HAIR TREATMENT PROCESSES

Abstract

METHODS FOR TREATING HAIR The disclosure relates to compositions and methods for treating hair, for example, for building or rebuilding bonds in hair fibers. The compositions comprise (a) at least one amino acid, (b) at least one osmolyte, (c) at least one carboxylic acid, and (d) at least one solvent. The methods comprise applying the compositions to hair. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: METHODS HAIR TREATMENT Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to methods of treating hair, for example to build or reconstruct bonds in hair fibers. BACKGROUND

[0002] Consumers desire healthy and strong hair. However, various hair treatments, such as those for changing or improving the appearance of hair, for example by changing the color, style and / or shape of the hair, are known to damage the hair. In addition, repeated styling can damage the hair, for example due to the repeated use of heat and styling tools. All of these processes can break the bonds within the hair fibers, which, if not reformed, results in damaged hair.

[0003] For example, hair lightening and dyeing compositions and processes typically require the presence of a strong alkalizing agent, such as ammonia, as well as additional compounds, such as oxidizing agents. In order to change the color of the hair, these components must first break down the natural components of the hair fibers, such as disulfide bonds. Similarly, hair straightening or relaxing compositions also involve harsh chemicals to change the shape of the hair by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair fibers.

[0004] It is known that, although such processes effectively alter the color and shape of the hair, the chemical agents used therein inherently result in damage to the hair due, at least in part, to the breaking of bonds within the hair fiber during the coloring or styling process. For example, hair that has been repeatedly bleached, dyed, relaxed, straightened, styled, etc., is often dry, frizzy, and generally unpleasant to the touch and appearance. In addition, damaged hair is brittle and / or exhibits increased elasticity, resulting in more frequent hair breakage. As such, consumers are seeking compositions and methods to prevent or minimize such damage and / or to repair hair that has been damaged by such treatments and processes, particularly to rebuild broken bonds within the hair fibers.

[0005] However, it has proven difficult to formulate compositions that satisfactorily meet these wishes. For example, some compositions that Attempts to address the damage problem simply coat the hair with compounds that may improve the feel and appearance of the hair; however, this approach is only temporary and superficial. Rather than preventing or repairing hair damage, this approach simply masks the damage until the next time the hair is rinsed or washed. Other compositions attempt to address damage within the hair fiber, for example by reforming broken bonds, but to date, these have not been satisfactory.

[0006] The present inventors have now discovered a synergistic combination of components that is surprisingly effective in treating damaged hair by building or rebuilding bonds in the hair fibers. Hair treated with compositions according to the disclosure exhibits surprisingly reduced signs of damage, including increased strength and / or reduced elasticity, particularly in hair that has been damaged by harsh chemical treatments. SUMMARY

[0007] The disclosure relates to methods of treating hair, for example, to rebuild bonds within the hair fiber that are broken by aggressive chemical compositions and processes. Compositions that may be used in the methods comprise a synergistic combination of one or more amino acids, preferably one or more basic amino acids, one or more osmolytes, and one or more carboxylic acids.

[0008] In various embodiments, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise (a) at least one amino acid, (b) at least one osmolyte, (c) at least one carboxylic acid, and (d) at least one solvent. The compositions optionally further include (e) at least one additional component selected from fatty compounds, surfactants, thickening agents, direct dyes, or combinations thereof. The pH of the compositions is generally less than 7 or less than about 6, for example, from about 2 to about 5, or from about 3 to about 4.

[0009] In some embodiments, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise at least one amino acid selected from basic amino acids, for example, arginine, histidine, lysine, their salts, or combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the total amount of basic amino acids and their salts ranges from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 1% to about 12%, more preferably from about 2% to about 10%, even more preferably from about 3% to about 7%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the compositions comprise at least at least one amino acid selected from acidic or neutral amino acids and their salts, for example serine. In various embodiments, the total amount of acidic and / or neutral amino acids and their salts ranges from about 0.01% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.05% to about 4%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 3%, and most preferably from about 0.25% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In still other embodiments, the compositions comprise a mixture of basic, acidic and / or neutral amino acids, for example the compositions may comprise arginine and serine.In various embodiments, the total amount of amino acids and their salts present in the composition ranges from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 1% to about 12%, more preferably from about 2% to about 10%, more preferably from about 3% to about 7%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0010] In certain preferred embodiments, compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise one or more amino acids selected from glycine, proline, methionine, serine, arginine, lysine, histidine, salts of any of the foregoing (particularly alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or zinc salts), and combinations of two or more thereof.

[0011] In various embodiments, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise at least one osmolyte selected from carbohydrate sugars, methylsulfonium compounds, polyamines and / or amino acid derivatives such as betaines, preferably selected from compounds of formula (II). In various embodiments, the total amount of osmolytes present in the composition ranges from about 0.01% to about 10%, preferably from about 1% to about 5%, more preferably from about 1.25% to about 4%, more preferably from about 1.5% to about 3%, and most preferably from about 2% to about 2.5%, based on the total weight of the composition.In various embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of total amino acid to total osmolyte that is greater than or equal to about 0.5, such as greater than about 1, preferably from about 1.25 to about 3.5, more preferably from about 1.5 to about 3, more preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.5, and most preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.25.

[0012] In various embodiments, the compositions that may be used comprise at least one carboxylic acid selected from oxalic acid, malonic acid, glutaric acid, succinic acid, adipic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, maleic acid, lactic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof, and preferably citric acid, lactic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof. In various embodiments, the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts ranges from about 0.5% to about 20%, preferably from about 1% to about 15%, more preferably from about 2% to about 12%, more preferably from about 3% to about 10%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 7% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.In various embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acids and their salts to the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts greater than about 0.5, such as greater than about 0.7, preferably from about 0.75 to about 2, and more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.5.

[0013] The solvent may comprise water and / or at least one non-aqueous solvent, and in some embodiments comprises water and at least one non-aqueous solvent, preferably comprising at least one polyol. Optionally, the compositions comprise water and at least one non-aqueous solvent, and have a total amount of non-aqueous solvents ranging from about 1% to about 20%, preferably from about 5% to about 20%, more preferably from about 5% to about 15%, and most preferably from about 8% to about 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0014] The compositions may optionally also include at least one additional component selected from fatty compounds, surfactants, thickening agents, direct dyes or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise (a) at least one amino acid and / or one of its salts, preferably at least one basic amino acid and / or one of its salts, (b) at least one betaine, preferably at least one compound of formula (II), for example glycine betaine, in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, (c) at least one carboxylic acid and / or one of its salts, (d) at least one solvent, preferably comprising at least one polyol, and (e) optionally at least one additional component selected from direct dyes, fatty compounds, surfactants, thickening agents, or combinations thereof.For example, in at least some embodiments, the composition comprises arginine and the total amount of amino acids ranges from about 1% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and the total amount of carboxylic acids ranges from about 0.5% to about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. The pH of the compositions is generally less than 7, for example, ranging from about 2 to about 5, or about . 3 to about 4. In various embodiments, the total amount of non-aqueous solvents ranges from about 1% to about 20%, preferably from about 2% to about 18%, more preferably from about 3% to about 15%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 12%, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acids and their salts, for example, arginine, serine, their salts, or combinations thereof, to the total amount of betaines, preferably selected from compounds of formula (II) and its salts, for example, glycine betaine, which is equal to or greater than about 0.5, such as greater than about 1, preferably from about 1.25 to about 3.5, more preferably from about 1.5 to about 3, more preferably still from about 1.75 to about 2.5, and most preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.25.In some embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acids and their salts to the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts that is greater than about 0.5 or greater than about 0.7, preferably from about 0.75 to about 2, and more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.5.

[0016] In preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise (a) at least one amino carboxylic acid or one of its salts, preferably selected from arginine and / or one of its salts, (b) at least one betaine derivative, preferably selected from glycine betaine, (c) at least one carboxylic acid, preferably selected from citric acid, lactic acid and / or their salts, and (d) water.For example, the composition may comprise (a) from about 2% to about 6% arginine and / or a salt thereof, (b) from about 0.5% to about 3.5% glycine betaine, (c) at least one carboxylic acid, preferably selected from citric acid, lactic acid and / or their salts, and (d) water and optionally at least one non-aqueous solvent, preferably comprising at least one polyol, wherein the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts ranges from about 2% to about 10%, and wherein all amounts are by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. The pH of the compositions is generally less than 7, for example, from about 2 to about 5, or from about 3 to about 4.In various embodiments, the total amount of non-aqueous solvents ranges from about 1% to about 20%, preferably from about 2% to about 18%, more preferably from about 3% to about 15%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 12%, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acids and their salts to glycine betaine equal to or greater than about 0.5, such as greater than about 1, preferably from about 1.25 to about 3.5, more preferably from about 1.5 to about 3, more preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.5, and most preferably . from about 1.75 to about 2.25. In some embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acids and their salts to the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts greater than about 0.5 or greater than about 0.7, preferably from about 0.75 to about 2, more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.5. In some embodiments, the compositions include at least one additional component selected from fatty compounds, surfactants, thickening agents, direct dyes, or combinations thereof. If present, the compositions comprise serine in an amount ranging from about 0.01% to about 2%, preferably from about 0.05% to about 1.5%, more preferably from about 0.05% to about 1%, and most preferably from about 0.05% to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.When the compositions comprise serine, the compositions may optionally have a weight ratio of total amino acids to serine of greater than about 2, preferably ranging from about 2 to about 15, more preferably from about 4 to about 14, more preferably from about 6 to about 13, and most preferably from about 8 to about 12. When the compositions comprise serine, the compositions may optionally have a weight ratio of glycine betaine to serine of greater than about 2, preferably from about 2 to about 10, more preferably from about 3 to about 8, more preferably from about 3.5 to about 7, and most preferably from about 4 to about 6.

