Considerations

• Contamination Concerns Carbomer can have a varying pH that must be neutralized in order for it to do its job of thickening. A formula containing carbomer will sometimes have these neutralizing agents listed, including triethanolamine (TEA), sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, tetrasodium EDTA, and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate. Other times, companies will buy pre-neutralized carbomer, which may or may not list the neutralizing agent. Recent news stories have also identified carbomer to be contaminated with high levels of benzene, a carcinogen. Carbomer may also be contaminated with acrylic acid and heavy metals. • Suspected Carcinogen According to the National Library of Medicine, carbomer is classified as GHS H350 May cause cancer and H340 May cause genetic defects. Further studies were not found on the topic to confirm this classification. • Skin Irritation Can be a skin irritant, especially at high concentrations. • Eye Irritation Can be a serious eye irritant if exposed to at full strength. • Respiratory Irritant May cause respiratory distress if the powder is inhaled. • Toxic to Aquatic Life Carbomer is considered an environmental hazard