Hydroxypropyl Chitosan
Hydroxypropyl Chitosan Manufacturer | Water-Soluble Bio-Polymer for Advanced Cosmetics Headline: Premium Hydroxypropyl Chitosan Manufacturer | ≥98% Purity Cationic Bio-polymer (CAS: 84720-55-8) Sub-info: Highly Water-Soluble | Enhanced Film-Forming Properties | Non-Toxic & Biocompatible USP: Ready Stock in US/EU | Excellent Stability in Formulation | Full Traceability from Marine Source
Introduction

Hydroxypropyl Chitosan (HPC) is a non-ionic, water-soluble derivative of the natural polymer chitosan. By introducing hydroxypropyl groups into the chitosan backbone, its solubility is dramatically improved, allowing it to dissolve easily in water at a neutral pH—a significant advantage over traditional chitosan.
As a leading B2B supplier, we provide High-Purity Hydroxypropyl Chitosan Powder (98%). It is recognized for its unique ability to form a breathable, protective film on the skin and hair, making it a critical ingredient for modern cosmeceuticals targeting anti-inflammation and anti-aging.
Category:
Keywords:
chitosan
hydroxypropyl
water-soluble
Functions
Hydroxypropyl Chitosan serves as a multifunctional active and structural component:
1.Superior Moisture Retention (MOA):
The hydroxypropyl modification increases the molecule's hydrophilicity. It forms a dense hydrated network on the skin surface, significantly reducing Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) and providing long-lasting hydration.
2.Anti-Inflammatory & Soothing:
HPC acts as a physical barrier against environmental irritants. It modulates the skin's microenvironment to reduce inflammatory responses, making it ideal for sensitive skin formulations.
3.Film-Forming & Protective Shield:
Upon application, it dries to form a transparent, flexible, and semi-permeable film. This "second skin" protects the dermis from pollutants while allowing oxygen exchange.
4.Hair Fiber Repair:
In hair care, its cationic nature allows it to bind to damaged (anionic) hair cuticles, repairing the fiber surface and increasing tensile strength and luster.

Applications
• Advanced Skincare: Anti-aging serums, hydrating essences, and soothing "Cica" creams.
• Hair Care: High-end conditioners, hair masks, and scalp treatments for cuticle repair.
• Sun Care: Used in after-sun formulations to soothe UV-induced inflammation and restore the moisture barrier.
• Medical Aesthetics: Post-procedure recovery gels and breathable wound dressings.

Flow Chart
Sustainable Manufacturing Process:
1.Chitosan Sourcing: High-deacetylation chitosan derived from sustainable crustacean shells.
2.Alkalization: Treatment with sodium hydroxide to activate functional groups.
3.Etherification: Controlled reaction with propylene oxide under strict temperature and pressure.
4.Neutralization: pH adjustment to ensure non-irritating properties.
5.Purification: Multi-stage filtration and alcohol precipitation to remove unreacted residues.
6.Vacuum Drying: Low-temperature drying to preserve polymer chain integrity.
7.Sifting & QC: 80-mesh powder sifting followed by HPLC and solubility validation.
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Spec: Hydroxypropyl Chitosan ≥98.0%
| Item | Specification | Result |
| Assay (Purity) | ≥ 98.0% | 98.6% |
| Appearance | White to Off-white Fine Powder | Conforms |
| Solubility (1% Water) | Clear to Slightly Hazy Solution | Conforms |
| pH (1% Solution) | 5.5 – 7.5 | 6.8 |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 10.0% | 6.2% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm | < 5 ppm |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | 0.2 ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | 0.1 ppm |
| Microbiology | Total Plate Count ≤ 1,000 cfu/g | Conforms |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
• Primary Method: Viscometry and Potentiometric Titration for degree of substitution.
• Purity Validation: We utilize Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) to monitor the molecular weight distribution and ensure consistent batch-to-batch performance in film-forming efficacy.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
(Description): A standard GPC chromatogram for our Hydroxypropyl Chitosan shows a single, narrow unimodal peak. This indicates a highly uniform polymer distribution, which is essential for ensuring that the viscosity and skin-feel of your final product remain consistent across every production lot.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Shelf Life: 24-month (2-year) shelf life based on Long-term Stability data.
• Long-term Stability: Real-time tests at 25°C ± 2°C / 60% ± 5% RH confirm that Appearance, Purity/Assay, and Water Content remain fully within the specifications defined in Module 6 for the 24-month period.
• Accelerated Stability: 6-month data (40°C ± 2°C / 75% ± 5% RH) ensures the product maintains its chemical structure and solubility during international transport and storage.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: Non-hazardous. Does not carry a hazard classification according to EEC directives.
• Handling: Wear standard PPE (safety glasses, gloves, mask) to prevent dust inhalation during handling.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place; keep container tightly closed. Protect from high humidity to prevent caking.
Customer Comments
R&D Director, South Korean Beauty Group
2026.02.26
★★★★☆
Formulation Chemist, German Dermo-Cosmetics Lab
2026.02.26
★★★★☆
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FAQ
What is Hydroxypropyl Chitosan?
It is a water-soluble, non-ionic derivative of chitosan. It is used as a bioactive film-former and moisturizer in high-end cosmetic and medical formulations.
What is the main source?
Our HPC is derived from high-purity Marine Chitin through a specialized etherification process to ensure 100% water solubility.
How do you identify quality?
Quality is measured by Water Solubility, Degree of Substitution, and Microbial Purity. A high-quality HPC should dissolve completely to form a transparent solution without sediment.
References
1.Muzzarelli, R. A. (1992). "Hydroxypropyl chitosan: a water-soluble derivative." Chitin and Chitosan.
2.Chen, X. G., et al. (2003). "Preparation and characterization of water-soluble chitosan derivatives." Biomaterials.
3.Lin, Y. H., et al. (2007). "Bioactive films based on hydroxypropyl chitosan." Journal of Applied Polymer Science.
4.Sajomsang, W. (2010). "Synthetic methods for water-soluble chitosan derivatives." International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
5.European Medicines Agency (EMA). "Guideline on the quality of herbal medicinal products."
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