[0017] The methods comprise applying a composition as described to the hair. The composition may be left on the hair for an optional setting period and, optionally, rinsed from the hair. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] [Fig 1A-1B] Figures 1A and 1B are graphs showing the elasticity of hair fibers of strands SI to S8 after one treatment (IA) and five treatments (IB).

[0019] [Fig 2A-2B] Figures 2A and 2B are graphs showing the elasticity of hair fibers of strands S9 to S16 after one treatment (2A) and five treatments (2B).

[0020] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a graph showing the elasticity of hair fibers in strands S17 to S21 after five treatments.

[0021] [Fig 4A-4B] Figures 4A and 4B are graphs showing the breaking strain of hair fibers treated with compositions according to the disclosure and comparative compositions.

[0022] [Fig 5A-5B] Figures 5A and 5B show the structures of certain examples of osmolytes that may be included in compositions according to the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The disclosure relates to methods of treating hair, for example to rebuild bonds in hair fibers. Hair treated according to the disclosure exhibits surprisingly reduced signs of damage, including increased strength and / or reduced elasticity, particularly in damaged hair.

[0024] I. COMPOSITIONS

[0025] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the present disclosure comprise (a) at least one amino acid, (b) at least one osmolyte, (c) at least one carboxylic acid and (d) at least one solvent. The compositions may optionally comprise one or more additional components, such as fatty compounds, surfactants, thickening agents, direct dyes or combinations thereof. Amino acids

[0026] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise at least one amino acid. Optionally, in various embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure may comprise one, two, or three amino acids. Amino acids that may be selected include those that are basic, acidic, or neutral at neutral pH. In preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise at least one basic amino acid.

[0027] As used herein, the term "amino acid" includes amino carboxylic acids and their salts and amino sulfonic acids and their salts. As used herein, amino acids mean organic compounds containing a carboxylic acid group (-COOH) (amino carboxylic acids) and / or a sulfonic acid group (-S(=O)2-OH) (amino sulfonic acids) and an amino group (-NH2) which may be primary or secondary, or may be intracyclic, as well as a side chain (R group) specific to each amino acid.

[0028] Amino carboxylic acids that may be selected include, for example, alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine, and combinations of two or more thereof. Examples of amino sulfonic acids include aminomethane sulfonic acid, 2-aminoethane sulfonic acid (taurine), aminopropane sulfonic acid, aminobutane sulfonic acid, aminohexane sulfonic acid, aminoisopropyl sulfonic acid, aminododecyl sulfonic acid, aminobenzene sulfonic acid, aminotoluene sulfonic acid, sulfanilic acid, chlorosulfanilic acid, diaminobenzene acid sulfonic acid, aminophenol sulfonic acid, aminopropylbenzene sulfonic acid, aminohexylbenzene sulfonic acid, and combinations of two or more of these.

[0029] Amino acid salts are also included in the term "amino acid", whether indicated or not. By way of non-limiting example, salts that may be selected include salts with organic or inorganic bases, for example alkali metal salts, such as lithium, sodium or potassium salts; alkaline earth metal salts, such as magnesium or calcium salts; and zinc salts.

[0030] Further, the amino acids may be of D, L, or DL ​​configuration. In certain preferred embodiments, it is advantageous to select amino acids of L configuration, for example, L-proline, L-methionine, L-serine, L-arginine, L-lysine, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0031] In certain embodiments, it is particularly advantageous to select one or more amino carboxylic acids. Thus, in various embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure comprise one or more amino acids of formula (I): COOH (I) H — C — R

[0032] in which:

[0033] - p is an integer equal to 1 or 2, and

[0034] - when p = 1, R forms, together with the nitrogen atom, a saturated heterocycle comprising from 5 to 8 ring members, preferably 5 ring members, knowing that this ring can be substituted by one or more groups chosen from hydroxyl or alkyl (C1-C4); or

[0035] - when p = 2, R represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group (C1-C12) saturated, linear or branched, preferably an alkyl group (C1-C4), optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups selected from -S-, -NH- or -C(NH)-, and / or optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH, -CONH2, -NH-C(NH)-NH2, or an imidazole ring.

[0036] In certain embodiments when p = 1, R forms, together with the nitrogen atom, a saturated heterocycle comprising 5 ring members, this ring not being substituted.

[0037] In some embodiments when p = 2, R represents a hydrogen atom or a saturated, linear or branched (C1-C4) alkyl group, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -CONH2, -NH-C(NH)-NH2, or an imidazole ring. In some embodiments, p is preferably 2.

[0038] In some embodiments, the compositions comprise one or more amino acids selected from arginine, glycine, proline, methionine, serine, lysine, histidine, salts of any of the foregoing (particularly alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, or zinc salts), or combinations of two or more thereof. In at least some embodiments, the amino acid compounds in the composition consist essentially of or consist of amino acids selected from arginine, glycine, proline, methionine, serine, lysine, histidine, salts of any of the foregoing (particularly alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, or zinc salts), or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0039] In some embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of glycine and / or its salts. In other embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of arginine and / or its salts. In other embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of proline and / or its salts. In still other embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of methionine and / or its salts. In other embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of serine and / or its salts.In still further embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of arginine and / or its salts. In still further embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of histidine and / or its salts. In still further embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of lysine and / or its salts. In still further embodiments, the amino acid(s) useful in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of basic amino acids and / or their salts.

[0040] In various embodiments, the total amount of amino acids may range from about 0.1% to about 15%, such as from about 0.1% to about 12%, from about 0.1% to about 10%, from about 0.1% to about 9%, from about 0.1% to about 8%, from about 0.1% to about 7%, from about 0.1% to about 6%, from about 0.1% to about 5.5%, from about 0.1% to about 5%, from about 0.1% to about 4.5%, from about 0.1% to about 4%, from about 0.1% to about 3.5%, from about 0.1% to about 3%, from about 0.1% to about 2.5%, from about 0.1% to about 2%, from about 0.1% to about 1.5%, from about 0.1% to about 1%, from about 0.5% to about 15%, from about 0.5% to about 12%, from about 0.5% to about 10%, from about 0.5% to about 9%, from about 0.5% to about 8%, from about 0.5% to about 7%, from about 0.5% to about 6%, from about 0.5% to about 5.5%, from about 0.5% to about 5%, from about 0.5% to about 4.5%, from about 0.5% to about 4%, from about 0.5% to about 3.5%, from about 0.5% to about 3%, from about 0.5% to about 2.5%, from about 0.5% to about 2%, from about 0.5% to about 1.5%, from about 0,5% to about 1%, from about 1% to about 15%, from about 1% to about 12%, from about 1% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 9%, from about 1% to about 8%, from about 1% to about 7%, from about 1% to about 6%, from about 1% to about 5.5%, from about 1% to about 5%, from about 1% to about 4.5%, from about 1% to about 4%, from about 1% to about 3.5%, from about 1% to about 3%, from about 1% to about 2.5%, from about 1% to about 2%, from about 1% to about 1.5%, from about 1.5% to about 15%, from about 1.5% to about 12%, from about 1.5% to about 10%, from about 1.5% to about 9%, from about 1.5% to about 8%, from about 1.5% to about 7%, from about 1.5% to about 6%, from about 1.5% to about 5.5%, from about 1.5% to about 5%, from about 1.5% to about 4.5%, from about 1.5% to about 4%, from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, from about 1.5% to about 3%, from about 1.5% to about 2.5%, from about 1.5% to about 2%, from about 2% to about 15%,from about 2% to about 12%, from about 2% to about 10%, from about 2% to about 9%, from about 2% to about 8%, from about 2% to about 7%, from about 2% to about 6%, from about 2% to about 5.5%, from about 2% to about 5%, from about 2% to about 4.5%, from about 2% to about 4%, from about 2% to about 3.5%, from about 2% to about 3%, from about 2% to about 2.5%, from about 2.5% to about 15%, from about 2.5% to about 12%, from about 2.5% to about 10%, from about 2.5% to about 9%, from about 2.5% to about 8%, from about 2.5% to about 7%, from about 2.5% to about 6%, from about 2.5% to about 5.5%, from about 2.5% to about 5%, from about 2.5% to about 4.5%, from about 2.5% to about 4%, from about 2.5% to about 3.5%, from about 2.5% to about 3%, from about 3% to about 15%, from about 3% to about 12%, from about 3% to about 10%, from about 3% to about 9%, from about 3% to about 8%, from about 3% to about 7%,from about 3% to about 6%, from about 3% to about 5.5%, from about 3% to about 5%, , from about 3% to about 4.5%, from about 3% to about 4%, from about 3% to about 3.5%, from about 3.5% to about 15%, from about 3.5% to about 12%, from about 3.5% to about 10%, from about 3.5% to about 9%, from about 3.5% to about 8%, from about 3.5% to about 7%, from about 3.5% to about 6%, from about 3.5% to about 5.5%, from about 3.5% to about 5%, from about 3.5% to about 4.5%, from about 3.5% to about 4%, from about 4% to about 15%, from about 4% to about 12%, from about 4% to about 10%, from about 4% to about 9%, from about 4% to about 8%, from about 4% to about 7%, from about 4% to about 6%, from about 4% to about 5.5%, from about 4% to about 5%, from about 4% to about 4.5%, from about 4.5% to about 15%, from about 4.5% to about 12%, from about 4.5% to about 10%, from about 4.5% to about 9%, from about 4.5% to about 8%, from about 4.5% to about 7%, from about 4.5% to about 6%, from about 4.5% to about 5.5%,or about 4.5% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In preferred embodiments, the total amount of amino acids ranges from about 2.5% to about 7.5%, from about 3% to about 7%, from about 3.5% to about 6.5%, from about 3.75% to about 6.25%, from about 4% to about 6%, from about 4.25% to about 5.75%, from about 4.5% to about 5.5%, from about 4.75% to about 5.25%, or from about 4.8% to about 5.2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the total amount of amino acids may be about 4.5%, about 4.6%, about 4.7%, about 4.8%, about 4.9%, about 5.0%, about 5.1%, about 5.2%, about 5.3%, about 5.4%, or about 5.5% by weight based on the total weight of the composition, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the foregoing values ​​as upper and lower limits. In certain preferred embodiments,the compositions comprise a total amount of basic amino acids in any of the preceding ranges and amounts.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the compositions comprise arginine and / or a salt thereof. In another preferred embodiment, where more than one amino acid is present, arginine is present in the composition in an amount greater than the combined amounts of the other amino acid(s) present, for example, arginine comprises more than about 50%, such as more than about 60%, more than about 70%, more than about 80%, more than about 90%, more than about 95%, more than about 98%, or more than about 99% of all amino acids present in the composition. In another preferred embodiment, arginine is the only basic amino acid in the composition.

