Patent Pick: Lips Sealed with Improved Occlusion

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According to Glaxosmithkline inventors, there remains a need for cosmetically elegant compositions with improved levels of occlusivity, as compared with existing lipid mixtures. This was the focus of a recently submitted patent.

The object of this work was to provide a topical composition that minimizes trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) from skin, especially in lip care applications. Additionally, the topical composition aimed to be convenient, easily applied and cosmetically elegant.

The Literature

Novel occlusive compositions
U.S. Patent Application 20180311121
Publication date: Nov. 1, 2018
Assignee: Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare Holdings

Abstract: Described herein is a topical o/w emulsion with skin moisturizing, protecting, repairing or restoring benefits for the lipid barrier of the lips. More specifically, disclosed is an emulsion comprising: a) a discontinuous oil phase; b) a continuous aqueous phase including water; c) a thickening agent; and d) at least one lamellar membrane structure comprising an alkyl amphiphilic component, an ester of a branched fatty acid and a branched fatty alcohol, a fatty acid, a fatty alcohol, and optionally, a phospholipid. In use, the patented composition has a water vapor transmission rate of less than 65 g·m−2·hr−1 measured in vitro.

The compositions in this invention comprise at least one lamellar membrane structure. Generally this refers to a planar lipid bilayer sheet, or a slight curve around a droplet of oil. They may also exist as separate discrete lamellae in the bulk aqueous phase. This is in contrast to a rounded, formed liposomal structure.

In another embodiment, the respective lamellar membrane structures form two or more stacked lamellar membrane structures, sometimes referenced as a liquid crystal. Two lamellar membrane structures stacked together, one on top of the other, is known as a double lamellar membrane structure.

Patent application accessed on April 15, 2019.

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