A topical composition

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a topical composition in the form of an emulsion, the topical composition comprising an aqueous phase, an oil phase, and a stabilizing component, comprising (i) a monoester formed from a C4-30 fatty acid and a polyol having at least 3 hydroxyl groups (eg. glycerol monostearate), (ii) a compound such as ethylene glycol monostearate or ethylene glycol distearate, and (iii) an acrylic acid polymer. A corresponding base formulation for a topical composition is also disclosed.

Description

[0001] A TOPICAL COMPOSITION

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to topical compositions. In particular, the present disclosure relates to topical compositions for addressing dermatological, trichological, and / or cosmetic concerns. Also disclosed herein is a base formulation for a topical composition.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The listing or discussion of an apparently prior-published document in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge.

[0006] Various types of topical compositions, in particular cosmetic compositions such as moisturizers, are a combination of aqueous and oily / hydrophobic phases (“emulsions”), which require rheological modifiers, emulsifiers and / or organic solvents in order stabilize the product (“stabilizers”) and prevent phase separation. They also improve product texture / feel and appearance, facilitate delivery of actives and promote longer shelf life. As such, these stabilizers are crucial to the commercial viability of the product.

[0007] Moisturizers are important for the management of dry and sensitive skin, and various dermatitis, such as atopic dermatitis. Individuals with atopic dermatitis suffer from a weakened skin barrier, skin inflammation and pruritic lesions. Atopic dermatitis is characterized by an inactive phase, where skin looks normal or calm although subclinical inflammation still persists, and an active state or (“flare”), where skin inflammation worsens and becomes apparent from the itch, redness or rash, and pruritic lesions. Flares can be triggered by allergens (e.g. pollen, dust mites, food particles), chemical irritants (e.g. detergents, solvents, disinfectants), and / or microbes (e.g. bacteria, viruses, fungi) that enter the skin. Moisturizers can protect or strengthen the skin barrier, which lessens flares and prolong inactive phases.

[0008] Many moisturizers of varying formulations that encompass different technologies have been designed for sensitive skin and various dermatitis, most particularly atopic dermatitis. However, despite regular use, a significant portion of atopic dermatitis sufferers do not improve to the normal skin condition and maintain a poorer quality of life (e.g. disturbed sleep from itch, pain bathing, unable to participate in outdoor activities due to environmental aggressors or sweat, and excessive use of steroids to manage itch, inflammation and pruritic lesions). One of the reasons is because stabilizers in the moisturizer can also be chemical irritant and / or weaken the skin barrier to increase skin sensitivity to other irritants in certain individuals.

[0009] Cetyl alcohol or cetearyl alcohol (a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols) is an emulsifier and rheological active that is accepted to also act as an emollient that is gentle on the skin. Therefore, it is commonly found in products for dry, sensitive and atopic dermatitis-prone skin. Despite this, some individuals are sensitive to cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol. Cetyl alcohol or cetearyl alcohol may also carry impurities that are irritating to skin. As a result, the skin barrier remains dry and irritated for some individuals despite use of moisturizers designed for sensitive skin as they contain cetearyl alcohol. Other commonly used stabilizers that may similarly cause irritation include, polyethylene glycol (PEG), lanolin and triethanolamine stearate.

[0010] In view of the above, there is a need to provide improved and / or alternative topical compositions.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] The present invention provides a topical composition in the form of an emulsion, the topical composition comprising an aqueous phase, an oil phase, and a stabilizing component, wherein the stabilizing component comprises:

[0013] (i) one or more monoesters formed from a polyol and a fatty acid, wherein the fatty acid comprises from 4 to 30 carbon atoms, the fatty acid optionally hydroxylated, and the polyol comprising three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0014] (ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of: Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi;

[0015] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi ;

[0016] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH;

[0017] Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH; and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2;

[0018] R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, where each of -Ci-3oalkyl and -C2-3oalkenyl is unsubstituted or substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0, OH, aryl and Ci- ealkylene-aryl; and

[0019] (iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100:1; and wherein the topical composition is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof.

[0020] The present invention also provides a base formulation for a topical composition, the base formulation comprising:

[0021] (i) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoester formed from a polyol and fatty acid, wherein said fatty acid comprises 4 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein said fatty acid is optionally hydroxylated, wherein said first polyol comprises three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0022] (ii) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:

[0023] Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0024] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0025] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH,

[0026] Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-C(0)OR2;

[0027] R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or-Ci-3oalkenyl; Ci-3oalkyl, Ci-3oalkenyl, and Ci-ioalkylene, each, may be optionally substituted by one or more O, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and

[0028] (iii) from about 0.1% to about 20% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of an acrylic acid polymer; wherein components (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100: 1; and wherein the base formulation is substantially free from cetyl alcohol (hexadecane- l-ol or palmityl alcohol), stearyl alcohol (1 -octadecanol), or a combination thereof.

[0029] There is also provided herein a method of treating a skin condition, comprising applying to the skin, a therapeutic amount of the topical composition of the present invention. Also provided herein is a topical composition as described herein for use in the treatment of a skin condition, and the use of a topical composition as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a skin condition. The skin condition may be selected from the group consisting of atopic dermatitis skin condition, rosacea skin condition, psoriasis skin condition, irritated or inflamed skin, and combinations thereof. The present inventors have found that the topical composition of the present invention are particular effective as skincare, cosmetic and hair care products because they are non-toxic and well tolerated (e.g. hypoallergenic). Advantageously, the topical compositions described herein may display good moisturizing properties with minimal tackiness. A particular advantage of the topical compositions described herein is that they are stable emulsions despite being free from common stabilisers that can cause skin irritation, in particular free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and combinations of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol.

[0030] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The present disclosure will be understood and better appreciated from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings. Identical structures, elements or parts, which appear in more than one figure, are generally labelled with the same or similar number in all the figures in which they appear, wherein:

[0032] FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 show images showing improvement of skin condition in subjects after repeat applications of a topical composition of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 4 shows a) side view and b) top view images of emulsification of oil and aqueous phases with different stabilizer components. The aqueous phase was stained with acid blue 0.9. The samples were imaged after storage overnight at room temperature (RTP), and then after 1 h at 55°C. The samples were imaged and the same samples were then stored at 75°C for 1 h and imaged again. The reference sample contained only oil and aqueous phase and did not undergo mechanical blending. The negative control sample contained only oil and aqueous phase and did undergo mechanical blending. CA = cetyl alcohol, GMS = glycerol monostearate, EGMS = ethylene glycol monostearate, EGDS = ethylene glycol distearate, CB = Carbopol 940.

[0034] With specific reference to the drawings in detail, it is important to note that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the disclosure. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen for convenience or clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale or true perspective. For convenience or clarity, some elements or structures are not shown or shown only partially and / or with different perspective or from different point of views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and / or units have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0036] The word “comprising” as used herein may be interpreted as requiring the features mentioned, but not limiting the presence of other features. Alternatively, the word “comprising” may also relate to the situation where only the components / features listed are intended to be present (e.g. the word “comprising” may be replaced by the phrases “consists of’ or “consists essentially of’). It is explicitly contemplated that both the broader and narrower interpretations can be applied to all aspects and embodiments of the present invention. In other words, the word “comprising” and synonyms thereof may be replaced by the phrase “consisting of’ or the phrase “consists essentially of’ or synonyms thereof and vice versa.

[0037] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “plurality” as used herein means two or more.

[0038] The term “about” as used herein can allow for a degree of variability in a value or range, for example, within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, within 0.5%, within 0.1%, within 0.05%, within 0.01%, within 0.005%, or within 0.001% of a stated value or of a stated limit of a range, and includes the exact stated value or range.

[0039] The topical composition and the base formulation of the present invention are each substantially free from one or more of the compounds selected from the group consisting of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the topical composition, and the base formulation, of the present invention are each substantially free from one or more of the compounds selected from the group consisting of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, cetearyl olivate, polyethylene glycol, lanolin, and triethanolamine stearate.

[0040] As used herein, “substantially free from one or more of the compounds selected from the group consisting of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and a combination thereof ” or “substantially free from one or more of the compounds selected from the group consisting of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, cetearyl olivate, polyethylene glycol, lanolin, and triethanolamine stearate” mean that the topical composition, or base formulation, comprises less than about 0.5 wt. %, less than 0.25 wt. %, or less than 0.1 wt. % (e.g. 0 wt. %) of the compound or combination of compounds in question. It may therefore be appreciated that a trace amount of the compound or combination of compounds (i.e. cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, cetearyl olivate, polyethylene glycol, lanolin, triethanolamine stearate, and combinations thereof) may be present. Such trace amount or quantity may be about 0.1% (wt.). In certain embodiments, the topical composition, or base formulation, is free from the compound or combination of compounds in question.

[0041] The topical compositions of the present invention may find utility in medicinal and cosmetic applications or products. In some embodiments, the topical composition may be used in skincare in the form of, for example, a skin cream, a lotion, or a gels. In certain embodiments, the topical composition disclosed herein may be used in hair products such as hair dyes and bleaches, products for moulding, straightening and setting hair, products that help maintain a hairstyle, cleaning products (lotions, powders or shampoos), conditioning products (lotions or brilliantine hair sprays) and other hairstyling products. In some embodiments, the topical composition may be used in shaving products (soaps, foams, gels or lotions), face and eye makeup and makeup-removing products, lip products, mouth and teeth care products, nail makeup and care products, external intimate care products, sun care products, sunless tanning products, skin whitening or anti-wrinkle products.

