triethanolaminecarbomer

Triethanolamine carbomer refers to a family of thickening polymers obtained by neutralizing a carbomer (polyacrylic acid crosslinked polymer) with triethanolamine. These materials are widely used as thickening, stabilizing, and suspending agents in cosmetics, personal care products, and topical pharmaceuticals. The carbomer base is manufactured as a fine powder or beads and consists of polyacrylic acid crosslinked with divalent or higher functionality crosslinkers such as allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerythritol. Neutralization with triethanolamine ionizes carboxyl groups, causes the polymer to swell, and yields a high-viscosity gel. The resulting TEA-carbomer gels are typically clear to translucent and exhibit shear-thinning behavior. The viscosity and gel strength depend on the crosslink density, polymer grade, and the level of neutralization; pH is usually adjusted to around 5–7 in cosmetic formulations.

Common applications include skin and hair care products like creams, lotions, gels, and mousses, as well as certain pharmaceutical topical formulations and bath products. In these systems, triethanolamine carbomer provides thickening, suspension of insolubles, and stabilization of emulsions. Safety considerations are similar to other carbomers: they are generally regarded as safe for cosmetic use when formulated properly; triethanolamine itself can cause irritation in sensitive individuals, and nitrosamine formation is avoided by following good manufacturing practices. Storage is in a dry, tightly closed container to prevent moisture uptake.

See also: Carbomer, Carbopol, thickening agents.