Patent Picks—Lightening, Substantivity, Flavonoids and More in Skin Care

By: Rachel L. Grabenhofer

Posted: January 11, 2011

Chosen biweekly by Rachel Grabenhofer, editor of Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine, for their relevance to personal care, Patent Picks are taken from publicly available sources. This edition features recently issued patents related to skin care.

Ampholyte polymers to treat keratin substrates
US Patent RE42025
Publication date: Jan. 11, 2011
Assignee: Nalco Company

This patent discloses novel conditioning polymers containing (meth) acrylamidopropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride, meth (acrylic acid) or 2-(meth)acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid, and optionally, a C1-C22 alkyl (meth) acrylate for the treatment of keratin-containing substrates. According to the patent, the instant ampholyte polymers and polymer compositions condition and improve the skin and nails.

Polyquaternary alkyl polymers to condition hair, skin
US Patent 7868208
Publication date: Jan. 11, 2011
Assignee: Surfatech Corp.

The present invention relates to a novel class of polymeric compounds having specific highly cross-linked cationic or amphoteric structure. These products are reportedly produced without free radical monomers and are based upon an alkyl diamine that has been reacted to produce a di-tertiary amine compound. The diamine has alkyl groups present that are said to contribute hydrophobicity to the molecule and, once cross-linked, to provide outstanding benefits vis-à-vis conditioning and softening to the hair and skin.