Carbomer 990

Benefits:

• Thickening Agent:
  Efficiently thickens aqueous solutions, producing a smooth, gel-like texture ideal for serums, gels, and creams.

• Stabilizes Emulsions:
  Prevents separation of oil and water phases in lotions and creams, enhancing product stability and shelf life.

• Suspending Agent:
  Keeps ingredients like exfoliating beads, clays, or actives evenly dispersed in the formula without sinking or floating.

• Clear Gel Formation:
  Excellent for creating crystal-clear, high-clarity gels for products like aloe vera gel, eye gels, and hand sanitizers.

• Low Usage Rate:
  Delivers high viscosity and stability with low concentrations (0.1%–0.5%), making it cost-effective and efficient.

• pH Responsive:
  Its thickening ability is activated by pH adjustment, offering precise control over viscosity.

• Non-Comedogenic & Non-Irritating:
  Safe for use on sensitive or acne-prone skin when properly neutralized and formulated.

How to Use It:

Important: Carbomer 990 must be neutralized to activate its thickening properties.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Disperse the Powder:
   Slowly sprinkle Carbomer 990 into deionized or distilled water while stirring continuously (preferably using a high-shear mixer or a stick blender). Stirring too fast or dumping all at once may cause clumping or fish eyes.

2. Hydration Time:
   Allow the powder to fully hydrate for 30–60 minutes. The mixture may appear slightly cloudy at first.

3. Neutralize the pH:
   After complete hydration, add a neutralizing agent such as:

   • Triethanolamine (TEA)

   • Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)

   • Potassium Hydroxide (KOH)

   • Aminomethyl Propanol (AMP)

   Adjust until the pH is in the 5.5 to 7.5 range. The mixture will begin to gel and thicken almost immediately.

4. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   Once the gel base is prepared, you can blend in other water-compatible actives, humectants (like glycerin or panthenol), and preservatives.

Typical Usage Levels:

• 0.1% – 0.3% for light gels

• 0.3% – 0.5% for thicker gels or cream stabilization

Safety & Handling:

• Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, a mask, and safety glasses when handling the dry powder, as it can irritate eyes, skin, or lungs if inhaled.

• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place, tightly sealed and away from humidity and direct sunlight.

• Do Not Apply Undiluted: Never apply undispersed Carbomer powder to the skin—it must be fully hydrated and neutralized first.

• Not for Internal Use: Strictly for external use in cosmetics and personal care formulations.

• Formulation Compatibility: Works best in water-based systems. Avoid high concentrations of electrolytes or salts, which can destabilize the gel matrix.