Cosmetic composition comprising polyacrylate cross-linked polymer-6 and high HLB non-ionic surfactant

Abstract

Disclosed is a cosmetic composition comprising, by weight: (a) from about 1.5% to about 5% of a polyacrylate crosslinkable polymer-6; (b) from about 0.05% to about 5% of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB of from about 10 to about 20; and (c) an aqueous carrier, wherein the composition satisfies at least one of the following conditions (i)-(iii): (i) wherein the pH of the composition is from about 2.0 to about 5.0; (ii) wherein the nonionic surfactant is a liquid at 20 DEG C; and (iii) wherein the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum. The composition of the present invention provides improved flowability of the composition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition comprising, by weight: (a) from about 1.5% to about 5% of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6; (b) from about 0.05% to about 5% of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB of from about 10 to about 20; and (c) an aqueous carrier, wherein the composition meets at least one of the following conditions (i)-(iii): (i) wherein the pH of the composition is from about 2.0 to about 5.0; (ii) wherein the nonionic surfactant is liquid at 20 °C; and (iii) wherein the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum. The composition of the present invention provides improved flowability of the composition. Background Art

[0002] Mammalian keratinous tissues, especially human skin, are subject to a variety of assaults from both external and internal factors. Such external factors include ultraviolet radiation, environmental pollution, wind, heat, infrared radiation, low humidity, irritating surfactants, abrasives, and the like. On the other hand, internal factors include chronological aging and other biochemical changes within the skin. Whether external or internal, these factors result in visible signs of skin damage. Typical skin damage in aged or damaged skin includes fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sallowness, sagging, dark circles under the eyes, puffy eyes, enlarged pores, reduced renewal rate, and abnormal desquamation or peeling. Additional damage caused by both external and internal factors includes visible dead skin, i.e., flaking, scaling, dryness, and roughness.

[0003] Currently, there are many personal care products available to consumers that are designed to improve the health and physical appearance of keratinous tissues such as skin, hair, and fingernails / toenails. Most of these products are concerned with delaying, minimizing, or even eliminating skin wrinkles, spots, and other histological changes commonly associated with skin aging or environmental damage to human skin. Consumers prefer topically applied products because they are not only effective but also safe and pleasant to use.

[0004] A variety of hydrophilic thickeners are used in such products to give the products a suitable viscosity, for example for application to the skin.

[0005] However, the inventors have found that among such hydrophilic thickeners, polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 can provide reduced flowability of the composition, for example, it is difficult to remove an appropriate amount from the package and / or it is difficult to see smooth flowability when tilted / shaken, which gives a very rough feel / appearance, especially at higher levels.

[0006] Based on the foregoing, there is a need for a cosmetic composition that provides improved flowability of the composition while containing a relatively high level of Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition comprising, by weight:

[0008] (a) from about 1.5% to about 5% of Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6;

[0009] (b) from about 0.05% to about 5% of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB of from about 10 to about 20;

[0010] and

[0011] (c) an aqueous carrier

[0012] wherein the composition meets at least one of the following conditions (i)-(iii):

[0013] (i) wherein the composition has a pH of from about 2.0 to about 5.0;

[0014] (ii) wherein the nonionic surfactant is liquid at 20 °C; and

[0015] (iii) wherein the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum.

[0016] The compositions of the present invention provide improved flowability of the composition while containing a relatively high level of Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6. It has surprisingly been found that, compared to compositions having a similar viscosity but using a lower HLB nonionic surfactant, the compositions of the present invention provide improved flowability by using a higher HLB nonionic surfactant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] References in the specification to "embodiments" or like terms mean that the specific materials, features, structures, and / or properties described in connection with the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment, optionally in a plurality of embodiments, but this does not mean that all embodiments include the described materials, features, structures, and / or properties. Moreover, the materials, features, structures, and / or properties may be combined in any suitable manner in different embodiments, and the materials, features, structures, and / or properties may be omitted or substituted for those described. Thus, unless otherwise stated or declared to be incompatible, the embodiments and aspects described herein may include elements or components of other embodiments and / or aspects or may be combined with elements or components of other embodiments and / or aspects, even though not explicitly illustrated in combination.

[0018] In all embodiments, unless otherwise specifically stated, all ingredient percentages are based on the weight of the cosmetic composition. Unless otherwise specifically stated, all ratios are weight ratios. The number of significant digits represents neither a limitation on the indicated amounts nor on the precision of the measurements. All numerical values should be understood to be modified by the word "about" unless otherwise specifically indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, all measurements are understood to be made at about 25 °C and ambient conditions, where "ambient conditions" means conditions at about 1 atmosphere and about 50% relative humidity. All numerical ranges are inclusive and combinable to form narrower ranges not explicitly disclosed. For example, the upper and lower limits of the depicted ranges are interchangeable to form additional ranges.

[0019] The compositions of the present invention may comprise the essential components described herein, as well as optional ingredients, consist essentially of, or consist of them. As used herein, "consisting essentially of" means that the composition or component may contain only the following additional ingredients, which do not essentially change the basic and novel characteristics of the composition or method protected by the claims. As used in the specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well.