[0042] In various preferred embodiments, the composition comprises arginine in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 10%, for example from about 2.5% to about 7.5%, preferably from about 3% to about 7%, more preferably from about 3.5% to about 6.5%, more preferably from about 3.75% to about 6.25%, more preferably from about 4% to about 6%, more preferably from about 4.25% to about 5.75%, more preferably still from about 4.5% to about 5.5%, even more preferably from about 4.75% to about 5.25%, and most preferably from about 4.8% to about 5.2%, or may be present in an amount of about 4.5%, about 4.6%, about 4.7%, about 4.8%, about 4.9%, about 5.0%, about 5.1%, about 5.2%, about 5.3%, about 5.4%, or about 5.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the foregoing values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise serine and / or a salt thereof. If present, the amount of serine may range from about 0.01% to about 2%, such as from about 0.01% to about 1.5%, from about 0.01% to about 1%, from about 0.01% to about 0.5%, from about 0.01% to about 0.4%, from about 0.01% to about 0.3%, from about 0.01% to about 0.2%, from about 0.01% to about 0.1%, from about 0.05% to about 2%, from about 0.05% to about 1.5%, from about 0.05% to about 1%, from about 0.05% to about 0.5%, from about 0.05% to about 0.4%, from about 0.05% to about 0.3%, from about 0.05% to about 0.2%, from about 0.05% to about 0.1%, from about 0.1% to about 2%, from about 0.1% to about 1.5%, from about 0.1% to about 1% or from about 0.1% to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.For example, in certain preferred embodiments, the compositions may comprise serine in an amount ranging from about 0.05% to about 1.5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 1%, more preferably from about 0.25% to about 0.75%, and most preferably from about 0.4% to about 0.6%, such as about 0.1%, about 0.25%, about 0.5%, about 0.75%, or about 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the foregoing values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0044] In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to select at least one basic amino acid and at least one additional amino acid selected from acidic and / or neutral amino acids. For example, in preferred embodiments, it may be advantageous to include at least one basic amino acid and serine in compositions that may be used according to the disclosure, and to select total amounts of basic amino acids and serine such that the composition has a weight ratio of the total amount of basic amino acids to the total amount of serine that is greater than about 2, such as greater than about 3, greater than about 4, greater than about 5, or greater than about 6. For example, the composition may have a weight ratio of total basic amino acids to total serine of from about 2 to about 15, such as from about 4 to about 14, from about 6 to about 13, from about 8 to about 12, or from about 9 to about 11. In other examples, the weight ratio of total basic amino acids to serine may be about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, or about 12. In certain preferred embodiments, the composition comprises serine and has a weight ratio of total basic amino acids to serine of from about 2 to about 15, preferably from about 8 to about 12, more preferably from about 9 to about 11, or is about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, or about 12, including all ranges and subranges using any of the preceding values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0045] In still other preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise serine and arginine, and have a weight ratio of arginine to serine ranging from about 2 to about 15, preferably from about 8 to about 12, more preferably from about 9 to about 11, or is about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, or about 12, including all ranges and subranges using any of the foregoing values ​​as upper and lower limits. Osmolytes

[0046] Osmolytes are molecules, typically of lower molecular weight, used by cells to maintain cell volume, regulate osmotic pressure, and maintain cellular homeostasis, for example, in response to environmental stressors. Organic osmolytes include amino carboxylic acids, amino sulfonic acids, their salts, and their derivatives, carbohydrates such as sugars and sugar alcohols (polyols), polyamines, betaines, methylsulfonium compounds (e.g., dimethyl sulfonopropionate), and urea. For the purposes of this disclosure, "osmolytes" include amino carboxylic acid derivatives, amino sulfonic acid derivatives, and salts of the derivatives (collectively referred to herein as "amino acid derivatives"), but do not include the amino carboxylic acids, amino sulfonic acids, or their salts that are described above, and do not include polyols.

[0047] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise one or more osmolytes, preferably one or more organic osmolytes. In some embodiments, the compositions comprise more than one osmolyte. While not wishing to theorize, it is believed that the use of osmolytes according to the disclosure allows treated hair to maintain a moisture balance, thereby reducing potential damage to the hair, or to restore a moisture balance to already damaged hair, thereby allowing the treated hair to regain reduced strength and / or elasticity associated with healthy hair. This is thought to enable or strengthen the reconstruction of bonds within the hair fiber.

[0048] In preferred embodiments, the compositions which can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise one or more osmolytes selected from carbohydrate sugars, polyamines, amino acid derivatives such as betaines, and more preferably are selected from compounds of formula (II) or their salts:

[0049] (Rl)(R2)(R3)m-A+-CR4R5-(X)nY (II)

[0050] in which:

[0051] - RI, R2 and R3 are independently selected from C1-C4 alkyl groups, preferably C1-C2 alkyl groups, more preferably methyl;

[0052] - A is N or S;

[0053] - m and n are independently 0 or 1;

[0054] - X is a divalent alkyl group (= an alkylene group), linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH) or amino (-NH2); and

[0055] - Y is -COO- or -OSO3-;

[0056] provided that:

[0057] • when A is S, then m = 0 and R4 and R5 are chosen independently from a hydrogen atom or a saturated, unsaturated, linear, branched and / or cyclic (C1-C10) hydrocarbon chain (including aromatic and polycyclic chains), preferably (C1-C6), more preferably (C1-C4); optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups selected from -S-, -N=, -NH- or -C(NH)- and / or optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH or -CONH2;

[0058] • when A is N and m = 0, R4 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl (in C1-C8) saturated, linear or branched, preferably a (C1-C4) alkyl group; and R5 forms, with the nitrogen atom, a saturated heterocycle comprising from 5 to 8 ring members, preferably from 5 to 6 ring members, knowing that this cycle can be substituted with one or more groups chosen from hydroxyl or (C1-C4) alkyl; and

[0059] • when A is N and m = 1, then R4 and R5 are chosen independently from a hydrogen atom or a saturated, unsaturated, linear, branched and / or cyclic (C1-C10) hydrocarbon chain (including aromatic and polycyclic chains), preferably (C1-C6), more preferably (C1-C4); optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups chosen from -S-, -N=, - NH- or -C(NH)- and / or optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH or -CONH2.

