Hair care composition and use thereof for improving softness and smoothness of hair

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hair care composition comprising (A) an ionic surfactant, (B) a higher fatty alcohol and (C) a polyol. The invention also relates to a method of conditioning hair using the hair care composition, and to the use of the hair care composition for improving the softness and smoothness of hair.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to hair care compositions comprising: (A) an ionic surfactant, (B) a higher fatty alcohol, and (C) a polyol. The hair care compositions according to the invention can improve the softness and smoothness of hair, especially damaged hair. Background Technology

[0002] Most Asian consumers naturally have coarse and rough hair due to its unique hair structure. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of hair dyeing and perming leads to damaged and frizzy hair. Additionally, soft and smooth hair is considered a sign of youth and beauty among Asian consumers. Although many hair care products on the market claim to improve hair softness, smoothness, and manageability, none quite meet consumer expectations. For example, most hair care products on the market can smooth damaged hair, but the hair treated with them is quite stiff and artificially smooth, failing to achieve the softness desired for coarse hair.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a hair care composition that can improve the softness and smoothness of hair (especially damaged hair). Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a hair care composition comprising: (A) Ionic surfactants, (B) Higher fatty alcohols, and (C) Polyols.

[0005] The present invention also provides a method for conditioning hair, the method comprising: applying a hair care composition according to the present invention to the hair.

[0006] The present invention also provides the use of the hair care composition according to the invention for improving the softness and smoothness of hair.

[0007] The hair care compositions, methods of conditioning hair, and uses according to the present invention are all based on the following surprising discovery by the inventors: the hair care compositions according to the present invention, which utilize a specific component (C), can improve the softness and smoothness of hair (especially damaged hair). Detailed Implementation

[0008] Those skilled in the art will understand that this discussion is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the invention. Unless expressly indicated to the contrary, each aspect so described may be combined with any other one or more aspects. In particular, any feature indicated as preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other one or more features indicated as preferred or advantageous.

[0009] Unless otherwise stated, as used herein, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and plural indicators.

[0010] As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including” are synonymous with “containing” or “containing”, and are inclusive or open-ended, and do not exclude additional, unlisted components, elements or process steps.

[0011] Unless otherwise stated, the list of numerical endpoints includes all numbers and fractions contained within the corresponding range, as well as the listed endpoints.

[0012] Unless otherwise stated, all terms “room temperature” used herein refer to 23 ± 2 °C.

[0013] Unless otherwise stated, all parameters used herein are measured according to the methods described in the working embodiments of this specification, if any.

[0014] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used to disclose this invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0015] Surprisingly, the inventors of the present invention have discovered that the hair care composition according to the present invention, utilizing a specific component (C), can improve the softness and smoothness of hair, especially damaged hair.

[0016] In a first aspect, this disclosure generally relates to a hair care composition comprising: (A) Ionic surfactants, (B) Higher fatty alcohols, and (C) Polyols.

[0017] Component (A) According to the present invention, the hair care composition comprises (A) an ionic surfactant.

[0018] Preferably, the ionic surfactant used in this invention is a cationic surfactant. More preferably, the ionic surfactant used in this invention is selected from stearamidopropyl dimethylamine, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyl PG-trimethylammonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl methyl sulfate ammonium, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the ionic surfactant is selected from stearamidopropyl dimethylamine, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl sulfate ammonium, and combinations thereof. In a more preferred embodiment of this invention, the ionic surfactant is a combination of stearamidopropyl dimethylamine, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, and distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl sulfate ammonium. This specific combination further improves the softness, smoothness, and combability of hair.

[0019] Examples of commercially available ionic surfactants include, but are not limited to: Dehyquart F 75T, distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl methyl ammonium sulfate, available from BASF SE; GENAMIN KDMP, betaine trimethyl ammonium chloride, available from Clariant GmbH; Lexamine S-13 / Tego Amid S 18, stearoylaminopropyl dimethylamine, available from Evonik Goldschmidt GmbH; Quartamin BTC-131, betaine PG-trimethyl ammonium chloride, available from KAOChemicals GmbH / Division; Dehyquart A CA, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium chloride, available from BASF SE; and STAC 808 KC / Genamin STAC, stearyltrimethyl ammonium chloride, available from Clariant GmbH. Preferably, the ionic surfactant is Dehyquart F 75T, distearylethyl hydroxyethyl methyl ammonium sulfate, available from BASF SE; GENAMIN KDMP, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, available from Clariant GmbH; and / or Lexamine S-13 / TegoAmid S 18, stearamide propyl dimethylamine, available from Evonik Goldschmidt GmbH. More preferably, the ionic surfactant is a combination of: Dehyquart F 75T, distearylethyl hydroxyethyl methyl ammonium sulfate, available from BASF SE; GENAMIN KDMP, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, available from Clariant GmbH; and Lexamine S-13 / Tego Amid S 18, stearamide propyl dimethylamine, available from Evonik Goldschmidt GmbH.