[0042] Because the topical compositions of the present invention are substantially free from cetyl alcohol and / or stearyl alcohol they are especially suitable for subjects with sensitive skin and scalp, atopic dermatitis skin condition, rosacea skin condition, psoriasis skin condition, irritated or inflamed skin, or normal skin and hair. In some embodiments, the topical composition of the present invention may provide protection for sensitive skin or atopic dermatitis prone skin. The topical composition described herein is surprisingly stable and aesthetically pleasing despite minimal use of rheological modifiers and stabilizers. The topical compositions of the present invention have also been found to be surprisingly stable with aesthetically and texturally pleasing properties such as no lumpiness, good glide, and a feeling of freshness whilst providing long lasting moisturization upon application. Cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol-free alternatives are typically expensive to source. The topical compositions and base formations disclosed herein, which do not contain cetyl alcohol and / or stearyl alcohol, may therefore also offer cost-effective alternatives to compositions and base formulations that do contain cetyl alcohol and / or stearyl alcohol. The topical composition of the present invention is an emulsion. The term "emulsion" as used herein refers to a kinetically stable but thermodynamically unstable homogenous mixture of at least two liquids, one of which is dispersed in the other. The dispersed phase may be referred to as an inner phase, discontinuous phase, or incoherent phase, and the outer phase may be referred to as a coherent or a continuous phase. Emulsions may comprise more than two phases. For example, they may be comprised of three liquid phases (i.e. triple emulsions), or two liquid phases and a solid phase. The topical composition of the present invention comprises an oil phase and aqueous phase. When the oil phase is dispersed in the aqueous phase, the topical composition may be an “oil in water emulsion”, when the aqueous phase is dispersed in the oil phase the topical composition may be a “water in oil (w / o) emulsion”. For the avoidance of doubt, the topical composition of the present invention may be in the form of an oil in water emulsions or a water in oil (w / o) emulsion, the form being dependent on the quantities and ratios of the oil phase, aqueous phase, and other components, such as the stabilising component, present in the composition.

[0043] The stabilising component present in the topical composition of the present invention has been found to be surprisingly effective at enabling the provision of a topical composition that is a stable emulsion that does not readily separate into its constituent phases. Thus, the stabilising component may be considered to act, at least in part, as an emulsifying agent.

[0044] The stabilizing component present in the topical composition of the present invention comprises:

[0045] (i) one or more monoesters formed from a polyol and a fatty acid, wherein the fatty acid comprises from 4 to 30 carbon atoms, the fatty acid optionally hydroxylated, and the polyol comprising three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0046] (ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:

[0047] Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi;

[0048] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi ;

[0049] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH;

[0050] Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH; and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2; R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, where each of -Ci-3oalkyl and -C2- 3oalkenyl is unsubstituted or substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and

[0051] (iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from 1 : 1 : 1 to 50: 100: 1.

[0052] As used throughout the present disclosure, the term “polyol” refers to a molecule or a moiety comprising three or more hydroxyl groups. Non-limiting examples of polyols include glycerol, sorbitol and dextrin.

[0053] As used throughout the present disclosure, the term “fatty acid” refers to a molecule comprising a carboxylic acid group and alkyl chain conjugated to the carboxylic acid moiety. In some embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may comprise unsaturated carbons. In some embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may comprise saturated carbons. In some embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may consist of saturated and unsaturated carbons. Non-limiting examples of saturated fatty acid includes propanoic acid (propionic acid), butanoic acid (butyric acid), pentanoic acid (valeric acid), hexanoic acid (caproic acid), heptanoic acid (enanthic acid), octanoic acid (caprylic acid), nonanoic acid (pelargonic acid), decanoic acid (capric), undecanoic acid (undecylic acid), dodecanoic acid (lauric acid), tridecanoic acid (tridecylic acid), tetradecanoic acid (myristic acid), pentadecanoic acid (pentadecylic acid), hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid), heptadecanoic acid (margaric acid), octadecanoic acid (stearic acid), nonadecanoic acid (nonadecylic acid), eicosanoic acid (arachidic acid), heneicosanoic acid (heneicosyilic acid), docosanoic acid (behenic acid), tricosanoic acid (tricosylic acid), tetracosanoic acid (lignoceric acid), pentacosanoic acid (pentacosylic acid), hexacosanoic acid (cerotic acid), heptacosanoic acid (carboceric acid), and octacosanoic acid (montanic acid). Non-limiting examples of unsaturated fatty acids include linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EP A), linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, oleic acid, docosadienoic acid, docosatetraenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). As can be appreciated, when the fatty acid comprises unsaturated carbons, there may be one or more carbon double or triple bond.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the polyol used to form component (i) may comprise three, four, five, six, ten hydroxyl groups or more. In some embodiments, when the polyol used to form component (i) comprises three hydroxyl groups, said polyol may be a glycerol. In some embodiments, when the polyol used to form component (i) comprises six hydroxyl groups, said polyol may be a sorbitol. In some embodiments, when the polyol used to form component (i) comprises ten hydroxyl groups, said polyol may be a dextrin. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may be substituted. In an exemplary embodiment, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may be substituted by one or more OH groups. In such a case, the fatty acid may be termed a hydroxylated fatty acid.

[0055] In certain embodiments, component (i) is one or more monoester formed from glycerol and a fatty acid. In certain other embodiments, component (i) is one or more monoester formed from sorbitol and a fatty acid. In certain other embodiments, component (i) is one or more monoester formed from dextrin and a fatty acid.

[0056] In certain embodiments, component (i) consists of two monoesters, each monoester formed from a first polyol and one fatty acid. For example, component (i) may consists of two monoesters, each formed from glycerol and one fatty acid, wherein the one fatty acid in each monoester may be identical or a different fatty acid. As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, it is possible for a polyol such as glycerol to react with a fatty acid to provide more than one monoester product. In some embodiments, the two monoesters comprise a first monoester formed from glycerol and one fatty acid and a second monoester formed from glycerol and one hydroxylated fatty acids. In some embodiments, component (i) may consists of three, four or five monoesters, each monoester formed from glycerol and one fatty acid.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may be optionally substituted. For example, the fatty acid may be hydroxylated. It is therefore to be understood that when the fatty acid is hydroxylated, one or more hydrogens in the fatty acid chain is replaced or substituted by OH. In such a case, when the hydroxylated fatty acid is conjugated with a polyol to form component (i), the hydroxyl group(s) may be considered as a side chain of the monoester(s) formed. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) may be mono-hydroxylated, bi-hydroxylated or tri-hydroxylated. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid used to form component (i) is stearic acid, the hydroxylated stearic acid may be 12-hydroxy octadecanoic acid. In certain embodiments, when component (i) consists of two monoesters and each monoester is formed from glycerol and one fatty acid, at least one of the two monoesters is formed from glycerol and a hydroxylated fatty acid. In an exemplary embodiment, component (i) consists of two monoesters, each monoester formed from glycerol and a stearic acid and at least one of the two glycerol stearates is formed from glycerol and a hydroxylated stearic acid.

[0058] In embodiments, the fatty acid used to form component (i) comprises from 4 to 30 carbon atoms. For example, the length of the carbon chain of the fatty acid may be 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30. In certain embodiments, the length of carbon chain in the fatty acid moiety includes the carbon atom of the carbonyl group of the fatty acid. In certain embodiments, the length of the carbon chain is 4. In certain other embodiments, the length of the carbon chain is 8. In certain other embodiments, the length of the carbon chain is 18. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid comprises 8 to 20 carbon atoms, for example, the fatty acid may comprise 12 to 20 carbon atoms. The fatty acid may comprise unsaturated carbons. Additionally, or alternatively, the fatty acid chain may be linear or branched.

[0059] Depending on the substitution of the fatty acid used to form component (i), the monoester may be found in the form of one or more monoester forms. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid is butyric acid and the polyol is glycerol, the monoester may be glycerol monobutyrate. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid is caprylic acid and the polyol is glycerol, the monoester may be glycerol monocaprylate or glycerol hydroxy monocaprylate. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid is stearic acid and the polyol is glycerol, the monoester may be glycerol monostearate or glycerol hydroxy monostearate.

[0060] In certain preferred embodiments, the one or more monoester of component (i) is selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxy monostearate, glycerol monocaprylate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

[0061] In certain embodiments, the one or more compounds in component (ii), each, may be Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi or C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi, wherein Ri -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci- ioalkylene-OC(0)R2; and R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, wherein Ci-3oalkyl and C2- 3oalkenyl may be substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0 or OH.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the one or more compounds in component (ii), each, may be selected from the group consisting of Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci- ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci- walkylene-OH, wherein Ci-ioalkylene is optionally substituted by one or more of the groups selected from the group consisting of =0, OH or Ci-ealkylene-aryl. In certain embodiments, when the one or more compounds in component (ii) is Ci-3oalkyl- C(O)-ORi or C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene- OC(O)R2; and R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or-C2-3oalkenyl, the one or more compounds may comprise two hydroxyl groups.

[0063] In certain embodiments, the one or more compounds in component (ii) may be one or more glycol ester of a fatty acid or one or more diol ester of a fatty acid. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid moiety of the glycol ester fatty acid may comprise 4 to 30 carbon atoms. In some embodiments, the fatty acid moiety comprising from 4 to 8 carbon atoms., for example, from 10 to 20 carbon atoms. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid moiety is butyric acid, the glycol ester of butyric acid may be ethylene glycol monobutyrate, ethylene glycol dibutyrate, propylene glycol monobutyrate, or propylene glycol dibutyrate. In another exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid moiety is caprylic acid, the glycol ester of caprylic acid may be ethylene glycol monocaprylate, ethylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol monocaprylate, or propylene glycol dicaprylate. In another exemplary embodiment, when the fatty acid moiety is stearic acid, the glycol ester of stearic acid may be ethylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol distearate, propylene glycol monostearate, or propylene glycol di stearate.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the one or more compounds in (ii) may be selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol hydroxy stearate, ethylene glycol distearate, propylene glycol monostearate, propylene glycol hydroxy stearate, propylene glycol distearate, butylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol monocaprylate, and propylene glycol docosahexaenoate.

[0065] In embodiments where the one or more compounds in component (ii) is Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)- Ci-ioalkylene-OH, the one or more compounds may be isoleucinol. In some embodiments, when the one or more compounds in component (ii) is Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)- Ci-ioalkylene-OH, the one or more compounds may be methioninol. In embodiments where the one or more compounds in component (ii) is aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci- loalkylene-OH, the one or more compounds may be N-benzyloxycarbonyl-D-phenylalaninol. In some embodiments, the one or more compounds in (ii) is selected from the group consisting of leucinol, methioninol and N-benzyloxycarbonyl-D-phenylalaninol.

[0066] In certain embodiments, component (ii) may comprise any two of the one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of: Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0067] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0068] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OR3, Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OR3 and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OR3, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2; R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or-C2-3oalkenyl; Ci-3oalkyl, Ci-3oalkenyl, and Ci-ioalkylene, each, is optionally substituted by one or more O, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and R3 is H or - Ci-ioalkyl.

[0069] In certain embodiments, component (ii) includes Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi and C2-3oalkenyl- C(O)-ORi, with Ri as defined herein. In certain other embodiments, component (ii) includes ethylene glycol monostearate and ethylene glycol distearate. In embodiments where component (ii) includes ethylene glycol monostearate and ethylene glycol distearate, the ethylene glycol monostearate and ethylene glycol distearate are typically present at a weight ratio of about 3:2 with respect to each other.

