Carbomer 940 for Crystal-Clear Gels and Professional Cosmetic Formulations
Carbomer 940 is a high-performance synthetic polymer widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, personal care and industrial formulations as a gelling agent, thickener and viscosity modifier. Its exceptional ability to produce crystal-clear, stable gels has made it one of the industry's preferred rheology modifiers for premium cosmetic products. Within the Gelling Agents and Thickeners category, Carbomer 940 is extensively used in the manufacture of transparent gels, serums, lotions and advanced skincare formulations.
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 designed to build viscosity and create highly transparent gel systems after neutralization. The polymer provides excellent suspension properties, enhances product consistency and contributes to long-term formulation stability.
Carbomer 940 is widely incorporated into facial gels, moisturizing serums, anti-aging treatments, aftershave gels, hand sanitizing gels, eye care products, hair styling gels, facial cleansers, body care products, aloe gels, cooling gels, cosmetic emulsions, SPA products, transparent cosmetic bases, pharmaceutical topical gels and many other water-based formulations requiring high clarity and elegant texture.
The ingredient is compatible with Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, D-Panthenol, Allantoin, Niacinamide, botanical extracts, vitamins, hydrosols, preservatives, fragrances, surfactants, silicones and numerous cosmetic active ingredients. To develop its characteristic gel structure, Carbomer 940 requires neutralization with a suitable alkaline agent.
Carbomer 940 provides excellent viscosity control, forms smooth crystal-clear gels, improves product spreadability, minimizes phase separation and enhances the overall appearance and sensory profile of cosmetic formulations. Because of its high efficiency, only a small amount is required to achieve significant thickening performance.
The polymer should be slowly dispersed into purified water until completely hydrated. After hydration, the formulation is neutralized using Sodium Hydroxide, Triethanolamine, Arginine or another suitable neutralizing agent to obtain the desired viscosity and transparency.
The recommended usage level is generally 0.1-1.0%, depending on the desired gel viscosity and formulation requirements. The optimal concentration should be determined during formulation development and stability evaluation.
Store Carbomer 940 in tightly sealed original packaging in a cool, dry environment protected from moisture, direct sunlight and excessive heat. Proper storage conditions help preserve the polymer's performance and ensure consistent product quality.
Hydrating Clear Gel
Purified Water to 100 g
Carbomer 940 0.4 g
Glycerin 4 g
D-Panthenol 2 g
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.2 g
Preservative according to the manufacturer's recommendation
Sodium Hydroxide solution or another suitable neutralizer to pH 5.5-6.5
Disperse Carbomer 940 thoroughly in water and allow complete hydration. Add the remaining ingredients, then neutralize gradually until a clear, homogeneous gel with the desired viscosity is obtained.
Refreshing Aftershave Gel
Purified Water to 100 g
Carbomer 940 0.5 g
Glycerin 3 g
D-Panthenol 2 g
Aloe Vera Extract 2 g
Allantoin 0.3 g
Preservative according to the manufacturer's recommendation
Neutralizer to pH 5.5-6.2
Hydrate Carbomer 940 completely, incorporate the remaining ingredients and slowly neutralize while mixing continuously until a smooth, crystal-clear gel is formed.