Composition comprising at least 0.5% by weight of antioxidant agent, a lysate of Bifidobacterium species and a yeast extract

Abstract

The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least 0.5% by weight of an antioxidant, a lysate of Bifidobacterium species, and a yeast extract. The invention also relates to a cosmetic treatment method for keratinous materials, particularly human keratinous materials such as skin, scalp, and hair, using said composition. The present invention further relates to the use of said composition to maintain or even restore the balance of the scalp's microbial flora. The invention further relates to a device comprising one or more containers containing the composition according to the invention.

Description

Title of the invention: Composition comprising at least 0.5% by weight of antioxidant agent, a lysate of Bifidobacterium species and a yeast extract

[0001] The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least 0.5% by weight of antioxidant agent, a lysate of Bifidobacterium species and a yeast extract.

[0002] The invention also relates to a process for the cosmetic treatment of keratin materials, in particular human keratin materials such as the scalp and hair, using said composition.

[0003] The present invention also relates to the use of said composition for maintaining or even restoring the balance of the microbial flora of the scalp.

[0004] The invention further relates to a device comprising one or more containers which comprises (comprise) the composition according to the invention.

[0005] Human skin, and in particular the scalp (also called scalp in the present description), is made up of two compartments, namely a deep compartment, the dermis, and a superficial compartment, the epidermis.

[0006] The skin plays a major role in protecting against external aggressions such as environmental aggressions, climatic aggressions (heat, cold, UV, tobacco, etc.), pollution, allergens, pathogenic germs, mechanical aggressions (hair removal, shaving, abrasive scrubbing), chemical aggressions (detergents). This property, called the barrier function, is mainly ensured by the most superficial layer of the epidermis, namely the horny layer, called the stratum corneum.

[0007] The skin also represents a complex ecosystem on which several types of microorganisms proliferate, such as bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms constitute the skin flora, also called the microbial flora of the skin. Within this ecosystem, there is a balance between the different species of microorganisms.

[0008] To date, more than 500 bacterial species have been detected on healthy skin, with more than 2 million genes. Each cm2 of skin is populated by approximately 106 bacteria.

[0009] We distinguish in particular:

[0010] - the commensal beneficial resident flora consisting of proliferating microorganisms classically on healthy skin, permanently by drawing their nutrients from the skin, and providing known benefits to the skin;

[0011] - transient flora, present on the skin under abnormal conditions, for example by contact with contaminated elements, and which can become pathogenic in the event of proliferation.

[0012] In cases where the barrier is altered or when the balance between commensals and pathogenic agents is disturbed, for example following an external aggression, an alteration in the quality of the skin and / or skin disorders may result, such as tingling, tightness, itching, etc.

[0013] It is also clear that the quality of the skin barrier is affected daily by external aggressions such as irritants (surfactants, acids, bases, oxidants, reducers, concentrated solvents), mechanical stresses (friction, shaving), or thermal or climatic imbalances (cold, dryness).

[0014] Thus, the (re)colonization of the skin by beneficial microorganisms from the commensal cutaneous flora appears fundamental for the physiology and immunity of the skin, in particular thanks to their actions on limiting the adhesion of microorganisms, particularly pathogenic ones, and the restoration / recovery of the barrier function, in particular following an external aggression such as that mentioned above.

[0015] Cosmetic solutions are already known for acting on the cutaneous microbial flora, such as the use of compositions containing probiotics or the use of pullulan or one of its derivatives or its association with a polysaccharide to maintain and / or preserve the balance of the cutaneous and / or mucosal microbial flora.

[0016] However, these solutions are difficult to transpose to use on the scalp (or scalp), in particular for the reasons mentioned below.

[0017] One of these reasons lies in the fact that the microbial flora of the scalp is different from that of the skin of the face or body; the commensal cutaneous flora (skin of the face or body) is mainly composed of 5 bacteria (Cuti-bacterium acnes / Corynebacterium / Staphylococcus epidermis / Streptococcus / Neisseria). The microorganisms present on the scalp are mainly represented by 3 microorganisms: Malassezia restricta, Staphylococcus epidermis and Cutibacterium acnes (also called Propionibacterium acnes), which represent the majority of the microbial population of the scalp.

[0018] Furthermore, although two bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermis and Cutibacterium acnes) are common to the flora of the scalp and the skin, their relative proportions are different: these two bacteria represent 99% of the bacteria in the flora of the scalp, whereas they only represent 75% of the bacteria in the flora of the skin of the face.

[0019] The flora of the scalp therefore presents a much lower diversity than that of the skin of the face.

[0020] On the other hand, the presence of keratin fibers (hair) on the scalp in higher density and / or greater length than on the skin of the face or body (hair) induces an additional constraint. Indeed, the cosmetic treatments used must not have negative effects on the appearance and / or feel of the hair, in particular In particular, they must not lead to a greasy effect on the hair or roots, and / or an unpleasant feel and / or an unwanted appearance of the hair.

[0021] Another point lies in the fact that the expected properties of a composition for the scalp may be different from those offered by a composition for the skin; the scalp may present discomforts, such as tingling or sensations of heating, for example due to an excessive presence of dandruff, consequences of the presence of Malassezia restricta in an unusual quantity; this microorganism is present naturally on a healthy scalp, but its excessive proliferation can cause inconveniences.

[0022] There is therefore a real need to provide a hair composition which makes it possible to maintain or restore the balance of the very specific microbial commensal flora of the scalp, while making it possible to reduce, or even eliminate, the undesirable effects of scalp discomfort, such as tingling, itching and / or a feeling of heating, and while maintaining a clean, non-greasy and non-sticky feel for the hair and roots, in line with consumer expectations for this type of product.

[0023] It has now been discovered that a composition comprising the combination of at least one antioxidant agent in a content greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, of at least one lysate of Bifidobacterium species and of at least one yeast extract makes it possible to achieve the objectives set out above, and in particular to propose a composition capable of maintaining or even restoring the balance of the microbial flora of the scalp, while providing a soothing effect on the scalp and limiting the oxidation of sebum.

[0024] The present invention therefore relates to a composition comprising: - at least 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, of one or more antioxidant agents, - one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate, and - one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces.

[0025] The composition according to the invention makes it possible in particular to maintain or even restore the balance of the commensal microbial flora of the scalp, while providing an antioxidant effect capable of reducing irritation and itching linked to the oxidation of sebum.

[0026] The composition according to the invention has a soothing and antioxidant effect on the scalp. It also limits the adhesion of particles resulting from pollution to the scalp and / or hair.

[0027] The microbiome of the skin, and in particular of the scalp, is thus reinforced, or even re balanced after application of the composition of the invention, is better able to defend itself against external aggressions and fight against discomfort.

[0028] The composition according to the invention also makes it possible to obtain beautiful hair, with hair that is neither greasy nor dry and has a clean and natural feel.

[0029] The composition according to the invention is advantageously clear, even transparent, which gives it an aesthetic appearance that is particularly attractive to users.

[0030] It can also be presented with a gel or serum-type texture, which makes it easier to apply to the scalp (product that does not run, which can be massaged).

[0031] The present invention further relates to a method for the cosmetic treatment of keratin materials, in particular human keratin materials such as the scalp (or scalp) and hair, comprising the application to said keratin materials of a composition as defined above.

[0032] In particular, the cosmetic treatment method according to the invention makes it possible to maintain and / or restore the balance of the microbial flora of the scalp.

[0033] The present invention also relates to the use of a composition as defined above for maintaining or even restoring the balance of the microbial flora of the scalp.

[0034] The invention further relates to a device comprising one or more containers which comprise(s) the composition according to the invention.

[0035] Other objects, characteristics, aspects and advantages of the invention will appear even more clearly on reading the description and the example which follows.

[0036] In what follows, and unless otherwise indicated, the limits of a domain of values ​​are included in this domain, in particular in the expressions “between” and “ranging from ... to ...”.

[0037] Furthermore, the expression “at least one” used in the present description is equivalent to the expression “one or more”.

[0038] Furthermore, by “compound of X OE”, is meant, within the meaning of the present invention, an oxyethylenated compound comprising X oxyethylene units per molecule.