[0020] Definition

[0021] "About" modifies a particular value by referring to a range that is plus or minus twenty percent (+ / - 20%) or less of the specified value (e.g., less than 15%, 10%, or even less than 5%).

[0022] As used in reference to a composition, "applying" means applying or spreading the composition of the present invention onto the surface of human skin, such as the epidermis.

[0023] As used herein, "derivative" means an amide, ether, ester, amino, carboxyl, acetyl, and / or alcohol derivative of a given compound.

[0024] "Effective amount" means the amount of a compound or composition sufficient to significantly induce a positive beneficial effect on keratinous tissue during the course of a treatment period. The positive beneficial effect may be a health, appearance, and / or sensory beneficial effect, including the beneficial effects disclosed herein, either independently or in combination.

[0025] "Cosmetic agent" means any substance and any of its components intended to be rubbed, poured, sprayed, atomized, introduced, or otherwise applied to the body of a mammal or any part thereof to provide a cosmetic effect. Cosmetic agents may contain substances generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, food additives, and materials used in non-cosmetic consumer products (including over-the-counter drugs).

[0026] "Cosmetic composition" means a composition comprising a cosmetic agent. Examples of cosmetic compositions include colored cosmetics (such as foundations, lipsticks, concealers, and mascaras), skin care compositions (such as moisturizers and sunscreens), personal care compositions (such as rinse-off and leave-on body washes and soaps), and hair care compositions (such as shampoos and conditioners).

[0027] "Skin care" means regulating and / or improving the condition of the skin (e.g., skin health, appearance, or texture / feel). Some non-limiting examples of improving the skin condition include improving the skin appearance and / or feel by providing a smoother, more even appearance and / or feel; increasing the thickness of one or more layers of the skin; improving the elasticity or resilence of the skin; improving the firmness of the skin; and reducing the oily, shiny, and / or dull appearance of the skin, improving the hydration state or moisturization state of the skin, improving the appearance of fine lines and / or wrinkles, improving skin flaking or desquamation, plumping the skin, improving the skin barrier properties, improving skin color, reducing the appearance of redness or skin blotches, and / or improving the brightness, luster, or translucency of the skin.

[0028] "Skin care active" means a compound or combination of compounds that, when applied to the skin, provides immediate and / or long-term beneficial effects to the skin or cell types normally present therein. Skin care actives can regulate and / or improve the skin or its associated cells (e.g., improving skin elasticity, hydration, skin barrier function, and / or improving cell metabolism).

[0029] "Skin care composition" means a composition that contains skin care actives and regulates and / or improves the condition of the skin.

[0030] "Synergy" and its variants mean that the effect provided by the combination of two or more materials is greater than the expected additive effect of these materials.

[0031] As used herein, "treatment cycle" means the length of time and / or frequency of applying a material or composition to the target skin surface.

[0032] Cosmetic composition

[0033] The cosmetic composition of the present invention comprises: polyacrylate crosspolymer-6; a nonionic surfactant having an HLB of from about 10 to about 20, wherein the composition satisfies at least one of the following conditions (i)-(iii): (i) wherein the pH of the composition is from about 2.0 to about 5.0; (ii) wherein the nonionic surfactant is liquid at 20 °C; and (iii) wherein the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum.

[0034] Considering the provision of improved flowability of the composition, it is preferred in the composition that the weight ratio of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to nonionic surfactant is from about 15:1 to about 1:15, more preferably from about 8:1 to about 1:8, still more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1:5, and even more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1:3.

[0035] The composition has a viscosity of preferably from about 100 cP to about 60,000 cP, more preferably from about 1000 cP to about 55,000 cP, still more preferably from about 1,000 cP to about 48,000 cP, especially when the composition has a high level of water.

[0036] If the composition of the present invention contains a solid oil (having a melting point of 30 °C or higher), such as shea butter, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and / or behenyl alcohol, then preferably, the composition contains a limited amount of such solid oil to provide a fresh / light texture from the composition containing a higher level of water. The total level of solid oil in the composition is preferably at most about 0.5%, more preferably at most about 0.3%, still more preferably at most about 0.1%, and even more preferably 0%.

[0037] Considering the improved flowability by using a higher HLB nonionic surfactant in a composition containing a higher level of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6, it may be preferred in the present invention that the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum. The total level of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum in the composition is preferably at most about 0.1%, more preferably at most about 0.05%, still more preferably at most about 0.01%, and even more preferably 0%.

[0038] The cosmetic compositions herein are intended for topical application to human skin. The compositions herein may optionally contain one or more additional skin-active substances or other types of ingredients commonly included in topical cosmetic compositions.