[0070] As used herein, the phrase “optionally substituted”, or similar phrases, means unsubstituted or substituted. The term “substituted” as used herein means that one or more hydrogen atoms are removed and replaced by one or more substituents. It is to be understood that substitution at a given atom is limited by valency.

[0071] Throughout the definitions, the term “Cn-m” indicates a range which includes the endpoints, wherein n and m are integers and indicate the number of carbons. Examples include C2, C3, C4, C5, Ce, C7, Cs, and the like.

[0072] As used herein, the term “Cn-m alkyl”, employed alone or in combination with other terms, refers to a saturated hydrocarbon group that may be straight-chain or branched, having n to m carbons. Examples of alkyl moieties include, but are not limited to, chemical groups such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, tert-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl; higher homologs such as 2 -methyl- 1 -butyl, n-pentyl, 3- pentyl, n-hexyl, 1,2,2-trimethylpropyl, and the like. In some embodiments, the alkyl group contains from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, from 1 to 3 carbon atoms, or 1 to 2 carbon atoms. The alkyl as defined herein may be optionally substituted at each carbon as defined herein. Typical substitution includes, but is not limited to, halogen (including fluoro, chloro, bromo), OH, cyano, alkyl (optionally substituted), cycloalkyl and the like. As used herein, the term “Cn-m alkylene”, employed alone or in combination with other terms, refers to a divalent alkyl linking group having n to m carbons. Examples of alkylene groups include, but are not limited to, methylene, ethan-l,2-diyl, propan-1, 3 -diyl, propan- 1 ,2-diyl, and the like. In some embodiments, the alkylene moiety contains 8 to 20, 10 to 20, 8 to 15, 1 to 6, 1 to 3, or 1 to 2 carbon atoms. The alkylene may be optionally substituted at each carbon as defined herein. Typical substitution includes, but is not limited to, halogen (including fluoro, chloro, bromo), OH, cyano, alkyl (optionally substituted), cycloalkyl and the like.

[0073] The term “aryl” as used herein is a group that contains any carbon-based aromatic group including, but not limited to, benzene, naphthalene, phenyl, biphenyl, phenoxybenzene, and the like. The term “aryl” may also include “heteroaryl,” which is defined as a group that contains an aromatic group that has at least one heteroatom incorporated within the ring of the aromatic group. Examples of heteroatoms include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and phosphorus. The aryl group can be substituted or unsubstituted. The aryl group can be substituted with one or more groups including, but not limited to, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted alkenyl, optionally substituted cycloalkenyl, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted cycloalkynyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, ester, ether, halide, hydroxy, ketone, azide, nitro, silyl, sulfooxo, or thiol as described herein.

[0074] In certain embodiments, component (iii) comprises acrylic acid polymers in the form of homopolymers, copolymer and / or cross linked polymers. Depending on the pH of the topical composition, the acrylic acid polymers may be anionic, neutral or cationic. Typically, the topical composition of the present invention has a pH of about 5 to about 7, for example about 5.5 to about 6.5.

[0075] Components (i) and (ii) of the stabilizing component present in the topical composition of the present invention may be present in a weight ratio of from 1 :10 to 10: 1 with respect to each other, for example a weight ratio of 1 :5, 1 :2, 1 : 1, 2: 1 or 5: l. In some embodiments, components (i) and (iii) in the topical composition are present in a weight ratio with respect to each other of from 1 : 10 to 100: 1, for example 1 :5, 1 :2, 2: 1, 10:1, 20: 1, 50: 1 and 80: 1.

[0076] Components (i), (ii) and (iii) of the stabilizing component present in the topical composition of the present invention may be present in a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to 50: 100: 1, for example from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50:20: 1 (e.g. about 3:8: 1), from about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:20: 1 (e.g. about 5:8: 1 or 10: 10: 1), about 5:1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, or from about 10:50: 1 to about 50:80:1 (e.g. 10:55: 1), or for example, 10: 10: 1, 20:20:1, 50:50: 1, and 50:20: 1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio with respect to each other of components (i), (ii) and (iii) is 5:8: 1.

[0077] Components i) and ii) of the stabilising component typically have a “hydrophilic-lipophilic balance” value of less than about 10, for example less than about 8. The term “hydrophilic- lipophilic balance” or “HLB” refers to the degree to which a compound is hydrophilic or lipophilic. Methods for determining the HLB of a compound are well-known in the art. For example, the HLB value of a compound may be determined by the method described in Griffin, Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, 1954, 5 (4): 249-56, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0078] In certain embodiments, the stabilizing component present in the topical composition of the present invention consists essentially of (i), (ii) and (iii).

[0079] In certain preferred embodiments, the topical composition of the present invention is an emulsion, comprising an aqueous phase, an oil phase, and a stabilizing component, wherein the stabilizing component comprises (or consists essentially of): i) one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate (e.g. (i) is glycerol monostearate); ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate (e.g. (ii) is ethylene glycol stearate or ethylene glycol di stearate); iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from 1 : 1 : 1 to 50: 100: 1 (for example, about 1 :1 : 1 to about 50:20: 1 (e.g. about 3:8: 1), about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:20: 1 (e.g. 5:8: 1 or 10: 10: 1), about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, or about 10:50: 1 to about 50:80: 1 (e.g. 10:55: 1)); and wherein the topical composition is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof, and preferably wherein the stabilizing component is present in an amount of from about 1% to about 25% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition, for example from about 5% to about 15% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition.

[0080] Typically, the topical composition of the present invention comprises from about 1% to about 25% (wt.) of the stabilizing component based on the total weight of the topical composition. For example, the topical composition may comprise from about 5% to about 15% (wt.) (e.g. about 7% to about 10% (wt.)) of the stabilizing component based on the total weight of the topical composition.

[0081] The oil phase of the topical composition of the present invention comprises one or more dermatologically acceptable oily materials. Preferably, the oil phase of the topical composition consists essentially of one or more dermatologically acceptable oily materials. Typically, the one or more dermatologically acceptable oily materials is selected from the group consisting of a glycol, a glycol ether, a fatty acid, a silicone oil, a triglyceride, and a hydrocarbon oil. In certain exemplary embodiments, the one or more dermatologically acceptable oily materials is selected from the group consisting of stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, squalene, squalane, cyclomethicone, dimethicone, and medium chain triglycerides. For example, the dermatologically acceptable oily material may be, for example, a sunflower oil (Helianthus annuus oil), Copernicia prunifera wax, a coconut oil, an olive oil, a mineral oil, medium chain triglycerides, Butyrospermum parkii butter, Passiflora edulis oil, or a combination of two or more thereof.

[0082] The aqueous phase of the topical composition of the present invention is water.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the topical composition comprises from about 50% to about 80% (wt.) of the aqueous phase based on the total weight of the topical composition, and from about 10% to about 50% (wt.) of the oil phase based on the total weight of the topical composition. Typically, when the topical composition comprises from about 50% to about 80% (wt.) of the aqueous phase, and from about 10% to about 50% (wt.) of the oil phase, components (i), (ii) and (iii) of the stabilizing component are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50:20:1, for example about 5:8: 1. Typically, the stabilizing component is also present at an amount of about 1% to about 25% (wt.), for example from about 5% to about 15% (wt.) based on to the total weight of the topical composition. The present inventors have found that such a topical composition may have the form of a cream or lotion, and display good stability. In certain other embodiments, the topical composition comprises from about 20% to about 50% (wt.) of the aqueous phase based on the total weight of the topical composition, and from about 50% to about 80% (wt.) of the oil phase based on the total weight of the topical composition. Typically, when the topical composition comprises from about 20% to about 50% (wt.) of the aqueous phase, and from about 50% to about 80% (wt.) of the oil phase, components (i), (ii) and (iii) of the stabilizing component are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 5:50: 1 to about 50: 100: 1, for example about 10:55:1. Typically, the stabilizing component is also present at an amount of about 1% to about 25% (wt.) (e.g. about 5% to about 25%), for example from about 16.5% (wt.) based on to the total weight of the topical composition. The present inventors have found that such a topical composition has the form of a solid balm with soft butter-like consistency, which displays good stability.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the topical composition of the present invention may further comprise one or more salt formed from a base and a fatty acid. The salt may comprise an anion derived from said fatty acid and a cation selected from the group consisting of K+, Na+, Ca2+and Ba2+, such as K+. In certain embodiments, said base may be a strong or weak base, for example, said base may be selected from the group consisting of KOH, NaOH, Ca(OH)2 and Ba(OH)2. In certain embodiments, the one or more salt may comprise a potassium salt, for example, potassium stearate.

[0085] Depending on the expected use of the topical composition, the topical composition may further comprise one or more dermatologically acceptable additives from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an antiinflammatory agent.

[0086] The topical composition may comprise one or more dermatologically acceptable additives are selected from the group consisting of a vitamin (e.g. vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K) or vitamin derivative (e.g. panthenol, niacinamide, a-tocopheryl acetate, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), allantoin, ceramide, hyaluronic acid, iodopropynyl butyl carbamate, bromelain, sodium phytate, phenoxyethanol, papain, quercetin, methyl sulfonylmethane, zinc oxide and plant extracts (e.g. Ananas sativus extract, Vitis vinifera extract, Citrus limon extract, n Passiflora edulis extract, Glycyrrhiza glabra extract, Angelica spp. extract, Oryza sativa extract, Glycine soja extract, Brassica oleracea extract, Solanum ly coper sicum extract, Chamomilla recutita extract). It is within the abilities of one skilled in the art to select a suitable dermatologically acceptable additive and add it at a suitable amount to a topical composition of the present invention depending on the desired end use of the topical composition. Typically, the one or more dermatologically acceptable additives are present in the topical composition at an amount of less than about 15% (wt.), for example 5% (wt.) based in the total weight of the topical composition.

[0087] The term “dermatologically acceptable” as used herein refers to a compound or component which may be approved for skin use on humans or livestock animals and / or known in the art as being suitable for use in dermatological compositions.

