Synthesis and Characterization of Superhigh Moisturizing Carboxymethyl Tamarind Xyloglucan and Its Potential Application in Cosmetics

Carboxymethyl tamarind xyloglucan (CMTXG) was synthesized by xyloglucan with sodium chloroacetate in 50% ethanol. The effects of carboxymethylation on the structure and properties of xyloglucan were studied, and its application potential in cosmetics was evaluated. The results showed that carboxymethylation increased the molecular weight, enhanced water solubility and stability, decreased apparent viscosity, and promoted xyloglucan’s application in cosmetics. The CMTXG with moderate substitution (CMT-M) exhibited superior hygroscopic and moisturizing effects, indicating that CMTXG does not need to pursue high degree of substitution. The moisturizing rate of CMT-M was 81.08% after 12 h, surpassing that of sodium hyaluronate (55.79%) and glycerin (59.52%). The CMT-M exhibited enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial activity after modification. Toxicity assessment indicated that CMT-M can improve the long-term tolerance of larvae zebrafish. Furthermore, the CMT-M cream demonstrated a long-term moisturizing effect compared to commercial creams. The research findings are expected to provide an effective bioactive moisturizer candidate for the daily chemical industry.