[0039] Antioxidant agents The composition according to the present invention comprises one or more antioxidant agents, present in a total content greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0040] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “antioxidant agent” means an agent which slows down or prevents the oxidation of other chemical substances upon contact with it.

[0041] Advantageously, the antioxidant agent(s) are chosen from tocopherol and its esters, in particular tocopherol acetate; ascorbic acid and its derivatives, in particular its esters, in particular ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl magnesium phosphate and ascorbyl glucoside; retinol and its esters, in particular retinyl palmitate; BHT and BHA; N,N'-bis(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyl) ethylenediamine and its salts; erythorbic acid and its derivatives; and mixtures thereof.

[0042] Preferably, the antioxidant agent(s) are chosen from ascorbic acid, its derivatives and their mixtures, and more preferably the antioxidant agent is ascorbyl glucoside.

[0043] The total content of the antioxidant agent(s) present in the composition according to the invention preferably ranges from 0.5 to 10% by weight, and more preferably from 0.7 to 5% by weight, even better from 0.8 to 3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0044] In a preferred variant of the invention, the antioxidant agent is ascorbyl glucoside, and the total content of ascorbyl glucoside, present in the composition, preferably ranges from 0.5 to 10% by weight, and more preferably from 0.7 to 5% by weight, even better from 0.8 to 3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0045] Microorganisms of the genus BUidobactenum species The composition according to the present invention further comprises one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate.

[0046] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "metabolite" means any substance resulting from the metabolism of the microorganism(s) of the genus Bifidobacterium species and also having an effectiveness in protecting the scalp against oxidative stress.

[0047] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "fraction" means a fragment of the microorganism(s) having an effectiveness in protecting the scalp against oxidative stress, by analogy with the whole microorganism(s).

[0048] A lysate commonly refers to a material obtained after the destruction or dissolution of biological cells by a phenomenon called cell lysis, thus causing the release of intracellular biological constituents naturally contained in the cells of the microorganism in question.

[0049] In the context of the present invention, the term "lysate" is used without preference to designate the whole of the lysate obtained by lysis of the microorganism in question or only a fraction of it. The lysate used is therefore formed totally or partially of the intracellular biological constituents and of the constituents of the cell walls and membranes.

[0050] More specifically, the lysate contains the cellular cytoplasmic fraction containing enzymes such as lactic acid dehydrogenase, phosphatases, phosphoketolases or transaldolases and metabolites. For illustration, the constituents of cell walls are in particular peptidoglycan, murein or mucopeptide and teichoic acid, and the constituents of cell membranes are composed of glycerophospholipids.

[0051] This cell lysis can be carried out by different techniques, for example by osmotic shock, by thermal shock, by ultrasound, or even under mechanical stress, for example by centrifugation. More particularly, this lysate can be obtained according to the technology described in US patent 4,464,362 and in particular according to the following protocol.

[0052] The microorganism(s) of the genus Bifidobacterium species are preferably cultivated anaerobically in a suitable culture medium, for example according to the conditions described in documents US 4,464,362 and EP 43,128. When the stationary phase of development is reached, the culture medium can be inactivated by pasteurization, at a temperature ranging for example from 60 to 65°C for 30 minutes. The microorganism(s) thus formed are then collected by a conventional separation technique, such as membrane filtration or centrifugation, and are then resuspended in a sterile physiological NaCl solution.

[0053] The lysate of these microorganisms can then be obtained by ultrasonic disintegration of the solution obtained above so as to release the cytoplasmic fractions, the cell wall fragments and the products resulting from the metabolism. All the components, in their natural distribution, are then stabilized in a weakly acidic aqueous solution. The total content of active material(s), present in the lysate obtained by this method, preferably ranges from 0.1 to 50% by weight, more preferably from 1 to 20% by weight, and better still this content is 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the lysate.

[0054] The lysate can be used in different forms, in particular in solution form or in powder form.

[0055] Preferably, the microorganism(s) of the genus Bifidobacterium species are chosen from the following species: Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium adolescentis, Bifidobacterium pseudobacterium and mixtures thereof.

[0056] More preferably, the microorganism of the genus Bifidobacterium species is Bifidobacterium longum.

[0057] As a lysate capable of being used within the meaning of the invention, mention may in particular be made of the ingredient having the INCI name: BIFIDA FERMENT LYSATE

[0058] By way of example, mention may in particular be made of the product sold under the name Repair Complex CLR® by the company K. Richter GmbH, and which is formed from an inactivated lysate of the species Bifidobacterium longum.

[0059] The total content, expressed as dry extract, of the lysate of the microorganism(s) of the genus Bifidobacterium species, present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.001 to 20% by weight, more preferably from 0.01 to 10% by weight, better from 0.05 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.1 to 2% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0060] Yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces The composition according to the present invention further comprises one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces.

[0061] The yeast(s) may be prepared by cultivation in a conventional yeast culture medium (e.g. 10 g / l yeast extract, 7 g / l pepsin-digested peptone, 20 g / l glucose and water in an amount sufficient to make 1 litre).

[0062] An aqueous yeast extract will preferably be chosen, that is to say a yeast extract which, subject to the inevitable losses according to good manufacturing practices, contains all the water-soluble constituents of the yeast after lysis of the latter and elimination by filtration of the membrane debris. This aqueous yeast extract will preferably be redissolved.

[0063] Preferably, the aqueous extract of yeast of the genus Saccharomyces according to the present invention will be prepared by solubilizing in water (preferably distilled water) whole yeasts of the genus Saccharomyces. The suspension thus obtained will then be subjected to protein hydrolysis. Then the soluble and insoluble phases of the solution obtained following this hydrolysis will be separated and the soluble phase will be recovered. This soluble phase will then be subjected to sterilization.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the aqueous yeast extract thus obtained can then optionally be dried and used in powder form. The extract, preferably in powder form, can also be put into solution (this is then referred to as yeast extract in solution), in particular in hydroalcoholic solution, preferably in hydroalcoholic solution, and more preferably in hydroglycolic solution (for example a solution consisting of a mixture of water and pentylene glycol). The content of the aqueous yeast extract present in this solution preferably ranges from 0.5 to 8% by weight, more preferably from 2 to 7% by weight, and better still from 3 to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of said solution.

[0065] The yeast extract used in the present invention preferably comprises water, the content of which is advantageously greater than or equal to 50% by weight, preferably greater than or equal to 60% by weight, more preferably greater than or equal to 70% by weight, and better still greater than or equal to 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of said extract.

[0066] Advantageously, the yeast extract in solution, usable according to the present invention, meets the following characteristics: - a pH between 5 and 8, preferably between 6 and 7, and / or - between 20 and 60g of sugars per litre of solution (g / l), preferably between 20 and 50g / l and more preferably between 25 and 35g / l, and / or - a concentration of solids (or dry matter) between 10 and 60g / l, preferably between 20 and 50g / l and more preferably between 37 and 47 g / l.

[0067] The population of whole yeasts used to prepare this aqueous yeast extract, i.e. before hydrolysis and / or sterilization, will preferably be 105 to 1010 colony-forming units per milliliter (or cfu / ml) of aqueous yeast solution.

[0068] The aqueous yeast extract usable in the composition of the invention preferably has the following characteristics: - a total nitrogen content (according to the Kjeldahl method) ranging from 5 to 15% by weight, preferably from 6 to 12% by weight, and more preferably from 7 to 10% by weight, relative to the total weight of the yeast extract, and / or - a total content of free amino acids (according to the Sôrensen method) ranging from 2 to 10% by weight, preferably from 3 to 7% by weight, and more preferably from 4 to 6% by weight, relative to the total weight of the yeast extract, and / or - a weight ratio between the total content of assimilable amino nitrogen and the total content of nitrogen present in said extract, ranging from 0.4 to 0.7, preferably from 0.4 to 0.6, and more preferably from 0.5 to 0.6.

[0069] The hydrolysis of proteins is preferably carried out by chemical or acid hydrolysis or by the use of natural yeast enzymes. This hydrolysis is preferably carried out for at least 60%, more preferably at least 80%, and better still at least 90% of all the proteins present in the yeast solution after the lysis of the yeast.

