In Sight—Nano-sizing Chitosan for Wound Healing, Anti-aging

By: Katie Anderson (Schaefer), Cosmetics & Toiletries

Posted: July 3, 2012, from the July 2012 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries.

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According to Leonida, the antimicrobial activity of CNPs could be applied in medical or cosmetic wound healing. She explained, “Different applications would use different conditions and organisms.” Similarly, the further understanding the mechanisms of action could lead to the development of more effective antimicrobial agents.

In addition to antimicrobial benefits, the CNPs exhibited skin regenerating properties, which have implications in wound healing and anti-aging skin care. “In our research, we show that these materials inhibit the expression of MMP-1, a collagenase, by 25% [in fibroblasts and keratinocytes]. This shows their potential for activity against skin aging,” said Leonida.

Leonida’s team is currently open to partnerships to further its research, not only to investigate toxicity, but also to identify other actives to incorporate into the CNPs. “We are looking for other actives to pair with our nanoparticles to target synergistic effects both on the pharmaceutical and cosmetic side,” she said.

Leonida remains positive that the future is bright, noting that chitosan is affordable, biodegradable and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The material also has production benefits. “I found [chitosan] easy to prepare, and there are no harmful solvents involved, which is a great benefit,” she explained, concluding that “…right now, the promise [of CNPs] is very good.”

—Katie Anderson, Cosmetics & Toiletries