used to stabilize against this.
- The addition of PVP or proteins after TEA neutralization can adversely affect gel clarity. It is recommended to neutralize the carbomer dispersion prior to adding these ingredients, or to combine TEA with PVP/protein initially.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel found carbomers to possess a low potential risk of sensitization and skin irritation at concentrations up to 1% in human studies. However, benzene is identified as an impurity, and its concentration should be minimized in raw materials. As a salt of triethanolamine, TEA-Carbomer carries a potential concern for nitrosamine formation if the triethanolamine component interacts with nitrosating agents, a risk that is typically managed through strict raw material purity and manufacturing process controls. While carbomer itself generally has a low irritation profile, the Triethanolamine (TEA) component can cause allergic reactions and eye irritation in susceptible individuals.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
TEA-Carbomer is a valuable ingredient for optimizing product texture and stability while offering film-forming hydration benefits, though careful consideration of its TEA component's potential for sensitivity in susceptible individuals is advised.
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References
Sources