[0039] The cosmetic compositions herein can be cosmetic compositions, pharmaceutical compositions, or cosmeceutical compositions, and can be provided in various product forms, including but not limited to solutions, suspensions, lotions, gels, toners, cleansing liquid wash gels, film-forming products, etc. In some cases, the composition form may conform to the selected specific dermatologically acceptable carrier. For example, the composition (and carrier) can be provided in the form of an emulsion (e.g., oil-in-water, water-in-oil, or water-in-oil-in-water) or an aqueous dispersion. Preferably, the cosmetic composition of the present invention is in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion.

[0040] pH of the composition

[0041] Typically, cosmetic compositions are formulated to have a weakly acidic to neutral pH (i.e., 5.0 to 7.0), which is believed to improve the stability of certain ingredients in the composition (e.g., niacinamide, salicylates, and neutralized thickeners). However, formulating a skin care composition at a low pH (e.g., 2.0 to 5.0) can also provide certain beneficial effects such as improving skin or appearance, enhancing the acidic mantle of the skin, exfoliating the skin epidermis, improving skin texture, and / or providing flexibility in the product formulation.

[0042] It may be preferred that the composition of the present invention has a lower pH, i.e., from about 2.0 to about 5.0, preferably from about 2.0 to about 4.5, still more preferably from about 2.5 to about 4.0, or even more preferably from about 3.5 to about 3.9.

[0043] It has been found that polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 can provide suitable tolerance to a low pH environment and provide the desired feel and opacity characteristics to the composition. It has also been found that at lower pHs, it is preferred to use an increased amount of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to provide a certain viscosity to the composition. However, this increased amount of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 tends to result in a decrease in the fluidity of the composition, especially when the composition has a lower pH. By using the specific nonionic surfactant described above, the composition provides improved fluidity while having sufficient viscosity from polyacrylate crosspolymer-6.

[0044] Low pH acid buffer system

[0045] A variety of acids are known to be useful in skin care compositions. For example, alpha hydroxy acids (e.g., citric acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, and lactic acid), beta hydroxy acids (e.g., salicylic acid and propionic acid), and polyhydroxy acids (e.g., gluconic acid) are commonly used as exfoliants. However, some acids are stronger than others, and / or some individuals may be more sensitive to certain concentrations of acids than others. Both of these factors can increase the risk of skin irritation caused by low pH compositions containing acids. When it comes to skin irritation, lactic acid is one of the milder alpha hydroxy acids, but its strength is still sufficient to provide the desired low pH in the composition of the present invention. In addition, lactic acid can provide skin beneficial effects that other alpha hydroxy acids (e.g., glycolic acid, citric acid, or malic acid) do not provide. For example, lactic acid can help improve the skin's natural moisture factor and / or stimulate collagen renewal to help improve the signs of aging skin. Accordingly, the compositions herein contain an amount and concentration of lactic acid that provides the desired low pH to the skin care compositions herein. In some cases, the low pH compositions herein can contain 0.5% to 5% lactic acid and / or gluconic acid (e.g., 0.75% to 4%, 1% to 3%, or 1.5% to 2.5%).

[0046] When providing a low pH composition for topical application to the skin, it is important to include a buffering agent to help maintain the pH of the composition after application to the skin. On average, human skin pH is typically in the range of about 5.0 to 6.0. To maintain this pH, human skin has evolved a natural buffering system that resists pH changes. Thus, when a low pH composition is applied to the skin, the skin's natural buffering system will attempt to adjust the pH of the composition to match the skin's natural pH. Without the addition of a buffering agent, the low pH composition may not provide the desired skin care benefits.

[0047] The low pH compositions herein contain sodium lactate and / or sodium gluconate buffering agents, depending on the one or more acids used to lower the pH in the composition. The sodium lactate and / or sodium gluconate buffer can be present in any amount suitable for maintaining the pH of the inventive composition at a desired level for at least 1 minute after application to the skin (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 30, 60 or even 120 minutes or longer after application) to provide sufficient time for the active ingredients in the composition to penetrate the skin. In some cases, sodium lactate can be present in the low pH composition in an amount of 0.25% to 4% (e.g., 0.5% to 3%, 0.75% to 2% or 1% to 1.75%). In some cases, the salt buffer can be present at a weight ratio of acid to buffer of 1:10 to 10:1. It may be desirable to use the L-enantiomeric form of the acid and / or salt buffer, as it is the form that is naturally present in the body. In addition to acting as a buffering agent, sodium lactate can also act as a humectant to help moisten the skin, making it a particularly suitable buffer. Of course, it should be understood that the compositions of the present invention can optionally contain other pH buffering agents known for use in skin care compositions.

[0048] Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6

[0049] The compositions of the present invention contain polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 at a level of about 1.5% to about 5%, more preferably about 1.8% to about 4%, still more preferably about 2.0% to about 4.0%.

[0050] Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 is commercially available, for example, as SEPIMAX ZEN from Seppic, France.

[0051] Nonionic surfactant

[0052] The composition of the present invention comprises a nonionic surfactant at a level of from about 0.05% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 3%. Considering providing improved fluidity of the composition, the nonionic surfactant useful herein has an HLB of about 10, preferably from about 11 to about 20. Among them, considering, for example, ease of manufacture, a nonionic surfactant that is liquid at 20 °C is more preferred. Highly preferred liquid nonionic emulsifiers useful herein include, for example, glycerol polyether-25 PCA isostearate with an HLB of 14 and polysorbate-20 with an HLB of 16.7.

