Today the ecological state of the environment leaves much to be desired. Being in constant smoke leads to the fact that the eyes are constantly dry and cut. Pharmacies have a wide range of eye products, one of them is Carbomer. Before using the substance, you need to study the instructions and understand what it is - carbomer.
Pharmacological properties
Carbomer is a macromolecular substance that interacts with mucin on the cornea. The product is available in the form of a colorless powder. During the period of use, the drug penetrates into the epithelium of the cornea and, thanks to carboxylic acid residues, creates hydrogen bonds in which mucin is present. The main advantage of the tool is the adhesive ability in the tear film. As a result of use, a protective layer is formed that moisturizes the cornea, strengthens the mucin layer and makes the tear more viscous.
Carbomers are large molecules that contain chemical compounds, namely monomers. The main advantage is absorption and retentionwater, during this period they can change in volume and reach large sizes.
In addition to the main characteristics, carbomer has such advantages as:
- formation of a moisturizing film;
- no stickiness;
- non-toxic.
The tool is not mutagenic and teratogenic, this is confirmed by many years of testing. Carbomers do not have the ability to accumulate, penetrate into the eyeball and blood.
Indications for use
Sodium carbomer is prescribed for conjunctivitis and dry eyes. Intended for symptomatic treatment only. Carbomer has other applications, for example:
- skin products;
- foot care;
- toothpastes;
- cosmetics from the sun.
It is recommended to use the product up to four times a day, one drop each.
Before using a thickener, first you need to neutralize it. Without this reaction, it is impossible to obtain a viscous consistency. When neutralized, a molecular network is formed that retains moisture. When diluted with a liquid, the powder turns into a gel and becomes transparent. Sodium or potassium hydroxide is used to convert powder to gel.
Side effects
Before use, it is not enough to know what it is - carbomer, you also need to study the side effects of the product to prevent negative consequences. As a result of improper use, a burning sensation may occur,tingling and short-term loss of vision. If these symptoms appear, it is sufficient to rinse the eyes with cool and clean water.
Precautions
During the treatment period it is not recommended to use soft contact lenses. Solid ones should also be removed and placed only after fifteen minutes after application. In case complex therapy is carried out and several eye drops are used at the same time, they should be applied at intervals, and the carbomer should be the last one.
Those who do not know what carbomer is, you need to consult a doctor and use the substance only for its intended purpose. People who drive a vehicle should wait approximately fifteen minutes after application for their vision to fully recover.
Carbomer in cosmetics
Carbomer is used in cosmetology as a thickener. Most often it is added to pastes, creams, gels and bath products. In addition, it is widely used for the manufacture of decorative cosmetics for the eyes. The use of such cosmetics can cause allergies and inflammation of the eyes.
Carbomer is found in drugs such as:
- "Lacropos" - hypersensitive eye drops used as a tear substitute.
- "Sicalos" - eye drops used in the diagnosis of "dry eye".
- "Oftagel" is a drug for the formation of artificial tears. Also, during the period of application, the viscosity of tears increases.
ExceptBecause of this, there are many cosmetic products based on carbomers.
Mostly, polyacrylic acid carbomer is used in powder form. After dilution with a liquid, it turns into a viscous emulsion, which is used as a thickener. During the dilution period, the substance does not lose its properties and useful qualities. The main advantage of such cosmetics is the retention of moisture. Carbomer-based creams refresh and soothe skin without leaving a greasy film.
Due to the fact that carbomer can cause an allergic reaction, one wonders what other harm it can do. What is a carbomer? This is an inert substance that is added to medicines and cosmetics in minimal quantities. That is why the harm from its use is also minimized. But nevertheless, side reactions and contraindications exist, and before using the remedy, it is imperative to consult a doctor.