[0060] Useful and non-limiting polyamine compounds may comprise primary and / or secondary and / or tertiary and / or quaternary amine functional groups. For example, polyamines that may be selected include diamines, triamines, tetramines, pentamines, and polyamines or polymeric polyamines, such as, for example, hexamethylenediamine, diethylenetetramine, diethylenetriamine, polyethyleneimine (PEI), polyvinylamine, polyetheramine, polylysine, ethylenediamine, 1,3-diaminopropane, cadaverine, spermidine, spermine, putrescine, tetraethylmethylenediamine, triethylenetetramine, or combinations of two or more thereof. In some embodiments, useful polyamines are selected from putrescine, spermidine, and / or spermine.

[0061] Useful and non-limiting examples of betaines include glycine betaine, valine betaine, alanine betaine, proline betaine, hydroxyproline betaine, etc. Betaine salts may also be used and are expressly included in the term "betaine" unless otherwise indicated. In particularly preferred embodiments, the betaines are selected from those corresponding to formula (II). Examples of useful compounds of formula (II) include the compounds shown in Figures 5A and 5B. As shown in [Fig. 5A], in some embodiments, the compounds of formula (II) are in the zwitterionic form, and as shown in [Fig. 5B], in some embodiments, the compounds of formula (II) have a corresponding counterion, X-.The counterion is not limited and may be any suitable counterion, e.g., a chloride ion, a bromide ion, an iodide ion, a sulfate anion, a sulfonate anion, a methyl sulfate anion, a phosphate anion, a nitrate anion, etc. Thus, as used herein, a "compound of formula (II)" expressly includes both the ionic form of the compound as well as the salt forms, whether or not specified.

[0062] As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, examples of useful compounds of formula (II) include betaine and betaine derivatives (referred to herein as "betaines"), e.g., valine betaine, glutamic acid betaine, glutamine betaine, trimethyl lysine, glycine betaine (trimethyl glycine), histidine betaine, N-methyl histidine betaine, alanine betaine, beta-alanine betaine, choline sulfate, pipecolic acid betaine, proline betaine, hydroxyproline betaine, tyrosine betaine, phenylalanine betaine, tryptophan betaine, leucine betaine, isoleucine betaine, and / or dimethylsulfoniopropionate. In a preferred embodiment, the osmolyte is glycine betaine (trimethylglycine), alone or in combination with one or more additional osmolytes, for example one or more additional compounds of formula (II).

[0063] In certain preferred embodiments, the compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise at least one compound of formula (II). In additional preferred embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure comprise one or more compounds of formula (II), i.e., a zwitterionic amino acid derivative bearing a quaternary ammonium group and comprising in total from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, such as from 2 to 10 carbon atoms, or from 3 to 8 carbon atoms.

[0064] In certain preferred embodiments, the compositions that may be used comprise at least one compound of formula (II) wherein R1 = R2 = methyl; A is N; and / or Y is COO-. In certain other preferred embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure comprise at least one compound of formula (II) wherein R3 is methyl. In other preferred embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure comprise at least one compound of formula (II) wherein X is a divalent, linear or branched, preferably saturated alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, optionally substituted by a group selected from hydroxyl or amino. In still other preferred embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure comprise at least one compound of formula (II) wherein X is a divalent, linear or branched, preferably saturated alkyl group,having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably from 1 to 2 carbon atoms (unsubstituted), such as methylene or ethylene. In other preferred embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure comprise at least one compound of formula (II) in which R4 and R5, which may be the same or different, are selected from a hydrogen atom, a saturated, linear or branched (C1-C10) alkyl group, preferably (C1-C6) alkyl, more preferably (C1-C4) alkyl; a phenyl group; a benzyl group; an alkyl group substituted by a cyclic group (saturated or unsaturated, mono or bicyclic); a cyclic group (saturated or unsaturated, mono or bicyclic) substituted by an alkyl group; all these groups being optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups selected from -S-, -N=, -NH-, or -C(NH)- and / or optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH),amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH, -CONH2; more preferably where R4 is hydrogen and / or where R5 is a hydrogen atom or a saturated, linear or branched (C1-C6) alkyl, more preferably a saturated, linear or branched (C1-C4) alkyl; optionally substituted by a group selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -COOH or -CONH2. In certain preferred embodiments, when A is N and m = 0, R5 forms, together with the atom, nitrogen, a saturated heterocycle comprising from 5 to 8 ring members, preferably 5 to 6 ring members, optionally substituted with a hydroxy group. In other preferred embodiments, RI = R2 = methyl, A is N, Y is COO-, and X (if applicable) is a divalent alkyl group which may be straight or branched, saturated or unsaturated, having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably from 1 to 2 carbon atoms.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises at least one compound of formula (II) in which RI = R2 = R3 = methyl; A is N; Y is COO-; X is a divalent, linear or branched, preferably saturated alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, optionally substituted by a group selected from hydroxyl or amino, more preferably 1 to 2 carbon atoms (unsubstituted), such as methylene or ethylene; R4 is hydrogen; and R5 forms, together with the nitrogen atom, a saturated heterocycle comprising from 5 to 8 ring members, preferably 5 to 6 ring members, optionally substituted by a hydroxy group.

[0066] In preferred embodiments, the osmolyte in the compositions may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of one or more of the compounds shown in Figures 5A and 5B. In more preferred embodiments, the compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise trimethylglycine (interchangeably referred to as glycine betaine), optionally in combination with at least one additional osmolyte, and in particularly preferred embodiments, the osmolyte in the composition comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of glycine betaine optionally with at least one additional compound of formula (II).

[0067] Useful and non-limiting examples of carbohydrate sugars that may be used include C3-C6 monosaccharides, for example, pentoses and / or derivatives thereof, or hexoses and / or derivatives thereof. For example, the sugars may optionally be selected from xylose, arabinose, ribose, 2-deoxy-ribose, ribulose, deoxy-ribulose, arabinose, xylulose, allose, altrose, glucose (including dextrose), glucosamine, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, sorbose, psicose, fructose, tagatose, or combinations of two or more thereof. In at least some embodiments, the sugars are selected from disaccharides, e.g., sucrose (also saccharose), maltose, lactose, cellobiose, trehalose, dextran, or from polysaccharides, e.g., maltotriose, starch, dextrins, cellulose, glycogen, or combinations of two or more thereof.In some embodiments, the sugars are preferably selected from trehalose, glucose, sucrose, fructose, fructans or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0068] In various embodiments, the total amount of osmolytes present in the composition may range from about 0.01% to about 15%, such as, for example, from about 0.1% to about 10%, from about 0.1% to about 9%, from about 0.1% to about 8%, from about 0.1% to about 7%, from about 0.1% to about 6%, from about 0.1% to about 5%, from about 0.1% to about 4%, from about 0.1% to about 3%, from about 0.1% to about 2%, from about 0.1% to about 1%, from about 0.5% to about 10%, from about 0.5% to about 9%, from about 0.5% to about 8%, from about 0.5% to about 7%, from about 0.5% to about 6%, from about 0.5% to about 5%, from about 0.5% to about 4%, from about 0.5% to about 3%, from about 0.5% to about 2%, from about 0.5% to about 1%, from about 1% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 9%, from about 1% to about 8%, from about 1% to about 7%, from about 1% to about 6%, from about 1% to about 5%, from about 1% to about 4%,from about 1% to about 3%, from about 1% to about 2%, from about 1.5% to about 10%, from about 1.5% to about 9%, from about 1.5% to about 8%, from about 1.5% to about 7%, from about 1.5% to about 6%, from about 1.5% to about 5%, from about 1.5% to about 4%, from about 1.5% to about 3%, from about 1.5% to about 2%, from about 2% to about 10%, from about 2% to about 9%, from about 2% to about 8%, from about 2% to about 7%, from about 2% to about 6%, from about 2% to about 5%, from about 2% to about 4%, from about 2% to about 3%, from about 2.25% to about 10 %, from about 2.25% to about 9%, from about 2.25% to about 8%, from about 2.25% to about 7%, from about 2.25% to about 6%, from about 2.25% to about 5%, from about 2.25% to about 4%, from about 2.25% to about 3%, from about 2.5% to about 10%, from about 2.5% to about 9%, from about 2.5% to about 8%, from about 2.5% to about 7%, from about 2.5% to about 6%, from about 2,5% to about 5%, from about 2.5% to about 4%, from about 2.5% to about 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the total amount of osmolytes present in the composition may be from about 2.0%, from about 2.1%, from about 2.2%, from about 2.3%, from about 2.4%, from about 2.5%, from about 2.6%, from about 2.7%, from about 2.8%, from about 2.9% or from about 3.0% by weight based on the total weight of the composition, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the preceding values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0069] In preferred embodiments, the compositions that may be used comprise at least one betaine, and the total amount of betaines ranges from about 0.5% to about 5%, for example from about 1% to about 5%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 4%, more preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, more preferably from about 2% to about 3% or from about 2% to about 2.5%, more preferably still from about 2.25% to about 2.75%, and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, more preferably from about 2.25% to about 2.75%, and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, more preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, or ... and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, or from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, or from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, or from preferably from about 2.3% to about 2.6%, or may be about 2.0%, about 2.1%, about 2.2%, about 2.3%, about 2.4%, about 2.5%, about 2.6%, about 2.7%, about 2.8%, about 2.9%, or about 3.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the preceding values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0070] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition comprises glycine betaine in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 5%, for example from about 1% to about 5%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 4%, more preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5%, more preferably from about 2% to about 3% or from about 2% to about 2.5%, more preferably from about 2.25% to about 2.75%, and most preferably from about 2.3% to about 2.6%, or the glycine betaine may be present in an amount of about 2.0%, about 2.1%, about 2.2%, about 2.3%, about 2.4%, about 2.5%, about 2.6%, about 2.7%, about 2.8%, about 2.9%, or about 3.0%. % by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the preceding values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0071] In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to select the amounts of amino acids and osmolytes to provide a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acid(s) and their salts in the composition to the total amount of osmolytes in the composition that is greater than about 0.1, for example, greater than about 0.2, greater than about 0.5, greater than about 1, greater than about 1.25, greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.75, or greater than about 2. In various embodiments, the weight ratio of the total amount of amino acid(s) and their salts to the total amount of osmolytes may range from about 0.1 to about 10, for example, from about 0.2 to about 8, from about 0.5 to about 6, from about 1 to about 5, from about 1.2 to about 4, or from about 1.5 to about 3.5.In other embodiments, the weight ratio of the total amount of amino acid(s) and their salts to the total amount of osmolytes may range from greater than 1 to about 4, such as from about 1.25 to about 3.5, from about 1.5 to about 3, from about 1.75 to about 2.5, from about 1.75 to about 2.25, or from about 1.8 to about 2.2. For example, the weight ratio of the total amount of amino acid(s) in the composition to the total amount of osmolytes in the composition may be about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4, or about 2.5, including all ranges and subranges using any of the above upper and lower limits.