[0088] In certain exemplary embodiments, the topical composition is an emulsion comprising (or consisting essentially of): about 10% to about 50% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of an oil phase; about 50% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of an aqueous phase; about 1% to about 20% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of a stabilizing component consisting essentially of: i) one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate (e.g. (i) is glycerol monostearate); ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate (e.g. (ii) is ethylene glycol stearate or ethylene glycol distearate); iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of about 1 : 1 : 1 to 50: 100: 1 (for example, about 1 : 1 :1 to about 50:80: 1, about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, about 3:8: 1 to about 50:20: 1, about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:20:1 (e.g. 5:8: 1, 5: 10: 1 or 10: 10: 1), or about 40:50: 1 to about 50:80: 1 (e.g.

[0089] 50:60: 1)); and optionally, one or more dermatologically acceptable additives selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an anti-inflammatory agent; wherein the topical composition is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof. In certain other exemplary embodiments, the topical composition has a butter-like consistency, the topical composition being an emulsion and comprising (or consisting essentially of): about 50% to about 85% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of an oil phase; about 15% to about 50% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of an aqueous phase; about 1% to about 25% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of a stabilizing component consisting essentially of: i) one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate (e.g. (i) is glycerol monostearate); ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate (e.g. (ii) is ethylene glycol stearate or ethylene glycol distearate); iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of about 5:50: 1 to about 50:100: 1 (for example, 10:55: 1); and optionally, one or more dermatologically acceptable additives selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an anti-inflammatory agent. wherein the topical composition is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof.

[0090] In certain embodiments, the topical composition of the present invention is a dermatological composition for applying to the skin. In certain other embodiments, the topical composition is a trichological composition for applying to the hair and scalp. The topical composition may be for cosmetic applications and / or medical applications.

[0091] The present invention also provides a base formulation for a topical composition, the base formulation comprising components i) to iii) as described hereinabove with respect to the stabilizing component present in the topical composition of the present invention. For the avoidance of doubt, the base formulation of the present invention may be provided as a standalone product that can be used in the preparation of a topical composition, particularly topical compositions of the present invention. The base formulation of the present invention may comprise: (i) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoesters formed from a polyol and a fatty acid, wherein the fatty acid comprises 4 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein the fatty acid is optionally hydroxylated, and wherein the polyol comprises three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0092] (ii) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:

[0093] Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0094] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0095] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH,

[0096] Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH and

[0097] Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-C(0)OR2;

[0098] R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, wherein each Ci-3oalkyl, Ci-3oalkenyl, and Ci-ioalkylene may optionally be substituted by one or more groups selected from the group consisting =0, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and

[0099] (iii) from about 0.1% to about 20% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of an acrylic acid polymer; wherein components (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100: 1 (e.g. about 3:8: 1 to about 50:80: 1, about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:80:1, about 3:8: 1 to about 50:20: 1, about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:20: 1 (e.g. 5:8: 1, 5: 10: 1 or 10: 10: 1), or about 40:50: 1 to about 50:80: 1 (e.g. 50:60: 1)); and wherein the base formulation is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof.

[0100] In certain embodiments, the base formulation comprises: i) from 20 to 50% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoester formed from a polyol and fatty acid, for example 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50, said fatty acid comprising 4 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein said fatty acid is optionally hydroxylated, wherein said polyol comprising three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0101] (ii) from 10 to 70% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:

[0102] Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0103] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0104] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-C(0)OR2;

[0105] R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, where each of Ci-3oalkyl and C2-3oalkenyl, is optionally substituted by one or more O, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl, wherein the concentration of (ii) may be for example 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, and 70% (wt.); and

[0106] (iii) from 1% to 20% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of an acrylic acid polymer, for example 1%, 2%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 15%, 18%, and 20% (wt.).

[0107] In certain embodiments, component (i) of the base formulation may be present in an amount of from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation, for example, about 1% to about 50% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation. For example, the one or more compounds in component (i) may be present in the base formulation at an amount of about 1%, about 2%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 8%, about 10%, about 12%, about 15%, about 18%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation.

[0108] In certain embodiments, component (ii) of the base formulation may be present in an amount of from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation, for example, about 1% to about 50% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation. For example, the one or more compounds in component (ii) may be present in the base formulation at an amount of about 1%, about 2%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 8%, about 10%, about 12%, about 15%, about 18%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation.

[0109] In certain embodiments, component (iii) of the base formulation may be present in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 20% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation. For example, component (iii) may be present in the range of from about 0.6% to about 1% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation.

[0110] For the avoidance of doubt, components i) to iii) of the base formulation are according to components i) to iii) as described herein with respect to the stabilizing component present in the topical composition of the present invention. Thus, in certain embodiments, the base formulation of the present invention may comprise: i) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate (e.g. (i) is glycerol monostearate); ii) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of glycol stearate and glycol distearate (e.g. (ii) is ethylene glycol stearate or ethylene glycol distearate); iii) from about 0.1% to about 20% (wt.) of an acrylic acid polymer; and wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from 1 : 1 : 1 to 50: 100: 1 (about 3:8: 1 to about 50:80: 1, about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, about 3:8: 1 to about 50:20: 1, about 5: 1 : 1 to about 50:20: 1 (e.g. 5:8: 1, 5: 10: 1 or 10: 10: 1), or about 40:50: 1 to about 50:80: 1 (e.g. 50:60:1)); wherein the base formulation is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof, and optionally comprises one or more dermatologically acceptable additive selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an anti-inflammatory agent.

[0111] In certain exemplary embodiments, the base formulation of the present invention comprises (or consists essentially of): i) from about 65% to about 75% (e.g. about 70%) (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate (e.g. (i) is glycerol monostearate); ii) from about 25% to about 35% (e.g. about 30%) (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate (e.g. (ii) is ethylene glycol stearate or ethylene glycol distearate); iii) from about 1% to about 2% (about 1.5%) (wt.) of an acrylic acid polymer; optionally one or more dermatologically acceptable additive selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an anti-inflammatory agent; Depending on the type of topical composition that the base formulation will be used to prepare, the base formulation may further comprise one or more dermatologically acceptable additives selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an anti-inflammatory agent. The base formulation may comprise one or more dermatologically acceptable additives selected from the group consisting of a vitamin (e.g. vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K) or vitamin derivative (e.g. panthenol, niacinamide, a- tocopheryl acetate, tetrahexyl decyl ascorbate), sodium phytate, phenoxyethanol, allantoin, ceramide, hyaluronic acid, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, bromelain, papain, quercetin, methylsulfonylmethane, zinc oxide and plant extracts (e.g. Ananas sativus extract, Vitis vinifera extract, Citrus limon extract, and Passiflora edulis extract, Glycyrrhiza glabra extract, Angelica spp. extract, Oryza sativa extract, Glycine soja extract, Brassica oleracea extract, Solanum lycopersicum extract, Chamomilla recutita extract). It is within the abilities of one skilled in the art to select a suitable dermatologically acceptable additive and add a suitable amount to a base formulation of the present invention based on the desired end use of the topical composition being prepared.

[0112] The base formulations of the present invention has been found to be effective for the production of topical composition that are suitable for subjects with sensitive skin and scalp, or suffer from skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis skin condition, rosacea skin condition, psoriasis skin condition, irritated or inflamed skin, or normal skin and hair. The base formulation are also suitable for preparing topical composition that are surprisingly stable and aesthetically and texturally pleasing.

[0113] For the avoidance of doubt, the base formulation described herein may be used as the stabilizing component of a topical composition of the present invention. Thus, also provided herein is a topical composition in the form of an emulsion, the topical composition comprising an aqueous phase, an oil phase, and the base formulation described herein. The base formulation may be present in the amounts disclosed hereinabove for the stabilizing components of the topical composition of the present invention.

[0114] The present invention also provides a method of treating a skin condition comprising applying to the skin of a subject a topical composition of the present invention. In some embodiments, said skin condition may include dermatological condition, trichological condition, and combination thereof. In some embodiments, the skin condition is a chronic skin condition. In some embodiments, the formulation may be applied topically. In some embodiments, the skin condition may be selected from the group consisting of atopic dermatitis skin condition, rosacea skin condition, psoriasis skin condition, irritated or inflamed skin, and combinations thereof.

[0115] In some embodiments, there is provided a topical composition of the present invention for use in treating a skin condition. In some embodiments, said skin condition may include dermatological condition, trichological condition, and combination thereof. In some embodiments, the skin condition is a chronic skin condition. In some embodiments, the formulation may be applied topically. In some embodiments, the skin condition may be selected from the group consisting of atopic dermatitis skin condition, rosacea skin condition, psoriasis skin condition, irritated or inflamed skin, and combinations thereof.

[0116] In some embodiments, the topical composition may contain other dermatological acceptable additives that serve other functions such as brightening, repairing, anti-aging, anti-acne, lifting, plumping, tightening, renewing, nourishing and / or clarifying skin. Accordingly, the topical composition may be suitable for use by a subject with a melasma skin condition, a damaged skin condition, an aging skin condition, a sagging skin condition, an acne skin condition, a psoriasis skin condition, a sensitive skin condition, a dull skin condition, and a normal skin condition.

[0117] EXAMPLES

[0118] The invention described in the present disclosure will be better understood by reference to the following examples which are offered by way of illustration not limitation.

[0119] Example 1: Preparation of a formulation suitable for cream or serums emulsions

[0120] A base formulation for stabilising an emulsion was prepared by melting component (i) (glycerol monostearate and / or glyceryl hydroxystearate) and component (ii) (ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate) at 120-140°C in the same beaker and mixing the compounds together at 200-300 RPM. The compounds making up component (i) and (ii) can be melted in any order, one by one or simultaneously. Once component (i) and (ii) had been fully mixed, the mixture was cooled to below 80°C. Component (iii) (acrylic acid polymers) was then added to component (i) and (ii) and blended at 900-28,500 RPM to ensure even distribution of component (iii). Alternatively, component (iii) may also be supplied separately for a user to add at user’s own discretion at any amount and any stage of the emulsifying process. Table 1 A shown below provides the different proportions of each compound used to makethe base formulation with 5:8: 1 weight ratio of component (i): component (ii): component (iii). A possible alternative base formulation is shown in Table IB.

