Oregon Esthetician State Board

Which component can improve a product's texture and viscosity?

1. Colorant

2. Carbomer

3. Surfactant

4. Preservative

The correct answer is: Carbomer

Carbomer is a type of polymer that is widely used in cosmetic formulations to enhance texture and viscosity. When dispersed in a liquid, carbomers swell and create a gel-like consistency, which can significantly improve the feel and application of a product. This helps to create a smooth, even product that feels luxurious on the skin, enabling formulations to maintain their stability and performance over time. In contrast, colorants are primarily used to add color to products but do not directly contribute to texture or viscosity. Surfactants are mainly used for their ability to cleanse and create lather in products, while preservatives are essential for extending the shelf life of products by preventing microbial growth, again without affecting the product's textural qualities. Thus, the unique properties of carbomer make it the ideal component when the goal is to modify a product’s texture and viscosity effectively.