[0070] The separation of the soluble and insoluble phases obtained following the hydrolysis of the proteins can be carried out by any means known to those skilled in the art depending on the nature of the extract sought. This separation of the phases can for example be carried out by filtration, decantation or centrifugation; filtration being the preferred means. Following this separation of the soluble and insoluble phases, the soluble phase is recovered.

[0071] Sterilization can be carried out by any means known to those skilled in the art and in particular by sterilizing filtration. The latter will preferably be carried out by the use of a membrane filter whose pore size is chosen according to the size of the membrane elements that it is desired to eliminate; this technique being well known to those skilled in the art.

[0072] Following this sterilization step, the aqueous yeast extract obtained can be dried to provide it in powder form. This drying can also be carried out by any means known to those skilled in the art, for example by evaporation, lyophilization or spray drying.

[0073] The yeast(s) of the genus Saccharomyces used in the present invention are preferably chosen from the following species: Saccharomyces bailii, Sac-charomyces carlsbergensis, Saccharomyces uvarum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Saccharomyces delbrueckii, Saccharomyces exiguus, Saccharomyces fermentati, Saccharomyces florentinus, Saccharomyces fragilis, Saccharomyces fructuum, Saccharomyces heterogenicus, Saccharomyces oleaginosus, Saccharomyces rosei, Saccharomyces steineri, Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccharomyces kefir, Saccharomyces kluyveri and their mixtures.

[0074] More preferably, the yeast of the genus Saccharomyces is a yeast of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

[0075] Such compounds are notably known under the INCI name: YEAST EXTRACT.

[0076] Advantageously, the yeast extract(s) of the genus Saccharomyces, present in the composition of the invention, do not comprise live yeast.

[0077] An example of a yeast extract of the genus Saccharomyces which can be used according to the present invention is marketed by the company Silab under the name Firmalift® GRV. The CAS number of this extract is 8013-01-2 and its EINECS / ELINCS number is 232-387-9. This extract is in the form of a solution in a water / pentylene glycol mixture.

[0078] The total content (in dry or active matter) of the yeast extract(s) of the genus Saccharomyces, present in the composition according to the invention, preferably ranges from 0.001 to 5% by weight, and more preferably from 0.01 to 1% by weight, better still from 0.02 to 0.5% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0079] Monosaccharides The composition according to the present invention may optionally further comprise one or more monosaccharides.

[0080] By "monosaccharides", is meant, within the meaning of the present application, a monosaccharide sugar comprising at least 3 carbon atoms, preferably at least 5 carbon atoms of formula CX(H2O)X, with x an integer greater than or equal to 3, preferably greater than or equal to 5, preferentially x is greater than or equal to 6, in particular x is inclusively between 5 and 7, preferably x = 6, they can be of D or L configuration, and of alpha or beta anomer, as well as their salts and their solvates such as hydrates.

[0081] Preferably, the monosaccharide(s) are chosen from mannose, rhamnose as well as their α or β anomers, their optical isomers of L or D configuration, their solvates such as hydrates and their mixtures.

[0082] More preferably, the monosaccharide(s) are chosen from mannose, rhamnose and their mixtures; even better mannose.

[0083] Mannose is a monosaccharide (simple non-hydrolyzable sugar) made up of 6 carbon atoms, it is a hexose. Its empirical formula is CôH^Oô, the same as that of glucose, of which it is the C2 epimer (i.e. its spatial configuration is strictly the same as that of glucose, except for the substituent at carbon 2, where it is inverted with respect to glucose). Mannose corresponds to the following formula (I), which also includes its enantiomers:

[0084] Mannose can also occur in solvated form (including hydrates) and as a mixture of D and L stereoisomers, called DL-mannose.

[0085] Preferably, the monosaccharide is D-mannose of formula (II) below. ÇHSOH (II)

[0086] D-mannose is naturally present in plants, particularly in certain fruits, including cranberries, or in hardwoods, such as beech and birch.

[0087] As an example of D-mannose suitable for the invention, mention may in particular be made of D-mannose marketed by the company Danisco Sweeteners® or the company Symrise®.

[0088] Rhamnose (or 6-deoxy mannose) is formally the deoxygenation product of mannose at C6. Rhamnose is found in nature in the L form. L-rhamnose is marketed, for example, by the company Danisco Sweeteners® and by the company Symrise.

[0089] Preferably, the monosaccharide(s) are chosen from mannose, as well as its α or β anomers, its optical isomers of L or D configuration, its solvates and their mixtures. More preferably, the monosaccharide is D-mannose.

[0090] The total content of the monosaccharide(s), when present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.01% to 20% by weight, more preferably from 0.05% to 10% by weight, and better still from 0.1% to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0091] Preferably, when the composition according to the invention comprises one or more monosaccharide(s), preferably chosen from mannose, rhamnose as well as their α or β anomers, their optical isomers of L or D configuration, their solvates such as hydrates and their mixtures, the weight ratio between the total content of the antioxidant agent(s) and the total content of the monosaccharide(s), present in the composition of the invention, is greater than or equal to 1, and more preferably ranges from 1 to 5.

[0092] Better still, when the composition comprises ascorbyl glucoside and mannose, the weight ratio between the total content of ascorbyl glucoside and the total content of mannose, present in the composition of the invention, is preferably greater than or equal to 1, and more preferably ranges from 1 to 5.

[0093] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises one or more monosaccharide(s), preferably chosen from mannose, rhamnose as well as their α or β anomers, their optical isomers of L or D configuration, their solvates such as hydrates and their mixtures, better still from mannose, as well as its α or β anomers, its optical isomers of L or D configuration, its solvates such as hydrates and their mixtures.

[0094] Additional saccharides The composition according to the present invention may optionally also comprise one or more additional saccharides, different from the monosaccharides defined above, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures.

[0095] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "polysaccharide" means polysaccharides, polyholosides or other complex carbohydrates which are polymers consisting of several units n of monosaccharides, as defined above, linked together by saccharide bonds, the number n being greater than or equal to 11, preferably between 11 and 200, more preferably between 11 and 100, and better still between 20 and 80. As an example of a polysaccharide, mention may in particular be made of inulin.

[0096] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "oligosaccharides" means oligoholosides or alternatively oligosides, which are oligomers consisting of several n units of monosaccharides, as defined above, via one or more alpha or beta glycosidic bonds; the number n being between 2 and 10, preferably between 2 and 6. Examples of oligosaccharides that may be mentioned include fructo-oligosaccharides, gluco-oligosaccharides, oligosaccharides derived from soy, pyrodextrins, isomaltooligosaccharides, xylooligosaccharides and transgalactooligosaccharides.

[0097] Preferably, the additional saccharide(s) are chosen from inulin, fructo-oligosaccharide, gluco-oligosaccharide, oligosaccharides derived from soy, pyrodextrins, isomaltooligosaccharide, xylooligosaccharide, transgalactooligosaccharide and mixtures thereof.

[0098] The oligosaccharides and polysaccharides usable according to the present invention are carbohydrates.

[0099] The oligosaccharides and polysaccharides which can be used can be produced in particular from glucose, galactose, xylose, maltose, sucrose, lactose, starch, xylan, hemicellulose, inulin, gums, in particular acacia gum, or a mixture thereof.

[0100] By way of example, the following oligosaccharides and / or polysaccharides will be mentioned:

[0101] - inulin Inulin is particularly abundant in the rhizomes of plants, including Jerusalem artichoke and chicory, from which it is extracted industrially. It is also found in other plants belonging to the Asteraceae family, such as dahlias and burdock. It is considered a soluble dietary fiber.

[0102] Inulins are polydisperse linear polymers of general formula (III) (also shown below): GFn, in which G is a glucose unit, F is a fructose unit, and n varies from 2 to 60, or even more than 60; the fructose units being linked together by a [3 (2 —> 1] bond. Inulins therefore correspond to a chain of fructose units terminated by a glucose unit.

[0103] Among the inulins which can be used and which are commercially available, we can notably cite Inutec H25P (with n between 2 and 7), and Inutec N25 from Orafti (with average n = 25).

