Low ConcernVegan

Carbomer

Polyacrylic acid crosslinked polymer

Safety Notes

Requires neutralisation to activate; not natural; not COSMOS; well tolerated in finished formulas

Function & Common Use

Function

Viscosity controlling / Gelling

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Carbomer safe to use in skincare?

Carbomer has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Requires neutralisation to activate; not natural; not COSMOS; well tolerated in finished formulas

Is Carbomer allowed in India?

Carbomer is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Carbomer used for in cosmetics?

Carbomer functions as: Viscosity controlling / Gelling. It is commonly found in: Gels, serums, moisturisers, sunscreens.

TCS Assessment

Low Concern

Data Confidence

High

Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)

Permitted

US FDA

Permitted

Korea (MFDS)

Permitted

Australia (TGA)

Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made

Canada (NHPID)

Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS9003-01-4

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