[0121] Table 1 A. Base formulations suitable for cream or serums emulsions

[0122] Table IB. Possible base formulations suitable for cream or serums emulsions

[0123] Use of other monoesters, such as glyceryl hydroxystearate and dextrin stearate may further improve stabilisation of an emulsion formed by oil and aqueous phases. The base formulation can be poured into a mold and cooled at standard room temperature and pressure (RTP). The base formulation may then be extracted from the mold once it had fully solidified. The solidified formulation may be subsequently shredded into wax flakes before use. The formulation may be used as a stabilizing component to emulsify oil and aqueous phases, and is typically used at 5 to 15% (wt.) (e.g. 7-10% (wt.)) with respect to the combined weight of the oil and aqueous phases. The solidified base formulation can be melted and mixed into an oil phase during the preparation of the topical formulation. The aqueous phase can then be added to the mixture of oil phase and base formulation with blending at 900-28,500 RPM.

[0124] Example 2: Possible formulation suitable for creams, hair conditioner, and toner / essence A base formulations suitable for creams, hair conditioner, and toner / essence, may be prepared by melting component (i) (glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, and / or selfemulsifying glycerol monostearate with 3-5% potassium stearate) and component (ii) (ethylene glycol stearate and / or ethylene glycol distearate at 120-140°C in the same beaker and mixing the compounds together at 200-300 RPM. The compounds making up component (i) and (ii) can be melted in any order, one by one or simultaneously. Once component (i) and (ii) are fully melted and mixed, component (iii) (acrylic acid polymers) can added to component (i) and (ii) and blended to ensure even distribution of component (iii). Table 2 shows the proportions of each compound in this example of a base formulation.

[0125] Table 2. Possible base formulations suitable for creams, hair conditioner, and toner / essence

[0126] Example 3: Formulation containing actives or preservatives

[0127] Actives or preservatives, not adding up to amounts larger than component (iii) in weight, can be added to the base formulation. Table 3 A below shows hyaluronic acid of various molecular weights added to a base formulation with a 5:8: 1 weight ratio of components (i): component (ii): component (iii). Possible alternative base formulations using glyceryl hydroxystearate and dextrin stearate monoesters with hyaluronic acid are shown Table 3B.

[0128] Table 3 A. Base formulations containing hyaluronic acid

[0129] Table 3B. Possible base formulations containing hyaluronic acid

[0130] It is to be appreciated that component (iii) may not be added to the melted mixture of component (i) and (ii) at the time of preparing the base formulation. Thus, this component may be provided separately for user to add at their own discretion at any amount and any stage of the emulsifying process.

[0131] Example 4: Formulation for a basic moisturiser

[0132] A basic moisturiser with components (i):(ii):(iii) ratio of 5:8: 1 is provided consisting of the following formula shown in Table 4.

[0133] Table 4. Formulation for basic moisturiser

[0134] To make part A of the moisturiser, the compounds are melted and stirred into one another in the order as listed in Table 4 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, a base formulation (i.e. a mixture of cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), ethylene glycol distearate, glycerol monostearate 97%, and carbopol® 940 (poly(acrylic acid)) can be melted and stirred into Helianthus annuus oil and phenoxyethanol at 200-300 RPM. To prepare part B, the compounds were mixed into one another in the order as listed in Table 4. Subsequently, part B is slowly added to the oil phase during blending at speeds of 900-28,500 RPM to make an emulsion. The basic moisturiser prepared in this example was applied to a 4.5 year old toddler who had dry skin with recurring rashes and frequent skin infection, as seen in FIG. 1A. The toddler also had burning pain during showering despite regular use of other dermatologist recommended moisturisers, shea butter, 0.05% Betamethasone Valerate and CETIrizine HC1. After replacement of the other moisturisers and shea butter, the toddler’s skin was no longer dry and there was significant reduction in rashes and infection as seen in FIG. IB. Furthermore, 0.05% Betamethasone Valerate was no longer required as part of the toddler’s normal skincare regimen. Skin pain was significantly reduced or absent during showering. Example 5: Formulation for a face and body moisturiser

[0135] A face and body moisturiser with added natural rheological modifiers (Copernicia prunifera wax and Aloe vera gel extract) and actives for sensitive and dry skin (allantoin, ceramide- CLR™ (K) and hyaluronic acid) was prepared with components (i):(ii):(iii) at a weight ratio of 5:8: 1 with respect to each other. The ingredients of the moisturiser are shown in Table 5.

[0136] Table 5. Formulation for face and body moisturiser

[0137] To make part A, the compounds are melted and stirred into one another in the order as listed in Table 5 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, a base formulation (i.e. a mixture of cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), ethylene glycol distearate, glycerol monostearate 97%, and carbopol® 940 (poly(acrylic acid)) can be melted and stirred into Helianthus annuus oil, Copernicia prunifera wax and phenoxyethanol at 200-300 RPM. To make part B, the compounds were mixed into one another in the order as listed in the above table. The aqueous phase is slowly added to the oil phase during blending at speeds of 900-28,500 RPM to make the emulsion.

[0138] The body and face moisturiser prepared in this example was applied to the skin of 1 ,5-year old toddler having discoid dermatitis on their face as seen in FIG. 2. The body and face moisturiser was applied twice daily from Day 1, with no steroid use for three weeks prior and during the study. Improvement was observed from Day 3 onwards as seen in FIG. 2. Images shown in Figure 2 were taken at least one hour after applying the body and face moisturiser. As can be seen, improvement is observed from Day 5 onwards. The body and face moisturiser prepared in this example was applied on the skin of a 5.5-year old toddler having moderate-severe atopic dermatitis and flexural dermatitis, as seen in Figure 3. The body and face moisturiser was applied three times daily from Day 1, with no steroid use for 3 weeks prior and during the study. The images shown in FIG. 3 were taken at least one hour after applying the body and face moisturiser. As can be seen, improvements were seen from Day 5 onwards.

[0139] Example 6: A possible formulation for a heavy body cream

[0140] A heavy body cream with added natural rheological modifiers (Butyrospermum parkii butter, Copernicia prunifera wax and Aloe vera gel extract) and actives for sensitive and dry skin (allantoin, ceramide-CLR™ (K) and hyaluronic acid) may be prepared with components (i):(ii):(iii) at weight ratio of 5: 10:1 with respect to each other. The ingredients of the cream are shown in Table 6.

[0141] Table 6. Possible formulation for heavy body cream To make part A the compounds shown in part A of Table 6 were melted and stirred into one another in the order as listed in Table 6 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, a base formulation (i.e. a mixture of dextrin stearate, glycerol monostearate, cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), and carbopol® 940 (poly(acrylic acid)) may be melted and stirred into melted Butyrospermum parkii butter mixed with Helianthus annuus oil and phenoxyethanol at 200-300 RPM. Part B was prepared by dissolving the compounds into aqua in any order. Part B was then added to part A by blending at speeds of 900-28,500 RPM to make an emulsion.

[0142] Example 7: Formulation for body butter or soft balm

[0143] A body butter or soft balm was prepared with components (i): (ii) :(iii) at a ratio of 10:55: 1 with respect to each other. The ingredients of the body butter or soft balm are shown in Table 7.

[0144] To make part A, the compounds shown in part A of Table 7 were melted and stirred into one another in the order as listed in Table 7 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, the stabilizing mix (i.e. cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), cithrol® EGDS (ethylene glycol distearate), naturechem® GMHS (glyceryl hydroxystearate) and carbopol® 940 (poly(acrylic acid)) may be melted and stirred into mixed Helianthus annuus oil, medium chain triglycerides and phenoxyethanol at 200-300 RPM. Part B was then added to part A by blending at speeds of 900-28,500 RPM to avoid clumping and distribute the poly(acrylic acid). Part C was prepared by dissolving the compounds into aqua in any order. Part A and B were allowed to cool to 80 °C before blending Part C into Part A and B at speeds of 900-28,500 RPM to make an emulsion. The emulsion was placed on slow stirring at 50 °C until homogenous and smooth.

[0145] Example 8: Formulation for a repairing face moisturiser

[0146] A repairing face moisturiser was prepared with components (i): (ii): (iii) at a ratio of 5:8: 1 with respect to each other. The ingredients of the moisturiser are shown in Table 8.

[0147] Table 8. Formulation for a repairing face moisturiser

[0148] To make the Part A the compounds shown in part A of Table 8 were melted and stirred into one another in the order as listed in Table 7 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, the stabilizing mix (i.e. cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), glycerol monostearate and carbopol® 940 (poly(acrylic acid)) may be melted and stirred into mixed Helianthus annuus oil, medium chain triglycerides, Passiflora edulis oil and phenoxyethanol at 200-300 RPM. Part A was then cooled and its temperature is maintained at 55 °C before adding components of part B (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, cyclomethicone, and dimethicone) in any order into part A followed by blending the mixture at 900-28,500 RPM until a homogeneous mixture was provided. To make part C, the compounds were dissolved into aqua in any order. Part C was then added to the mixture of parts A and B by blending at 900-28,500 RPM.

[0149] Example 9: Formulation for a brightening face moisturiser

[0150] A brightening face moisturizer with components (i):(ii):(iii) at a weight ratio of 5:8: 1 with respect to each other was prepared. The ingredients of the moisturiser are shown in Table 9A. A possible alternative formulation for a brightening face moisturiser using two monoesters glycerol monostearate and dextrin stearate in component (i) and a weight ratio of 3:8: 1 for components (i):(ii):(iii) is also shown in Table 9B.

[0151] Table 9A. Formulation for a brightening face moisturiser Table 9B. Possible formulation for a brightening face moisturiser

[0152] To make Part A, the compounds shown in part A of Table 9A or 9B are melted and stirred into one another in the order as listed in Table 8 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, the base formulation (i.e. a mixture of cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), ethylene glycol distearate, glycerol monostearate, dextrin stearate, and carbopol® 940 (poly(acrylic acid)) may be melted and stirred into mixed squalane, Helianthus annuus oil and phenoxyethanol at 200- 300RPM. Part A is then cooled and its temperature kept at 50°C before adding the part B compounds to part A, followed by blending the mixture at 900-28,500 RPM to provide a homogeneous mixture of parts A and B. To make part C, the compounds are dissolved into aqua. Part C is then added to the mixture of parts A and B by blending at 900-28,500 RPM.

[0153] Example 10: Possible formulation for a facial essence

[0154] A possible facial essence with components (i):(ii):(iii) at a ratio of 5:1 : 1 with respect to each other may be prepared. The ingredients of the essence are shown in Table 10. Table 10. A possible formulation for a facial essence

[0155] To make part A the compounds may be melted and stirred into one another in the order listed in Table 10 at 120-140°C and 200-300 RPM. Alternatively, a base formulation (i.e. a mixture of cutina® EGMS T (ethylene glycol stearate), glycerol monostearate, Naturechem® GMHS (glyceryl hydroxystearate), and carbopol® 1342 polymer) may be melted and stirred into squalane and phenoxyethanol at 200-300 RPM. To make part B, the compounds may be dissolved into aqua. Part B can then be added to part A by blending at 900-28,500 RPM.