[0020] Preferably, the amount of component (A) is 1-5% by weight, more preferably 2-4.8% by weight, and 3.3-4.4% by weight, each based on the total weight of the composition.

[0021] Component (B) According to the present invention, the hair care composition comprises (B) higher fatty alcohols.

[0022] Preferably, the higher fatty alcohols used in this invention are straight-chain saturated alcohols with 12-24 carbon atoms, preferably 16-22. More preferably, the higher fatty alcohols used in this invention are selected from lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, and C64 alcohol. 12-15 alcohols, C 12-16 Alcohols, cetearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, arachidyl alcohol, betaine alcohol, oleyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. Most preferably, the higher fatty alcohol used in this invention is cetearyl alcohol.

[0023] Examples of commercially available higher fatty alcohols include, but are not limited to: Lanette 16 / MB, cetearyl alcohol, available from BASF; Lanette 18, stearyl alcohol, available from BASF; Lanette 22, betaine alcohol, available from BASF; NACOL 20-95, arachidyl alcohol, available from Sasol Chemicals; Cetearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, available from BASF SE; Lanette O / MB, cetearyl alcohol, available from BASF; and NAFOL 1618 S, cetearyl alcohol, available from Sasol Chemicals. Preferably, the higher fatty alcohols are selected from: Cetearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, available from BASF SE; Lanette O / MB, cetearyl alcohol, available from BASF; and NAFOL 1618 S, cetearyl alcohol, available from Sasol Chemicals. More preferably, the higher fatty alcohol is Cetearyl alcohol, which is available from BASF SE.

[0024] Preferably, the amount of component (B) is 1 to 15% by weight, more preferably 2 to 10% by weight, and even more preferably 3 to 7% by weight, each based on the total weight of the composition.

[0025] Component (C) According to the present invention, the hair care composition comprises (C) polyol.

[0026] Preferably, component (C) used in this invention comprises a polyol selected from the following: 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 1,10-decanediol, 1,9-nonanediol, 1,5-naphthalenediol, isopentanediol, dipropylene glycol, pentaerythritol, xylitol, fructose, sorbitol, mannitol, inositol, glucose, lactose, maltitol, sucrose, erythritol, cholesterol, menthanediol, magnolol, xylitol glucoside, lactitol, fructooligosaccharides, mannan, mannose, glyceryl glucoside, decyl glucoside, fructan, trehalose, panthenol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polybutylene glycol, and combinations thereof. More preferably, component (C) used in this invention comprises a polyol selected from 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, xylitol, sorbitol, fructose, mannitol, inositol, glucose, lactose, maltitol, sucrose, panthenol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and combinations thereof. Most preferably, component (C) used in this invention comprises a polyol selected from 1,3-butanediol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, and combinations thereof.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the hair care composition contains only sorbitol as component (C), which further improves the smoothness and softness of both wet and dry hair.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the hair care composition comprises a combination of sorbitol and polyethylene glycol (especially PEG-8) as component (C), which exhibits a significant synergistic effect on hair performance.

[0029] Examples of commercially available polyols include, but are not limited to: Sorbitol 70% HS DAB, available from Inter-Harz GmbH; 1,3-Butylene Glycol, available from Univar Usa Inc.; Propanediol-1,2-propylene glycol, available from BASF SE; Glycerin 99.5%, available from BASF SE; D-Panthenol 75%, available from BASF SE; and Polyethylene Glycol MG 400, PEG-8, available from Inter-Harz GmbH. Preferably, the polyols used in this invention are selected from Sorbitol 70% HS DAB, available from Inter-Harz GmbH; 1,3-Butylene Glycol, available from Univar Usa Inc.; Polyethylene Glycol MG 400, PEG-8, available from Inter-Harz GmbH; and combinations thereof. More preferably, the polyol used in this invention is a combination of the following: Sorbitol 70% HS DAB, available from Inter-Harz GmbH; and Polyethylene Glycol MG400, PEG-8, available from Inter-Harz GmbH.