[0053] Any nonionic emulsifier can be used as long as the nonionic surfactant has the above HLB. Such nonionic emulsifiers that may be suitable for use herein include ethers of polyethylene glycol and fatty alcohols, esters of polyethylene glycol and fatty acids, glycosylated ethers of polyethylene glycol and fatty alcohols, glycosylated esters of polyethylene glycol and fatty acids, ethers of C12-30 alcohols and glycerol or polyglycerol, esters of C12-30 fatty acids and glycerol or polyglycerol, ethers of alkylene oxide-modified C12-30 alcohols and glycerol or polyglycerol, ethers of C12-30 fatty alcohols and sucrose or glucose, esters of sucrose and C1-230 fatty acids, esters of pentaerythritol and C1230 fatty acids, esters of sorbitol and / or sorbitan and C1230 fatty acids, ethers of sorbitol and / or sorbitan and alkoxylated sorbitan, ethers of polyethylene glycol and cholesterol, esters of C12-30 fatty acids and alkoxylated ethers of sorbitol and / or sorbitan, and combinations thereof. A particularly useful class of emulsifiers is polyethylene glycol ethers of lauryl alcohol, such as lauryl polyoxyethylene ether-1 to lauryl polyoxyethylene ether-50 (e.g., lauryl polyoxyethylene ether-4). Other examples of emulsifiers include ethers of glycerol, polyglycerol, sucrose, glucose, or sorbitol; esters of glycerol, polyglycerol, sucrose, glucose, or sorbitol; and mixtures thereof. Other particularly useful classes of emulsifiers are alkyl esters of sorbitol and sorbitan, such as polysorbate 20, polysorbate 21, and polysorbate 40.

[0054] Silicone emulsifiers may be suitable for use herein. Linear or branched types of silicone emulsifiers can also be used. Particularly useful silicone emulsifiers include polyether-modified silicones such as KF-6011, KF-6012, KF-6013, KF-6015, KF-6015, KF-6017, KF-6043, KF-6028, and KF-6038, and polyglycerolated linear or branched silicone emulsifiers such as KF-6100, KF-6104, and KF-6105; all available from Shin-Etsu.

[0055] Silica

[0056] The composition preferably contains silica at a level of from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 7%, still more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5%.

[0057] For improved sensory feel, the silica useful herein has an average particle size of from about 0.5 microns to about 35 microns, preferably from about 1 micron to 31 microns, more preferably from about 1 micron to 15 microns, still more preferably from about 1 micron to about 10 microns, since particles that are too small may not provide sufficient smoothness while particles that are too large may provide a scrubbing-like feel. Preferably, the silica has a spherical shape.

[0058] For providing a balance between improved sensory feel and wetting feel, the silica useful herein has an oil absorption of from about 1 ml / 100 g to about 130 ml / 100 g, preferably from about 1 ml / 100 g to about 120 ml / 100 g, more preferably from about 1 ml / 100 g to about 100 ml / 100 g, still more preferably from about 1 ml / 100 g to about 50 ml / 100 g.

[0059] Commercial examples of spherical silica having such particle size and such oil absorption are, for example, Goddball G6C having an average particle size of 3 - 5 microns and an oil absorption of 30 ml / 100 g and Goddball E90C having an average particle size of 30 microns and an oil absorption of 120 ml / 100 g.

[0060] Lauroyl lysine

[0061] The composition of the present invention preferably contains lauroyl lysine at a level of from about 0.1% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.3% to about 7%, more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5%.

[0062] The composition of the present invention contains lauroyl lysine at a level of from about 0.1% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.3% to about 7%, more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5%. The shape of lauroyl lysine can be any shape. Preferably, the shape of lauroyl lysine is spherical or flat polygon (selected from flat pentagon, flat hexagon and flat heptagon, preferably flat hexagon). More preferably, the shape of lauroyl lysine is flat polygon.

[0063] For improved sensory feel, preferably, lauroyl lysine in the form of flat polygon has an average particle size of from about 10 microns to about 40 microns, more preferably from about 15 microns to about 35 microns, still more preferably from about 20 microns to 30 microns, since particles that are too small may not provide sufficient elasticity / soft feel while particles that are too large may provide a scrubbing-like feel.

[0064] A commercial example of such lauroyl lysine having this granularity and in the form of flat polygons is, for example, Amihope LL available from Ajinomoto, which has a flat hexagonal shape and an average granularity of 20 to 30 microns.

[0065] Preferably, spherical lauroyl lysine has an average granularity of about 1 to about 30 microns, more preferably about 2 to about 20 microns, and even more preferably about 3 to 8 microns.

[0066] Lauroyl lysine, especially when it is in the form of flat polygons, can be dispersed in the composition as a layered structure containing some or several flat polygonal crystals.

