Patent Picks—Sugar Sunscreen, UV Microcapsules, ‘Rugby Ball’ Particles and More

By: Rachel L. Grabenhofer

Posted: January 31, 2012

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According to this patent, there is a need to provide a film-forming cosmetic composition such as a foundation/makeup with UV benefits that also provides a desirable feel—e.g., that lacks greasiness, tackiness or stickiness. In addition, the compositiong should be smooth and dry and exhibit suitable adherence to the skin. Furthermore, the film-forming foundation should provide even coverage, be blendable and not appear "heavy" when applied to skin, should not be undesirably affected by skin secretions or water, and should not bleed, crack, smudge, abrade, flake or peel with wear.

Accordingly, the current invention discloses a film-forming cosmetic composition that provides superior feel, look and wear characteristics while also delivering UV protection to the skin. The composition comprises a dispersed aqueous phase that includes from 0.5% to 10% of a water- dispersible or water-soluble, film-forming polymer that adheres to skin, and 0.1% to 16.0% of a sunscreen active. The cosmetic composition further comprises one or more particles and a continuous oil phase that includes from 1% to 80% of an oil. The composition reportedly exhibits substantially no perceived tackiness for up to 2 min after application to the skin, UV protection and excellent wear and appearance benefits after application.

Compositions and methods for inhibiting PAR2 activation of keratinocytes
WIPO Patent Application WO/2012/011908
Publication date: Jan. 26, 2012
Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company, CL Swanson, T Hakozaki and LT Laughlin II

As this patent describes, one mechanism in the melanin production cycle is the transfer of melanosomes from the melanocytes to the keratinocytes by way of phagocytosis, and research has found that the protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR-2) expressed on keratinocytes is involved in this melanosome transfer—and therefore may regulate pigmentation. Thus, a composition was developed for inhibiting PAR2 activation of keratinocytes comprising a vitamin B3 compound, an N-acyl amino acid compound, and a Laminaria saccharina extract. Specifically, in one embodiment, the composition for inhibiting PAR2 activation of keratinocytes comprises niacinamide, N-undecylenoyl-L-phenylalanine, and a Laminaria saccharina extract.

Laminaria saccharina extract and vitamin B3 as whitening agents
WIPO Patent Application WO/2012/011907
Publication date: Jan. 26, 2012
Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company, CL Swanson, T Hazozaki and LT Laughlin II