[0072] In some embodiments, the compositions comprise a total amount of amino acids selected from compounds of formula (I), and a total amount of osmolytes selected from compounds of formula (II) such that a weight ratio of compounds of formula (I):compounds of formula (II) is greater than about 0.5, greater than about 0.75, or greater than about 1, for example, greater than about 1.25, greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.75, or greater than about 2. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of compounds of formula (I):compounds of formula (II) in the composition may range from about 0.5 to about 6, for example, from about 1 to about 4, from about 1.25 to about 3.5, from about 1.5 to about 3, from about 1.75 to about 2.5, from about 1.75 to about 2.25, or from about 1.8 to about 2.2.For example, the weight ratio of compounds of formula (I):compounds of formula (II) in the composition may be about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4 or about 2.5, including all ranges and sub-ranges using any of the foregoing values ​​as upper and lower limits.

[0073] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition comprises arginine and glycine betaine and has a weight ratio of arginine to glycine betaine greater than 1, for example greater than about 1.25, greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.75, or greater than about 2, for example ranging from greater than 1 to about 4, preferably from about 1.5 to about 3, more preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.5, and most preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.25.In another particularly preferred embodiment, the composition comprises arginine, serine and glycine betaine and has a weight ratio of the total amount of [arginine + serine] to glycine betaine greater than 1, for example greater than about 1.25, greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.75, or greater than about 2, for example from more than 1 to about 4, preferably from about 1.5 to about 3, more preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.5, and most preferably from about 1.75 to about 2.25. Carboxylic acids.

[0074] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure include at least one carboxylic acid. Optionally, the compositions may comprise at least two carboxylic acids, at least three carboxylic acids, etc. According to various embodiments of the disclosure, useful carboxylic acids include organic compounds that include, for example, one (mono-), two (di-), three (tri-), or more acidic functional groups and at least one carbon atom.

[0075] The carboxylic acids that may be used may optionally have a molecular weight of less than about 500 g / mol, less than about 400 g / mol, less than about 300 g / mol, or less than about 200 g / mol. In preferred embodiments, the carboxylic acids have a molecular weight of less than about 300 g / mol, or less than about 200 g / mol.

[0076] Salts of carboxylic acids may also be used and are expressly included in the term "carboxylic acid" unless otherwise indicated. Salts include salts with organic or inorganic bases, for example, alkali metal salts, such as lithium, sodium or potassium salts; alkaline earth metal salts, such as magnesium or calcium salts; and zinc salts. Alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts are preferred in certain embodiments, and in particular sodium salts.

[0077] In preferred embodiments, the carboxylic acids comprise from 2 to 20 carbon atoms, such as from 2 to 18 carbon atoms, from 3 to 16 carbon atoms, or from 3 to 14 carbon atoms. In some preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise one or more hydroxylated (poly)carboxylic acids comprising from 2 to 10 carbon atoms, such as from 2 to 8 carbon atoms, or from 3 to 6 carbon atoms, and may be saturated or unsaturated, and linear or branched, and / or a salt thereof. These (poly)acids are different from the amino acid type compounds described above. Useful (poly)acids comprise at least one -COOH group (in acid or salified form); they can thus comprise a single -COOH group (monoacid) or can comprise more than one, for example two -COOH groups (in acid or salified form), or two or three -COOH groups (in acid or salified form) (polyacids).Useful (poly)acids also comprise at least one -OH group, such as one to three or two to three -OH groups, for example, one, two, or three -OH groups. Preferably, the (poly)acids comprise a total of 2 to 8 or 3 to 6 carbon atoms, and two to three -OH groups, and their hydrocarbon chain is saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, and preferably saturated and linear. In certain preferred embodiments, the hydroxylated (poly)carboxylic acids and / or their salts comprise a total of 3 to 6 carbon atoms, one to three -OH groups, and two to three -COOH groups (in acid or salified form). Unless otherwise indicated, as used herein, the term "(poly)acid" includes both monobasic and polybasic acids.

[0078] Non-limiting examples of monocarboxylic acids that may be selected include formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, enanthic acid, caprylic acid, lactic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of lactic acid and / or a salt thereof.

[0079] Non-limiting examples of dicarboxylic acids that may be selected include oxalic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, glutaric acid, citraconic acid, succinic acid, adipic acid, tartaric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof. In some embodiments, the compositions may include oxalic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, maleic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0080] Non-limiting examples of tricarboxylic acids include citric acid, isocitric acid, aconitic acid, propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of citric acid and / or a salt thereof.

[0081] In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid(s) may be selected from oxalic acid, malonic acid, glutaric acid, succinic acid, adipic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, maleic acid, lactic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof. In particularly preferred embodiments, the carboxylic acids are selected from α-hydroxy acids and their salts, and in particular from lactic acid, glycolic acid, tartaric acid or citric acid, and their salts, in particular alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts.In some embodiments, it may be particularly advantageous to select citric acid, lactic acid and / or tartaric acid and / or their salts, in particular alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts, such as sodium citrate and / or sodium tartrate; and preferably citric acid and / or its salts, in particular alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts, such as sodium citrate.

