Film Former
CHITIN
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
A biopolymer from crustacean shells or fungal walls — film-forming and mildly conditioning. Watch for shellfish-allergy sourcing.
Chitin (CAS 1398-61-4) is a linear polysaccharide of N-acetylglucosamine residues — the structural polymer of crustacean shells and fungal cell walls. In cosmetics it functions as a film former, skin-conditioning, and viscosity agent. Its deacetylated derivative chitosan is more widely used in skincare. Safety is generally favourable; no CIR restriction and no EU CosIng restriction. The main caveat is that crustacean-sourced chitin retains trace tropomyosin proteins that can trigger shellfish-allergy reactions; fungal-sourced chitin is a hypoallergenic alternative.
Function
Skin benefits
- Biodegradable biopolymer
- Film-forming with mild skin conditioning
- Source of chitosan derivatives
- Natural origin from crustacean or fungal sources
Known concerns
- Crustacean-sourced grades contraindicated for shellfish allergies
- Varies in purity between suppliers
- Limited direct cosmetic clinical data for native chitin
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related film formers
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.