The APPLIED nature of Cosmetic Science, as well as the complexities and nuance involved in each formula, grade of ingredient, and manufacturing setting, should be kept in mind by anyone sharing, teaching, or passing on information about Cosmetic Science (including me – and I know I’m not above making my own mistakes). In general, I advise against making unqualified assertions like “always” or “never,” as doing so can lead to misunderstandings and confusion. 

Nuance, ambiguity, and a lack of clarity make for a complicated world, but they also provide additional material for investigation.

This is the answer: The maximum viscosity of Carbomers can be permanently lowered by homogenizer-style mixing. Whether or whether utilising a homogenizer does this relies on a number of factors, such as the type of homogenizer (machine), the time and speed settings used, the nature of the formula, and the stage at which homogenization is performed (wetting, pre-neutralization, or post-neutralization). Numerous studies and real-world examples show that including a homogenising stage in the formulation process increases efficiency and productivity while decreasing the likelihood of stability, cosmetic, and microbiological issues. The assumption that homogenizers should never be used with Carbomers is, hence, counterproductive.