The Science Behind Chitosan

Chitosan is not a trend — it’s a molecule with a long-standing history in biomedical research and advanced skincare. Originally derived from chitin, the second most abundant natural biopolymer on Earth, chitosan has been extensively studied for its beneficial role in wound healing, tissue regeneration, and skin barrier support. At Kysand Labs, we've taken this science further. Our proprietary, patent-pending acid-free formulation of colloidal chitosan is engineered for modern skin support, biocompatibility, and daily cosmetic use.

What is Chitosan?

Chitosan is a polycationic biopolymer obtained through the partial deacetylation of chitin, found in the cell walls of fungi and the exoskeletons of crustaceans. Thanks to its unique molecular structure and positive charge, chitosan binds effectively to skin and biological tissues. This allows it to interact with the skin’s extracellular matrix, making it especially useful in cosmetic dermatology, wound healing, and tissue repair.

Key Scientific Properties:

Film-Forming Barrier Without Occlusion
Chitosan creates a semi-permeable, breathable barrier that helps lock in moisture without clogging pores or disrupting skin respiration. This makes it ideal for maintaining hydration and soothing compromised skin.

Wound Healing Support
Chitosan has been shown to accelerate wound healing by stimulating fibroblast activity, supporting collagen synthesis, and enhancing angiogenesis. These properties make it a valuable ingredient in clinical and cosmetic recovery protocols.

Antimicrobial Activity
Chitosan naturally disrupts the outer membranes of many bacteria, inhibiting their growth. This gives it strong protective potential for skin that is stressed, sensitive, or recovering from minor damage.

Biodegradable & Non-Toxic
Chitosan breaks down safely and naturally, making it both eco-friendly and safe for long-term topical use, even on sensitive or compromised skin.

Hemostatic Effect
Its ability to promote clotting has led to its use in FDA-cleared wound dressings, further validating its bioactive properties and compatibility with the human body.

What makes Kysand™ different?

Kysand is our proprietary, patent-pending colloidal chitosan. We use a carefully developed low molecular weight formulation suspended in purified water, designed for optimal skin compatibility and efficacy. Our formula is:

  • Acid-free pH-balanced at ~6

  • Naturally self-preserving (no added preservatives)

  • Stable and shelf-ready with a clean ingredient profile

Kysand builds on a legacy of chitosan research, including early studies conducted aboard the NASA Space Shuttle (STS-96) and MIR space station, where chitosan-based technologies were examined for their potential in plant and tissue response. That same scientific lineage now informs our skincare innovations, starting with our flagship product, Kysand Mist.

Key Scientific Properties:

  • Rabea, E.I., et al. "Chitosan as antimicrobial agent: applications and mode of action." Biomacromolecules (2003).

  • Muzzarelli, R.A.A. "Chitosan-based wound dressings." Carbohydrate Polymers (2009).

  • Jayakumar, R., et al. "Chitosan scaffolds in tissue engineering." International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2011).

More detailed research coming soon as we continue to expand our clinical documentation.