COMPOSITION FOR COLORED NAIL POLISH

Abstract

A composition for use on nails is provided, comprising a solvent system that includes at least one non-aqueous volatile polar solvent; a water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer; an acrylic copolymer of an acid number ranging from about 100 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram; an epoxy resin; and a colorant. Methods, including those for use as a colored layer, are also provided. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: COMPOSITION FOR COLORED NAIL VARNISH FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to colored nail polish compositions, and in particular to colored nail polish compositions comprising certain acrylic polymers. CONTEXT

[0002] Consumers use nail polish to cosmetically enhance the appearance of their nails or protect them from the attacks of their daily environment. This often requires a nail polish formulated to provide good shine.

[0003] Consumers also want durable nail polish. Lack of durability often manifests itself in unsightly flaking or peeling of the coating shortly after the original coating is applied, requiring, at least in part, a reapplication to attempt to recreate the aesthetic appearance of the original coating. Durability is often a delicate balance, as layers that are too soft can scratch and layers that are too stiff can chip.

[0004] There is a continuing need to provide both improved gloss and improved durability for colored nail polishes. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention relates to a color nail polish composition (also referred to herein as a "color nail polish composition," or simply a "composition"). The color nail polish composition comprises a solvent system. The solvent system comprises at least one non-aqueous volatile polar solvent. The color nail polish composition further includes a water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer and an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of about 100 and about 170 mg of KOH per gram. The color nail polish composition further comprises an epoxy resin and a colorant.

[0006] Advantageously, the acid number of the acrylic polymer may be between about 130 and about 170 mg of KOH per gram, and / or be present in a concentration by weight in the colored nail polish composition which is from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight in the color layer composition.

[0007] It may also be advantageous for the epoxy resin to be or include a toluenesulfonamide epoxy resin and / or to be present in a concentration by weight in the color nail polish composition that is from about 8% to about 12%.

[0008] It may also be advantageous for a colorant to be a pigment and / or to include a pearlescent pigment and / or to be present in a concentration by weight in the colored nail polish composition that is from about 0.1% to about 5%.

[0009] It may also be advantageous for the at least one non-aqueous volatile polar solvent to include at least one volatile acetate, such as ethyl acetate, propyl acetate and butyl acetate such that when these compounds are present in a concentration by weight such that a total concentration by weight of ethyl acetate and butyl acetate in the composition of the colored nail polish is from about 50% to about 90%.

[0010] It may also be advantageous for the composition of the colored nail polish to further include sucrose acetate butyrate and / or tributyl acetylcitrate.

[0011] It may also be advantageous for the water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer to be nitrocellulose such that it is present in a concentration by weight in the color nail polish composition that is from about 5% to about 15%.

[0012] According to certain embodiments, the composition of the colored nail polish can meet a plurality, or even all of these requirements listed above.

[0013] According to another aspect of the invention, a method of treating a nail is provided. The method includes applying to the nail the colored nail polish composition described above. Brief description of the drawings

[0014] An implementation of the present technology is described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached figure, in which:

[0015] [Fig-1] LA [Fig.l] represents a graph of hardness over time for various compositions, including a first acrylic polymer having a high acid number and a comparative acrylic polymer.

[0016] [Fig.2] LA [Fig.2] represents a graph of hardness over time for various compositions, including a second acrylic polymer having a high acid number and a comparative acrylic polymer.

[0017] [Fig.3] LA [Fig.3] represents a graph of hardness over time for various compositions, including a third acrylic polymer having a high acid number and a comparative acrylic polymer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] By the expression "at least one" is meant one or more and this therefore includes individual components as well as mixtures / combinations.

[0019] Other than in the working examples, or unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts of ingredients (e.g. concentrations, ratios etc.) and / or reaction conditions are to be understood as being modified in all cases by the term "about", meaning to within 10% or 15% of the number indicated (e.g. "about 10%" means 8.5% to 11.5%, especially 9% to 11%, and about 2% means 1.7% to 2.3%, especially 1.8% to 2.2%). and "about 2%" means 1.7% to 2.2%).

[0020] Similarly, for ratios, the modifier "about" means within 10% or 15% of the number. For example, about 4:1 means from 3.4:1 to 4.6:1, preferably from 3.6:1 to 4.4:1. As one skilled in the art will readily understand, when the first ingredient in a ratio is less than the second, then a ratio may be expressed "inversely." For example, if a second ingredient, B, is present in an amount or concentration 2.5 times greater than that of ingredient A, this may be identified as an A:B ratio of 1:2.5. "About 1:10" means from 1:8.5 to 1:11.5, preferably from 1:9 to 1:11. Unless otherwise stated, all concentrations given as percentages are by weight concentrations and, unless otherwise stated, refer to the entire color nail polish composition.

