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Ingredient deep-dive

Chitosan: Is It a Microplastic?

Not a microplasticCleared / not a microplastic

Not a microplastic. A biopolymer made from chitin in crustacean shells or fungi, used as a film-former and thickener. Biodegradable, and studied as a natural flocculant for removing microplastics from water.

Where it appears

  • Film-formers
  • Hair fixatives
  • Wound care
  • Natural thickener

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; biopolymer.

United States

Permitted.

Cleaner alternatives

  • No swap needed

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Chitosan, common questions

Is Chitosan a microplastic?

Borderline. Not a microplastic. A biopolymer made from chitin in crustacean shells or fungi, used as a film-former and thickener. Biodegradable, and studied as a natural flocculant for removing microplastics from water.

Is Chitosan banned?

EU: Permitted; biopolymer. US: Permitted.

What can I use instead of Chitosan?

Cleaner alternatives include: No swap needed.

What products contain Chitosan?

Commonly found in: Film-formers; Hair fixatives; Wound care; Natural thickener.

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