[0104] - fructo-oligosaccharides

[0105] Fructo-oligosaccharides (or FOS), also called oligofructoses or oligo-fructans, are short chains of fructose linked together by [3-1,2] bonds. Fructo-oligosaccharides (or FOSs) correspond to the general formula G(F)n where G is a glucose unit, F is a fructose unit and n varies from 1 to 10.

[0106] Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are produced: - by partial enzymatic hydrolysis of inulin (e.g. Raftilose® from Orafti-Belgium), - by enzymatic synthesis from sucrose (e.g. Actilight® from Beghin Meiiji industries-France), or - by extraction from yacon or jicama (Polymnia sonchifolia, synonym: Smallanthus sonchifolia); in particular, the extraction is carried out in the absence of solvent, by cold pressing of the yacon tubers.

[0107] The fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) that can be used in the present invention is preferably a mixture of FOS. Mention may in particular be made of GF2 + GF3 + GF4 mixtures such as Quantom FOS95 from Quantum hi-Tech or Actilight® from Beghin Meiiji industries-France, the latter corresponding to a mixture of 37% GF2, 53% GF3 and 10% GF4.

[0108] - Gluco-oligosaccharides

[0109] Gluco-oligosaccharides (or GOSs), or oligoglucans, are oligosaccharides consisting of a sequence of glucose units linked in α-1,6 which may also contain α-1,2; α-1,3; α-1,4 linkages. They are synthesized by a trans-glucosylation reaction catalyzed by enzymes of the glucan-sucrase family.

[0110] Preferably, the gluco-oligosaccharides are oligosaccharides consisting of a sequence of glucose units linked at α-1,6 and α-1,2.

[0111] Advantageously, the number of glucose units is between 2 and 10, preferably between 4 and 6, and more preferably the number of glucose units is 4.

[0112] In addition, gluco-oligosaccharides can be synthesized by the polymerization of glucose molecules, a reaction catalyzed by a specific glycosyl-transferase enzyme, extracted and purified from a bacterial strain of Leuconostoc me-senteroides. This reaction requires the use of an acceptor: maltose (Glucose-Glucose) but also of a glucose donor: sucrose (Glucose-Fructose).

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the gluco-oligosaccharides (GOSs) have the formula (V) below: (a 1-6| ( v '

[0114] Among the GOS that can be used and commercially available, we can cite the Bioecolia® product from Solabia.

[0115] - Oligosaccharides derived from soybeans

[0116] These oligosaccharides are extracted directly from the soybean and do not require any enzymatic treatment. They naturally contain raffinose and stachyose, the formula of which is as follows: [aD-Ga!-(l —> 6)-]maD-Glu-(l —>2)-[3-D-Fru with m = 1 for raffinose and m = 2 for stachyose.

[0117] Among the oligosaccharides which can be used, we can notably cite Soya-oligo from the company Calpis Food Ind. Japan.

[0118] - Pyrodextrins Pyrodextrins are a mixture of oligosaccharides resulting from the hydrolysis of starch.

[0119] - Isomaltooligosaccharides Isomaltooligosaccharides are produced from starch. They are α-(1,6)-linked glucose oligomers with a degree of polymerization between 2 and 5. An example is Isomalto900P from Showa Sango.

[0120] - Xylooligosaccharides Xylooligosaccharides are oligosaccharides consisting of xylose units linked together by [3-(1,4)] bonds. An example is Xylo 95P from Suntory Limited.

[0121] - Transgalactooligosaccharides Transgalactooligosaccharides (or TOS) are linear oligomers of galactose, with the chemical structure aD-Glucose-(1 —>4)-[[3-D-Galactose-(1 —>6)-]n (with n between 2 and 5) obtained by fermentation of lactose.

[0122] As an example, TOS 100 from Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd Japan can be used.

[0123] The total content of the additional saccharide(s), other than the monosaccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures, when they are present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.01 to 20% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 20% by weight, better still from 0.05 to 10% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.05 to 5% by weight, or even 0.1 to 2% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0124] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises one or more additional saccharides, different from the monosaccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures.

[0125] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises a mixture of at least one oligosaccharide and / or at least one polysaccharide. In other words, the composition may comprise a mixture of at least two oligosaccharides, a mixture of at least two polysaccharides or a mixture of at least one oligosaccharide and at least one polysaccharide.

[0126] According to a first variant of this embodiment, the composition comprises a mixture of at least two oligosaccharides of the same type. For example, as mentioned above, a mixture of FOS may be used, in particular a mixture of GF2+GF3+GF4, such as Quantom FOS95 from Quantum hi-Tech or Actilight® from Beghin Meiiji industries-France, the latter corresponding to a mixture of 37% GF2, 53% GF3 and 10% GF4.

[0127] According to a second variant of this embodiment, the composition comprises a mixture of oligosaccharides and / or polysaccharides of different types. The invention relates in particular to the use of a mixture of inulin with a GOS, a FOS, oligosaccharides derived from soy, pyrodextrins, an isomaltooligosaccharide, a xylooligosaccharide and / or a transgalactooligosaccharide. Preferably, a mixture of inulin and GOS is used, such as Bioline from Gova Ingredients. The composition may also comprise a mixture of a GOS with a FOS.

[0128] Preferably, according to this second variant of the embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises a mixture of oligosaccharides comprising: - at least one gluco-oligosaccharide (GOS), and - at least one fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), the total content of the gluco-oligosaccharide(s) ranging from 0.01 to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.05 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.1 to 1% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.2 to 0.8% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; the total content of the fructo-oligosaccharide(s) (FOS) ranging from 0.001 to 5% by weight, preferably from 0.01 to 0.02% by weight, more preferably from 0.01 to 1% by weight, better still from 0.01 to 0.5% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0129] Advantageously, in this second variant of the particular embodiment of the invention, the composition according to the invention comprises a mixture of oligosaccharides comprising: - at least one gluco-oligosaccharide (GOS), and - at least one fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), the weight ratio between the total content of gluco-oligosaccharides and the total content of fructo-oligosaccharides (ratio [GOS / FOS]) is greater than or equal to 2. Preferably, this weight ratio ranges from 2 to 4, and more preferably from 3 to 4.

[0130] In particular, the mixture of prebiotic oligosaccharides and probiotic microorganisms sold under the name Ecoskin® by Solabia may be used. Said mixture comprises in particular: - between 60 and 80% by weight of at least one gluco-oligosaccharide (GOS) relative to the total weight of the mixture, and - between 10 and 25% by weight of at least one fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) relative to the total weight of the mixture.

[0131] In particular, said mixture comprises 70% by weight of gluco-oligosaccharide (GOS), 19% by weight of Polymnia sonchifolia tuber juice, 1% by weight of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus casei, 10% by weight of maltodextrin.

[0132] Probiotic microorganisms The composition according to the present invention may optionally further comprise one or more probiotic microorganisms, different from the microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species defined previously.

[0133] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "probiotic microorganism" means a living microorganism which, when consumed in adequate quantities, has a positive effect on the health of its host ("joint FAO / WHO Expert Consultation on Evaluation of Health and Nutritional Properties of Probiotic in Food Including Powder Milk with Live Lactic Acid Bacteria, October 6, 2001"), and which can in particular improve the intestinal microbial balance.

[0134] In the case of keratin materials, in particular human keratin materials such as skin or scalp, said probiotic microorganism is a probiotic microorganism which, when applied to the keratin material in an appropriate quantity, has a positive effect on the aesthetic qualities of said keratin material.

[0135] Preferably, the probiotic microorganism(s) that can be used according to the present invention are chosen from probiotic microorganisms from the group of lactic acid bacteria, such as in particular Lactobacillus, and mixtures thereof. By way of illustration of these lactic acid bacteria, mention may be made more particularly of Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus and mixtures thereof.

