Carbomer — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: CARBOMER
Also known as: Carbopol
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 9003-01-4
- Category
- thickener
- Risk Level
- low
- Common Allergen
- No
- Found In
- gel, cream, serum
Is Carbomer safe in cosmetics?
Carbomer is rated low risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types. Commonly found in gel, cream, serum.
What is Carbomer?
Carbomer is a thickener commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.
Allergy & Safety Information
Carbomer is considered safe for cosmetic use. No significant safety concerns have been identified at typical use concentrations. As with any cosmetic ingredient, discontinue use if irritation occurs.
This ingredient is considered low risk from an allergenicity perspective. Reactions are uncommon at typical cosmetic use concentrations. However, no ingredient is universally safe — if you notice redness, itching, or irritation after using a product containing this ingredient, discontinue use and monitor whether symptoms resolve.
How to Identify Carbomer in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Carbomer, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Gel, Cream, Serum. These product categories are the most common sources of Carbomer exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain Carbomer? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Carbomer and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carbomer safe for sensitive skin?
Carbomer is generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin types.
What products contain Carbomer?
Carbomer is commonly found in gel, cream, serum.
What does Carbomer do in cosmetics?
Carbomer functions as a thickener in formulations.
Related Guides
Is Carbomer causing YOUR skin reactions?
SkinDetekt tracks your products and reactions to find your personal triggers. Download the app to find out.
Download on App Store