Chitosan is a remarkable ingredient found in cosmetics, renowned for its natural and multifunctional properties. Derived from chitin, a substance found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, chitosan is harnessed for its skincare benefits. With its high biocompatibility, chitosan becomes a favorable choice for cosmetics. It forms a protective film on the skin, locking in moisture and shielding it from environmental aggressors. Moreover, chitosan boasts excellent adhesion and film-forming properties, making it an ideal component in cosmetics like creams and lotions.
CAS Number: 9012-76-4Chem/IUPAC Name: Chitin, deacylatedEINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 75065What is CHITOSAN used for?
Chitosan is quite popular in the cosmetic and personal care industry due to its unique properties.
- Cosmetic products: As a natural film-forming agent, Chitosan creates a protective layer on the skin, preventing moisture loss and shielding it from external pollutants. Its excellent adhesion qualities make it an ideal ingredient in makeup products, ensuring longer-lasting wear and enhancing the efficacy of the formulations. The gentle and soothing characteristic of Chitosan makes it ideal for sensitive skin types
- Skin care: In skincare, chitosan acts as a moisturizing and nourishing agent, promoting hydration and retaining the skin's natural moisture balance. Its biocompatibility and non-toxic nature make it a preferred choice for products catering to sensitive and delicate skin. Chitosan's antimicrobial properties contribute to controlling bacteria, potentially aiding in managing certain skin conditions
Origin
Chitosan is manufactured by first collecting crustacean shells and then subjecting them to a demineralization step using acid to remove inorganic components. Next, an alkaline treatment is applied to deproteinize the shells, leaving behind chitin. Finally, chitin is further processed through deacetylation, resulting in chitosan.
What does CHITOSAN do in a formulation?
FILM FORMING|
MOISTURISINGSafety Profile
Chitosan is considered safe for most people when used appropriately. As a natural substance derived from crustacean shells, it is generally non-toxic and biocompatible. However, individuals with shellfish allergies should exercise caution, and it's always advisable to follow product instructions and consult a healthcare professional before using chitosan-based products.
CHITOSAN alternatives
CHITOSAN technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | 115.5°C |
| Melting Point | 102.5°C |
| pH | 7.4 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Viscosity | High |
Formulations with CHITOSAN
No data available
By Application
No data available