Utilization of carboxymethyl chitosan in cosmetics

Carboxymethyl chitosan is a chitosan derivative of the most intensively investigated due to its water solubility in wider pH range compared with the parent compound, thus extended its use in various applications. In this review, different preparation conditions, which resulting in the N- and O-carboxylated chitosan, diverse degree of substitution and water solubility are recapitulated. Five important features of carboxymethyl chitosan from recent studies, which are moisture absorption-retention, anti-microbial properties, antioxidant capacities, delivery system and emulsion stabilization, have been centred and emphasized for cosmetic utilization. Additionally, cytotoxicity information has been inclusively incorporated to ensure its safety in application.