This lab study found that a gel combining chitosan and glycolic acid increased chloride and water movement into skin cells when applied for both 15 seconds and 24 hours, without damaging the skin barrier or changing how permeable it is. The effect appears to work by gently stimulating chloride channels (CFTR) while keeping sodium transport in check—essentially helping skin cells hydrate from the inside.

Researchers tested the chitosan-glycolic acid gel on skin samples in a controlled lab setting, measuring electrical signals and resistance to see how it affected ion movement across the skin over time.

Funding not disclosed in abstract