[0082] The total amount of carboxylic acid(s) may range from about 0.5% to about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, in some embodiments, the total amount of carboxylic acids may range from about 1% to about 15%, such as about 1% to about 12%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 9%, about 1% to about 8%, about 1% to about 7%, about 1% to about 6%, about 1% to about 5.5%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to about 4.5%, about 1% to about 4%, about 1% to about 3.5%, about 1% to about 3%, about 1% to about 2.5%, about 1% to about 2%, about 1% to about 1.5%, about 1.5% to about 15%, about 1.5% to about 12%, about 1.5% to about 10%, about 1.5% to about 9%, about 1.5% to about 8%, about 1.5% to about 7%, about 1.5% to about 6%, about 1.5% to about 5.5%, about 1.5% to about 5%, about 1.5% to about 4.5%, about 1.5% to about 4%, about 1.5% to about 3.5%, about 1.5% to about 3%, about 1.5% to about 2.5%, about 1.5% to about 2%, about 2% to about 15%, about 2% to about 12%, about 2% to about 10%, about 2% to about 9%, about 2% to about 8%, about 2% to about 7%, about 2% to about 6%, about 2% to about 5.5%, about 2% to about 5%, about 2% to about 4.5%, about 2% to about 4%, about 2% to about 3.5%, about 2% about 3%, about 2% to about 2.5%, about 2.5% to about 15%, about 2.5% to about 12%, about 2.5% to about 10%, about 2.5% to about 9%, about 2.5% to about 8%, about 2.5% to about 7%, about 2.5% to about 6%, about 2.5% to about 5.5%, about 2.5% to about 5%, about 2.5% to about 4.5%,about 2.5% to about 4%, about 2.5% to about 3.5%, about 2.5% to about 3%, about 3% to about 15%, about 3% to about 12%, about 3% to about 10%, about 3% to about 9%, about 3% to about 8%, about 3% to about 7%, about 3% to about 6%, about 3% to about 5.5%, about 3% to about 5%, about 3% to about 4.5%, about 3% to about 4%, about 3% to about 3.5%, about 3.5% to about 15%, about 3.5% to about 12%, about 3.5% to about 10%, about 3.5% to about 9%, about 3.5% to about 8%, about 3.5% to about 7%, about 3.5% to about 6%, about 3.5% to about 5.5%, about 3.5% to about 5%, about 3.5% to about 4.5%, about 3.5% to about 4%, about 4% to about 15%, about 4% to about 12%, about 4% to about 10%, about 4% to about 9%, about 4% to about 8%, about 4% to about 7%, about 4% to about 6%, about 4% to about 5.5%, about 4% to about 5%,about 4% to about 4.5%, about 4.5% to about 15%, about 4.5% to about 12%, about 4.5% to about 10%, about 4.5% to about 9%, about 4.5% to about 8%, about 4.5% to about 7%, about 4.5% to about 6%, about 4.5% to about 5.5%, about 4.5% to about 5%, about 5% to about 15%, about 5% to about 12%, about 5% to about 10%, about 5% to about 9%, about 5% to about 8%, about 5% to about 7%, about 5% to about 6.5%, about 5% to about 6%, about 5% to about 5.5%, about 5.5% to about 15%, about 5.5% to about 12%, about 5.5% to about 10%, about 5.5% to about 9%, about 5.5% to about 8%, about 5.5% to about 7%, about 5.5% to about 6.5%, about 5.5% to about 6%, about 6% to about 15%, about 6% to about 12%, about 6% to about 10%, about 6% to about 9%, about 6% to about 8%, about 6% to about 7%, or about 6% to about 6.5% by weight,relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0083] In preferred embodiments, the total amount of carboxylic acid(s) ranges from about 0.5% to about 20%, such as from about 2% to about 15%, from about 4% to about 10%, from about 4.5% to about 8%, from about 5% to about 7%, from about 5.5% to about 6.5%, from about 5.7% to about 6.3%, or from about 5.8% to about 6.2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.For example, in certain preferred embodiments, the composition comprises at least one carboxylic acid selected from citric acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, their salts, or combinations thereof, and has a total amount of carboxylic acids and salts ranging from about 0.5% to about 20%, such as from about 2% to about 15%, from about 4% to about 10%, preferably from about 4.5% to about 8%, more preferably from about 5% to about 7%, more preferably from about 5.5% to about 6.5%, more preferably from about 5.7% to about 6.3%, and most preferably from about 5.8% to about 6.2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0084] It may be advantageous, in some embodiments, to select amounts of amino acids and carboxylic acids such that the composition has a weight ratio of total amino acids to total carboxylic acids greater than about 0.75. For example, in various embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of total amino acids to total carboxylic acids greater than about 0.8, such as greater than about 0.9, greater than about 1, greater than about 1.1, greater than about 1.2, greater than about 1.3, greater than about 1.4, or greater than about 1.5. In some embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of total amino acids to total carboxylic acids ranging from about 0.75 to about 2, such as about 0.8 to about 1.5, about 0.8 to about 1.35, or about 0.8 to about 1.2.In certain preferred embodiments, the composition comprises arginine and at least one carboxylic acid selected from citric acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, their salts, or combinations thereof, and has a weight ratio of the total amount of amino acids and their salts to the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts ranging from about 0.75 to about 2, preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.5, more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.35, and most preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.2. Solvents

[0085] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise at least one solvent. In various embodiments, the solvent may be selected from water, non-aqueous solvents, or a combination thereof.

[0086] In preferred embodiments, the solvent includes water. In some embodiments, the composition comprises from about 50% to about 98% of water, by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition comprises water in an amount ranging from about 50% to about 95% water by weight, such as from about 50% to about 90%, from about 55% to about 90%, from about 60% to about 90%, or from about 60% to about 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0087] In other preferred embodiments, the solvent includes at least one non-aqueous solvent. Non-limiting examples of non-aqueous solvents that may be used include, for example, glycerin, C1-4 alcohols, organic solvents, fatty alcohols, fatty ethers, fatty esters, polyols, glycols, vegetable oils, mineral oils, liposomes, lamellar lipid materials, or combinations thereof.The non-aqueous solvent may be selected from organic solvents, for example monoalcohols and polyols such as ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol and phenylethyl alcohol, or glycols or glycol ethers such as, for example, monomethyl, monoethyl and monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or their ethers, such as, for example, monomethyl ether of propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, as well as alkyl ethers of diethylene glycol, for example monoethyl ether or monobutyl ether of diethylene glycol.

[0088] Preferably, the compositions comprise at least one polyol. The polyols may be selected from diols and triols. In other embodiments, the polyols may be selected from C2-C16 polyols, such as C2-C12 polyols, C2-C8 polyols or C3-C8 polyols. In various embodiments, the polyols that may be used are linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, and substituted or unsubstituted polyols. Thus, in various embodiments, one or more polyols may be selected from C2-C16, C2-C12, C2-C8 or C3-C8 diols, or C2-C16, C2-C12, C2-C8 or C3-C8 triols, any of which may be linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, and substituted or unsubstituted.

[0089] By way of non-limiting example, polyols such as isopropyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol and phenylethyl alcohol, or glycols or glycol ethers such as, for example, monomethyl, monoethyl and monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or their ethers such as, for example, monomethyl ether of propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, as well as alkyl ethers of diethylene glycol, for example monoethyl ether or monobutyl ether of diethylene glycol may be chosen. In some embodiments, the polyols are selected from, for example, propanediol, butanediol, pentanediol, hexanediol, heptanediol, octanediol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 1,2,4-butanetriol, trimethylolpropane, 2-butene-1,4-diol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, 2-methyl-2,4- pentanediol, caprylyl glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 2-ethyl-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, 3,3-dimethyl-1,2-butanediol, 2,2-diethyl-1,3-propanediol, 2-methyl-2-propyl-1,3-propanediol, 2,4-dimethyl-2,4-pentanediol, 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-hexanediol, 5-hexene-1,2-diol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, 4-methylmethyl-1,2-pentanediol, or combinations of two or more of these. In certain preferred embodiments, the polyols may be selected from glycols such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, pentylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, pentaethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, glycerin, diglycerin, or combinations of two or more thereof.In a particularly preferred embodiment, the solvent comprises at least one polyol selected from propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, propanediol, propylene carbonate, PPG-3 methyl ether, dimethyl isosorbide, hexylene glycol, ethanol, glycerin, or combinations of two or more thereof. In at least some preferred embodiments, the solvent comprises water and at least one polyol, wherein the polyol(s) comprise(s), consist essentially of, or consist of one or more C2-C16 diols and / or C2-C16 triols, for example C2-C8 diols and / or C2-C8 triols.In other preferred embodiments, the solvent comprises water and at least one polyol, wherein the polyol(s) comprises(comprise), consists essentially of, or consists of one or more glycols, for example propylene glycol and / or dipropylene glycol, and in particularly preferred embodiments, the solvent comprises water and at least one polyol, wherein the polyol(s) comprises(comprise), consists essentially of, or consists of dipropylene glycol.

[0090] If present, the total amount of non-aqueous solvents in the composition may range from about 0.1% to about 20%, such as from about 1% to about 20%, from about 1.5% to about 15%, or from about 2% to about 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain preferred embodiments, the solvent comprises water and at least one non-aqueous solvent, preferably selected from polyols.In some embodiments, the composition comprises water and at least one non-aqueous solvent, wherein the total amount of non-aqueous solvents ranges from about 0.5% to about 18%, preferably from about 1% to about 15%, more preferably from about 1.5% to about 12%, more preferably from about 2% to about 11%, and most preferably from about 3% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally further wherein the non-aqueous solvent comprises at least one solvent selected from propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, propanediol, . propylene carbonate, PPG-3 methyl ether, dimethyl isosorbide, hexylene glycol, ethanol, or mixtures of two or more thereof, preferably selected from propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, or a mixture of two or more thereof. Surfactants

[0091] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure may optionally comprise at least one surfactant. For example, the compositions may comprise one or more anionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants, and in some embodiments, the compositions may comprise mixtures of surfactants having the same or different ionicities.

[0092] Although the compositions may optionally include one or more anionic surfactants and / or nonionic surfactants, in at least some embodiments, the compositions are free or substantially free of anionic surfactants and / or nonionic surfactants. For example, in some embodiments, the compositions comprise less than about 3%, such as less than about 2.5%, less than about 2%, less than about 1.75%, less than about 1.5%, less than about 1.25%, less than about 1%, less than about 0.75%, less than about 0.5%, less than about 0.25%, less than about 0.2%, less than about 0.1%, less than about 0.05%, less than about 0.01%, or less than about 0.001% of anionic surfactants and / or nonionic surfactants.