[0136] Advantageously, the probiotic microorganism(s) are chosen from lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus alimentarius, lactobacillus curvatus, lactobacillus delbruckii subsp. Lactis, lactobacillus gasseri, lactobacillus johnsonii, lactobacillus reuteri, lactobacillus casei, lactobacillus rhamnosus (Lactobacillus GG), lactobacillus sake, lactobacillus lactis, Streptococcus thermophilus, lactobacillus delbrueckii, lactobacillus helveticus, lactobacillus salivarius, lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus sakei, lactobacillus brevis, lactobacillus buchneri, lactobacillus fermentum, lactobacillus bulgaricus, lactobacillus longum, and mixtures thereof.

[0137] The probiotic microorganism(s) may be included in the composition according to the invention in a live, semi-active or inactivated (dead) form. They may also be included in the form of fractions of cellular components or in the form of metabolites. The probiotic microorganism(s), or metabolite(s) or fraction(s) may also be introduced in the form of a lyophilized powder, of a culture supernatant and / or, where appropriate, in a concentrated form.

[0138] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, these microorganisms are in inactivated form.

[0139] The terms "in inactivated form", "in non-revivable form" and "in dead form" are synonymous here. Bacteria "in semi-active form" are bacteria which have partially or totally lost their potentially pathogenic properties.

[0140] The total content of the probiotic microorganism(s), other than microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, when they are present in the composition according to the invention, advantageously ranges from 0.0001 to 20% by weight, preferably from 0.0001% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.001% to 5% by weight, and better still from 0.001% to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0141] This or these microorganisms may be included in the compositions according to the invention in a living, semi-living or inactivated (dead) form, preferably inactivated for example by heat or by high pressure.

[0142] In the case where the microorganisms are formulated in a composition in living form, the quantity of living microorganisms may preferably range from 103 to 1015 cfu / g, more preferably from 105 to 1015 cfu / g and better still from 107 to 1012 cfu / g of microorganisms per gram of composition.

[0143] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition according to the present invention comprises a mixture of oligosaccharides comprising: - one or more glucooligosaccharides (GOS), and - one or more fructooligosaccharides (FOS), the total content of the glucooligosaccharide(s) ranging from 0.01 to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.05 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.1 to 1% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.2 to 0.8% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition; the total content of the fructooligosaccharide(s) ranging from 0.001 to 5% by weight, preferably from 0.01 to 0.01% by weight, more preferably from 0.01 to 1% by weight, better still from 0.01 to 0.5% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0144] According to this embodiment, the composition of the invention preferably further comprises one or more probiotic microorganisms chosen from bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus, more preferably from Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus and mixtures; the total content of the probiotic microorganism(s) advantageously ranging from 0.0001 to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.001 to 5% by weight, and more preferably from 0.001% to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0145] Advantageously, the composition according to the invention comprises a mixture of oligosaccharides comprising: - one or more gluco-oligosaccharides (GOS), and - one or more fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS); the weight ratio between the total content of gluco-oligosaccharides and the total content of fructo-oligosaccharides (ratio [GOS / FOS]) is greater than or equal to 2. Preferably, this weight ratio ranges from 2 to 4, and more preferably from 3 to 4.

[0146] For example, the mixture of prebiotic oligosaccharides and probiotic microorganisms sold under the name Ecoskin® by Solabia may be used. Said mixture comprises in particular: - between 60% and 80% by weight of at least one gluco-oligosaccharide (GOS) relative to the total weight of the mixture, - between 10% and 25% by weight of at least one fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) relative to the total weight of the mixture, and - between 0.001 and 15% by weight of at least one probiotic microorganism, in particular chosen from Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus and their mixtures, relative to the total weight of the mixture.

[0147] In particular, said mixture comprises 70% by weight of gluco-oligosaccharide (GOS), 19% by weight of Polymnia sonchifolia tuber juice, 1% by weight of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus casei, and 10% by weight of maltodextrin.

[0148] Non-ionic surfactants The composition according to the present invention may optionally further comprise one or more non-ionic surfactants.

[0149] These surfactants can in particular contribute to maintaining the clarity or transparency of the composition.

[0150] Examples of non-ionic surfactants which can be used in the compositions of the present invention are described for example in "Handbook of Surfactants" by MR PORTER, Blackie & Son editions (Glasgow and London), 1991, pp 116-178. They are chosen in particular from alcohols, alpha-diols, alkyl(Ci-C2o)phenols or fatty acids, these compounds being polyethoxylated, polypropoxylated or polyglycerolated, and having at least one fatty chain comprising, for example, from 8 to 18 carbon atoms, the number of ethylene oxide or propylene oxide groups being able to range in particular from 1 to 100 and the number of glycerol groups being able to range in particular from 1 to 30.

[0151] As examples of non-ionic surfactants which can be used according to the present invention, the following non-ionic surfactants may be mentioned: - oxyalkylenated alkyl(C8-C24)phenols; - C8 to C40 alcohols, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, oxyalkylenated or glycerolated; - C8 to C30 fatty acid amides, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, oxyalkylenated; - esters of C8 to C30 acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of polyols or polyethylene glycols; - esters of C8 to C30 acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitol or sorbitan, preferably oxyethylenated; - esters of fatty acids and sucrose, - alkyl(C8_C30)(poly)glucosides, alkenyl(C8-C30)(poly)glucosides, optionally oxyalkylenated (0 to 10 oxyalkylenated units) and comprising from 1 to 15 glucose units, alkyl(C8-C30)(poly)glucoside esters, - oxyethylenated vegetable oils, saturated or not; - ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide condensates; - N-alkyl(C8-C30)glucamine and N-acyl(C8-C30)-methylglucamine derivatives; - aldobionamides; - amine oxides; - oxyethylenated and / or oxypropylenated silicones, - and their mixtures.

[0152] The oxyalkylenated units are more particularly oxyethylenated, oxypropylenated units, or their combination, preferably oxyethylenated.

[0153] The number of moles of ethylene and / or propylene oxide preferably ranges from 1 to 250, more particularly from 2 to 100; better still from 2 to 50; the number of moles of glycerol ranges in particular from 1 to 50, better still from 1 to 10.

[0154] Advantageously, the non-ionic surfactants according to the invention do not comprise oxypropylenated units.

[0155] As an example of glycerolated non-ionic surfactants, C8 to C40 alcohols, mono- or polyglycerolated, comprising from 1 to 50 moles of glycerol, preferably from 1 to 10 moles of glycerol, are preferably used.

[0156] Among the glycerolated alcohols, it is more particularly preferred to use the C8 / C10 alcohol containing one mole of glycerol, the C10 / C12 alcohol containing 1 mole of glycerol and the C12 alcohol containing 1.5 moles of glycerol.

[0157] Among the esters of C8 to C30 acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitol, the esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units, and more preferably the esters of C8 to C18 fatty acids and of sorbitan, comprising from 4 to 20 oxyethylene units, even better the esters of linear, saturated or unsaturated, C8 to C18 fatty acids and of sorbitan, comprising from 4 to 20 oxyethylene units.

[0158] Such compounds are known in particular under the name of polysorbates. They are marketed, among others, under the name TWEEN by the company UNIQEMA.Examples include 4EO oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 21), marketed under the name TWEEN 21, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20) marketed under the name TWEEN 20, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate (polysorbate 40) marketed under the name TWEEN 40, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monostearate (polysorbate 60) marketed under the name TWEEN 60, 4EO oxyethylene sorbitan monostearate (polysorbate 61) marketed under the name TWEEN 61, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan tristearate (polysorbate 65) marketed under the name TWEEN 65, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (polysorbate 80) marketed under the name TWEEN 80, 5EO oxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (polysorbate 81) marketed under the name TWEEN 81, and 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan trioleate (polysorbate 85) marketed under the name TWEEN 85..

