New Sprouts

By: Rachel L. Chapman, Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine

Posted: April 30, 2007, from the May 2007 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries.

In the Northern hemisphere, the month of May is a time to prepare for growth as the season warms the Earth to make way for new sprouts. In the Southern hemisphere it is a time of harvest; a time to reap in the results of the summer’s growth. In either case, it is a time for change and reflection—on what was and what’s to come.

The New York Chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC) will take advantage of this time of change at its Suppliers’ Day, to be held May 15 and 16, 2007, at the Raritan Center in New Jersey. This year’s theme, “Helping Your Business Grow,” emphasizes the idea-rich environment among suppliers and attendees tilling up the show floor. It is at such events that the industry learns from itself—ideas to grow into, as well as new takes on old ways.

This issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine also looks at two newer areas of growth—delivery and oral care—and re-examines existing testing methods and the known mechanisms for hair growth.

In the area of delivery, H. Ziegler and M. Heidl examine biomimetic tripeptides for improved dermal transport to help prevent wrinkle formation and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Also, J. Davis et al. discuss the use of film-forming polymers to deliver performance characteristics such as water-resistance properties and SPF boost.

Oral care has become more prominent in the personal care industry, especially as teeth-whitening formulas and toothpastes with novel flavors have populated store shelves. In her article on erythritol, K. Brys describes how it can be used as a cariostatic agent and its synergy with high intensity sweeteners and humectancy systems for application in clear gel toothpastes, white toothpastes and mouthwashes, in comparison with xylitol.