[0067] It is believed that lauroyl lysine provides an improved moisturizing / buffering feel compared to starch solid powder and cellulose solid powder.

[0068] In addition, compared to hydrophilic solid polymer powders such as starch solid powder and cellulose solid powder, it is believed that lauroyl lysine provides reduced pilling and / or caking, especially when the composition contains a higher level of hydrophilic thickener. For such reduced pilling and / or caking, it may be preferred that the composition is substantially free of such hydrophilic solid polymer powders, i.e., contains 0.1% or less, more preferably 0.05% or less of such hydrophilic solid polymer powders. Even more preferably, the composition of the present invention is free of such hydrophilic solid polymer powders, i.e., contains 0% of such hydrophilic solid polymer powders.

[0069] It is also believed that lauroyl lysine can provide a matte appearance and / or reduced visibility of skin pores.

[0070] Substantially free of microplastic solid particles

[0071] When containing silica and / or lauroyl lysine, the composition of the present invention can provide a reduced tacky feeling while having sufficient viscosity from polyacrylate cross-linked polymer - 6 without using microplastic solid particles. Therefore, considering the reduced use of microplastic solid particles, when containing silica and / or lauroyl lysine, the composition of the present invention can also provide environmental benefits. Such microplastic solid particles are, for example, nylon powder, polyurethane powder, polyethylene powder, silicone resin powder. In the present invention, when containing silica and / or lauroyl lysine, it is preferred that the composition is substantially free of such microplastic solid particles. More preferably, the composition of the present invention is free of such microplastic solid particles, i.e., contains 0% of such microplastic solid particles.

[0072] Aqueous carrier / water

[0073] The composition preferably comprises an aqueous carrier. Preferably, the aqueous carrier is substantially water. Preferably, deionized water is used. Depending on the desired characteristics of the composition, water from natural sources containing mineral cations may also be used.

[0074] The compositions of the present invention comprise water at a level from about 55% to about 99%, preferably from about 60% to about 98%, more preferably from about 60% to about 95%, still more preferably from about 60% to about 90%, by weight of the composition.

[0075] In some cases, the composition of the present invention is in the form of an oil-in-water ("O / W") emulsion that provides a light and non-greasy sensory feel. Suitable O / W emulsions herein may include a continuous aqueous phase greater than 50% by weight of the composition, and the remainder is a dispersed oil phase. The aqueous phase may include 1% to 99% water based on the weight of the aqueous phase, and any water-soluble and / or water-miscible ingredients. In these cases, the dispersed oil phase will typically be present in an amount less than 30% (e.g., 1% to 20%, 2% to 15%, 3% to 12%, 4% to 10%, or even 5% to 8%) by weight of the composition to help avoid some undesirable sensory effects of oily compositions. The oil phase may include one or more volatile oils and / or non-volatile oils (e.g., vegetable oils, silicone oils, and / or hydrocarbon oils).

[0076] Skin conditioner

[0077] Optionally, the compositions of the present invention may further comprise a skin conditioning agent. These agents may be selected from humectants and emollients. The amount of skin conditioning agent may range from about 1% to about 50%, preferably from about 2% to about 40%, more preferably from about 5% to about 30% by weight of the composition.

[0078] Humectants are polyols intended for moisturizing, reducing scaling, and promoting the removal of accumulated scaling from the skin. Typical polyols include polyalkylene glycols, and more preferably alkylene polyols and their derivatives. Exemplary are propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, sorbitol, hydroxypropyl sorbitol, hexylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, ethoxylated glycerol, propoxylated glycerol, and mixtures thereof. Most preferably, the humectant is glycerol.

[0079] When the conditioning agent is an emollient it may be selected from hydrocarbons, fatty acids, fatty alcohols and esters.

[0080] Fatty alcohol

[0081] The compositions herein may contain fatty alcohols. Fatty alcohols refer to high molecular weight, straight chain primary alcohols having the following general structure:

[0082]

[0083] where n = 8 to 32.

[0084] The fatty alcohol can be natural or synthetic, saturated or unsaturated, branched or straight-chain. Some non-limiting examples of fatty alcohols commonly used in cosmetic compositions include octanol, decanol, lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and behenyl alcohol. The fatty alcohols herein can generally be represented by the number of carbon atoms in the molecule. For example, "C12 alcohol" refers to an alcohol having 12 carbon atoms in its chain (i.e., dodecanol).

[0085] The fatty alcohol can be included in the compositions herein at 0.0001% to 15% by weight of the composition (e.g., 0.0002% to 10%, 0.001% to 15%, 0.025% to 10%, 0.05% to 7%, 0.05% to 5%, or even 0.1% to 3%).

[0086] Whitening agent

[0087] The compositions of the present invention can contain a whitening agent. The whitening agents useful herein refer to active ingredients that not only change the appearance of the skin but also further improve hyperpigmentation compared to pretreatment. The available whitening agents herein include ascorbic acid compounds, vitamin B3 compounds, azelaic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole, gallic acid and its derivatives, hydroquinoline, kojic acid, arbutin, mulberry extract, tetrahydrocurcumin, and mixtures thereof. It is also believed that the use of combinations of whitening agents is advantageous because they can provide whitening beneficial effects through different mechanisms.

