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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

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Ingredient
Carbomer 940

Carbomer 940

Summary

Carbomer 940 is a highly versatile cosmetic ingredient that is widely used in the formulation of various personal care products. It is a synthetic polymer that is known for its excellent thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties. Carbomer 940 is particularly effective in creating clear gels and providing a smooth, silky texture to creams and lotions. It is also used as a suspending agent and a viscosity enhancer in a wide range of cosmetic formulations. With its exceptional performance and compatibility with other ingredients, Carbomer 940 is a popular choice for formulators looking to create high-quality, effective, and aesthetically pleasing personal care products.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Carbomer 940 Common Terms: Carbomer, Polyacrylic acid, Acrylic acid polymer Nicknames: None

Function

Carbomer 940 is a thickening agent and emulsifier commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to create a smooth and consistent texture in products such as lotions, creams, and gels. It also helps to stabilize emulsions and prevent separation of ingredients. Additionally, carbomer 940 can improve the spreadability and viscosity of products, making them easier to apply and more effective.

Science

Carbomer 940 is a high molecular weight polymer that is commonly used as a thickening agent in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. It is a cross-linked acrylic acid polymer that is highly hydrophilic, meaning it has a strong affinity for water. When added to a liquid, Carbomer 940 swells and forms a gel-like consistency due to its ability to absorb large amounts of water. This property allows it to increase the viscosity and stability of formulations, making it an effective ingredient in products such as creams, lotions, and gels. Additionally, Carbomer 940 can also act as a suspending agent, helping to keep particles evenly distributed throughout a product.

Benefits

Carbomer 940 is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its ability to thicken and stabilize formulations. It can also help to improve the texture and spreadability of products. While it does not have any direct skincare benefits, its presence in a product can enhance the overall effectiveness of other active ingredients.

Negatives

Carbomer 940 is a commonly used ingredient in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be considered. One of the most common side effects of carbomer 940 is skin irritation. This can manifest as redness, itching, or a rash. In some cases, prolonged exposure to carbomer 940 can lead to more severe skin reactions, such as blistering or peeling. Individuals with sensitive skin may be more prone to experiencing these side effects. It is important to patch test any product containing carbomer 940 before using it on a larger area of skin. Carbomer 940 may also interact with other ingredients in a product. For example, it can react with certain preservatives or emulsifiers, leading to a breakdown of the product or a change in its texture or consistency. In addition, carbomer 940 may be less effective in products with a high pH level. This can limit its ability to thicken or stabilize a product. Overall, carbomer 940 is a safe and effective ingredient when used properly. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions when formulating products containing this ingredient.

Source

Carbomer 940 is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from acrylic acid. It is commonly used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries as a thickening agent and emulsifier. The processing pathway for Carbomer 940 involves the polymerization of acrylic acid to form polyacrylic acid, which is then cross-linked with a polyalkenyl polyether to create the final product. The resulting carbomer is a white, fluffy powder that is soluble in water and alcohol. Carbomer 940 is not found naturally and is only produced through chemical synthesis.

Safety

Carbomer 940 has a low safety rating score according to the EWG Skin Deep database. It has been rated as a moderate hazard due to concerns over skin irritation and potential for organ system toxicity. However, it is important to note that the safety of Carbomer 940 may vary depending on the concentration and intended use in a product. Other sources such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel have deemed Carbomer 940 safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%. Overall, it is recommended to use products containing Carbomer 940 in moderation and to consult with a healthcare professional if any concerns arise.

Sustainability

Carbomer 940 is a synthetic polymer that is commonly used as a thickening agent in cosmetic and personal care products. While it is not derived from natural sources, it is generally considered to have a low environmental impact due to its biodegradability and low toxicity. However, the production of carbomer 940 does require the use of petrochemicals, which are non-renewable resources. Additionally, the manufacturing process can generate waste and emissions that contribute to air and water pollution. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, carbomer 940 is typically produced by large chemical companies that have established environmental and safety protocols. However, it is important for companies to ensure that their suppliers are adhering to these standards and that workers involved in the production of carbomer 940 are treated fairly and paid a living wage. Overall, while carbomer 940 may not have a significant environmental impact, it is important for companies to consider the sustainability and ethical implications of all ingredients used in their products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Carbomer 940 is a versatile ingredient commonly used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier. Its scientific properties allow it to absorb and retain water, making it an effective ingredient in moisturizing products. While it has many benefits, such as improving the texture and consistency of products, it can also have negative effects if used in high concentrations, such as skin irritation. Carbomer 940 can be sourced from various suppliers and is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. However, its sustainability is a concern as it is a synthetic polymer that is not biodegradable. Overall, Carbomer 940 is a useful ingredient that should be used in moderation and with consideration for its environmental impact.

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