Finalists Announced for the 2012 Cosmetics & Toiletries R&D Awards

Posted: January 18, 2012

page 2 of 3

Interpolymer Corp., for its Syntran PC 5620, a water-based, film-forming polymer based on a novel acylate cross-linking technology. The material imparts superior gloss, adhesion, water-resistance and hardness. In addition, it provides quick dry time and easy removability with alcohol, and enables the formulation of nail polish that is hydrating, to promote the healthy growth of nails. Compatible with water-based actives, the ingredient eliminates concern for safety hazards, toxicity and VOC issues currently facing solvent-based nail enamels containing nitrocellulose without loss in performance.

Ashland, for its FlexiThix (INCI: Polyvinylpyrrolidone) rheology modifier, a polymer-based thickener demonstrated to work in difficult-to-thicken systems such as those having high salt content. The technology builds viscosity across a wide pH range and has been proven stable in the presence of a number of solvents and acids. It is also capable of thickening systems with varied polarity—from highly polar aqueous-based, to less polar ester-based formulations. This rheology modifier offers producers of water, alcohol and oil-based products a universal “drop-in” ingredient to solve difficult-to-thicken formulation challenges.

For Most Creative Application, the finalists are the following (in random order).

Kao Brands Co., for its John Frieda Frizz Ease 3-Day Straight Semi-Permanent Styling Spray. This product is a premium, mass-marketed styling spray that allows consumers to straighten their curly/ wavy hair for up to three days or until shampooed. The product envelops each hair strand and when it is exposed to heat from a flat iron, the product changes from a solid to more liquid state; upon cooling, the product changes back to a solid state, which provides salon-quality straightened hair that lasts.

Kimberly-Clark Corp., for its Kleenex brand Cool Touch Facial Tissue. The company has found that phase change materials impart a noticeable cooling effect on the skin and thus incorporated them into facial tissue. The tissues contain a proprietary blend of coconut oil, aloe extract and ingredients used commonly in anti-aging creams. The resultant product releases a cooling sensation, taking soothing to a different level. This showcases creative formulation chemistry and tenacious product development to elevate a tissue from a wiping product to a new consumer experience.