[0088] When used, the composition preferably contains from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight of the composition of the whitening agent.

[0089] Ascorbic acid compounds are available whitening agents, and ascorbyl glucoside is a preferred derivative of ascorbic acid compounds.

[0090] Conditioning agent

[0091] The compositions herein can contain from 0.1% to 50% by weight of a conditioning agent (e.g., 0.5% to 30%, 1% to 20%, or even 2% to 15%). The addition of the conditioning agent can help provide the composition with desired sensory properties (e.g., a smooth and lubricious feel upon application). Some non-limiting examples of conditioning agents include hydrocarbon oils and waxes, silicones, fatty acid derivatives, cholesterol, cholesterol derivatives, diglycerides, triglycerides, vegetable oils, vegetable oil derivatives, acetyl glycerides, alkyl esters, alkenyl esters, lanolin, wax esters, beeswax derivatives, sterols and phospholipids, their salts, isomers, and derivatives, and combinations thereof.

[0092] Examples of particularly suitable conditioning agents include non-volatile silicone fluids such as polydimethylsiloxane copolyols, dimethylpolysiloxane, diethylpolysiloxane, mixed C1-30 alkylpolysiloxanes, phenylpolydimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxanol, polydimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxanol, silicone crosslinked polymers, and combinations thereof. Polydimethylsiloxane can be particularly suitable because some consumers associate the sensory properties provided by certain polydimethylsiloxane fluids with good moisturization.

[0093] Hydrophilic thickener

[0094] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may further comprise additional hydrophilic thickeners. When present, the composition preferably comprises from about 0.01% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 4%, and still more preferably from about 0.1% to about 3% by weight of the composition of the hydrophilic thickener.

[0095] The hydrophilic thickeners that can be used herein are not particularly limited as long as it is one commonly used in cosmetic products. Examples include natural or semi-synthetic water-soluble polymers, synthetic water-soluble polymers, and inorganic water-soluble polymers.

[0096] As natural or semi-synthetic water-soluble polymers, polysaccharides and their derivatives (including water-soluble alkyl-substituted polysaccharide derivatives) are preferably used. Specific examples include plant-based polymers such as gum arabic, tragacanth, galactan, guar gum, carob gum, karaya gum, carrageenan, pectin, agar, quince seed, alginate (brown algae extract), starch (rice, corn, potato, wheat), and glycyrrhizic acid; microbe-based polymers such as xanthan gum, dextran, succinoglycan, and pullulan; starch-based polymers such as carboxymethyl starch and methylhydroxypropyl starch; cellulose-based polymers such as methylcellulose, nitrocellulose, ethylcellulose, methylhydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium cellulose sulfate, hydroxypropylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), crystalline cellulose, and cellulose powder; and alginic acid-based polymers such as sodium alginate and propylene glycol alginate.

[0097] Synthetic water-soluble polymers include ionic or non-ionic water-soluble polymers, for example vinyl-based polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl methyl ether, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and carboxyvinyl polymer (carbomer); acryloyl-based polymers such as sodium polyacrylate, ethyl polyacrylate, polyacrylamide compounds, and acrylic acid / methacrylic acid alkyl ester copolymer (product name "pemulen TR-1").

[0098] Polyacrylamide compounds particularly include polyacrylamide compounds composed of homopolymers, copolymers or crosslinked polymers containing one or more constituent units selected from 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "AMPS"), acrylic acid and their derivatives.

[0099] Specific examples of such polyacrylamide compounds include vinylpyrrolidone / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (salt) copolymer, dimethylacrylamide / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (salt) copolymer, acrylamide / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid copolymer, dimethylacrylamide / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid crosslinked polymer crosslinked with methylenebisacrylamide, a mixture of polyacrylamide and sodium polyacrylate, sodium acrylate / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid copolymer, 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (salt) copolymer, ammonium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide / ammonium acrylate copolymer and acrylamide / sodium acrylate copolymer. However, the compounds are not limited to these examples.

[0100] Preferred examples of the salts in the foregoing paragraphs include alkali metal salts (such as calcium salts and magnesium salts), ammonium salts, organic amine salts (such as monoethanolamine salts, diethanolamine salts and triethanolamine salts). One or more of these polyacrylamide compounds can be used.

[0101] These polyacrylamide compounds can be synthesized or obtained as commercial products. For example, vinylpyrrolidone / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (salt) copolymer can be “Aristoflex AVC” (manufactured by Clariant), sodium acrylate / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (salt) copolymer can be “Simulgel EG” (manufactured by Seppic) or “Simulgel EPG” (manufactured by Seppic), acrylamide / sodium 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonate copolymer can be “Simulgel 600” (manufactured by Seppic), acrylamide / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (salt) can be “Sepigel 305” (manufactured by Seppic) or “Sepigel 501” (manufactured by Seppic), homopolymer of sodium 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonate can be “1-lostacerin AMPS” (manufactured by Clariant) or “Simulgel 800” (manufactured by Seppic), and dimethylacrylamide / 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid can be “SU-Polymer0-1” (manufactured by Toho Chemical Industry). In the present invention, these polymers called Sepigel and Simulgel can preferably be used together with polyacrylate cross-polymer-6.

