What it is: Carbomer is a synthetic polymer created by cross-linking acrylic acid molecules, resulting in a white, fluffy powder that acts as a thickener and stabilizer.
What it does: Carbomer helps maintain a uniform texture by keeping other ingredients evenly suspended in liquids, preventing separation and settling.
How it is used: It is commonly used to improve mixability and consistency in powdered drink mixes, liquid suspensions, and gel-based supplement formats.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Carbomer is not found in nature; it is manufactured through chemical synthesis and appears in supplements as a highly purified processed excipient.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Its stabilizing and thickening abilities enhance product texture, ensure even ingredient distribution, and prevent clumping during storage or use.
What to know before use: Carbomer is generally well-tolerated in small amounts, but people sensitive to synthetic or processed additives may wish to monitor intake.
Ingredient guide
