Carbomer SAT-250 ‘Short Flow’ – A Reliable Thickener for Cosmetics (INCI: Carbomer, CAS: 9003-01-4)
Source Wikipedia
Carbomer SAT-250 ‘Short Flow’ is a high-performance thickening agent widely used in the cosmetics industry. As an acrylic acid polymer it is favored for its excellent rheological properties, providing stability and viscosity control in various formulations. Compared to inorganic and cellulose-based thickeners such as silica and bentonite, carbomers offer superior thickening efficiency, making them a preferred choice in personal care and pharmaceutical applications.
INCI: Carbomer
CAS: 9003-01-4
Chemical Structure and Properties
Carbomer SAT-250 consists of high-molecular-weight polyacrylic acid polymers that are crosslinked with polyalkenyl polyether. When dispersed in water, it exhibits a naturally acidic pH of approximately 2.5. Upon neutralization with alkali hydroxides or amines, its carboxyl groups form salts, allowing the polymer to bind significant amounts of water. This unique characteristic enables the formulation of stable gels and emulsions, providing an optimal thickening effect within a pH range of 5 to 10.
Production and Safety Standards
The production of Carbomer SAT-250 involves free-radical polymerization of acrylic acid using peroxides or other radical initiators. Unlike conventional carbomers that may contain residual aromatic hydrocarbons, Satcotek ensures that its Carbomer SAT-250 is produced without the use of benzene or other harmful solvents. This commitment to safety aligns with the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel’s 2011 assessment, which confirmed that crosslinked acrylic polymers are safe for cosmetic applications when free from toxic residues.
INCI: Carbomer
CAS: 9003-01-4
Versatile Applications in Cosmetics
Carbomer SAT-250 is widely utilized in skincare, haircare, and pharmaceutical formulations. It enhances the stability of emulsions, improves the texture of creams and lotions, and provides superior clarity in transparent gels. With its ability to tolerate surfactants and electrolytes better than conventional polyacrylic acid thickeners, Carbomer SAT-250 is an excellent choice for modern cosmetic formulations requiring optimal consistency, spreadability, and long-term stability.
INCI: Carbomer
CAS: 9003-01-4