[0021] As used herein, articles such as "a" and "an", when used in a claim, are understood to mean one or more of the elements claimed or described.

[0022] As used herein, the term "at least one" means one or more and therefore includes individual components as well as mixtures / combinations.

[0023] In this document, the terms “include”, “includes” and “including” are intended to be non-limiting.

[0024] The term "film former", or "film-forming agent" or "film-forming polymer" or "film-forming resin" as used herein refers to a polymer or resin that leaves a film on the substrate to which it is applied, for example, after a solvent accompanying the film former has evaporated, been absorbed into, and / or dissipated on the substrate. A "silicone film former" is a film former that comprises at least one silicone (a silicone atom bonded directly to an oxygen atom and also to a carbon atom such as in an organic moiety).

[0025] “Liquid” or “liquid cosmetic” or “liquid composition” means a com position having a fixed volume, which flows to cover the bottom and takes the shape of the part of the container it fills and is slightly compressible (as stated in General Chemistry, fourth edition 2005, p. 434.

[0026] “Substituted” as used herein means comprising at least one substituent. Non-limiting examples of substituents include atoms, such as oxygen atoms and nitrogen atoms, as well as functional groups, such as amine groups, ether groups, alkoxy groups, acyloxyalkyl groups, oxyalkylene groups, polyoxyalkylene groups, carboxylic acid groups, amine groups, acylamino groups, amide groups, halogen-containing groups, ester groups, thiol groups, sulfonate groups, thiosulfate groups, siloxane groups and polysiloxane groups. The substituent(s) may be further substituted.

[0027] “Substantially free” as used herein means that although it is preferable that no amount of the specific component is present in the composition, it is possible that there may be small amounts thereof in the compositions of the invention provided that these amounts do not substantially affect at least one, preferably most, of the advantageous properties of the compositions of the invention. In some embodiments, substantially free means less than about 2% of the identified ingredient, such as less than about 1%, such as less than about 0.5% relative to the composition as a whole (or a particular component, if indicated). By "anhydrous" is meant substantially free of water.

[0028] The numerical ranges comprise the evaluation criteria and are intended to include all combinations and sub-combinations. For example, from about 5%, 10% or 15% to about 20%, 50% or 60% may refer to about 5% to about 20%, from about 5% to about 50%, from about 5% to about 60%, from about 10% to about 20%, from about 10% to about 50%, from about 10% to about 60%, from about 15% to about 20%, from about 15% to about 50% or from about 15% to about 60%. As used herein, a ratio range is intended to include each specific ratio within the sub-ranges and a combination of sub-ranges between the given ranges.

[0029] The compositions and methods of the present invention may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the essential elements and limitations of the invention described herein, as well as any additional or optional ingredients, components, or limitations described herein or otherwise useful.

[0030] The colored nail polish compositions of the present invention include a solvent system, a water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer; an acrylic polymer; an epoxy resin and a colorant. Each of these will be discussed in more detail herein. SOLVENT SYSTEM

[0031] The colored nail polish compositions of the present invention include a solvent system. The function of the solvent system is to dissolve or disperse various components in the colored nail polish composition and to evaporate at a suitable rate to enable relatively rapid formation of a film. having desirable gloss and durability properties.

[0032] The solvent system comprises at least one non-aqueous volatile polar solvent. The non-aqueous volatile polar solvent is (1) "volatile" in that it evaporates at a rate at least as fast as butyl acetate; (2) is polar in that it includes at least one polar functional group (e.g., alcohol, ether, ester, ketone, hydroxyl, amine, amino, carboxyl, carbonyl, and the like), and (3) "non-aqueous" in that it is not water and, in some embodiments, is not completely miscible in water in all concentrations at standard temperature and pressure.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent includes an ester, such as one or more acetate compounds. In particularly notable embodiments, the acetate compound is selected from ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, butyl acetate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more acetate compounds are used as a majority portion of the at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent, meaning that the proportion by weight of the one or more acetate compounds in the total amount of at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent is greater than 50%, such as greater than about 75%, such as greater than about 90%.