[0030] Preferably, the amount of component (C) is 1 to 30% by weight, more preferably 2 to 20% by weight, and even more preferably 3 to 18% by weight, each based on the total weight of the composition.

[0031] Component (D) According to the present invention, the hair care composition may further optionally contain (D) silicone oil.

[0032] Preferably, the hair care composition according to the invention further comprises (D) silicone oil. More preferably, the silicone oil is selected from amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane, phenyl polytrimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane alcohol, bisaminoPEG / PPG-41 / 3aminoethylPG-propyl polydimethylsiloxane, PEG-12 polydimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane crosspolymers, and combinations thereof. Most preferably, the silicone oil is an amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the hair care composition may comprise one or more silicone oils. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, the silicone oil is a mixture containing two amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxanes.

[0033] Examples of commercially available silicone oils include, but are not limited to: XF-42-B1989, an amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, available from Dow Chemical Company; Xiameter PMX-200 Sil Fluid 60000 CS, a polydimethylsiloxane, available from Momentive Performance Material Japan LLC; Dow Corning 556 Cosmetic Grade Fluid / SF 5600 Z, a phenyl polytrimethylsiloxane, available from Dow Chemical Company; Xiameter PMX-1503 Fluid, a mixture of polydimethylsiloxane and polydimethylsiloxane alcohol, available from Dow Chemical Company; Silsoft A-843 LT, a diaminoPEG / PPG-41 / 3 aminoethyl PG-propyl polydimethylsiloxane, available from Momentive Performance Material Japan LLC; XF-42-B1989, an amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, available from Momentive Performance Materials GmbH; and Xiameter MEM-2664. Emulsion, a mixture of polydimethylsiloxane, lauryl ether-4, and lauryl ether-3, is available from Momentive Performance Material LLC; Xiameter OFX 0193 Fluid, PEG-12 polydimethylsiloxane, is available from Dow Chemical Company; Dow Corning 9041, polydimethylsiloxane, is available from Dow Chemical Company; Belsil ADM6102 E, a mixture of ammonia-terminated polydimethylsiloxane and tridecyl alcohol ether-10, is available from Wacker Chemie AG; SC-T100, ammonia-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, is available from Shangii Huanqiu Industry; and CB-1002, a mixture of polydimethylsiloxane and ammonia-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, is available from Dow Chemical Company. Preferably, the silicone oil used in this invention is Belsil ADM 6102 E, a mixture of amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane and tridecyl alcohol polyether-10, purchased from Wacker Chemie AG; and / or SC-T100, amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, purchased from Shanghai Huanqiu Industry.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the silicone oil used in the invention is a combination of the following: Belsil ADM6102 E, a mixture of amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane and tridecyl alcohol polyether-10, available from Wacker Chemie AG; and SC-T100, amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, available from Shangai Huanqiu Industry.

[0034] If present, the content of component (D) is 1 to 15% by weight, preferably 2 to 12% by weight, each based on the total weight of the composition.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the hair care composition comprises a combination of sorbitol, PEG-8 and silicone oil, which results in better hair performance in terms of smoothness, softness and combability on both wet and dry hair, and therefore the dosage of silicone oil in the hair care composition may be lower.

[0036] Component (E) In some embodiments of the invention, the hair care composition may optionally further comprise additives commonly used in the art to which this invention pertains, such as carriers, preservatives, thickeners, pH adjusters, antioxidants, and fragrances, provided that they do not negatively affect the desired technical effects of the composition. For example, the hair care composition according to the invention also comprises water, phenoxyethanol, and lactic acid. The presence, type, and amount of additives can be determined by those skilled in the art as required.

[0037] The hair care composition according to the invention can be prepared by conventional methods in the art. For example, the hair care composition according to the invention can be prepared by a method comprising the following steps: dissolving component (E) at 80 to 90°C to obtain an aqueous phase, melting components (A) and (B) at 80 to 90°C to obtain an oil phase, then mixing the aqueous and oil phases under stirring to obtain a homogeneous mixture; and cooling the homogeneous mixture by stirring, and adding all other components one by one to the mixture when the temperature of the mixture is equal to or below 60°C.

[0038] In a second aspect, this disclosure relates to a method of conditioning hair, the method comprising: applying a hair care composition according to the invention to hair, particularly damaged hair, especially after washing, preferably after shampooing.