[0159] The non-ionic surfactant(s) that can be used in the composition according to the invention are preferably chosen from: - esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units, preferably esters of C8 to C18 fatty acids and of sorbitan, comprising from 4 to 20 oxyethylene units, even better esters of linear, saturated or unsaturated, C8 to C[8 fatty acids and of sorbitan, comprising from 4 to 20 oxyethylene units; - C8 to C40 alcohols, oxyethylenated comprising from 1 to 100 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably from 2 to 50, more particularly from 2 to 40 moles of ethylene oxide; - oxyethylenated vegetable oils, saturated or not, comprising from 1 to 100 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably from 2 to 50; - alkyl(C8-C3o)(poly)glucosides, optionally oxyalkylenated (0 to 10 EO) and comprising 1 to 15 glucose units; - C8 to C40 alcohols, mono- or poly-glycerolated, comprising from 1 to 50 moles of glycerol, preferably from 1 to 10 moles of glycerol; - amides of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, oxyalkylenated; - esters of C8 to C30 acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of polyols or polyethylene glycols; - and their mixtures.

[0160] Preferably, the non-ionic surfactant(s) are chosen from esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units; C8 to C40 alcohols, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, oxyalkylenated or glycerolated, preferably oxyethylenated; oxyethylenated vegetable oils, saturated or unsaturated, comprising from 1 to 100 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably from 2 to 50, and mixtures thereof.

[0161] Preferably, the non-ionic surfactant(s) are chosen from esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units, and mixtures thereof, and more preferably from esters of preferably linear and saturated C8 to C[8 fatty acids and of sorbitan, comprising from 4 to 20 oxyethylene units, and mixtures thereof, even better from esters of preferably linear and saturated C10-Ci4 fatty acids and of sorbitan comprising from 4 to 10 oxyethylene units.

[0162] Preferably, the fatty acid of the oxyalkylenated sorbitan fatty acid ester is a saturated fatty acid.

[0163] The oxyalkylenated sorbitan fatty acid ester(s) are preferably selected from 4EO oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monostearate, 4EO oxyethylene sorbitan monostearate, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan tristearate, 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, 5EO oxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, and 20EO oxyethylene sorbitan trioleate; preferentially, they are chosen from 4OE oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, 20OE oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate and mixtures thereof. More preferentially, the oxyalkylenated sorbitan fatty acid ester is 4OE oxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate.

[0164] The total content of the non-ionic surfactant(s), when present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.05 to 10% by weight, and more preferably from 0.1 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.2 to 3% by weight, even better still from 0.3 to 2% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0165] Preferably, the total content of the ester(s) of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, preferably linear, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units when they are present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.05 to 10% by weight, and more preferably from 0.1 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.2 to 3% by weight, even better still from 0.3 to 2% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0166] In a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises one or more non-ionic surfactants.

[0167] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises one or more non-ionic surfactants chosen from esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, preferably linear, and sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units.

[0168] The composition according to the invention preferably comprises water. Advantageously, the total water content ranges from 50 to 98% by weight, preferably from 60 to 95% by weight, preferentially from 70 to 90% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0169] The composition according to the invention may advantageously also comprise one or more linear or branched monoalcohols, having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, and more preferably from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, in particular chosen from ethanol, propanol, butanol, isopropanol, isobutanol and their mixtures, better still ethanol. The monoalcohols that can be used according to the invention are linear or branched, they are therefore not cyclic or aromatic.

[0170] Said monoalcohol(s) may be present in the composition in a total content ranging from 5 to 40% by weight, preferably from 10 to 35% by weight, more preferably from 12 to 30% by weight, better still from 15 to 25% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0171] The composition according to the invention may optionally also comprise one or more organic solvents different from the above monoalcohols, and which may be chosen from polyols, polyethylene glycols, aromatic alcohols and their mixtures.

[0172] As examples of organic solvents other than the monoalcohols previously described which can be used according to the invention, mention may in particular be made of propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, isoprene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, benzyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol and mixtures thereof.

[0173] The total content of the organic solvent(s) other than the monoalcohols previously described, when they are present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.1 to 20% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 10% by weight, and better still from 1 to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0174] When the composition according to the invention comprises one or more organic solvents, in particular chosen from linear or branched monoalcohols having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, the composition is a hydroalcoholic composition.

[0175] In a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises one or more linear or branched monoalcohols having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0176] The composition according to the present invention may optionally further comprise one or more additional compounds different from the compounds defined above, preferably chosen from cationic, anionic and amphoteric surfactants, cationic, anionic, non-ionic and amphoteric polymers, thickening agents, penetrating agents, sequestering agents, perfumes, buffers, dispersing agents, film-forming agents, ceramides, preservatives, opacifying agents, lubricants (or anti-caking agents) and their mixtures.

[0177] Preferably, when the above additional compound(s) are present in the composition according to the invention, the additional compound(s) are generally present in a content for each of them of between 0.01 and 20% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.

[0178] In an advantageous embodiment, the composition according to the invention may comprise one or more anti-dandruff agents, and / or one or more anti-hair loss agents.

[0179] Of course, those skilled in the art will take care to choose this or these possible additional compounds in such a way that the advantageous properties intrinsically attached to the composition of the invention are not, or not substantially, altered by the addition(s) envisaged.

[0180] The optional thickening agent(s) may be chosen from mineral or organic thickening agents. The thickening agent may be non-ionic, cationic, anionic or amphoteric.

[0181] As thickening agents which can be used according to the present invention, mention may in particular be made of carboxyvinyl polymers such as crosslinked acrylic and / or methacrylic acid polymers, in particular crosslinked acrylic acid homopolymers (carbomer) such as those sold under the names Carbopol by the company Goodrich, polyacrylates and polymethacrylates such as the products sold under the names Lubrajel or Norgel by the company Guardian or under the name Hispagel by the company Hispano Chimica; polyacrylamides such as the product sold under the name Sepigel 305 by the company Seppic; polysaccharides such as alginates, cellulose and its derivatives, in particular carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose and microcrystalline cellulose;natural gums such as xanthan gum, guar gum, locust bean gum, acacia gum, scleroglucans, chitin and chitosan derivatives, carrageenans; or clays such as montmorillonite and derivatives, bentones and derivatives, aluminum silicates and derivatives and magnesium (Veegum). ;

[0182] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises at least one thickening agent chosen from crosslinked acrylic and / or methacrylic acid polymers.

[0183] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises at least one thickening agent chosen from crosslinked acrylic acid homopolymers.

[0184] The total content of the thickening agent(s), when present in the composition of the invention, preferably ranges from 0.05% to 5% by weight, and more preferably from 0.1% to 3% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.

[0185] The pH of the composition according to the invention, when it is aqueous, advantageously varies from 5 to 9, preferably from 6 to 8, more preferably from 6.5 to 7.5.

[0186] The pH of the composition can be adjusted to the desired value by means of alkalinizing agents or acidifying agents commonly used. Among the alkalinizing agents, mention may be made, by way of examples, of ammonia, alkanolamines, mineral or organic hydroxides. Among the acidifying agents, mention may be made, by way of examples, of mineral or organic acids such as hydrochloric acid, orthophosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, carboxylic acids such as, for example, acetic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, lactic acid, sulfonic acids.

[0187] The composition according to the present invention is preferably applied topically, in particular to the scalp and / or hair.

[0188] The compositions intended for external topical administration may be solutions or dispersions of the lotion or serum type, of the cream type, or aqueous gels. These compositions are prepared according to the usual methods.

[0189] Preferably, the topical composition according to the invention can advantageously be formulated in any galenic form suitable for hair care and / or scalp care, in particular in the form of a hair lotion, a shampoo, in particular anti-dandruff, a conditioner, a detangler, a hair cream or gel, a treatment lotion, an anti-hair loss lotion or gel, an anti-parasitic shampoo, or a treatment shampoo, in particular anti-seborrheic, a scalp care product, in particular anti-irritant, restructuring.

[0190] The composition according to the invention is advantageously in thickened or even gelled form, in particular in the form of a thickened or even gelled lotion or a thickened or even gelled serum.

[0191] The composition according to the invention is advantageously in the form of a clear to transparent fluid, preferably transparent.

[0192] The transparency of the composition according to the invention can be characterized by measuring its turbidity, by turbidimetry (in units of NTU). In the context of the present invention, the turbidity measurements were carried out using a UV spectrophotometer model UV-Vis Cary 100 marketed by the company Agilent. It is also possible to measure the turbidity of the composition using a turbidimeter such as the model HI 88713-ISO from the company Hanna Instruments.