[0102] The hydrophilic thickener in the aqueous cosmetic of the present invention can be a combination of one or more types.

[0103] Emulsifier

[0104] When the composition is in the form of an emulsion, it may contain additional emulsifiers. The emulsifier can be nonionic, anionic, cationic or zwitterionic.

[0105] Other optional ingredients 。

[0106] The compositions herein may contain one or more optional ingredients known for use in topical cosmetic compositions, provided that the optional components do not unacceptably alter the desired beneficial effects of the composition. In some cases, it may be desirable to select cosmetic actives that act via different biological pathways such that the actives do not interfere with each other. When the composition is in the form of an emulsion, the additional ingredients should not introduce instabilities (such as syneresis) into the emulsion. For example, it may be desirable to select optional ingredients that do not form complexes with other ingredients in the composition, especially pH-sensitive ingredients such as vitamin B3 compounds, salicylates and peptides.

[0107] The additional ingredients should be suitable for contact with human skin tissue without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like. When present, the optional components can be included in an amount of about 0.001% to 50% by weight of the composition (e.g., 0.01% to 40%, 0.1% to 30%, 0.5% to 20%, or even 1% to 10%). Some non-limiting examples of additional ingredients include vitamins, minerals, peptides and peptide derivatives, glycosamines, sunscreen agents, sebum control agents, particles, flavonoid compounds, hair growth regulators, antioxidants and / or antioxidant precursors, preservatives, protease inhibitors, tyrosinase inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, humectants, exfoliants, skin brighteners, sunscreen agents, self-tanning agents, lubricants, anti-acne agents, lipolytic agents, chelating agents, anti-wrinkle actives, anti-atrophy actives, phytosterols and / or phytohormones, N-acyl amino acid compounds, anti-microbial agents, and anti-fungal agents. Some particularly suitable examples of additional ingredients include one or more skin care actives selected from the group consisting of: vitamin B3 compounds (e.g., niacinamide), n-acyl amino acids (e.g., undecylenoyl phenylalanine), vitamin E compounds (e.g., tocopheryl acetate), palmitoylated dipeptides (e.g., palmitoyl-lysine-threonine), palmitoylated pentapeptides (e.g., palmitoyl-lysine-threonine-threonine-lysine-serine), vitamin A compounds (e.g., retinol and retinyl propionate), and combinations thereof. Other non-limiting examples of optional ingredients and / or skin care actives that can be applicable herein are described in U.S. Patent Publications 2002 / 0022040, 2003 / 0049212, 2004 / 0175347, 2006 / 0275237, 2007 / 0196344, 2008 / 0181956, 2008 / 0206373, 2010 / 0092408, 2008 / 0206373, 2010 / 0239510, 2010 / 0189669, 2010 / 0272667, 2011 / 0262025, 2011 / 0097286, US2012 / 0197016, 2012 / 0128683, 2012 / 0148515, 2012 / 0156146, and 2013 / 0022557, and U.S. Patents 5,939,082, 5,872,112, 6,492,326, 6,696,049, 6,524,598, 5,972,359, and 6,174,533.

[0108] Sucrose esters can be used herein. Such sucrose esters can be a blend of two or more sucrose esters, wherein the two or more sucrose esters are present in a ratio of any one sucrose ester to another sucrose ester of 1:10 to 1:1 (such as 1:7, 1:5, 1:3 or 1:2). In some cases, the sucrose ester can be a blend of sucrose laurate and sucrose dilaurate, wherein the sucrose laurate is present at 50% to 80% by weight of the sucrose ester, and the sucrose dilaurate is present at 20% to 45% by weight of the sucrose ester. Alternatively, the sucrose ester can be a blend of sucrose laurate, sucrose dilaurate and sucrose trilaurate, wherein the sucrose dilaurate is present at more than 35% by weight of the sucrose ester. A particularly suitable example of the sucrose ester for use herein is sucrose dilaurate BC10034 available from BASF.

[0109] Method of use of the cosmetic composition

[0110] The methods of use herein include identifying a target skin portion of a human in need of treatment, and applying the composition to the target skin portion during a treatment period. The target skin portion can be on the facial skin surface (such as the forehead, perioral area, chin, periorbital area, nose and / or cheeks) or another part of the body (such as the hands, arms, legs, back, chest). The person in need of treatment is a person whose skin exhibits signs of oxidative stress (such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and / or other visible skin features commonly associated with aging). In some cases, the target portion of the skin may not exhibit visible signs of skin aging, but the user (such as a relatively young user) may still wish to target such skin areas if the area is an area where such problems typically occur as a person ages. In this way, the method can be used as a preventive measure to delay the occurrence of visible signs of skin aging.