[0034] In some embodiments, the at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent is present in the color nail polish composition in a concentration by weight that is from about 50% or 60% to about 75%, 80% or 90%. In notable embodiments, the at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent comprises, has a majority fraction (and more particularly at least about 90% of the totally volatile, non-aqueous polar solvents) that is a mixture of volatile acetates such as ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, and butyl acetate. In other notable embodiments, the color nail polish composition has a total concentration by weight of ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, and butyl acetate in the color nail polish composition of from about 50% to about 90%.

[0035] According to certain other embodiments, the at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent includes one or more monohydric alcohols, such as a C2-C5 monohydric alcohol such as ethanol or isopropanol. In certain embodiments, the one or more monohydric alcohols are used as a minor portion of the at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent, meaning that the proportion by weight of the one or more monohydric alcohols in the total amount of at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent is less than 50%, such as less than about 25%, such as less than about 10%. WATER-INSOLUBLE NITROCELLULOSE POLYMER

[0036] The colored nail polish compositions of the present invention include a water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer (e.g., cellulose nitrate). The nitrocellulose polymer may be formed by nitrating cellulose by exposure to acids such as nitric acid and / or sulfuric acid. Desirably, the nitrocellulose is soluble in the solvent system and more particularly soluble in one or more non-aqueous volatile polar solvents. The water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer serves as a film-former in the color nail polish composition. The nitrocellulose may be present in a concentration by weight in the color nail polish composition of about 5%, 6%, or 7% to about 10%, 12%, or 15% by weight.

[0037] ACRYLIC POLYMER HAVING AN ACID VALUE OF ABOUT 100 MG OF KOH PER GRAM TO ABOUT 170 MG OF KOH PER GRAM

[0038] The colored nail polish compositions of the present invention include an acrylic (co)polymer having an acid number (also referred to as acid value) that ranges from about 100 mg KOH per gram to about 170 mg KOH per gram. The acid number or acid value is a reflection of the relative amount of carboxyl groups in the acrylic (co)polymer and is generally measured using a titration, as known to those skilled in the art. The acrylic (co)polymer having an acid number will be formed from one or more types of ethylenically unsaturated monomeric substituents.

[0039] According to some embodiments, the acid number of the acrylic polymer may be from about 130 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram.

[0040] According to certain other embodiments, the acid number of the acrylic polymer is from about 130, 135, 140, 145 or 150 mg of KOH per gram to about 150 or 170 mg of KOH per gram.

[0041] The present inventors have discovered that the use of these relatively high acid value acrylates provides a combination of beneficial properties, particularly when used in combination with other formulation components detailed herein.

[0042] The acrylic (co)polymer having an acid number ranging from about 130 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram may have an INCI designation, for example, of acrylate copolymer.

[0043] In some embodiments, the acrylic polymer having an acid number ranging from about 130 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram may have a softening point, as measured by the Bail & Ring method, known to those skilled in the art, ranging from about 110°C to about 125°C.

[0044] Suitable acrylic polymers having an acid number ranging from about 130 mg KOH per gram to about 170 mg KOH per gram include those available from Estron Chemical, Inc. of Calvert City, KY and marketed under the trade names EPOMATT G-151, EPOMATT G-152, EPOMATT G-154 or ISOCRYL G-265.

[0045] The acrylic copolymer having an acid number ranging from about 130 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram is present in a concentration by weight in the colored nail polish composition that is about 3% by weight, such as about 0.2%, 0.5% or 1% to about 2%, 2.5% or 3% by weight. EPOXY RESIN

[0046] The colored nail polish compositions of the present invention include an epoxy resin. In some embodiments, the epoxy resin has a glass transition temperature (Tg) of less than about 100°C, preferably less than about 80°C. Examples of suitable epoxy resin include those soluble in butyl acetate. In some embodiments, the epoxy resin is a tosylamide epoxy resin, for example, a toluenesulfonamide of the condensation product of 4,4'-isopropylidenediphenol / epichlorohydrin copolymer. Suitable examples include those having an INCI designation of tosylamide / epoxy resin.

[0047] Non-limiting examples of suitable epoxy resins include tosylamide / epoxy resin, such as those marketed by Estron Chemical under the trade name Polytex, e.g., E-75, E-100, NX-55, NX-3214, preferably Polytex NX-55.

[0048] The epoxy resin may be present in a concentration by weight in the colored nail polish composition that is from about 2%, or 5% to about 10%, 12% or 15%.