[0039] In a third aspect, this disclosure relates to the use of the hair care composition according to the invention for improving the softness and smoothness of hair, particularly both dry and wet hair.

[0040] The hair care composition according to the invention is preferably used to improve the softness and smoothness of hair, particularly both dry and wet hair. The hair care composition according to the invention can be used as a hair cleanser, hair conditioner, hair treatment agent, hair mask, hair cream, etc.

[0041] The hair care composition according to the invention utilizes specific components (C), particularly a specific combination of components (C) and (D), to improve the softness and smoothness of hair, especially damaged hair. Furthermore, the hair care composition according to the invention improves hair softness during rinsing, combability of wet hair after rinsing, combability after towel drying, softness of towel-dried hair, combability during blow-drying, softness of dry hair, smoothness of dry hair, combability after drying, moisture retention at the ends of dry hair, and finger-penetration of hair during rinsing. Moreover, compared to Pantene Intensive Repair Serum (available from P&G), which is the gold standard in the market, the hair care composition according to the invention (which contains a combination of sorbitol and PEG-8 in silicone oil) exhibits overall better hair performance in terms of finger-penetration of hair during rinsing, softness of hair during rinsing, combability of wet hair after rinsing, combability after towel drying, softness of towel-dried hair, softness of dry hair, smoothness of dry hair, and combability of hair after drying.

[0042] Example The following examples are intended to help those skilled in the art better understand and practice this disclosure. The scope of the invention is not limited by the examples, but is defined by the appended claims. Unless otherwise stated, all parts and percentages are based on weight.

[0043] raw material: Component (A): Component A-1: ​​Dehyquart F 75T, distearyl ethyl hydroxyethyl methyl ammonium sulfate, purchased from BASF SE.

[0044] Component A-2: GENAMIN KDMP, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, purchased from Clariant GmbH.

[0045] Component A-3: Lexamine S-13 / Tego Amid S 18, stearamide propyl dimethylamine, purchased from Evonik Goldschmidt GmbH.

[0046] Component (B): Component B-1: Cetearyl Alcohol, purchased from BASF SE.

[0047] Component (C): Component C-1: Sorbitol 70% HS DAB, purchased from Inter-Harz GmbH.

[0048] Component C-2: 1,3-Butylene Glycol, purchased from Univar Usa Inc.

[0049] Component C-3: Propanediol-1,2, propylene glycol, purchased from BASF SE.

[0050] Component C-4: Glycerin 99.5%, glycerol, purchased from BASF SE.

[0051] Component C-5: D-Panthenol 75%, purchased from BASF SE.

[0052] Component C-6: Polyethylene Glycol MG 400, PEG-8, purchased from Inter-Harz GmbH.

[0053] Component C-7': CETIOL CC, dioctyl carbonate, purchased from BASF SE.

[0054] Component (D): Component D-1: Belsil ADM 6102 E, a mixture of amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane and tridecyl alcohol polyether-10, purchased from Wacker Chemie AG.

[0055] Component D-2: SC-T100, amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, purchased from Shangai Huanqiu Industry.

[0056] Component (E): Component E-1: Softened water.

[0057] Component E-2: Phenoxyethanol, pure, available from BASF SE.

[0058] Component E-3: Lactic acid 80% DAB, available from Inter-Harz GmbH.

[0059] Preparation of Examples 1-14 (Ex.1 to Ex.14) and Comparative Examples 1 to 4 (CEx.1 to CEx.4) The specific amounts and types of components in the hair care compositions of Examples 1 to 14 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4 according to the present invention are shown in Tables 1 to 4 below. The compositions were prepared as follows: components E-1, E-2 and E-3 were dissolved at 85°C to obtain an aqueous phase; components A-1, A-2, A-3 and B-1 were melted at 85°C to obtain an oil phase; the aqueous phase and the oil phase were then mixed under stirring to obtain a homogeneous mixture; and the homogeneous mixture was cooled by stirring, and all other components were added to the mixture one by one when the temperature of the mixture was 60°C.

[0060] I. Effect of 5% by weight moisturizer on hair properties To measure the effect of 5% by weight of moisturizer on hair performance, a blinded hair strand test involving a group of 10 people was conducted for each of the hair care compositions Ex.1 to Ex.6 and the hair care composition CEx.1, and the final results obtained were determined according to the Maxdiff statistical method.