[0093] In at least some embodiments, the compositions comprise at least one cationic surfactant. The term "cationic surfactant" refers to a surfactant that is positively charged when contained in the composition(s) according to the disclosure. This surfactant may carry one or more positive permanent charges or may contain one or more cationizable functionalities in the composition according to the disclosure.Other non-limiting examples of useful cationic surfactants include brassicamidopropyldimethylamine, behentrimonium chloride, cetrimonium chloride, behenalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, lauralkonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide, cetrimonium hydrofluoride, chlorallylmethenamine chloride (Quaternium-15), distearyldimonium chloride (Quaternium-5), dodecyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride (Quatemium-14), Quatemium-22, Quaternium-26, Quatemium-18 hectorite, dimethylaminoethyl chloride hydrochloride, cysteine ​​hydrochloride, diethanolammonium phosphate POE (10) oleyl ether, diethanolammonium POE(3)oleyl ether, tallow alkonium chloride, dimethyldioctadecylammoniumbentonite, . stearalkonium chloride, domiphene bromide, denatonium benzoate, myristalkonium chloride, laurtrimonium chloride, ethylenediamine dihydrochloride, guanidine hydrochloride, pyridoxine HCl, iofetamine hydrochloride, meglumine hydrochloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, myrtrimonium bromide, oleyltrimonium chloride, polyquatemium-1, procaine hydrochloride, cocobetaine, stearalkonium bentonite, stearalkonium hectonite, stearyltrihydroxyethylpropylenediamine dihydrofluoride, sulfrimonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, stearamidopropyldimethylamine, or combinations thereof. In preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise at least one cationic surfactant selected from brassicamidopropyldimethylamine, behentrimonium chloride, cetrimonium chloride, stearamidopropyldimethylamine, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0094] If present, the total amount of cationic surfactants may be up to about 10%, such as up to about 9%, up to about 8%, up to about 7%, up to about 6%, up to about 5%, up to about 4%, up to about 3.5%, up to about 3%, up to about 2.5%, up to about 2%, up to about 1.5%, up to about 1%, or up to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the total amount of cationic surfactants may be from about 0.001% to about 10%, from about 0.01% to about 8%, from about 0.1% to about 6%, or from about 0.5% to about 4% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.In at least some preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise at least one cationic surfactant, and have a total amount of cationic surfactants ranging from about 0.25% to about 8%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 7%, more preferably from about 0.75% to about 6%, and most preferably from about 1% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0095] In at least some embodiments, the compositions comprise at least one amphoteric surfactant. Non-limiting examples of useful amphoteric surfactants include derivatives of secondary and tertiary aliphatic amines where the aliphatic radical may be straight or branched chain and one of the aliphatic substituents contains from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic group such as carboxy, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate or phosphonate. Examples of amphoteric surfactants include sodium cocaminopropionate, sodium cocaminodipropionate, sodium cocoamphoacetate, sodium cocoamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, sodium cocoamphopropionate, sodium masamphopropionate, sodium lauraminopropionate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium lauroamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, sodium lauroamphopropionate, sodium masamphopropionate, sodium lauriminodipropionate, ammonium cocaminopropionate, ammonium cocaminodipropionate, ammonium cocoamphoacetate, ammonium cocoamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, ammonium cocoamphopropionate, ammonium masamphopropionate, ammonium lauraminopropionate, ammonium lauroamphoacetate, ammonium lauroamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, ammonium lauroamphopropionate, ammonium masamphopropionate, ammonium lauriminodipropionate, triethanolamine cocaminopropionate, triethanolamine cocaminodipropionate, triethanolamine cocoamphoacetate, triethanolamine cocoamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, triethanolamine cocoamphopropionate, triethanolamine masamphopropionate, triethanolamine lauraminopropionate, triethanolamine lauroamphoacetate, triethanolamine lauroamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, triethanolamine lauroamphopropionate,triethanolamine maizeamphopropionate, triethanolamine lauriminodipropionate, cocoamphodipropionic acid, disodium caproamphodiacetate, disodium caproamphoadipropionate, disodium capryloamphodiacetate, disodium capryloamphodipriopionate, disodium cocoamphocarboxyethylhydroxypropylsulfonate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, disodium cocoamphodipropionate, disodium dicarboxyethylcocopropylenediamine, disodium laureth-5 carboxyamphodiacetate, disodium lauriminodipropionate, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, disodium lauroamphodipropionate, disodium oleoamphodipropionate, disodium PPG-2-isodecethyl-7 carboxyamphodiacetate, lauraminopropionic acid, lauroamphodipropionic acid, lauryl aminopropylglycine and lauryl diethylenediaminoglycine. ,

[0096] Betaine surfactants may also be used. For example, one can choose cocodimethylcarboxymethylbetaine, lauryldimethylcarboxymethylbetaine, lauryldimethylalphacarboxyethylbetaine, cetyldimethylcarboxymethylbetaine, cetyldimethylbetaine, laurylbis-(2-hydroxyethyl)carboxymethylbetaine, stearylbis-(2-hydroxypropyl)carboxymethylbetaine, oleyldimethylgamma-carboxypropylbetaine, laurylbis-(2-hydroxypropyl)alpha-carboxyethylbetaine, cocodimethylsulfopropylbetaine, stearyldimethylsulfopropylbetaine, lauryldimethylsulfoethylbetaine, laurylbis-(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfopropylbetaine, oleylbetaine, or cocamidopropylbetaine.

[0097] If present, the total amount of amphoteric surfactants may be up to about 10%, such as up to about 9%, up to about 8%, up to about 7%, up to about 6%, up to about 5%, up to about 4%, up to about 3.5%, up to about 3%, up to about 2.5%, up to about 2%, up to about 1.5%, up to about 1%, or up to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the total amount of amphoteric surfactants may range from about 0.001% to about 6%, from about 0.01% to about 4%, from about 0.1% to about 3%, or from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In at least some embodiments, the compositions are free or substantially free of amphoteric surfactants.

[0098] In certain preferred embodiments, the surfactant does not include behentrimonium chloride. In certain preferred embodiments, the surfactant comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of one or more alkylamidoamines, for example, brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine. Fatty compounds

[0099] Optionally, compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure may include at least one fatty compound. In some embodiments, the at least one fatty compound may be selected from lower alkanes, fatty alcohols, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, fatty alcohol esters, oils such as mineral, vegetable, animal, silicone and non-silicone oils, silicone and non-silicone waxes, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0100] In some embodiments, the compositions according to the disclosure include at least one fatty compound selected from volatile and non-volatile silicone oils, which may optionally be aminofunctionalized. Non-limiting examples of silicone oils that may be used include dimethicone, amodimethicone, cyclomethicone, polysilicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone and stearoxytrimethylsilane.For example, the composition may comprise at least one silicone selected from amodimethicone, PEG-7 dimethicone, PEG-8 dimethicone, PEG-9 dimethicone, PEG-10 dimethicone, PEG-12 dimethicone, PEG-14 dimethicone, PEG-17 dimethicone, PEG / PPG-3 / 10 dimethicone, PEG / PPG-4 / 12 dimethicone, PEG / PPG-17 / 18 dimethicone, cetyl PEG / PPG-10 / 1 dimethicone, PEG-8 dimethicone benzoate, PEG-7 dimethicone phosphate, PEG-8 dimethicone phosphate, PEG-10 dimethicone phosphate, or a mixture of two or more thereof. In certain preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise a silicone oil component that comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of dimethicone, amodimethicone, or a mixture thereof.

[0101] As other examples, the silicone oil may be chosen from polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS), polydimethylsiloxanes comprising alkyl or alkoxy groups which are pendant and / or at the end of the chain of silicone, which groups each contain from 2 to 24 carbon atoms, or phenyl silicones, such as phenyl trimethicones, phenyl dimethicones, phenyl(trimethylsiloxy)diphenylsiloxanes, diphenyl dimethicones, diphenyl(methyldiphenyl)trisiloxanes or (2-phenylethyl)trimethylsiloxysilicates.

[0102] In some embodiments, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure include at least one fatty compound selected from fatty alcohols. In some embodiments, "fatty alcohol" refers to any alcohol with a carbon chain of C5 or more, such as, for example, C8 or more, C10 or more, or C12 or more, such as from 6 to 30 carbon atoms or from 8 to 30 carbon atoms. Fatty alcohols can be alkoxylated or non-alkoxylated, saturated or unsaturated, and linear or branched.

[0103] For example, the fatty alcohols may be selected from arachidyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, caprylic alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, coconut alcohol, decyl alcohol, hydrogenated tallow alcohol, jojoba alcohol, lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, palm alcohol, palm kernel alcohol, stearyl alcohol, tallow alcohol, tridecyl alcohol, or combinations of two or more thereof. In certain preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise a fatty alcohol component that comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof.

[0104] Non-limiting useful fatty acids may be straight or branched chain acids and / or may be saturated or unsaturated. Non-limiting examples of fatty acids include dibasic, tribasic, and other multiple acids as well as salts of these fatty acids. For example, the fatty acid may optionally include or be selected from lauric acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, arachidonic acid, oleic acid, isostearic acid, sebacic acid, or combinations thereof.