[0049] In some embodiments, the acrylic copolymer of an acid number ranging from about 100 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram and the epoxy resin are present in a ratio of weight concentration of acrylic copolymer of an acid number ranging from about 100 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram to a weight concentration of epoxy resin that is in a range of about

[0050] 0.02:1, 0.03:1, 0.05:1, 0.1:1 to about 0.2:1, 0.4:1, 0.6:1, 0.8:1. OTHER INGREDIENTS

[0051] The colored nail polish compositions of the present invention may include various other ingredients without significantly compromising the beneficial properties.

[0052] For example, in some embodiments, plasticizers other than epoxy resin may be included in the composition of the colored nail polish. Examples of such other plasticizers include polar molecules having multiple ester groups such as those having a molecular weight in a range of about 250 or 400 to about 1,000 or 1,500. Examples include sucrose acetate butyrate and acetyl tributyl citrate. In some embodiments, the color nail polish composition includes an ingredient selected from a group consisting of sucrose acetate butyrate and acetyl tributyl citrate. Sucrose acetate butyrate is marketed as SAIB 90 or SUSTANE SAIB by Eastman Chemical of Kingsport, TN. Acetyl tributyl citrate is marketed under the brand name Citroflex by Vertellus, or under the brand name Uniplex by Unitex Chemical of Greensboro, NC.

[0053] Other examples of plasticizers include dipropylene glycol dibenzoate and 1,2-propylene glycol dibenzoate, trioctyl citrate, triethyl citrate, acetyl tributyl citrate or tributyl citrate.

[0054] These other plasticizers may be present in concentrations ranging from about 1%, 2% or 3% to about 10%, 15% or 25% by weight.

[0055] As another example, in some embodiments, additional polymers or resins may be included in the colored nail polish composition. The film-forming polymer may include polyester resins formed by reacting a polyhydric alcohol with a basic polyacid, e.g., phthalic acid, such as the commercial product marketed by Unitex Chemical Corporation as UNIPLEX 670-P, which is a polyester resin formed by reacting trimellitic acid, neopentyl glycol, and adipic acid.The (meth)acrylic resins, according to the disclosure, may include copolymers of methyl methacrylate with butyl acrylate, butyl methacrylate, isobutyl methacrylate or isobornyl methacrylate, for example, the commercial products PARALOID DM-55, PARALOID B48N, PARALOID B66 and ELVACITE 2550; copolymers of isobutyl methacrylate and butyl methacrylate, for example, the commercial product ELVACITE 2046; and polymers of isobutyl methacrylate, for example, PARALOID B67.

[0056] Another example of a suitable film-forming polymer is acrylic dispersion in isododecane, containing in total 10% acrylic acid, 10% methyl acrylate, 60% ethyl acrylate and 20% isobornyl acrylate, such as the product bearing the INCI name: ACRYLATES / ACRYLATE D'ISOBORNYL COPOLYMER marketed under the trade name MEXOMERE PBM® from the company CHIMEX.

[0057] Another example of a suitable resin is an aldehyde-ketone resin, e.g., a copolymer comprising an aromatic ketone. Potential aldehyde-ketone resins may include, but are not limited to, those described in Publication No. 2009 / 0012245, U.S. Patent Nos. 7,183,372 and 7,101,958, or those marketed by Evonik Industries under the trademark TEGO® Variplus, including TEGO® Variplus SK.

[0058] As another example, according to some embodiments, matting agents may also be included in the colored nail polish composition. Examples include silica, aluminosilicates, borosilicates, etc. These matting agents may be present in concentrations ranging from about 0.25%, 0.5% or 1% to about 1%, 2% or 5% by weight.

[0059] As another example, according to certain embodiments, hydrocarbon oils may also be included in the colored nail polish composition. "Hydrocarbon oil" means a compound that is liquid at room temperature, insoluble in water and hydrophobic in nature. Hydrocarbon oils used in accordance with the invention are typically synthetic oils, mineral, vegetable or animal oils, unsaturated fatty alcohols, and esters of fatty acids and lower C2 to C4 mono or polyalcohols.

[0060] The one or more hydrocarbon oils may be present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 20% by weight, more preferably from about 1% to about 10% by weight, and even more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight.

[0061] As another example, according to some embodiments, non-polar silicone copolymers may be included in the colored nail polish composition. In some embodiments, the non-polar silicone copolymer may comprise repeating units of at least one polar (meth)acrylate unit and vinyl copolymers grafted with at least one non-polar silicone chain.Non-limiting examples of such copolymers are acrylates / dimethicone copolymers such as those commercially available from Shin-Etsu, e.g., the product marketed under the trade name KP-543 or KP-545, or acrylates / stearyl acrylate / dimethicone acrylates copolymers, such as those commercially available from Shin-Etsu, e.g., the product marketed under the trade name KP-561, and acrylates / behenyl acrylate / dimethicone acrylates copolymer, such as those commercially available from Shin-Etsu, e.g., the product marketed under the trade name KP-562.