[0061] Specifically, a severely damaged (ultra-bleached) hair bundle (30cm, 10g) with split ends was cleaned with 1g of standard shampoo (a 3% sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) aqueous solution with pH adjusted to 6.5 by NaOH or citric acid) and then stored at 25°C and 25% relative humidity for 24 hours.

[0062] For wet hair strand evaluation, the hair strand was washed twice with 1g of standard shampoo (a 3% SLES aqueous solution with pH adjusted to 6.5 using NaOH or citric acid). Then, 2g of each composition was evenly applied to each hair strand, and the strand was left at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes until the effects of the composition were applied to the hair. Finally, the hair strand was rinsed with hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 40 seconds. Wet hair properties were tested according to the Maxdiff method, and test indicators included smoothness and softness.

[0063] For the evaluation of dry hair bundles, the hair bundles were dried to 80% using a hairdryer, combed with a fine-tooth comb, and left to stand at room temperature for 24 hours until they were completely dry. Afterward, the smoothness, softness, and split ends of the hair were evaluated using the Maxdiff method.

[0064] The test results of hair care compositions Ex.1 to Ex.6 and CEx.1 are shown in Table 1 below.

[0065] Table 1

[0066] Note: All "-" symbols in this article indicate that the corresponding component is not present or the corresponding result has not been tested.

[0067] As can be seen from the data in Table 1, the hair care compositions (Ex.1 to Ex.6) according to the invention containing (C) polyols improved hair performance in wet hair compared to the base formulation (CEx.1) without (C) polyols. Furthermore, among the six polyols used in Ex.1 to Ex.6, the hair care composition (Ex.4) according to the invention using about 5% by weight of active sorbitol as component (C) exhibited the best smoothness and softness in wet hair and good performance in dry hair; the hair care composition (Ex.3) according to the invention using about 5% by weight of PEG-8 as component (C) exhibited the best performance in dry hair but the worst performance in wet hair; and the hair care composition (Ex.6) according to the invention using about 5% by weight of 1,3-butanediol as component (C) exhibited moderate performance in both wet and dry hair.

[0068] II. The effects of 10% moisturizers and their combinations on hair performance To measure the effect of 10% moisturizers and their combinations on hair performance, blinded hair strand tests involving 10-person groups were conducted for each of the hair care compositions Ex.3 and Ex.7 through Ex.12, as well as the hair care compositions CEx.1 and CEx.2, and the final results obtained were determined according to the Maxdiff statistical method.

[0069] Specifically, a severely damaged (over-bleached) hair bundle (30cm, 10g) with split ends was cleaned with 1g of standard shampoo (a 3% SLES aqueous solution with pH adjusted to 6.5 by NaOH or citric acid) and then stored at 25°C and 25% relative humidity for 24 hours.

[0070] For wet hair strand evaluation, the hair strand was washed twice with 1g of standard shampoo (a 3% SLES aqueous solution with pH adjusted to 6.5 using NaOH or citric acid). Then, 2g of each composition was evenly applied to each hair strand, and the strand was left at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes until the effects of the composition were applied to the hair. Finally, the hair strand was rinsed with hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 40 seconds. Wet hair properties were tested according to the Maxdiff method, and test indicators included smoothness and softness.

[0071] For the evaluation of dry hair bundles, the hair bundles were dried to 80% using a hairdryer, combed with a fine-tooth comb, and left to stand at room temperature for 24 hours until they were completely dry. Afterward, the smoothness, softness, and split ends of the hair were evaluated using the Maxdiff method.

[0072] The same method was used to conduct the Maxdiff Soft Hair Mask sensory test and the Maxdiff 6 Hair Mask strand test.

[0073] The test results of hair care compositions Ex.3 and Ex.7 to Ex.12, as well as hair care compositions CEx.1 and CEx.2, are shown in Table 2 below.

[0074] Table 2

[0075] As can be seen from the data in Table 2, compared with the hair care composition containing about 5% active sorbitol (Ex.3), the hair care composition according to the invention containing about 10% active sorbitol (Ex.9) showed better performance in both wet and dry hair in the Maxdiff sensory test for soft hair masks and the Maxdiff hair strand test for 6 hair masks. Furthermore, the hair care composition according to the invention containing a combination of about 5% by weight active sorbitol and 5% by weight PEG-8 (Ex.11) showed better performance than either containing about 10% by weight active sorbitol (Ex.9) or about 10% by weight PEG-8 (Ex.8); and therefore, the combination of sorbitol and PEG-8 showed a significant synergistic effect in terms of hair performance.

