New Carbopol polymer released to modify cleansing formulations

The effective use of natural food grade preservatives, such as sodium benzoate, requires a pH level near 5.0, which sacrifices formulation clarity and flow properties when using currently available rheology modifiers.

The new polymer is designed for high clarity surfactant cleansing formulations at low pH (range 4 to 6) while also providing efficient flow control, viscosity build and suspension of eye-catching insoluble ingredients, according to the chemical company.

Noveon Consumer Specialties claim formulators can now display colorful beads, sparkling pearls and exfoliating scrubs while also achieving claims of “paraben-free,” “formaldehyde-free,” “preservative-free” and even “skin neutral pH”.

The Carbopol Aqua SF-2 polymer can be used in a variety of formulations, including clear bath gels, shampoos and cleansers, anti-acne facial cleansers with salicylic acid and body scrubs with suspended microcapsules.