[0062] The non-polar silicone copolymer may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the non-polar silicone copolymer may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, more preferably from about 0.05% to about 0.6% by weight.

[0063] In some notable embodiments, the colored nail polish composition may include certain components such as water and / or colorants (coloring agent). However, in other embodiments, it is generally preferred that the colored nail polish composition be substantially free of water and / or colorants.

[0064] Commonly used colorants as the composition of colored nail polish may include dyes, pigments, pearls and effect pigments.

[0065] Examples of fat-soluble dyes are, for example, Sudan Red, DC Red 17, DC Green 6, [3-carotene, Sudan Brown, DC Yellow 11, DC Violet 2, DC Orange 5 and Quinoline Yellow.

[0066] Suitable pigments may be white or colored, inorganic and / or organic, and coated or uncoated. Examples include inorganic pigments such as titanium dioxide, optionally surface-treated, zirconium or cerium oxides and iron or chromium oxides, manganese violet, ultramarine blue, chromium hydrate, and ferric blue. Organic pigments also include carbon black, D & C type pigments and lakes based on cochineal carmine or barium, strontium, calcium or aluminium, such as D&C Red Nos. 10, 11, 12 and 13, D&C Red No. 7, D&C Red Nos. 5 and 6, and D&D Red No. 34, as well as lakes such as D&C Yellow Lake No. 5 and D&C Red Lake No. 2.

[0067] Pearlescent pigments include, for example, white pearlescent pigments, such as mica coated with titanium oxide or bismuth oxychloride, colored pearlescent pigments, such as mica coated with titanium oxide with iron oxides, mica coated with titanium oxide with in particular ferric blue or chromium oxide, or mica coated with titanium oxide with an organic pigment of the aforementioned type and pearlescent pigments based on bismuth oxychloride.

[0068] Colored nail polish compositions of the present invention may be made by methods known in the art, such as, for example, by optionally premixing certain ingredients in the one or more solvents and mixing various ingredients together thoroughly to provide a homogeneous mixture. METHODS OF USE

[0069] The colored nail polish compositions may be applied to a nail such as a human fingernail or toenail to form a color coat, which is a nail polish layer. In some embodiments, a color coating composition is preferably applied contiguously to a mammalian nail with or without, more preferably with, one or more successive layers applied over the resulting color coating. In some embodiments, the color polish layer is formed thereon by commonly used methods such as brushing or spraying. A suitable topcoat composition, such as one substantially free of colorants, may be applied over the color coat composition.The composition of the topcoat may include an acrylic copolymer with an acid number ranging from about 145 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram and optionally a cellulose ester of a C2-C4 organic acid (such as cellulose acetate butyrate). The acrylic copolymer with an acid number ranging from about 145 to about . 170 mg of KOH per gram and the optional C2-C4 organic acid (such as cellulose acetate butyrate) may be present in concentrations by weight in the topcoat of about 0.5% to 15% and 1% to 3%, respectively. Alternatively, the topcoat may include other commonly used topcoat ingredients such as nitrocellulose and other ingredients disclosed herein with reference to the colorcoat components. These colorcoats and topcoats may be packaged together, for example, in a kit.

[0070] The following examples are intended to illustrate the invention without limiting its scope accordingly. The percentages are given on a weight basis. EXAMPLES

[0071] EXAMPLE 1: FLEXIBILITY

[0072] Compositions were prepared to evaluate the flexibility of films formed from four polymeric materials. In particular, the following materials were evaluated:

[0073] (1) an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of between 130 mg of KOH per gram and 150 mg of KOH per gram [Example E1, consistent with embodiments of the invention];

[0074] (2) an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of between 145 mg of KOH per gram and 165mg of KOH per gram [Example E2, consistent with embodiments of the invention];

[0075] (3) an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of between 160 mg of KOH per gram and 170 mg of KOH per gram [Example E3, consistent with embodiments of the invention];

[0076] (4) an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of 0 mg of KOH per gram [Example Cl].

