Today, the ecological state of the environment leaves much to be desired. Being in a constant smokiness leads to the fact that the eyes are constantly drying and cutting. Pharmacies have a wide range of eye products, one of which is carbomer. Before using the substance, you need to study the instructions and understand what it is - carbomer.
Pharmacological properties
Carbomer is a high molecular weight substance that interacts with mucin on the cornea. The product is available in the form of a colorless powder. During use, the drug penetrates the corneal epithelium and, thanks to carboxylic acid residues, creates hydrogen bonds in which mucin is present. The main advantage of the product 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 imparts viscosity to the tear.
Carbomers are large molecules with chemical compounds, namely monomers. The main advantage is the absorption and retention of water, during this period they can vary in volume and reach large sizes.
In addition to the main characteristics, carbomer has such advantages as:
- the formation of a moisturizing film;
- lack of stickiness;
- not 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 the eyeball and blood.
Indications for use
Sodium carbomer is prescribed for conjunctivitis and dry eyes. Designed exclusively for symptomatic treatment. Carbomer has other applications, for example:
- skin products;
- feet care;
- toothpastes;
- cosmetics from the sun.
It is recommended to use the tool up to four times a day, one drop at a time.
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 forms that retains moisture. When diluted with liquid, the powder turns into a gel and becomes transparent. Sodium or potassium hydroxide is used to convert the 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 drug, to prevent negative consequences. Improper use may result in a burning sensation, tingling sensation, and short-term loss of vision. When such symptoms appear, it is enough to rinse your eyes with cool and clean water.
Precautions
During treatment, it is not recommended to use soft contact lenses. Solid should also be removed and put them only after fifteen minutes after application. If complex therapy is carried out and several drops for the eyes are used at the same time, they should be used with an interval in time, and the carbomer should be the last.
Those who do not know what it is - carbomer, you need to consult a doctor and use the substance only for its intended purpose. People who drive the vehicle should wait about fifteen minutes after use to fully restore their vision.
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.
- "Sikalos" - eye drops used in the diagnosis of "dry eye".
- Oftagel is a preparation for the formation of an artificial tear. Also, during the period of use, the viscosity of tears increases.
In addition, there are many cosmetics based on carbomer.
In general, 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 moisture retention. Creams made on the basis of carbomer refresh and soothe the skin without creating a greasy film.
Due to the fact that carbomer can cause an allergic reaction, the question arises of what other harm it can cause. What is 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, adverse reactions and contraindications exist, and before using the tool, it is necessary to consult a doctor without fail.