[0076] III. The effect of polyol combinations on hair properties during silicone oil treatment III.1 Laboratory Testing To preliminarily measure the effect of combinations of polyols on hair properties in silicone oil treatment, blind hair strand tests involving 10-person groups were conducted for each of the hair care compositions of CeX.3 and CeX.13, and the final results obtained were determined according to the Maxdiff statistical method.

[0077] Specifically, severely damaged (over-bleached) hair strands with split ends (30cm, 10g) were cleaned with 1g of standard shampoo (a 3% SLES aqueous solution with pH adjusted to 6.5 by NaOH or citric acid) and then stored at 25°C and 25% relative humidity for 24 hours.

[0078] For wet hair strand evaluation, the hair strand was washed twice with 1g of standard shampoo (a 3% SLES aqueous solution with pH adjusted to 6.5 using NaOH or citric acid). Then, 2g of each composition was evenly applied to each hair strand, and the strand was left at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes until the effect of the composition was applied to the hair. Finally, the hair strand was rinsed with hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 40 seconds. Wet hair properties were tested according to the Maxdiff method, and test indicators included smoothness and softness.

[0079] For the evaluation of dry hair bundles, the hair bundles were dried to 80% using a hairdryer, combed with a fine-tooth comb, and left to stand at room temperature for 24 hours until they were completely dry. Afterward, the smoothness, softness, and split ends of the hair were evaluated using the Maxdiff method.

[0080] The test results of the hair care compositions CEx.3 and Ex.13 are shown in Table 3 below.

[0081] Table 3

[0082] As can be seen from the data in Table 3, compared with the hair care composition (CEx.3) without component (C), the hair care composition according to the invention (Ex.13), which includes a combination of sorbitol and PEG-8 as component (C) in component (D), exhibits an enhancing effect on hair performance in terms of smoothness, softness, and hair tips on both wet and dry hair. In particular, the addition of about 5% by weight of PEG-8 and about 5% by weight of sorbitol significantly improves the smoothness and softness of both wet and dry hair treated with silicone oil.

[0083] III.2 Salon Test To further measure the effect of polyol combinations on hair performance in silicone oil treatment, a blind half-head salon test involving six models was conducted for each of the hair care compositions of CEx.3 and Ex.13, and the final results obtained were determined according to the average statistical method.

[0084] Specifically, for wet hair strand evaluation, the hair strands were treated as described above, and the performance was scored when the composition was rinsed off the wet hair; and for dry hair strand evaluation, the hair strands were dried as described above, and the performance was scored after the hair was completely dry. The hair was scored from 1 to 6, which correspond to very poor to very good; and an average of 10 people were scored for each hair mask.

[0085] The results obtained from the above tests indicate that, compared with silicone oil, the addition of PEG-8 and sorbitol to silicone oil results in better performance in all aspects of hair softness during rinsing, combability of wet hair after rinsing, combability after towel drying, softness of towel-dried hair, combability during blow-drying, softness of dry hair, smoothness of dry hair, combability after drying, moisture at the ends of dry hair, and finger-penetration of hair during rinsing.

[0086] IV. Salon Testing of Hair Care Compositions Compared to Competitors To evaluate the performance of the hair care composition relative to the gold standard in the market, salon tests were conducted on Chinese consumers whose hair was moderately to severely damaged and who were heavy users of hair masks.

[0087] Specifically, in order to compare the hair care composition with competitors in terms of hair performance, the consistency of feelings among hairdressers and users was verified.

[0088] For hairstylist testing, the evaluation of wet hair strands involved treating the hair strands as described above and scoring the performance when the composition was rinsed off the wet hair; and the evaluation of dry hair strands involved drying the hair strands as described above and scoring the performance after the hair was completely dry. Hair was scored from 1 to 6, corresponding to a range from very poor to very good; and an average score of 10 was given for each hair mask.

[0089] For self-evaluation, models blindly tested the products, choosing only whether left was better, right was better, equal, or indistinguishable.

[0090] Table 4

[0091] The test results for CEx.4 and Ex.14, as well as the hair care compositions of competitors, are shown in Table 5 below.