[0077] A test solution of each of the above materials was prepared by dissolving various materials at a concentration by weight in 40% ethyl acetate (except for Example Cl, which was 50% active). The test solutions were evaluated using a tapered mandrel test, ASTM test D522-93a (2008), “Standard Test Methods for Mandrel Bend Test of Attached Organic Coatings.”

[0078] Cold rolled steel test strips are used as substrates (22 gauge, 0.8 mm thick), preferably 100 mm x 150 mm length / width. The strips are cleaned with a volatile solvent to remove residual oil. The test strips are coated evenly and allowed to air dry. The samples dried with the application are conditioned for at least about 2 hours and with 50% relative humidity. A conical mandrel measuring apparatus is used, equipped with a long, smooth steel cone of 200 ml with a diameter of 3mm at one end and 38mm at the other end.

[0079] With the operating lever of the apparatus in the horizontal position, the test specimen is slid between the mandrel and the drawbar with the finished side toward the drawbar. The sample is securely fixed in a vertical position adjacent to the mandrel by placing the long edge behind the clamping bar so that the panel is always positioned against the narrow end of the mandrel.

[0080] The lever is moved about 180° at a uniform speed to bend the sample about 135°.

[0081] To determine the crack resistance under more simulated use conditions, the bending time should be about 1 s. The bent surface of the sample is immediately examined by eye for any cracks.

[0082] The test results indicated that Example E2 and Example E3 showed minimal cracking after day 1. Example E1 shows cracks after day 1; Example C1 shows cracks and, moreover, significant warping after day 1.

[0083] EXAMPLE 2: HARDNESS for colored nail polish compositions

[0084] Compositions were prepared to evaluate the hardness of the colored varnish compositions. Specifically, the following colored varnish compositions were evaluated:

[0085] (1) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 130 mg of KOH per gram and 150 mg of KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Example E7.1, E7.2, E7.3, E7.4, E7.5 consistent with embodiments of the invention];

[0086] (2) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 145 mg KOH per gram and 165 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Example E8.1, E8.2, E8.3, E8.4, E8.5, consistent with embodiments of the invention];

[0087] (3) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 160 mg of KOH per gram and 170 mg of KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Example E9.1, E9.2, E9.3, E9.4, E9.5, consistent with embodiments of the invention].

[0088] (4) composition comprising an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of 0 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin. [Example C2] SAMPLE PREPARATION

[0089] The samples were prepared by combining solvents, nitrocellulose, acrylic polymer, epoxy resin

[0090] and other plasticizers, other film-forming polymers and other ingredients in a jar. The mixture was left in place for 12 to 24 hours. It was then mixed for three minutes with the stock blender until uniform. The samples were then allowed to stand for 24 hours before testing to allow air bubbles to dissipate. The test compositions for colored nail polish were evaluated by measuring hardness at room temperature. DESCRIPTION OF THE TEST

[0091] To perform the test, a 5 x 4 inch glass plate and a 6 mil Bird applicator are thoroughly cleaned with acetone and wiped with KLEENEX paper until dry. The glass plate is placed in the center of an automatic stretching machine of an Erichsen Dry Time apparatus. The speed of the stretching machine is set at 25 mm / s. The Bird applicator is placed on the glass plate and is flush with the moving bar. Three ml of test composition are placed across the width of the glass plate. The position of the glass is maintained and the start button is pressed on the stretching machine to form a homogeneous film across the entire length of the plate without moving the position on the plate. The film is stretched using a 6 mil Bird applicator. The drawbar is reset and residue is cleaned with acetone from the glass plate and the drawbar.The film should dry for approximately 24 hours (1 day) and the initial hardness value should be recorded. Additional measurements are taken 5, 7, 10 and 14 days after the initial stretching.