[0156] Example 11: Possible formulation for a hair and scalp conditioner

[0157] A hair and scalp conditioner with components (i):(ii):(iii) at a weight ratio of 50:20: 1 with respect to each other may be prepared. The ingredients of the conditioner are shown in Table 11. Table 11. A possible formulation for a hair and scalp conditioner

[0158] The components of part A may be melted and mixed into each other in any order at 120-140°C and 200-300R PM. The components of part B may be mixed together one by one in any order, until all solids were dissolved in aqua. Parts A and part B may then be blended together at 900- 28,500 RPM, and then subsequently parts A and B with part C, to provide a homogeneous mixture. Once the blended mixture has cooled to 50°C, part D can be added followed by blending at 900-28,500 RPM.

[0159] Example 12: Formulation stability

[0160] Glycerol monostearate, and cetyl alcohol or cetearyl alcohol are common emulsifiers used in cosmetics. Glyceryl monostearate is a gentle, low HLB emulsifier (HLB of 4.2) that tends to incorporate air into the medium and form voluminous creams with microbubbles. The generation of bubbles is undesirable in skincare products as the bubbles are unaesthetically pleasing and excessive incorporation of air results in actives being oxidised faster. Cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol have moderately high HLB (15.5) and act emollients to form smooth and dense creams, making them ideal emulsifiers when paired with glyceryl monostearate. Hence, both glyceryl monostearate and cetyl alcohol are typically used in combination to create less fluffy and smooth creams. They are then further stabilized with a gelling agent, like polyacrylic acid (e.g. carbomer). An example of a standard stabilising combination for a skin moisturiser would be 2.5% glyceryl monostearate, 4% cetyl alcohol and 0.5% carbomer for minimum stability.

[0161] Although cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol may also be considered emollients that protect the skin, their moderately high HLBs and ability to pick up impurities during their extraction can cause sensitivity and dermatitis. Thus, suitable stabilising combinations that do not contain cetyl alcohol or cetearyl alcohol were investigated.

[0162] Method:

[0163] Cetyl alcohol, glycerol monostearate, ethylene glycol monostearate and ethylene glycol distearate were melted into the oil phase respectively according to Table 12. The oil phase was then blended with the aqueous phase according to a 30% (15g / 15.30mL) oil to 70% (35g / 35.00mL), aqueous formulation typical of moisturisers in order to analyse and compare the emulsifiers’s ability to make stable and commercializable emulsions in skincare. The emulsions were analysed by how much cream emulsion they made by volume, the presence of visibly separated or immiscible phases in the emulsion versus a single phase emulsion, and the overall volume changes over time.

[0164] The emulsifiers were also used in combination together. One combination commonly found in the market uses cetyl alcohol and glycerol monostearate as co-emulsifiers, further stabilized by a gelling agent like (poly)acrylic acid. Thus, as a control, an emulsion containing a combination of 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% cetyl alcohol and 0.5% for (poly)acrylic acid or Carbopol 940. An emulsion containing a combination of 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% ethylene glycol monostearate, and 0.5% Carbopol 940 , (a 5:8: 1 weight ratio) was compared with the above emulsion. The emulsion created from a combination of 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% ethylene glycol distearate, and 0.5% Carbopol 940 (a 5:8:1 weight ratio) and compared with its cetyl alcohol counterpart. All of the above percentages were based on the total weight of the final emulsion.

[0165] A blue hydrophilic dye (Acid Blue 9, E133) was added to the emulsions to demarcate hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions. More opaque, whiter regions indicate oil and water mixing, whereas clear, yellow liquid was indicative of pure oil and darker clear blue regions indicated a purer aqueous phase. An unblended version of the oil and aqueous phases was used as a reference, and a blended version without any emulsifier combination was used as a negative control. Preservatives were added to both oil and aqueous phases to prevent changes caused by microbial spoilage. Details of the components, and their amounts, for each formulation are set out in Table 12.

[0166] After blending, the emulsions were allowed to rest overnight before imaging. The stability of each emulsion was then observed after heating for 1 hour at 55°C. The emulsions were then allowed to cool fully before undergoing another 1 hour heat cycle at 75°C.

[0167] Results:

[0168] See FIG. 4 and Table 13. When the two oil and aqueous phases were blended together without any addition of emulsifier, the oil phase became cloudy and aqueous phase became milky blue, indicating that mechanical blending was able to bring hydrophobic components from the oily phase into the aqueous phase, and hydrophilic components to the oily phase. The volume of oil phase and aqueous phase were estimated at 12.75mL and 38.25mL respectively, and combined total 51mL. However, oil and aqueous phase remained in separate layers and volumes were unchanged after 55°C and 75°C heat cycles of 1 hr.

[0169] Blending with 4% cetyl alcohol resulted in a two layered emulsion of 51.00mL. The top water was a smooth pale liquid-cream of approximately 31.90mL and the aqueous milky blue layer of approximately 19.15mL. The emulsion was destabilized after the 55°C cycle with top cream emulsion reducing to a cloudy oil-like layer of approximately 15.95mL and aqueous phase to 35.05mL. After the 75°C cycle the emulsion was fully separated into oil and aqueous phases of approximately 19.15mL and 31.90mL respectively, similar to the negative control. The combined volumes of oil and aqueous phase were consistent throughout the heat cycles.

[0170] Blending with 2.5% glycerol monostearate resulted in an emulsion with two layers and total estimated volume 60.55mL. The emulsion had a foamy liquid-cream top of approximately 38.25mL in volume and pale milky blue liquid approximately 22.30mL in volume. After the 55°C cycle the emulsion was destabilized with top foamy layer reducing to approximately 19.15mL in volume and pale milky blue liquid increasing to approximately 31.90mL in volume. After the 75°C cycle, oil was released from the foam in the top layer and volume was approximately 12.75mL. The bottom pale milky liquid increased to 38.25mL in volume. Therefore, there an overall combined volume loss of approximately 16% across the heat cycles. The reduction of volume was likely due to a release of air incorporated in the emulsion during blending. Blending with 4% ethylene glycol monostearate resulted in a smooth hydrophobic solid pale cream surrounded in a milky blue layer. Surprisingly, the two phases were not separated by density into layers and differing volumes between the two phases could not be estimated accurately. However, the combined volume could be measured at approximately 54.20 mL at room temperature and volume was maintained in the 55°C cycle. The hydrophobic solid cream also softened but on overall maintained form and was stable after the 55°C cycle. After the 75°C cycle, the emulsion separated into a top oil layer with several blue aqueous droplets embedded in it with combined estimated volume 22.30mL and a bottom aqueous blue liquid of approximately 28.70mL volume. Thus total volume was 51mL after the 75°C cycle and volume drop was about 6%.

[0171] Blending with 4% ethylene glycol distearate resulted in a pale curdled cream surrounded in a milky blue layer. Like ethylene glycol monostearate, the two phases were not separated by density and differing volumes between the two phases could not be estimated accurately. The combined volume could be measured at approximately 54.20mL at room temperature volume maintained in the 55°C cycle. The cream softened into a layer of estimated 9.55mL above the aqueous blue liquid of estimated 44.65mL during the 55°C cycle. After the 75°C cycle, the emulsion separated into a top oil layer with remnants of cream at the top and had combine volume of 12.75mL. The bottom aqueous blue liquid of approximately 38.25mL volume. Thus total volume was 51mL after the 75°C cycle and volume drop was about 6%.

[0172] Blending with 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% cetyl alcohol and 0.5% carbomer generated a pale cream of estimated 57.40mL that sat on top of a thin layer of clear dark blue aqueous liquid of estimated 3.20mL, to make a combined approximate volume of 60.60mL. The pale cream was observed to be more viscoelastic that the other emulsions. After the 55°C cycle, the emulsion destabilized to three layers. The pale layer was reduced to approximately 19.15mL, a middle blue liquid layer of approximately 31.90mL appeared and the bottom layer of dark clear blue aqueous liquid increased to approximately 9.55mL. Thus total volume was still approximately 60.60mL and stable in the 55°C cycle. After the 75°C cycle, there were only two distinct layers, an upper layer with and integration of yellow oil and blue droplets of approximately 22.30mL volume, and a bottom blue aqueous layer of approximately of 28.70mL volume. Thus the total volume dropped by 16% to 5 ImL.

[0173] Blending with 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% ethylene glycol monostearate and 0.5% carbomer generated an emulsion of approximately 63.75mL. The emulsion comprised largely of a pale cream of approximately of 60.55mL that sat on top of a thin aqueous clear dark blue liquid of approximately 3.20mL. The emulsion was observed to be stable at 55°C, although the pale cream reduced to 57.40mL and clear dark blue liquid increased to approximately 6.40mL in volume. Hence, total volume was still maintained at 63 ,75mL. At 75°C, the upper pale cream turned from white to blue, indicated that aqueous components were separating form the cream. The cream reduced in volume to approximately 44.65 and bottom dark blue clear liquid increased to approximately 9.55mL. Therefore, total volume of the emulsion was reduced by 15% to approximately 54.20mL.

[0174] Blending with 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% ethylene glycol distearate and 0.5% carbomer generated a single phase pale cream emulsion of approximately 66.95mL. The pale cream emulsion did not separate and was stable at 55°C. Interestingly, the cream expanded in volume to approximately 70.15mL. At 75°C, the pale cream turned blue with dark blue aqueous droplets forming below the cream, and a thin layer of oil of estimated volume 1 ,60mL appeared on top of the cream, indicating that both oil and aqueous components were separating from the cream. The cream also reduced in volume to approximately 43.05mL. Therefore, total volume of the emulsion was approximately 51.05mL. Thus over the heat cycles, the cream gained 5% after the 55°C cycle from room temperature volume and lost 24% of its volume after the 75°C cycle from room temperature volume.

[0175] Summary of results:

[0176] Cetyl alcohol created a smooth cream emulsion but the emulsifying function was the least stable in extreme conditions, with the emulsion separating into oil and aqueous phases, with appearance close to negative control after 55°C and reference at 75°C. The volume did not change over temperature changes.

