• High-performance thickener and stabilizer
• Water-soluble; forms clear gels and viscous solutions
• Commonly used in toothpaste, gels, creams, and shampoos
• Acts as an excellent suspending and binding agent
• Safe, plant-derived polymer used in food and cosmetics

CMC Powder (Carboxy Methyl Cellulose) – Thickener & Stabilizer for Cosmetics

CMC Powder (Carboxy Methyl Cellulose) is a versatile, water-soluble polymer derived from natural cellulose. At Bio Shop™, we offer cosmetic-grade CMC that's ideal for use in creams, shampoos, toothpaste, gels, and facial packs. It forms a clear, thick gel when hydrated and acts as a stabilizer, film former, and binding agent. Its excellent compatibility with other ingredients makes it a favorite in both DIY and commercial formulations for viscosity control and improved texture.

INCI Name: Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose
CAS Number: 9004-32-4
Solubility: Water-soluble
Add Phase: Disperse in water (heated or room temperature)
pH Stability: 4.0 – 10.0
Processing Temperature: < 70°C
Appearance: White to off-white fine powder
Odor: Odorless
Molecular Formula: C8H15NaO8
Molecular Weight: ~262.19 g/mol
Flash Point: Non-flammable
Density: ~0.6 g/cm³
Chemical Type: Cellulose derivative
Functional Groups: Ether, carboxylic
Primary Cosmetic Uses: Gel base, emulsifier, thickener, film former

• Usage Rate: 0.5% – 2% depending on thickness desired
• Recommended Additions: Hydrating actives, humectants, essential oils
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place

CMC works best when first dispersed in glycerin or a small portion of water to prevent clumping. Add gradually with stirring for a smooth gel. Perfect for aloe gels, DIY toothpastes, and hair masks.

✔️ Oily

✔️ Normal

✔️ Combination

✔️ Dry

❌ Not suitable for very sensitive skin without patch testing

1. Herbal Aloe Gel Base

94.5% Distilled Water

2% CMC Powder

2% Aloe Vera Extract

0.5% Preservative

1% Fragrance (optional)

2. DIY Natural Toothpaste

25% CMC Gel

30% Calcium Carbonate

30% Sorbitol

10% Glycerin

1% Peppermint Oil

0.5% Stevia Extract

0.5% Preservative

3% Water

3. Soothing Gel for Itchy Skin

90% Distilled Water

2% CMC Powder

3% Chamomile Extract

3% Aloe Vera

1% Lavender Oil

1% Preservative

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Toners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Deodorants
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Eye Creams
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Soaps
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Body Butters
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜

Q1: Can I use CMC powder in cold water?

Yes, but it disperses more easily if pre-wet with glycerin or hot water.

Q2: Does it thicken immediately?

It takes a few minutes to hydrate fully and reach maximum viscosity.

Q3: Is it edible?

This is cosmetic-grade CMC and not meant for food use.