Sodium Carbomer
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Carbomer
A blend of sodium (salt) and the gelling agent carbomer | Used as a stabiliser and film-forming agent
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Carbomer?
Sodium carbomer is a blend of sodium (salt) and carbomer. Carbomer is a texture enhancer primarily used to create clear gel-like formulations. Sodium carbomer functions as a stabilizer and film-forming agent in skin care products.
According to one supplier, sodium carbomer is advantageous because it does not require an alkaline catalyst to be added to its formulation to thicken it (many other carbomers are acidic, whereas sodium carbomer has a neutral pH).
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled carbomers are safe as used in cosmetics, where its typical usage level is 0.2–0.5%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Frontiers in Pharmacology, February 2021, Volume 11 [URL]
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https://thedermreview.com/carbomer/ [URL]
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https://lotioncrafter.com/products/sodium-carbomer-preneutralized-carbomer [URL]
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International Journal of Pharmaceutics, May 2004, Volume 276, Issues 1-2, pages 59-66 [URL]
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International Journal of Toxicology, January 1990 [URL]
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