[0177] Glycerol monostearate generated the most volume of measurable cream emulsion of the emulsifiers measured. The creams appeared aerated with a rough foamy texture that was aesthetically unpleasing. It was more stable than cetyl alcohol in keeping oil and aqueous phases together over extreme temperatures, with upper cream layer only releasing all aqueous phase after the 75°C cycle. However, the emulsion lost a cumulative volume of 16% across the heat cycles.

[0178] Ethylene glycol monostearate created a solidified fat and smooth cream distinctively separated from the blue aqueous solution. Density separation was not observed and the volume of the cream could not be estimated. However the total volume of cream and aqueous phase appeared to increase by 8% after the 55°C and cream was largely intact despite some softening. After the 75°C cycle, the cream appeared to release all aqueous phase and returned to the oil layer, total volume dropped by 9% to near original room temperature volume.

[0179] When cetyl alcohol, glycerol monostearate and carbomer were used together, this resulted in 95% of the water and aqueous phase visibly being made into a cream. However, separation of the emulsion was seen after 55°C and 75°C, and volume drop of 16% after the 75°C cycle.

[0180] When ethylene glycol monostearate, glycerol monostearate and carbomer were used together, this resulted in 95% of the water and aqueous phase visibly being made into a cream. Separation and overall volume drop was not seen after the 55°C cycle. Leakage of aqueous phase from the cream was visible and overall volume drop of 15% was only observed after 75°C cycle.

[0181] When ethylene glycerol distearate, glycerol monostearate and carbomer were used together, this resulted in 100% of the water and aqueous phase visibly being made into a cream. Separation was not seen after the 55°C cycle. Only after the 75°C cycle, separation of oil and aqueous components from the cream was visible, where a thin layer of oil formed above the cream that had turned blue, and dark blue aqueous droplets started forming below the cream. There was an approximate 5% increase in volume after the 55°C and sharp drop in volume of 24% after 75°C cycle.

[0182] Thus ethylene glycol monostearate and ethylene glycol distearate were found to be suitable replacements for cetyl alcohol and despite low HLB values and mild emulsifying function that resulted in a solidified fat cream distinctively separated from the aqueous solution, when used in combination with glycerol monostearate and carbomer, was able to make smooth creams that exhibited greater stability than its cetyl alcohol counterpart. Both ethylene glycol monostearate and glycerol distearate exhibited greater heat stability than emulsions made with cetyl alcohol. The combination of 2.5% glycerol monostearate, 4% glycerol distearate and 0.5% carbomer was able to emulsify 100% of the oil and aqueous phase out of all the combinations. Although the cream did not have a rough foamy texture, it was most voluminous of the emulsions, indicating that it incorporated and trapped air. This would explain the volume changes seen after 55°C, where warm air expanded the intact cream, but after 75°C, air was released after the cream destabilized, leading to a sharp drop in volume of approximately 24% from room temperature volume. Hence either one or the combination of ethylene glycol monostearate and ethylene glycol distearate may provide especially desirable emulsions.

[0183] able 12. Formulations with different stabiliser components by percentage by weight.

[0184] 30.0% 30.0% 30.0% 30.0% 30.0% 30.0% 30.0% 30.0%

[0185] 70% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70%A = Cetyl Alcohol, GMS = Glycerol Monostearate, EGMS = Ethylene Glycol Monostearate, EGDS = Ethylene Glycol Distearate, CB = Carbopol 940.

[0186] Table 13: Volumes of distinct layers or phases generated by emulsifying oil and aqueous components together with different stabilising components.

[0187] CA = Cetyl Alcohol, GMS = Glycerol Monostearate, EGMS = Ethylene Glycol Monostearate, EGDS = Ethylene Glycol Distearate, CB = Carhopol 940.

[0188] It should be appreciated that the above-described methods, compositions, and formulations may be varied in many ways, including omitting, or adding steps, changing the order of steps and the type of compounds or components used. It should be appreciated that different features may be combined in different ways. In particular, not all the features shown above in a particular embodiment are necessary in every embodiment of the disclosure. Further combinations of the above features are also considered to be within the scope of some embodiments of the disclosure.

[0189] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove.

[0190] The following statements describe further aspects and embodiments of the disclosure provided herein: 1. A topical composition (e.g. a cosmetic formulation) comprising:

[0191] (i) from 1 to 35% (wt.) of one or more monoesters formed from a first polyol and a fatty acid, wherein said fatty acid comprises from 4 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein said fatty acid is optionally hydroxylated, wherein said polyol comprises three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0192] (ii) from 1 to 50% (wt.) of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of: Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi; C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi ;

[0193] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH;

[0194] Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH; and

[0195] Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2;

[0196] R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, where each of -Ci-3oalkyl and -C2-3oalkenyl is unsubstituted or substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0, OH, aryl and Ci- ealkylene-aryl;

[0197] (iii) from 0.1 to 2% (wt.) of an acrylic acid polymer; and

[0198] (iv) from 13% to 97.9 (wt.) of an emulsion.

[0199] 2. The topical composition according to Statement 1, wherein said formulation is substantially free of cetyl alcohol (hexadecane- l-ol or palmityl alcohol), stearyl alcohol (1- octadecanol) or combination thereof.

[0200] 3. The topical composition according to Statement 1 or 2, wherein said first polyol is glycerol, sorbitol, or dextrin.

[0201] 4. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-3, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 1 is Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi or C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2; and R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or - C2-3oalkenyl.

[0202] 5. The topical composition according to Statement 4, wherein Ci-3oalkyl and C2-3oalkenyl, each, is unsubstituted or is substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0 and OH.

[0203] 6. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-3, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 1 is selected from the group consisting of Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH; and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein each Ci-ioalkylene is unsubstituted or is substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0, OH or Ci- ealkylene-aryl.

[0204] 7. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-5, wherein at least one of the one or more monoesters is formed from glycerol.

[0205] 8. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-5, wherein at least one of the one or more monoesters is formed from sorbitol.

[0206] 9. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-5, wherein at least one of the one or more monoesters is formed from dextrin.

[0207] 10. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-5, wherein the one or more monoesters comprises two monoesters, wherein at least one of the two monoesters is formed either: from glycerol and at least one hydroxylated fatty acid; or from sorbitol and at least one hydroxylated fatty acid; or from dextrin and at least one hydroxylated fatty acid.

[0208] 11. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-10, wherein the one or more monoesters are formed from a fatty acid comprising from 10 to 30 carbon atoms.

[0209] 12. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-11, wherein the one or more monoesters are formed from a fatty acid comprising from 14 to 28 carbon atoms.

[0210] 13. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-12, wherein the one or more monoesters in (i) of Statement 1 are selected from one or more of the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxy monostearate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

[0211] 14. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-13, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 1 are selected from one or more of the group consisting of ethylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol hydroxy stearate, ethylene glycol distearate, propylene glycol monostearate, propylene glycol hydroxy stearate, propylene glycol distearate, butylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol monocaprylate, and propylene glycol docosahexaenoate.

[0212] 15. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-3 and 6-14, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 1 are selected from one or more of the group consisting of leucinol, methioninol and N-benzyloxycarbonyl-D-phenylalaninol.

[0213] 16. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-12 and 15, wherein the fatty acid is stearic acid.

[0214] 17. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-5, 7-14 and 16, comprising:

[0215] (a) glycerol monostearate; and

[0216] (b) glycol monostearate.

[0217] 18. The topical composition according to Statement 17, wherein the (i) of Statement 1 further comprises at least one ester selected from the group consisting of: glycerol hydroxy monostearate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

[0218] 19. The topical composition according to Statement 17 or 18, wherein (ii) of Statement 1 further comprises glycol distearate.

[0219] 20. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-19, wherein the one or more monoesters in (i) of Statement 1 is present in an amount of from 1 - 20% (wt.).

[0220] 21. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-20, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 1 is present in an amount of from 1 - 30% (wt.).

[0221] 22. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-21, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i) and the one or more compounds (ii) of Statement 1 are present in a ratio of from 1 : 10 to 10: 1, preferably about 5:8.

[0222] 23. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-22, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i) and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 1 are present in a ratio of from 1 : 10 to 100: 1. 24. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-23, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i), the one or more compounds (ii), and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 1 are present in a ratio of from 1 : 1 : 10 to 100: 100: 1.

[0223] 25. The topical composition according to Statement 24, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i), the one or more compounds (ii), and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 1 are present in a ratio of from 5: 1 : 1 to 50:20: 1.

[0224] 26. The topical composition according to Statement 25, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i), the one or more compounds (ii), and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 1 are present in a ratio of about 5:8: 1.

[0225] 27. The topical composition according to any one of Statements 1-26, further comprising one or more salts formed from a base and a fatty acid.

[0226] 28. The topical composition according to Statement 27, wherein the salt comprises an anion derived from said fatty acid and a cation selected from the group consisting of K+, Na+, Ca2+and Ba2+.

[0227] 29. The topical composition according to Statement 27 or 28, wherein the salt comprises an anion derived from said fatty acid and K+as a cation.

[0228] 30. A base formulation comprising:

[0229] (i) from 20 to 80% (wt.) of one or more monoesters formed from a first polyol and a fatty acid, wherein said fatty acid comprises 4 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein said fatty acid is optionally hydroxylated, wherein said first polyol comprises three or more hydroxyl groups;

[0230] (ii) from 10 to 70% (wt.) of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:

[0231] Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0232] C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi,

[0233] Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH,

[0234] Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH and

[0235] Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-C(0)OR2; R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl; Ci-3oalkyl, Ci-3oalkenyl, and Ci-ioalkylene, each, is optionally substituted by one or more =0, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and

[0236] (iii) from 1 to 20% (wt.) of an acrylic acid polymer.

[0237] 31. The base formulation according to Statement 30, wherein said base formulation is substantially free of cetyl alcohol (hexadecane- l-ol or palmityl alcohol), stearyl alcohol (1- octadecanol) or combination thereof.

[0238] 32. The base formulation according to Statement 30 or 31, wherein said first polyol is glycerol, sorbitol, or dextrin.

[0239] 33. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-32, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 29 are each Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi or C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)- ORi, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2; and R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl.

[0240] 34. The base formulation according to Statement 33, wherein Ci-3oalkyl and C2-3oalkenyl, are each substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0 and OH.

[0241] 35. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-32, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 30 are each selected from the group consisting of Ci- ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, Ci-ioalkyl-S-C2-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene- OH and

[0242] Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ci-ioalkylene is unsubstituted or is substituted by one or more =0, OH or Ci-ealkylene-aryl.

