Chitosan
A cosmetic ingredient used as film forming, hair fixing in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Chitin, deacylated
What does it do?
Chitosan is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Film forming
forms a thin continuous film on skin, hair, or nails — used in long-wear makeup, sunscreens, and hairsprays
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Hair fixing
holds hair in a desired style, typically through a flexible film coating each strand
EU regulatory status
Chitosan is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chitosan?
Chitosan is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Chitin, deacylated
Is Chitosan allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Chitosan is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Chitosan do in cosmetic products?
Chitosan is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: film forming, hair fixing.
What is the CAS number of Chitosan?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Chitosan is 9012-76-4.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010