Products with Carbomer

Carbomer is the gelling polymer that gives a serum its cushiony body without adding any oil.

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How gels get their texture

Carbomer is a polymer that swells dramatically once it is neutralised, turning a thin watery mixture into something with structure. That is what lets a hydrating gel feel substantial while staying oil-free, and it also keeps pigments and actives evenly suspended instead of settling at the bottom of the bottle.

Cleansers and lightweight treatments are where it shows up most, including Revision Skincare Papaya Enzyme Cleanser, Gentle Cleansing Lotion and Soothing Facial Rinse, alongside DEJ Face Cream and Obagi Hydrate Luxe.

Why does a gel sometimes pill on the skin?

Polymers like carbomer are usually the culprit. When a gel layer goes on over a silicone-rich product, or gets rubbed before it has set, the film can roll up. Applying thin layers and letting each absorb before the next generally solves it.

How to shop at ELLEMES

ELLEMES is an authorized retailer for the brands on this page, and our providers can sequence a routine so your textures layer cleanly rather than fighting each other.

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Featured Products with Carbomer Reviews

Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops Rejuvenating Eye Gel Cream
Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops® Rejuvenating Eye Gel Cream
4.9 (30 reviews) 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 30 reviews
$80.00
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Read all Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops® Rejuvenating Eye Gel Cream reviews →
SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mask
SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mask
4.8 (52 reviews) 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 52 reviews
$70.00
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Featured review

“This product was very helpful after the chemical peel my husband and I had. Very soothing and moisturizing.”

— Sedona L.
Read all SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mask reviews →
SkinBetter Science Alto Defense Serum
SkinBetter Science Alto Defense Serum
4.8 (64 reviews) 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 64 reviews
$175.00
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Read all SkinBetter Science Alto Defense Serum reviews →