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BUTOXY CHITOSAN.

Valuable / FILM FORMING, HAIR CONDITIONING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

A modified chitosan derivative engineered to create breathable, protective films on skin surfaces while enhancing barrier function. This multifunctional polymer excels at preventing transepidermal water loss and defending against environmental aggressors through its unique cationic binding properties. Its butoxy modification improves compatibility with modern formulations while maintaining the conditioning benefits of its natural chitosan foundation.

film-forming viscosity-controlling skin-conditioning barrier-enhancing

Science

Forms a continuous, flexible film on the stratum corneum that acts as a selective barrier, preventing moisture loss while allowing skin to breathe. Its positive charge enables binding to negatively charged skin proteins, improving conditioning effects and facilitating better deposition of co-formulated actives.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.001–1%
Optimal

0.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Reduced melanin distribution by 10-40% in skin tone uniformity studies at 0.1-1.0% concentration
  2. 02 Demonstrated PGF2 alpha inhibition in UVB-exposed cells, contributing to improved skin tone evenness
  3. 03 Provided effective barrier protection and anti-inflammatory benefits at concentrations as low as 0.001%

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Limited to specialized barrier protection and film-forming applications, rarely used as marketing filler due to functional specificity


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates excellent stability in aqueous and aqueous-alcoholic systems, with enhanced surfactant compatibility compared to unmodified chitosan

Synergies

  • Pigments and UV filters (stabilization)
  • Hydrating actives (enhanced deposition)
  • Anti-pollution ingredients (barrier enhancement)

Conflicts

  • Strongly anionic surfactants
  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • High electrolyte concentrations

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
20%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Parent compound chitosan widely recognized as safe; typical consumer product usage ranges 0.1-5% with excellent safety profile


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A sophisticated barrier-enhancing polymer that delivers measurable protection benefits with excellent safety across all skin types.


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References