[0111] The composition can be applied to the target skin portion during the treatment period and, if desired, to the surrounding skin at least once a day, twice a day or more frequently per day. When applied twice a day, the first and second applications are separated by at least 1 to 12 hours. Generally, the composition can be applied in the morning and / or before going to bed at night. The treatment period can last at least 1 week (such as about 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks or even 12 weeks). In some cases, the treatment period will be extended for several months (i.e., 3 months to 12 months). In some cases, the composition can be applied on most days of the week (such as at least 4 days, 5 days or 6 days per week), at least once a day or even twice a day during a treatment period of at least 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks or 12 weeks.

[0112] The step of applying the composition can be achieved by topical application. With respect to the application of the composition, the terms "topical", "topically", "locally" mean delivering the composition to a target area (e.g., wrinkles or fine lines) while minimizing delivery to the skin surface that is not desired to be treated. The composition can be applied to and gently rubbed into the skin area. The form of the composition or the dermatologically acceptable carrier should be selected to facilitate topical application. Although some embodiments herein contemplate topical application of the composition to a certain area, it should be understood that the compositions herein can be widely applied to one or more skin surfaces. In certain embodiments, the compositions herein can be used as part of a multi-step beauty regimen, where the compositions of the present invention can be applied before and / or after one or more other compositions.

[0113] Combination

[0114] 1. A cosmetic composition, the cosmetic composition comprising, by weight:

[0115] (a) from about 1.5% to about 5% of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6;

[0116] (b) from about 0.05% to about 5% of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB of from about 10 to about 20; and

[0117] (c) an aqueous carrier,

[0118] wherein the composition satisfies at least one of the following conditions (i)-(iii):

[0119] (i) wherein the pH of the composition is from about 2.0 to about 5.0;

[0120] (ii) wherein the nonionic surfactant is liquid at 20 °C; and

[0121] (iii) wherein the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum.

[0122] 2. The composition according to the preceding features, wherein the composition comprises from about 1.8% to about 4%, preferably from about 2% to about 4% of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6.

[0123] 3. The composition according to any one of the preceding features, wherein the weight ratio of the polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to the nonionic surfactant is from about 15:1 to about 1:15, preferably from about 8:1 to about 1:8, more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1:5, still more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1:3.

[0124] Example

[0125] Cosmetic composition (% by weight)

[0126]

[0127]

[0128] Details of the ingredients used in the above table

[0129]

[0130] Evaluation of the fluidity of the composition

[0131] The fluidity of the composition was evaluated by the following method:

[0132] Ten panelists rated the product filled in an 80 g glass jar (blind) (the product weight and jar type were consistent). Then, the panelists evaluated "the ease of obtaining an appropriate amount from the package" and "the smooth fluidity when tilted / shaken" and gave scores from 1 to 5, with 1 being excellent and 5 being poor. The average score of the ten panelists for each example composition was obtained. Then, the average score of one example composition was compared with the average score of Comparative Example i as a control. The improvement % in score compared to the control was described in the above table.

[0133] Examples 1 to 6 are examples of the present invention, which are suitable for use as oil-in-water emulsion cosmetic compositions in the form of essence, lotion, serum, and / or gel cream. Comparative Example i and Comparative Example ii are comparative examples of the present invention. Comparative Example i does not contain any nonionic surfactant and Comparative Example ii contains a lower HLB nonionic surfactant. Compared with the comparative examples, the examples of the present invention provide improved fluidity of the composition.

[0134] The dimensions and values disclosed herein should not be construed as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the recited value and a range functionally equivalent around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to represent "about 40 mm".

[0135] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-reference or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or for which it claims benefit of the advantage, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone or in any combination with any one or more other references teaches, suggests, or discloses any such invention. Further, when any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with the same term's meaning or definition in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to the term in this invention shall govern.

[0136] While the specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cosmetic composition, the cosmetic composition comprising, by weight: (a) from about 1.5% to about 5% of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6; (b) from about 0.05% to about 5% of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB of from about 10 to about 20; and (c) an aqueous carrier, wherein the composition satisfies at least one of the following conditions (i)-(iii): (i) wherein the pH of the composition is from about 2.0 to about 5.0; (ii) wherein the nonionic surfactant is liquid at 20 °C; and (iii) wherein the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethyl cellulose and xanthan gum.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition comprises from about 1.8% to about 4% of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6.

3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the composition comprises from about 2% to about 4% of polyacrylate crosspolymer-6.

4. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of the polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to the nonionic surfactant is from about 15:1 to about 1:

15.

5. The composition according to claim 4, wherein the weight ratio of the polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to the nonionic surfactant is from about 8:1 to about 1:

8.

6. The composition according to claim 5, wherein the weight ratio of the polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to the nonionic surfactant is from about 5:1 to about 1:

5.

7. The composition according to claim 6, wherein the weight ratio of the polyacrylate crosspolymer-6 to the nonionic surfactant is from about 5:1 to about 1:3.

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