[0243] 36. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-35, wherein at least one of the one or more monoesters is formed from glycerol.

[0244] 37. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-35, wherein at least one of the one or more monoesters is formed from sorbitol.

[0245] 38. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-35, wherein at least one of the one or more monoesters is formed from dextrin. 39. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-35, wherein the one or more monoesters comprises two monoesters, wherein at least one of the two monoesters is formed either: from glycerol and at least one hydroxylated fatty acid; or from sorbitol and at least one hydroxylated fatty acid; or from dextrin and at least one hydroxylated fatty acid.

[0246] 40. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-39, wherein the one or more monoesters are formed from a fatty acid comprising from 10 to 30 carbon atoms.

[0247] 41. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-40, wherein the one or more monoesters are formed from a fatty acid comprising from 14 to 28 carbon atoms.

[0248] 42. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-41, wherein the one or more monoesters in (i) of Statement 30 are each selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxy monostearate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

[0249] 43. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-34 and 36-42, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 30 are each selected from one or more of the group consisting of ethylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol hydroxy stearate, ethylene glycol distearate, propylene glycol monostearate, propylene glycol hydroxy stearate, propylene glycol distearate, butylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol monocaprylate, and propylene glycol docosahexaenoate.

[0250] 44. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-32 and 35-42, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) of Statement 30 are each selected from one or more of the group consisting of leucinol, methioninol and N-benzyloxycarbonyl-D-phenylalaninol.

[0251] 45. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-44, wherein the fatty acid is stearic acid.

[0252] 46. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-34 and 36-45, comprising:

[0253] (a) glycerol monostearate; and (b) glycol monostearate.

[0254] 47. The base formulation according to Statement 46, wherein the (i) of Statement 30 further comprises at least one ester selected from the group consisting of: glycerol hydroxy monostearate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

[0255] 48. The base formulation according to Statement 46 or 47, wherein (ii) of Statement 30 further comprises glycol distearate.

[0256] 49. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-48, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i), the one or more compounds of (ii), and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 30 are present in a ratio of from 1 : 1 : 10 to 100: 100: 1.

[0257] 50. The base formulation according to Statement 49, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i), the one or more compounds of (ii), and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 30 are present in a ratio of from 5: 1 :1 to 50:20: 1.

[0258] 51. The base formulation according to Statement 49, wherein the one or more monoesters of (i), the one or more compounds of (ii), and the acrylic acid polymer (iii) of Statement 30 are present in a ratio of 5 : 8 : 1.

[0259] 52. The base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-51, further comprising one or more salts formed from a base and a fatty acid.

[0260] 53. The base formulation according to Statement 52, wherein the salt comprises an anion derived from said fatty acid and a cation selected from the group consisting of K+, Na+, Ca2+and Ba2+.

[0261] 54. The base formulation according to Statement 52 or 53, wherein the salt comprises an anion derived from said fatty acid and K+as a cation.

[0262] 55. A method of treating a skin condition, comprising applying to the skin, a therapeutic amount of formulation according to any one of Statements 1-54.

[0263] 56. The method of Statement 55, wherein the skin condition is selected from the group consisting of atopic dermatitis skin condition, rosacea skin condition, psoriasis skin condition, irritated or inflamed skin, and combinations thereof. 57. A cosmetic product comprising the topical composition (e.g. cosmetic formulation) according to any one of Statements 1-29.

[0264] 58. A cosmetic product comprising a base formulation according to any one of Statements 30-54.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A topical composition in the form of an emulsion, the topical composition comprising an aqueous phase, an oil phase, and a stabilizing component, wherein the stabilizing component comprises:(i) one or more monoesters formed from a polyol and a fatty acid, wherein the fatty acid comprises from 4 to 30 carbon atoms, the fatty acid optionally hydroxylated, and the polyol comprising three or more hydroxyl groups;(ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi;C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi ;Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH;Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH; and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-OC(0)R2;R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, where each of -Ci-3oalkyl and -C2- 3oalkenyl is unsubstituted or substituted by one or more of the groups selected from =0, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and(iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100:1; and wherein the topical composition is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof.

2. The topical composition of claim 1, wherein the topical composition comprises from about 1% to about 25% (wt.) of the stabilizing component based on the total weight of the topical composition, for example from about 5% to about 15% (wt.) of the stabilizing component based on the total weight of the topical composition.

3. The topical composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the oil phase comprises one or more dermatologically acceptable oily materials selected from the group consisting of a glycol, a glycol ether, a fatty acid, a silicone oil, and a hydrocarbon oil.

4. The topical composition of claim 3, wherein the one or more dermatologically acceptable oily materials are selected from the group consisting of stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, squalene, squalane, cyclomethicone, and demethicone.

5. The topical composition of any preceding claim, wherein the topical composition comprises from about 50% to about 80% (wt.) of the aqueous phase based on the total weight of the topical composition, and from about 10% to about 50% (wt.) of the oil phase based on the total weight of the topical composition.

6. The topical composition of claim 5, wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50:80: 1, for example about 3:8:1, about 5:8: 1, about 5:10: 1, about 10: 10: 1, or about 50:20: 1.

7. The topical composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the topical composition comprises from about 20% to about 50% (wt.) of the aqueous phase based on the total weight of the topical composition, and from about 50% to about 80% (wt.) of the oil phase based on the total weight of the topical composition.

8. The topical composition of claim 7, wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 10:50: 1 to about 50: 100: 1, for example about 10:55: 1.

9. The topical composition of any preceding claim, wherein the stabilizing component consists essentially of (i), (ii) and (iii).

10. A base formulation for a topical composition, the base formulation comprising:(i) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoesters formed from a polyol and a fatty acid, wherein the fatty acid comprises 4 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein the fatty acid is optionally hydroxylated, and wherein the polyol comprises three or more hydroxyl groups;(ii) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of:Ci-3oalkyl-C(0)-ORi,C2-3oalkenyl-C(0)-ORi,Ci-ioalkyl-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, Ci-ioalkyl-S-Ci-ioalkylene-CH(NH2)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH and Aryl-Ci-ioalkylene-0-C(0)(NH)-Ci-ioalkylene-OH, wherein Ri is -Ci-ioalkylene-OR2, or -Ci-ioalkylene-C(0)OR2;R2 is H, -Ci-3oalkyl, or -C2-3oalkenyl, wherein each Ci-3oalkyl, Ci-3oalkenyl, and Ci-ioalkylene may optionally be substituted by one or more groups selected from the group consisting =0, OH, aryl and Ci-ealkylene-aryl; and(iii) from about 0.1% to about 20% (wt.) of an acrylic acid polymer; wherein components (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100: 1; and wherein the base formulation is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof.

11. The topical composition of any one of claims 1 to 9, or the base formulation of claim 10, further comprising one or more dermatologically acceptable additives selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an anti-inflammatory agent.

12. The topical composition of claim 11, or the base formulation of claim 11, wherein the one or more dermatologically acceptable additives are selected from the group consisting of a a vitamin (e.g. vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K) or vitamin derivative (e.g. panthenol, niacinamide, a-tocopheryl acetate, tetrahexyl decyl ascorbate), sodium phytate, phenoxyethanol allantoin, ceramide, hyaluronic acid, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, bromelain, papain, quercetin, methylsulfonylmethane, zinc oxide and plant extracts (e.g. Ananas sativus extract, Vitis vinifera extract, Citrus limon extract, and Passiflora edulis extract, Glycyrrhiza glabra extract, Angelica spp. extract, Oryza sativa extract, Glycine soja extract, Brassica oleracea extract, Solanum lycopersicum extract, Chamomilla recutita extract).

13. The topical composition or base formulation of any one of the preceding claim, wherein the one or more monoesters in (i) are formed from a polyol selected from the group consisting of glycerol, sorbitol, or dextrin, and a fatty acid comprising from 10 to 30 carbon atoms (e.g. from 14 to 28 carbon atoms), for example the fatty acid may be stearic acid.

14. The topical composition or base formulation of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more monoesters in (i) are selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxy monostearate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

15. The topical composition or base formulation according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) are selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol hydroxy stearate, ethylene glycol distearate, propylene glycol monostearate, propylene glycol hydroxy stearate, propylene glycol distearate, butylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol monocaprylate, apropylene glycol docosahexaenoate, leucinol, methioninol and N-benzyloxycarbonyl-D-phenylalaninol.

16. The topical composition or base formulation of any one of the preceding claims, wherein (i) comprises ethylene glycerol monostearate, and (ii) comprises ethylene glycol monostearate.

17. The topical composition or the base formulation of claim 16, wherein the one or more monoester in (i) further comprises at least one monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol hydroxy monostearate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, dextrin stearate, dextrin oleate, and dextrin palmitate.

18. The topical composition or the base formulation of claim 16 or 17, wherein the one or more compounds in (ii) comprises ethylene glycol distearate.

19. The topical composition of claim 1, wherein the topical composition comprises: about 10% to about 50% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of an oil phase;about 50% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of an aqueous phase; about 1% to about 20% (wt.) based on the total weight of the topical composition of a stabilizing component consisting essentially of: i) one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate; ii) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate; iii) an acrylic acid polymer; wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100:1; and wherein the topical composition is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof, and wherein the topical composition optionally comprises one or more dermatologically acceptable additive selected from the group consisting of an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an antiinflammatory agent.

20. The base formulation of claim 10 comprising: i) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more monoester selected from the group consisting of glycerol monostearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, dextrin stearate, and sorbitan stearate; ii) from about 1% to about 80% (wt.) based on the total weight of the base formulation of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol stearate and ethylene glycol distearate; iii) from about 0.1% to about 20% (wt.) of an acrylic acid polymer; and wherein (i), (ii) and (iii) are present at a weight ratio with respect to each other of from about 1 : 1 : 1 to about 50: 100: 1; wherein the base formulation is substantially free from cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or a combination thereof, and wherein the base formulation optionally comprises one or more dermatologically acceptable additive selected from the group consistingof an antioxidant, an emollient, a preservative, a humectant, an anti-irritant, and an antiinflammatory agent.

21. The topical composition of any one of claims 1 to 19, for use in treating a skin condition.

22. The topical composition for use according to claim 21, wherein the skin condition is selected from the group consisting of atopic dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis, irritated or inflamed skin, and combinations thereof.

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