[0193] Advantageously, the turbidity of the composition according to the invention, measured at room temperature (25°C) and atmospheric pressure, is less than or equal to 250 NTU units, preferably less than or equal to 200 NTU units, more preferably less than or equal to 100 NTU units, better still less than or equal to 50 NTU units, even more preferably less than or equal to 20 NTU units, or even less than or equal to 10 NTU units.

[0194] Preferably, the composition according to the invention comprises: - one or more antioxidant agents, present in a total content greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, - one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate, and - one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces, - one or more monosaccharides, - one or more additional saccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures, - water, and - optionally one or more linear or branched, non-aromatic monoalcohols having 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0195] Even better, the composition according to the invention comprises: - one or more antioxidant agents chosen from ascorbic acid, its derivatives and their mixtures, and more preferably the antioxidant agent is ascorbyl glucoside, present in a total content greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, - one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate, and - one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces, - one or more monosaccharides chosen from mannose, as well as its α or β anomers, its optical isomers of L or D configuration, its solvates and their mixtures; - one or more additional saccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures, - water, and - optionally one or more linear or branched, non-aromatic monoalcohols having 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0196] According to a particular embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises: - one or more antioxidant agents, present in a total content greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, - one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate, and - one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces, - one or more monosaccharides, - one or more additional saccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures, - water, - one or more non-ionic surfactants, and - optionally one or more linear or branched, non-aromatic monoalcohols having 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0197] Preferably according to this embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises: - one or more antioxidant agents chosen from ascorbic acid, its derivatives and their mixtures, and more preferably the antioxidant agent is ascorbyl glucoside, present in a total content greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, - one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate, and - one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces, - one or more monosaccharides chosen from mannose, as well as its α or β anomers, its optical isomers of L or D configuration, its solvates and their mixtures; - one or more additional saccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and their mixtures, - water, - one or more non-ionic surfactants chosen from esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, preferably linear, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units, and - optionally one or more linear or branched, non-aromatic monoalcohols having 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0198] The present invention also relates to a process for the cosmetic treatment of keratin materials, in particular human keratin materials such as the scalp and hair, comprising the application to said keratin materials of a composition as defined above.

[0199] The application of the composition may optionally be followed or not by rinsing after a possible exposure time.

[0200] Preferably, the application of the composition according to the invention is not followed by rinsing.

[0201] Preferably, the cosmetic treatment process is a hair care process.

[0202] The present invention also relates to the use of a composition as defined above for maintaining or even restoring the balance of the microbial flora of the scalp.

[0203] The invention further relates to a device comprising one or more containers which comprise(s) the composition according to the invention as defined above.

[0204] The device may further comprise at least one dispensing member for dispensing the composition, which may for example be a dispensing orifice or an applicator.

[0205] The dispensing member may be attached to said container (in this case, the device will consist of only one piece); the device may also be in several parts, for example the container on the one hand and the dispensing member on the other.

[0206] The device may thus comprise at least one dispensing orifice for dispensing the composition. The dispensing orifice may be closed by a closing member.

[0207] The device may thus comprise an applicator to facilitate the application of the composition. The applicator may for example be a comb, a brush or a brush, or even a pipette or a felt-tip pen, or even a dropper.

[0208] Advantageously, the composition is applied directly using the device via the dispensing orifice, possibly comprising an applicator. In other words, the composition is not taken from the device. Thus, the device of the invention makes it possible to facilitate the application of the composition and to obtain an improved restitution rate of said composition.

[0209] Advantageously, the application and dispensing of the composition do not require a pump or propellant. The composition flows through the dispensing orifice by gravity. Optionally, pressure may be applied to the container to facilitate the flow and dispensing of the ready-to-use composition.

[0210] The device may advantageously be a dropper possibly associated with a bottle, a pump bottle, a bottle, a pipette, for example a single-dose pipette, etc.

[0211] The following examples serve to illustrate the invention without, however, being limiting in nature. Examples

[0212] 1. Example 1: The AF compositions according to the invention were prepared from the ingredients whose contents are indicated in the tables below (% by weight of active material unless otherwise indicated):

[0213] [Tables 1] Composition A: Concentration (% by weight) Composition B: Concentration (% by weight) Carbomer 0.25 0.25 Polysorbate 21 1 - Mannose 0.5 0.5 a-Glucan oligosaccharide (and) Polymnia sonchifolia tuber juice (and) Lacto-bacillus (1) 0.3% commercial product 0.3% commercial product Yeast extract (2) 1% commercial product 1% commercial product Bifida Ferment Lysate (3) 10% commercial product 10% commercial product Ascorbyl glucoside 1 1 Aminomethyl propanol 0.43 0.43 Perfume 0.6 0.6 PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil 0.5 0.5 Ethanol 20 20 Water Qs 100 Qs 100

[0214] (1) ECOSKIN RS (SOLABIA) (2) FIRMALIFT GRV (SOLABIA): Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast extract in a water / pentylene glycol mixture (3) REPAIR COMPLEX CLR PF (CLR)

[0215] [Tables2] Composition C: Concentration (% by weight) Composition D: Concentration (% by weight) Carbomer 0.25 0.25 Polysorbate 21 - - Mannose 0.5 0.5 a-Glucan oligosaccharide (and) Polymnia sonchifolia tuber juice (and) Lactobacillus (1) 0.3% of commercial product 0.3% of commercial product Yeast extract (2) 1% of commercial product 1% of commercial product Bifida Ferment Lysate (3) 10% of commercial product 10% of commercial product Ascorbyl glucoside 3 0.5 Aminomethyl propanol 0.43 0.43 Perfume 0.6 0.6 PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil 0.5 0.5 Ethanol 20 20 Water Qs 100 Qs 100

[0216] (1) ECOSKIN RS (SOLABIA) (2) FIRMALIFT GRV (SOLABIA): Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast extract in a water / pentylene glycol mixture (3) REPAIR COMPLEX CLR PF (CLR)

[0217] [Tables3] Composition E: Concentration (% by weight) Composition F: Concentration (% by weight) Carbomer 0.25 0.25 Polysorbate 21 - 1 Mannose 0.5 0.5 a-Glucan oligosaccharide (and) Polymnia sonchifolia tuber juice (and) Lacto-bacillus (1) 0.3% of commercial product 0.3% of commercial product Yeast extract (2) 1% of commercial product 1% of commercial product Bifida Ferment Lysate (3) 10% of commercial product 10% of commercial product Ascorbyl glucoside 3 1 Aminomethyl propanol 0.43 0.43 Perfume 0.6 0.6 PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil 0.5 0.5 Ethanol - - Water Qs 100 Qs 100

[0218] (1) ECOSKIN RS (SOLABIA) (2) FIRMALIFT GRV (SOLABIA): Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast extract in a water / pentylene glycol mixture (3) REPAIR COMPLEX CLR PF (CLR)

[0219] The compositions obtained are clear; they can be applied to the scalp and hair, then left to dry in the open air, without a rinsing step after application. The pH of the compositions is approximately 7.

[0220] After using these compositions daily for 21 days, a significant reduction in scalp discomfort (tingling, feeling of heat) and in the frequency of scratching was observed. The compositions do not leave the hair and / or roots greasy; on the contrary the hair is clean, without stickiness of the fibers between them.

[0221] 41 volunteers were asked to self-assess the effectiveness of the product on hair and scalp at T0 (immediately after application) and at T21. We obtain the following results: • Immediately after application: - the product provides the scalp with a refreshing sensation, - the scalp is hydrated, - sensations of heating, itching and / or tingling are reduced; • After 21 days of application: - the product provides the scalp with a refreshing sensation, - the scalp is comfortable, hydrated, less sensitive and soothed, - sensations of heating, itching and / or tingling are reduced, - the product provides a feeling of well-being; its texture is pleasant.