[0092] Table 5

[0093] As can be seen from the data in Table 5, compared to Pantene strengthening injections (available from PG) which serve as the gold standard in the market, the hair care composition (Ex. 14) according to the present invention (which comprises a combination of sorbitol and PEG-8 in silicone oil) exhibits overall superior hair performance in all aspects, including finger-penetration of hair during rinsing, softness of hair during rinsing, combability of wet hair after rinsing, combability after towel drying, softness of towel-dried hair, softness of dry hair, smoothness of dry hair, and combability of hair after drying. In other words, the salon test results are consistent with the hair strand test results obtained above.

[0094] Because the combination of sorbitol, PEG-8 and silicone oil results in better hair performance in terms of smoothness, softness and combability on both wet and dry hair, the dosage of silicone oil in hair care compositions can be lower.

[0095] Although some preferred embodiments have been described, many modifications and variations can be made to them based on the above teachings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention can be practiced in ways other than those specifically described without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A hair care composition comprising: (A) Ionic surfactants, (B) Higher fatty alcohols, and (C) Polyols.

2. The hair care composition according to claim 1, wherein component (C) comprises a polyol selected from the group consisting of: 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 1,10-decanediol, 1,9-nonanediol, 1,5-naphthalenediol, isopentanediol, dipropylene glycol, pentaerythritol, xylitol, fructose, sorbitol, mannitol, inositol, glucose, lactose, maltitol, sucrose, erythritol, cholesterol, menthanediol, magnolol, xylitol glucoside, lactitol, fructooligosaccharides, Mannan, mannose, glycerol glucoside, decyl glucoside, fructan, trehalose, panthenol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polybutane glycol, and combinations thereof; preferably, component (C) comprises a polyol selected from the group consisting of 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, xylitol, sorbitol, fructose, mannitol, inositol, glucose, lactose, maltitol, sucrose, panthenol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and combinations thereof; and more preferably, component (C) comprises a polyol selected from the group consisting of 1,3-butanediol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, and combinations thereof.

3. The hair care composition according to claim 2, wherein the composition comprises only sorbitol as component (C); or the composition comprises a combination of sorbitol and polyethylene glycol as component (C), wherein the polyethylene glycol is in particular PEG-8.

4. The hair care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises (D) silicone oil; preferably, the silicone oil is selected from amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane, phenyl polytrimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane alcohol, bisaminoPEG / PPG-41 / 3aminoethylPG-propyl polydimethylsiloxane, PEG-12 polydimethylsiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane crosslinked polymer, and combinations thereof; more preferably, the silicone oil is an amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane; and most preferably, the silicone oil is a mixture containing two amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxanes.

5. The hair care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (A) is a cationic surfactant; preferably, the cationic surfactant is selected from stearoylaminopropyl dimethylamine, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyl PG-trimethylammonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, stearoyltrimethylammonium chloride, distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl methyl ammonium sulfate, and combinations thereof; more preferably, the cationic surfactant is selected from stearoylaminopropyl dimethylamine, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl methyl ammonium sulfate, and combinations thereof; and most preferably, the cationic surfactant is a combination of stearoylaminopropyl dimethylamine, benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, and distearylethylhydroxyethylmethyl methyl ammonium sulfate.

6. The hair care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (B) is a straight-chain saturated alcohol having 12 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably 16 to 22; preferably, the straight-chain saturated alcohol is selected from the group consisting of: lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, C 12-15 alcohols, C 12-16 Alcohols, cetearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, arachidyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, and combinations thereof; and more preferably, the straight-chain saturated alcohol is cetearyl alcohol.

7. The hair care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the amount of said component (A) is 1 to 5% by weight, preferably 2 to 4.8% by weight and 3.3 to 4.4% by weight, each based on the total weight of said composition; and / or the amount of said component (B) is 1 to 15% by weight, preferably 2 to 10% by weight, and more preferably 3 to 7% by weight, each based on the total weight of said composition; and / or the amount of said component (C) is 1 to 30% by weight, preferably 2 to 20% by weight, and more preferably 3 to 18% by weight, each based on the total weight of said composition.

8. The hair care composition according to claim 4, wherein the amount of said component (D) is 1 to 15% by weight, and preferably 2 to 12% by weight, each based on the total weight of the composition.

9. A method for conditioning hair, comprising: The hair care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is applied to the hair, especially damaged hair, particularly after washing, preferably after shampooing.

10. Use of the hair care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8 for improving the softness and smoothness of hair, particularly both dry and wet hair.

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