Carbopol is a commercial name for poly (acrylic acid) and belongs to carbomer that are polymers of acrylic acid cross-linked with polyalkenyl ethers or divinyl glycol. Carbomer Carbopol products are thickening agents that help control the viscosity and flow of fluid products. They also help distribute and suspend insoluble solids into liquid, and prevent the oil and liquid parts of a solution from separating. They have the ability to absorb and retain water, and can swell up to more than 1000 times their original volume when dispersed in water.  Generally, this class of ingredients is used in gel-like formulations because it forms a colloidal, mucilage-like consistency when mixed in water.

On a cosmetic  and pharmaceutical products ingredient list, the name carbomer is sometimes associated with a number such as carbomer Carbopol 940, 980, 981, 941, 934, 956, 974, 676. These numbers simply represent the specific molecular weight and compositions of the polymer. This ingredient is contained in a wide range of personal care & pharmaceutical products such as styling gel, facial moisturizer, sunscreen, shampoo, anti-aging treatment, eye cream, cleanser and scrubs. pharmaceutical gels & ointment. Tooth paste.