Carbomer 940 for Manufacturing Crystal-Clear Gels and Advanced Cosmetic Formulations
Carbomer 940 is one of the most widely used synthetic polymeric gelling agents in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and personal care industries. It is valued for its exceptional thickening efficiency, ability to create crystal-clear gels and excellent rheological performance in water-based formulations. Within the Gelling Agents and Thickeners category, Carbomer 940 is a leading ingredient for the manufacture of premium skincare, hair care and personal care products requiring high viscosity and elegant texture.
According to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI), the ingredient is identified as Carbomer. It is a high molecular weight cross-linked acrylic acid polymer that develops viscosity after neutralization. Once properly hydrated and neutralized, Carbomer 940 forms smooth, transparent gels with excellent stability, making it suitable for a broad range of cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.
Carbomer 940 is widely used in moisturizing gels, facial serums, lightweight creams, emulsions, eye care products, aftershave gels, cleansing gels, hand sanitizing gels, styling gels, cooling gels, sunscreen products, facial masks, liquid soaps, cosmetic bases, SPA formulations, pharmaceutical topical preparations and many other water-based products requiring superior clarity and stable viscosity.
The polymer demonstrates excellent compatibility with Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, D-Panthenol, Allantoin, Niacinamide, botanical extracts, vitamins, hydrosols, preservatives, fragrances, silicones, surfactants and numerous cosmetic active ingredients. Proper neutralization is required to achieve maximum viscosity and optimal gel formation.
Carbomer 940 provides outstanding viscosity control, stabilizes suspensions and emulsions, prevents ingredient settling, improves product spreadability and creates smooth, elegant textures with excellent sensory properties. Even at relatively low concentrations, the polymer delivers highly efficient thickening performance while maintaining excellent transparency.
For best results, Carbomer 940 should be slowly dispersed into purified water under continuous mixing and allowed to hydrate completely. After hydration, the formulation is neutralized with Sodium Hydroxide, Triethanolamine, Arginine or another compatible neutralizing agent until the desired viscosity and pH are achieved.
The recommended usage level is typically 0.1-1.0%, depending on the required viscosity, formulation design and desired product consistency. The optimum concentration should be established during formulation development and stability testing.
Store Carbomer 940 in tightly sealed original packaging in a cool, dry environment away from moisture, direct sunlight and excessive heat. Proper storage helps preserve the polymer's performance and ensures consistent formulation quality.
Hydrating Gel Serum
Purified Water to 100 g
Carbomer 940 0.35 g
Glycerin 4 g
D-Panthenol 2 g
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.2 g
Preservative according to the manufacturer's recommendation
Sodium Hydroxide solution to pH 5.5-6.2
Disperse Carbomer 940 thoroughly in water and allow complete hydration. Add the remaining ingredients and neutralize gradually until a smooth, crystal-clear gel serum is obtained.
Clear Hand Gel
Purified Water to 100 g
Carbomer 940 0.5 g
Glycerin 3 g
Aloe Vera Extract 2 g
D-Panthenol 1.5 g
Preservative according to the manufacturer's recommendation
Neutralizer to pH 5.5-6.5
After complete hydration of Carbomer 940, incorporate the remaining ingredients while mixing continuously. Neutralize gradually until a stable, transparent gel with the desired viscosity is formed.