[0092] The different colored nail polish compositions are presented below in Table 1, Table 2 and Table 3. These nail polish compositions were evaluated in terms of hardness, adhesion and shine. COMPONENT EXAMPLE E7.1 E7.2 E7.3 E7.4 E7.5 C2 Acrylic copolymer, acid number 130-150 (mg KOH per gram) 1% 3% 5% 7.5% 10% Acrylic copolymer, acid number 0 (mg KOH per gram) - - - - - 1.1% Epoxy resin 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% Nitrocellulose 9.8% 9.5% 9.3% 9.0% 8.8% 9.6% Solvents, including acetates 73% 71% 69% 67% 65% 73% Pigments 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% Other components qs qs qs qs qs qs Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% *Apparent errors due to rounding COMPONENT EXAMPLE E8.1 E8.2 E8.3 E8.4 E8.5 C2 Acrylic copolymer, acid number 145-165 (mg KOH per gram) 1% 3% 5% 7.5% 10% Acrylic copolymer, acid number 0 (mg KOH per gram) - - - - - 1.1% Epoxy resin 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% Nitrocellulose 9.8% 9.5% 9.3% 9.0% 8.8% 9.6% Solvents, including acetates 73% 71% 69% 67% 65% 73% Pigments 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% Other components qs qs qs qs qs qs Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% *Apparent errors due to rounding COMPONENT EXAMPLE E9.1 E9.2 E9.3 E9.4 E9.5 C2 Acrylic copolymer, acid number 160-170 (mg KOH per gram) 1% 3% 5% 7.5% 10% Acrylic copolymer, acid number 0 (mg KOH per gram) - - - - - 1.1% Epoxy resin 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% 7.9% Nitrocellulose 9.8% 9.5% 9.3% 9.0% 8.8% 9.6% Solvents, including acetates 73% 71% 69% 67% 65% 73% Pigments 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% Other components qs qs qs qs qs qs Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% *Apparent errors due to rounding

[0096] The various hardness results of the nail polish composition are shown in [Fig.l], [Fig.2] and [Fig.3]. The results indicate that the color polish compositions with a lower level of (E7,l) an acrylic copolymer of an acid value ranging from about 130 and about 150 mg of KOH per gram and an epoxy resin; a lower level of (E8,l) an acrylic copolymer of an acid value ranging from about 145 and about 165 mg of KOH per gram and an epoxy resin; and a lower level of (E9,l) an acrylic copolymer of an acid value ranging from about 160 and about 170 mg of KOH per gram and an epoxy resin all exhibit excellent hardness stability.

[0097] EXAMPLE 3: ADHESION for Colored Nail Polish Compositions

[0098] Compositions were prepared to evaluate the adhesion of the color coating compositions. Specifically, the following color polish compositions were evaluated:

[0099] (1) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 130 mg KOH per gram and 150 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Examples E7.1, E7.2, E7.5, described above];

[0100] (2) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 145 mg KOH per gram and 165 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Examples E8.1, E8.2, E8.5, described above];

[0101] (3) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 160 mg KOH per gram and 170 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Examples E9.1, E9.2, E9.5, described above]. SAMPLE PREPARATION

[0102] The samples were prepared by combining solvents, nitrocellulose, acrylic polymer, epoxy resin

[0103] and other plasticizers, other film-forming polymers, and other ingredients in a jar. The mixture was left to stand for 12 to 24 hours. It was then mixed for three minutes with the stockblender until uniform. The samples were then allowed to stand for 24 hours before testing. The nail polish film is stretched using the bird 6 mil applicator onto a vitro nail substrate. The vitro nail samples were then allowed to stand for 24 hours before testing. The colored nail polish compositions were evaluated by measuring adhesion. DESCRIPTION OF THE TEST

[0104] To perform the test, the vitro nail substrate and a 6 mil bird applicator are thoroughly cleaned with acetone and wiped with KLEENEX tissue until dry. The nail polish film is stretched using the 6 mil bird applicator onto a vitro nail substrate. The samples were then allowed to sit for 24 hours before testing. The test samples were evaluated according to ASTM D3359 “Standard test method for measuring adhesion by tape test”. A grid tool is used to scrape the film onto the vitro nail. The substrate is then rotated 90 degrees and scraped again. A piece of tape is applied over the scraped area and lifted. The adhesion of the remaining amount of product is evaluated.

[0105] The adhesion results for various colored nail polish compositions are shown in Table 4. Adhesion Results Example E7.1: Rating of 3: E8.1: Rating of 1: E9.1: Rating of 2: E7.2: Rating of 3.5: E8.2: Rating of 4: E9.2: Rating of 4: E7.5: Rating of 5: E8.5: Rating of 5: E9.5: Rating of 5:

[0107] Rating 1: Detachment of small flakes, less than 5% affected

[0108] Rating 2: The coating is peeling along the edges or in long strips, between 5% and 15% impacted

[0109] Rating 3: Coating is peeling along edges in long strips or entirely in wide ribbons with parts of squares removed, between 15% and 35% affected

[0110] Rating 4: Coating has peeled along the edges of the sequin cutouts or wide strips with squares that have peeled off completely or partially. 35% to 65% affected

[0111] Rating of 5: Any crumbling beyond rating 4

[0112] The results indicate that the color coating compositions with a lower level (E7,l) of an acrylic copolymer with an acid value ranging from about 130 to about 150 mg of KOH per gram and epoxy resin; a lower level (E8,l) of an acrylic copolymer with an acid value ranging from about 145 to about 165 mg of KOH per gram and epoxy resin and a lower level (E9,l) of an acrylic copolymer with an acid value ranging from about 160 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram and epoxy resin all exhibit excellent adhesion.

