Multifunctional use of innovative chitin nanofibrils for skin care

Chitin nanofibrils occur in biological tissues, mainly crustacean and insect exoskeletons, according to structural hierarchies together with proteins and inorganic compounds. They have helped elucidate the chitin structure, considering their high degree of crystallization. Isolated nanofibrils are useful to impart strength to several materials such as soy proteins, natural rubber, poly(caprolactone) and poly(vinyl alcohol). They also find applications in the cosmetic and biomedical areas, particularly for the ordered regeneration of wound tissues and as dermal fillers. The main advantage over the usual chitin powders is their enormous surface area, that enables them to interact effectively with cells, factors, proteins and other compounds.