What is the primary function of a carbomer?

The primary function of a carbomer is to act as an emulsifier, specifically used as a thickening agent. Carbomers are a group of synthetic polymers derived from acrylic acid that are commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products. They help to stabilize emulsions, allowing oil and water phases to blend together smoothly, which is essential for the proper texture and consistency of many topical formulations. By thickening the product, carbomers also improve the viscosity and aid in the formulation's stability, ensuring an even application on the skin. This functionality makes them invaluable in a variety of formulations, from creams and lotions to gels.