Patent Picks—Reducing Friction, Gentle Cleansing and Improving Dry Conditioning in Hair

By: Rachel L. Grabenhofer

Posted: January 4, 2012

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This invention relates to an antimicrobially effective composition that comprises: a) at least 0.15% w/w bispyridinium alkane; b) at least 3.5% w/w humectant; and c) water. Upon dilution with water, the composition produces a solution with an osmolality from 230 to 350 mOsmol/kg and is free from surfactant. The composition does not require the presence of surfactant for good wettability, of alcohol for good efficacy, of inorganic salts for isotonicity and/or of antioxidants for good storability and is stable over a broad temperature range. In addition, bispyridinium alkane is not considered a surfactant for the purposes of the present invention. Surfactant-free thus means this invention comprises no anionic, cationic, nonionic or amphoteric surfactant besides the one or, if appropriate, more bispyridinium alkanes.

The invention is suggested for use as an antiseptic to disinfect the skin, especially for newborns born prematurely. According to the inventors, the combination may be used in preparations to treat undesired body odor, such as in cosmetic deodorants,or skin, acne and foot/skin fungus treatments as well as antidandruff hair cleansers.

Structurants to improve stability in oil phases
European Patent EP2004137
Publication date: Jan. 4, 2012
Assignee: Croda International PLC

This invention relates to structurants for oil phases, particularly to oil structurants that are oligoesters reaction products of polyols, dimer dicarboxylic acids and long chain monocarboxylic fatty acids; to oil phases including them; and to the use of such structured oil phases particularly in personal care products. The term structurant refers to the provision of effects ranging from increasing viscosity; to gelling oil, i.e., creating a three dimensional structure at the molecular level that "traps" the continuous phase oil; and includes the possibility of generating liquid crystal like phases in the oil—all of which can enhance the stability of dispersed phases in the oil.

The polyol used as a starting material in making the polyesters of the invention groups has at least 3 and typically up to 8 hydroxyl groups and has an average of from 1 to 2 primary hydroxyl groups and at least one, particularly 1 to 4, secondary hydroxyl group(s). Personal care products utilizing the invention may include lipstick; mascara; cosmetic foundation or cream powder; antiperspirant and deodorant sticks or gels; baby oil; hair, massage and makeup removers or cleansing products; shampoo; or sun care products.