[0113] EXAMPLE 4: SHINE / BRILLIANCE of compositions for colored nail polish

[0114] The compositions were prepared to evaluate the gloss or shine of the colored coating compositions. Specifically, the following colored varnish compositions were evaluated:

[0115] (1) composition comprising an acrylic copolymer having an acid number between 130 mg KOH per gram and 150 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Example E7.1, described above];

[0116] (2) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 145 mg KOH per gram and 165 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Example E8.1, described above];

[0117] (3) composition comprising different levels of an acrylic copolymer having a acid number between 160 mg KOH per gram and 170 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin [Example E9.1, described above];

[0118] (3) composition comprising an acrylic copolymer having an acid number of 0 mg KOH per gram and an epoxy resin. [Example C2, described above] SAMPLE PREPARATION

[0119] The samples were prepared by combining solvents, nitrocellulose, acrylic polymer, epoxy resin

[0120] and other plasticizers, other film-forming polymers, and other ingredients in a jar. The mixture was left to stand for 12 to 24 hours. It was then mixed for three minutes with the stockblender until uniform. The samples were then allowed to stand for 24 hours before testing to allow air bubbles to dissipate. The test compositions for colored nail polish were evaluated by measuring gloss at room temperature. DESCRIPTION OF THE TEST

[0121] To measure gloss, a black and white Laneta card is placed on a suction plate. A film is

[0122] stretched using a 6 mil Bird applicator onto the board and allowed to dry for two hours at ambient conditions. A Byk-Gardener Micro-Tri-Glossmeter is powered into its holder and allowed to perform a self-diagnosis and calibration. If necessary, clean the standard glass plate with a glass cleaning cloth and start the calibration by pressing the mode dial. Readings are taken at ambient temperature by pressing the start button.

[0123] Gloss results for various color nail polish compositions are shown in Table 5.

[0124] [Tables5] Gloss results Example E7.1 E8.1 E9.1 C2 66.8 68.1 70 60.3

[0125] The results indicate surprisingly good gloss performance for the following composition combinations, (E7,l) an acrylic copolymer with an acid number ranging from about 130 to about 150 mg of KOH per gram; and an epoxy resin; (E8,l) an acrylic copolymer with an acid number ranging from about 145 to about 165 mg of KOH per gram; and an epoxy resin; (E9,l) an acrylic copolymer with an acid number ranging from about 160 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram; and an epoxy resin with respect to a composition comprising a co acrylic polymer having an acid number of 0 mg KOH per gram.

Claims

Claims

1. A composition for use on nails, comprising: a solvent system comprising at least one non-aqueous volatile polar solvent; a water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer; an acrylic copolymer of an acid number ranging from about 100 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram, an epoxy resin and a colorant.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the acrylic copolymer has an acid number of between about 130 and about 170 mg of KOH per gram.

3. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the acrylic copolymer has an acid number of between about 160 and 170 mg of KOH per gram.

4. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the epoxy resin is a tosylamide / epoxy resin.

5. A composition according to any preceding claim, further comprising a colorant and wherein the colorant is present in a concentration by weight of about 0.1% to about 10%.

6. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the solvent system comprising at least one non-aqueous volatile polar solvent comprises ethyl acetate and butyl acetate each in a respective weight concentration such that a total weight concentration of ethyl acetate and butyl acetate in the composition is from about 50% to about 90%.

7. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the water-insoluble nitrocellulose polymer is nitrocellulose and is present in a concentration by weight of about 5% to about 15%.

8. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the acrylic copolymer of an acid number ranging from about 100 to about 170 mg of KOH per gram is present in a concentration by weight in the composition which is from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight.

9. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the epoxy resin is a tosylamide / epoxy resin, and the tosylamide / epoxy resin is present at a concentration by weight in the composition which is from about 5% to about 10%.

10. A method of treating a nail, comprising: the application to the nail of a composition comprising: a solvent system comprising at least one volatile, non-aqueous polar solvent; a water-insoluble nitrocellulose cellulose polymer; an acrylic copolymer with an acid number ranging from about 100 and about 170 mg of KOH per gram; an epoxy resin and a colorant;

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