Carboxymethyl Chitosan is a water-soluble chitosan derivative obtained from natural chitin. Its aqueous solution is a clear, from light yellow to yellow, and slightly viscous liquid with a characteristic odor.
Incorporated in personal care applications, Carboxymethyl Chitosan can act as a film-forming agent, moisturizer, skin-protecting, and softening ingredient. In oral care preparations, it acts as an anti-plaque agent used in toothpaste and mouth-wash products. It is effective against a broad range of microbes, including Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus of the oral cavity.
Thanks to hyaluronic acid-like properties, Carboxymethyl Chitosan is used in skin, scalp, and hair care products where it forms a protective film preventing transdermal moisture loss. It is a safe ingredient, non-toxic, non-irritant (including eye care; hypo-irritant), and non-sensitizing (hypoallergic).