Carbomer 940

Carbomer 940 is a high-efficiency synthetic polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products as a thickener, gelling agent, and stabilizer.
It forms clear, smooth gels and gives excellent viscosity even at low concentrations.

Key Functions

Thickening agent – produces very high viscosity at low usage levels.
Gelling agent – creates clear, stable gels when neutralized.
Stabilizer – helps emulsions (especially creams/lotions) stay uniform and stable.
Suspending agent – keeps insoluble ingredients evenly dispersed.

Common Uses

• Hand sanitizers
• Gels (face gel, hair gel, aloe gel, serums)
• Lotions and creams
• Eye gels
• Topical pharmaceutical gels (e.g., pain relief gels)
• Hydroalcoholic formulas

Usage Rate

Typically 0.1% – 1% depending on the desired thickness.
For very thick gels, up to 1.5%.

How to Use (Basic Method)

Disperse Carbomer 940 in water slowly while stirring to avoid clumping.
Allow it to fully hydrate (30–60 minutes).

Neutralize with a base to thicken:
eg.TEA (Triethanolamine)

After neutralization, the mixture thickens instantly into a gel.

Compatibility Notes

• Works best in pH 5.0 – 10.0 after neutralization.
• Not compatible with high levels of electrolytes (can cause thinning).
• Compatible with many alcohols—great for hand sanitizers.
• Avoid high shear mixing after neutralization (can reduce viscosity).