[0222] 2. Example 2: A study was conducted on 42 volunteers, men and women between 18 and 60 years old with sensitive scalps. The volunteers applied 4.5 ml of composition A from example 1 to the entire scalp, at home every day for 21 days (from D1 to D21), under normal conditions of use, on dry hair, according to the following protocol: - Define 3 lines from the forehead to the nape of the neck: one on the right side, one in the middle and one on the left side, - Apply 4.5mL of serum by applying the product by touch and drop on these 3 lines as evenly as possible, - Spread the product over the entire scalp using circular movements with your fingertips. At D0 (before start of application) and at D21 (after 21 days of application), the following measurements were taken:

[0223] (a) Evaluation of the effect on biochemical markers by sampling method of scrubs (quantity [SQOOH] by LC / MS analysis) on a delimited area of ​​the scalp: The evaluation of the oxidation of squalene, known to be an irritant, is measured between D0 and D21. The following results are obtained (quantity of SQOOH, in ng / mg of protein):

[0224] [Tables4] Average (on 42 people) p-value (Measurement on D21)-(measurement on D0) -23.3 0.0174

[0225] A significant decrease in the evaluation of Squalene oxidation is observed.

[0226] (b) Evaluation of the effect of the composition on the skin barrier: This evaluation is based on instrumental measurements of the TEWL (transepidermal water loss) level of the scalp skin, carried out on a mini surface of 2.25 cm2, i.e. a square of 1.5 cm on each side, with a Vapometer® with maintenance of insensible water loss (up to 6 precise measurements per experimental time):

[0227] The following results are obtained (TEWL measurement expressed in gm 2h *)

[0228] [Tables5] Average (out of 42 people) Standard deviation Measurement at D0 14.28 4.31 Measurement at D21 14.9 4.96 (Measurement at D21)-(measurement at D0) 0.62 0.66

[0229] No significant difference in the barrier function of the scalp is observed between D0 and D21: the barrier function is respected (is not altered) by the use of the composition according to the invention.

[0230] (c) Evaluation of the effect of the composition on the reduction of leather discomfort scalp (itching, tingling, burning): Each discomfort item was rated on a scale of 0 to 9 by the 42 volunteers on D0 (before application), D0 imm (immediately: just after the first application of the product) and on D21. A score of 9 corresponds to a high level of discomfort, a score of 0 to a zero level of discomfort, on the item assessed.

[0231] We obtain the following results: Comparison Mean p-value Itching JO imm - JO -2.17 <0.0001 J21-J0 -4.25 <0.0001 Tingling JO imm - JO -1.62 <0.0001 J21-J0 -3.33 <0.0001 Warming JO imm - JO -2.25 <0.0001 J21-J0 -2.89 <0.0001 Overall discomfort JO imm - JO -6.04 J21-J0 -10.48

[0233] A significant reduction in scalp discomfort is observed from the first application, and a significant reduction after 3 weeks of application.

Claims

Claims

1. Cosmetic composition comprising: - at least 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, of one or more antioxidant agents, - one or more microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species, one of its fractions, one of its metabolites or their mixtures, the microorganism(s) being in the form of a lysate, and - one or more yeast extracts of the genus Saccharomyces.

2. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the antioxidant agent(s) are chosen from tocopherol and its esters, ascorbic acid and its derivatives, retinol and its esters, BHT and BHA, N,N'-bis(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyl) ethylenediamine and its salts, erythorbic acid and its derivatives, and mixtures thereof, preferably from ascorbic acid and its derivatives, and mixtures thereof, and more preferably the antioxidant agent is ascorbyl glucoside.

3. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the total content of the antioxidant agent(s) ranges from 0.5 to 10% by weight, and preferably from 0.7 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.8 to 3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

4. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the microorganism(s) of the genus Bifidobacterium species are chosen from the following species: Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium adolescentis, Bifidobacterium pseudobacterium and mixtures thereof, preferably the microorganism is Bifidobacterium longum.

5. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the total content, expressed as dry extract, of the lysate of the microorganism(s) of the genus Bifidobacterium species ranges from 0.001 to 20% by weight, preferably from 0.01 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.1 to 2% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

6. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yeast(s) of the genus Saccharomyces are chosen from the following species: Saccharomyces bailii, Saccharomyces carlsbergensis, Saccharomyces uvarum, Saccharomyces ce- revisiae, Saccharomyces delbrueckii, Saccharomyces exiguus, Saccharomyces fermentati, Saccharomyces florentinus, Saccharomyces fragilis, Saccharomyces fructuum, Saccharomyces heterogenicus, Saccharomyces oleaginosus, Saccharomyces rosei, Saccharomyces steineri, Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccharomyces kefir, Saccharomyces kluyveri and their mixtures; and preferably the yeast of the Saccharomyces genus is a yeast of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae species.

7. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the total content (in dry or active matter) of the yeast extract(s) of the genus Saccharomyces ranges from 0.001 to 5% by weight, preferably from 0.01 to 1% by weight, more preferably from 0.02 to 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

8. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises one or more monosaccharides, preferably chosen from mannose, rhamnose as well as their α or β anomers, their optical isomers of L or D configuration, their solvates and their mixtures, more preferably from mannose, as well as its α or β anomers, its optical isomers of L or D configuration, its solvates and their mixtures; better still the monosaccharide is D-mannose.

9. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the total content of the monosaccharide(s) ranges from 0.01 to 20% by weight, preferably from 0.05 to 10% by weight, and more preferably from 0.1 to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

10. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises one or more additional saccharides, other than monosaccharides, chosen from oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and mixtures thereof, preferably chosen from rinulin, fructo-oligosaccharide, gluco-oligosaccharide, oligosaccharides derived from soybeans, pyrodextrins, isomaltooligosaccharide, xylooligosaccharide, transgalactooligosaccharide and mixtures thereof.

11. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the additional saccharide(s) correspond to a mixture comprising at least one fructo-oligosaccharide and at least one gluco-oligosaccharide.

12. Composition according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the total content of the additional saccharide(s) ranges from 0.01 to 20% by weight. weight, preferably from 0.05 to 20% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 10% by weight, better still from 0.05 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.1 to 2% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

13. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises one or more probiotic microorganisms other than microorganisms of the genus Bifido-bacterium species, preferably chosen from probiotic microorganisms of the group of lactic acid bacteria and their mixtures, and more preferably from lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus alimentarius, lactobacillus curvatus, lactobacillus delbruckii subsp.Lactis, lactobacillus gasseri, lactobacillus johnsonii, lactobacillus reuteri, lactobacillus casei, lactobacillus rhamnosus (Lactobacillus GG), lactobacillus sake, lactobacillus lactis, Streptococcus thermophilus, lactobacillus delbrueckii, lactobacillus helveticus, lactobacillus salivarius, lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus sakei, lactobacillus brevis, lactobacillus buchneri, lactobacillus fermentum, lactobacillus bulgaricus, lactobacillus longum, and mixtures thereof.

14. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the total content of the probiotic microorganism(s) other than microorganisms of the genus Bifidobacterium species ranges from 0.0001 to 20% by weight, preferably from 0.0001 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.001 to 5% by weight, better still from 0.001 to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

15. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises one or more non-ionic surfactants, preferably chosen from esters of C8 to C30 fatty acids, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and of sorbitan, comprising from 1 to 20 oxyethylene units; C8 to C40 alcohols, saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, oxyalkylenated or glycerolated, preferably oxyethylenated; oxyethylenated vegetable oils, saturated or unsaturated, comprising from 1 to 100 moles of ethylene oxide, preferably from 2 to 50, and mixtures thereof; more preferably from esters of preferably linear and saturated C8 to C18 fatty acids and of sorbitan, comprising from 4 to 20 oxyethylene units, and mixtures thereof; even better among the esters of preferably linear and saturated C 10-C 14 fatty acid and sorbitan comprising from 4 to 10 oxyethylene units.

16. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the total content of the non-ionic surfactant(s) ranges from 0.05 to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.1 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.2 to 3% by weight, better still from 0.3 to 2% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

17. Process for the cosmetic treatment of keratin materials, in particular human keratin materials such as the scalp and hair, comprising the application to said keratin materials of a composition as defined in any one of the preceding claims.

18. Use of a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 16 for maintaining or even restoring the balance of the microbial flora of the scalp.

19. A device comprising one or more containers which comprises (comprise) a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 16.