Carbomer
Also known as Polyacrylic acid, Cross-linked polyacrylic acid, Carboxyvinyl polymer, Carbopol (trade name), Carbomer-934, Carbomer-940, Carbomer-941
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
Carbomer is the INCI name for a family of high-molecular-weight, cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymers (grades include Carbomer-910, -934, -934P, -940, -941, -962, -980) used as rheology modifiers, thickeners, and suspending agents in cosmetic gels, creams, and lotions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel originally assessed Carbomer-934, -934P, -940, and -941 in 1982 (J Am Coll Toxicol 1(2):109-41) and reaffirmed the safety conclusion without reopening the assessment in November 2002 (republished Int J Toxicol 22(Suppl 1):1-35, 2003), concluding that these carbomers are safe for use in cosmetics. No concentration limits or use conditions are imposed in the QRT row. Carbomers are macromolecules (MW approximately 1-4 million Daltons) that do not penetrate intact skin.
Rheology modifier and thickener providing stable gel consistency across broad pH ranges when neutralized with a base
High molecular weight prevents skin penetration; systemic exposure is effectively zero at topical use
CIR Expert Panel concluded safe for use in cosmetics:109-41, 1982; reaffirmed 2002)
CIR Quick Reference Table (12/2017, revised 07/2018) - Carbomer-934, -934P, -940, -941 row: Finding 'S' (Safe), Citation 'JACT 1(2):109-4…
“Carbomer-934, -934P, -940, -941 | S | [no detail column entry] | JACT 1(2):109-41, 1982 confirmed 11/02; IJT 22(S1):1-35, 2003”— QRT-122017revised072018.pdf, p. 21