According to Fortune Business Insights, The global carbomer market was valued at USD 758.9 million in 2023 and is expected to expand from USD 805.5 million in 2024 to USD 1,281.6 million by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific led the market in 2023 with a 40.28% share, owing to strong demand across end-use industries. In addition, the U.S. carbomer market is anticipated to reach USD 249.8 million by 2032, fueled by rising consumption in the personal care sector. The carbomer market is gaining significant momentum as demand for high-performance gelling agents and rheology modifiers continues to rise across personal care, pharmaceuticals, and hygiene products. Known for their ability to provide stability, clarity, and viscosity, carbomers are widely used in skincare formulations, hair care products, hand sanitizers, and topical medications.
Carbomers are essential in creating clear gels, serums, creams, and lotions. With increasing consumer demand for premium skincare, transparent gels, and lightweight textures, beauty brands are actively using carbomers in innovative product launches.
The COVID-19 pandemic boosted the global use of carbomers in alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Even as the pandemic eased, the habit of regular hand hygiene has created a sustained baseline demand, keeping carbomers in high use across hygiene products.
Carbomers are widely used as excipients in topical medications, ophthalmic formulations, and controlled-release drugs. Their ability to stabilize active ingredients makes them a preferred choice in the pharmaceutical sector.
Rapid urbanization, growing disposable income, and expanding retail in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are fueling demand for cosmetics and personal care products, directly supporting carbomer market growth.
Manufacturers are innovating with cold-process and fast-wetting carbomers, which improve safety, reduce processing time, and enhance productivity for formulators.
With the rise of acid-based serums, mineral sunscreens, and vitamin-rich skincare, there is increasing demand for carbomers that remain stable in electrolyte-heavy formulations.
Formulators are experimenting with carbomer–natural gum hybrids to balance clarity, feel, and the clean beauty movement. Sustainability efforts are also pushing for lower residual monomers and greener production processes.
Asia-Pacific (APAC): Fastest-growing region due to strong cosmetics manufacturing in China, South Korea, and India.
North America & Europe: Mature markets driven by innovation, premium beauty trends, and pharmaceutical-grade applications.
Latin America & Middle East: Emerging demand in beauty and hygiene products fueled by urbanization and lifestyle changes.
The carbomer market is moderately consolidated with key players including:
Lubrizol (Carbopol®/Pemulen®) – leading the global market with a wide range of pharmaceutical and personal care grades.
Tinci Materials – expanding rapidly in Asia with large production capacity.
Evonik Industries, SNF, and DX Chemical – strengthening presence through product innovation and distribution networks.
Competition focuses on technical support, grade differentiation, and sustainable product development.
Growing use in skincare innovations and drug delivery systems
Expanding cosmetics consumption in Asia-Pacific
Development of eco-friendly and high-performance carbomer grades
Raw material price volatility (acrylic acid supply)
Rising clean beauty trends questioning synthetic polymers
Risk of supply chain disruptions during demand spikes
The carbomer market is set for steady expansion, driven by rising demand in personal care, pharmaceuticals, and hygiene products. USD 758.9 million in 2023 and is expected to expand from USD 805.5 million in 2024 to USD 1,281.6 million by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. Companies that focus on innovation, sustainability, and regional expansion will be best positioned to capture long-term growth opportunities.