Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) is an important cellulose derivative with a wide range of applications, especially in daily chemical products. It is a water-soluble polymer with good thickening, stabilization, moisturizing, film-forming and other functions, which makes it have many application values in daily chemical products.
1. Thickener
CMC is often used as a thickener in daily chemical products such as shampoo, shower gel and facial cleanser. Since CMC can quickly dissolve in water and form a high-viscosity solution, it can effectively improve the viscosity and stability of the product, making the product easier to control and apply during use. In addition, the thickening effect of CMC is not affected by pH value, which makes it have good application effects in a variety of formulas.
2. Stabilizer
In lotion and cream products, CMC plays an important role as a stabilizer. Lotion and cream products are usually mixed with oil phase and water phase, which are prone to stratification. CMC can effectively stabilize the emulsion system and prevent stratification through its excellent adhesion and film-forming properties. At the same time, it can also improve the product’s shear resistance and increase the product’s storage stability.
3. Moisturizer
CMC has a strong water-retaining ability and can form a protective film on the skin surface to reduce water loss, thereby playing a moisturizing role. In skin care products such as creams, lotions and masks, adding CMC can significantly improve the moisturizing effect of the product, keeping the skin soft and hydrated. In addition, the moisturizing properties of CMC can also help repair dry and damaged skin and improve the health of the skin.
4. Film-forming agent
In some specific daily chemical products, such as shaving creams, hair dyes and styling hair sprays, CMC acts as a film-forming agent. CMC can form a uniform protective film on the surface of the skin or hair, which plays an isolation and protection role. For example, in hair dyes, the film-forming effect of CMC can improve the dyeing effect and make the color more uniform and lasting; in styling hair sprays, the film-forming effect of CMC can help the hair maintain the ideal shape.
5. Suspending agent
In liquid detergents and certain suspended liquid cosmetics, CMC is used as a suspending agent. It can effectively prevent solid particles from settling in liquids, keep the product evenly distributed, and improve the appearance and use effect of the product. For example, in a facial cleanser or scrub containing particles, CMC can keep the particles evenly suspended, ensuring consistent results every time you use it.
6. Emulsifier
CMC can also be used as an emulsifier in some cases, especially in formulations that require a stable emulsion system. It can form a stable emulsion layer at the oil-water interface to prevent oil-water separation, thereby improving the stability and use effect of the product. Although CMC’s emulsification ability is relatively weak, it can still play a significant role in certain specific formulations
7. Controlled release
In some special-purpose daily chemical products, CMC can also be used as a controlled release agent. For example, in the formulation of slow-release fragrances, CMC can control the release rate of fragrances to make the fragrance lasting and uniform. In some cosmeceuticals, CMC can also be used to control the release of active ingredients and improve the efficacy and safety of the product.
Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose is widely used in daily chemical products, covering thickening, stabilization, moisturizing, film formation, suspension, emulsification and controlled release. Its excellent physical and chemical properties make it an indispensable ingredient in the formulation of daily chemical products. With the development of science and technology and the improvement of people’s quality requirements for daily chemical products, the application prospects of CMC in daily chemical products will be broader. Through continuous research and innovation, the functions of CMC will be further expanded and improved, bringing more possibilities and value to daily chemical products.