[0105] In some embodiments, fatty acid esters or fatty alcohol esters may be selected. For example, esters of saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched C1-C26 aliphatic mono- or poly-acids and saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched C1-C26 aliphatic mono- or poly-alcohols may be used, the total carbon number of the esters being more particularly greater than or equal to 10. In other embodiments, esters of C4-C22 dicarboxylic or tricarboxylic acids and C1-C22 alcohols and esters of mono-, di- or tri-carboxylic acids and C2-C26 di-, tri-, tetra- or penta-hydroxy alcohols may also be used. By way of non-limiting examples, isostearyl lactate, lauryl lactate, linoleyl lactate, oleyl lactate, (iso)stearyl octanoate, isocetyl octanoate, octyl octanoate, cetyl octanoate, decyl oleate, isocetyl isostearate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl octanoate, isocetyl isostearate, isocetyl laurate, isocetyl stearate, isodecyl octanoate, isodecyl oleate, isononyl isononanoate, isostearyl palmitate, methyl acetyl ricinoleate, myristyl stearate, octyl isononanoate, 2-ethylhexyl isononanoate, octyl palmitate, octyl pelargonate, octyl stearate, octyldodecyl erucate, oleyl erucate, ethyl palmitates and isopropyl, 2-ethylhexyl palmitate, 2-octyldecyl palmitate, alkyl myristates such as isopropyl, butyl, cetyl, 2-octyldodecyl, myristyl or stearyl myristate, hexyl stearate, butyl stearate, isobutyl stearate, dioctyl malate, hexyl laurate, 2-hexyldecyl laurate, diethyl sebacate, diisopropyl sebacate, diisopropyl adipate, di-n-propyl adipate, dioctyl adipate,diisostearyl adipate, dioctyl maleate, glyceryl undecylenate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, pentaerythrityl monoricinoleate, pentaerythrityl tetraisononanoate, pentaerythrityl tetrapelargonate, pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate, pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, tridecyl erucate, triisopropyl citrate, triisostearyl citrate, glyceryl trilactate, glyceryl trioctanoate, trioctyldodecyl citrate, trioleyl citrate, propylene glycol dioctanoate, neopentyl diheptanoate glycol, diethylene glycol diisononanoate and / or polyethylene glycol distearates may be selected. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises at least one fatty acid ester and / or one fatty alcohol ester, for example pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate.

[0106] In some embodiments, compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise at least one wax. Non-limiting examples of waxes that may be used include beeswax, hydrogenated olive alkyl esters, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, ouricury wax, Japan wax, cork or sugarcane fiber wax, rice wax, rice bran wax, montan wax, paraffin wax, lignite wax or microcrystalline wax, ceresin or ozokerite, hydrogenated palm kernel glycerides / palm glycerides, palm butter, sumac wax, aurantium dulcium (orange) bark wax, theobroma grandiflorum butter, helianthus annuus (sunflower) wax, siliconyl candelilla wax, Chinese wax, cetyl palmitate, lanolin, shellac, spermaceti, cetyl esters, hydrogenated castor wax;triglyceride esters such as tribehenin (glyceryl tribehenate); synthetic waxes such as hydrocarbon waxes and polyethylene waxes obtained by polymerization or copolymerization of ethylene, polypropylene waxes, or mixtures of two or more of any of these waxes. In some embodiments; preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise a wax component which comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of cetyl esters.

[0107] In some embodiments, the composition comprises one or more fatty compounds selected from oils of animal, vegetable or mineral origin (e.g., lanolin, squalene, fish oil, perhydrosqualene, mink oil, turtle oil, soybean oil, grape seed oil, sesame oil, corn oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, cottonseed oil, avocado oil, olive oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, peanut oil, sweet almond oil, palm oil, cucumber oil, hazelnut oil, apricot kernel oil, wheat germ oil, calophyllum oil, macadamia oil, coconut oil, cereal germ oil, candlenut oil, thistle oil, candelilla oil, safflower oil, or shea butter), linear or branched hydrocarbons (e.g., polybutene, hydrogenated polyisobutene, polyisoprene, polydecenes such as hydrogenated polydecene, or also linear alkanes,branched and / or cyclic which are optionally volatile, such as, for example, isohexadecane, isododecane, isodecane or isohexadecane), mono- and / or polyesters of fatty acids and / or fatty alcohols (for example, mono- and polyesters of hydroxy acids and fatty alcohols, esters of benzoic acid and fatty alcohols, polyesters of polyols, C5-C9 dipentaerythrityl esters, trimethylolpropane polyesters, polyesters of propylene glycol or polyesters of hydrogenated castor oil), perfluorinated and / or organofluorinated oils, fluorosilicone oils, or mixtures of two or more thereof. Non-limiting examples of fatty acids that may be used include optionally branched and / or unsaturated fatty acids such as myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, isostearic acid, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0108] If present, the total amount of fatty compounds in the composition may range from about 0.1% to about 20%, such as from about 1% to about 20%, from about 2% to about 15%, from about 3% to about 12%, or from about 5% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain preferred embodiments, the compositions comprise at least one fatty compound selected from silicone oils, fatty alcohols, waxes, or combinations thereof, wherein the total amount of fatty compounds in the composition ranges from about 1% to about 20%, preferably from about 2% to about 15%, more preferably from about 3% to about 12%, and most preferably from about 5% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. Thickening agents

[0109] Compositions that can be used in methods according to the disclosure optionally comprise at least one thickening agent. The thickening agents Useful polymers include, but are not limited to, semi-synthetic polymers, such as semi-synthetic cellulose derivatives, synthetic polymers, such as carbomers, poloxamers, and acrylate / beheneth-25 methacrylate copolymers, acrylate copolymers, polyethyleneimines (e.g., PEI-10), naturally occurring polymers, such as acacia, tragacanth, alginates (e.g., sodium alginate), carrageenan, vegetable gums, such as xanthan gum, guar gum, petroleum jelly, waxes, associated particulate colloids, such as bentonite, colloidal silicon dioxide, and microcrystalline cellulose, celluloses such as hydroethylcellulose and hydroxypropylcellulose, and guars such as hydroxypropyl guar.

[0110] In some embodiments, the thickening agent may be selected from associative thickening polymers such as anionic associative polymers, amphoteric associative polymers, cationic associative polymers, or nonionic associative polymers. A non-limiting example of an amphoteric associative polymer is acrylates / beheneth-25 methacrylate copolymer, and non-limiting examples of anionic associative polymers include acrylates copolymer and acrylates-4 crosslinked polymer.

[0111] If present, the total amount of thickening agents may range from about 0.01% to about 8%, such as from about 0.05% to about 5%, from about 0.1% to about 4%, from about 0.2% to about 3%, or from about 0.3% to about 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. Direct dyes

[0112] Optionally, compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure comprise one or more direct dyes. Direct dyes, which are different from oxidation dyes, diffuse superficially onto hair fibers.

[0113] Direct dyes that may be selected include natural and synthetic direct dyes, which may be cationic, anionic, or nonionic. Useful examples of direct dyes include azo direct dyes; (poly)methine dyes such as cyanines, hemicyanines, and styryls; carbonyl dyes; azine dyes; nitro(hetero)aryl dyes; tri(hetero)arylmethane dyes; porphyrin dyes; phthalocyanine dyes, xanthene direct dyes, triarylmethane dyes, natural direct dyes, and combinations of two or more thereof. In some embodiments, the direct dyes are selected from those that include at least one halogenated aromatic ring.

[0114] In some embodiments, the direct dyes are selected from anionic direct dyes. The anionic direct dyes of the invention are also called "acid" direct dyes because of their affinity for alkaline substances. Anionic direct dyes may be selected from acid nitrate direct dyes, acid azo dyes, acid azine dyes, acid triarylmethane dyes, acid indoamine dyes, acid anthraquinone dyes, indigoids, and natural acid dyes, or combinations of two or more of these.

[0115] Les teintures anioniques peuvent inclure Acid Red 1, Acid Red 4, Acid Red 13, Acid Red 14, Acid Red 18, Acid Red 27, Acid Red 28, Acid Red 32, Acid Red 33, Acid Red 35, Acid Red 37, Acid Red 40, Acid Red 41, Acid Red 42, Acid Red 44, Pigment red 57, Acid Red 68, Acid Red 73, Acid Red 135, Acid Red 138, Acid Red 184, Food Red 1, Food Red 13, Acid Orange 6, Acid Orange 7, Acid Orange 10, Acid Orange 19, Acid Orange 20, Acid Orange 24, Yellow 6, Acid Yellow 9, Acid Yellow 36, Acid Yellow 199, Food Yellow 3, Acid Violet 7, Acid Violet 14, Acid Blue 113, Acid Blue 117, Acid Black 1, Acid Brown 4, Acid Brown 20, Acid Black 26, Acid Black 52, Food Black 1, Food Black 2, Food yellow 3 ou sunset yellow, Acid Red 111, Acid Red 134, Acid yellow 38, ou des combinaisons de deux ou plus de celles-ci.A titre d'exemples supplémentaires, les teintures anioniques azoïques telles que Acid Red 195, Acid Yellow 23, Acid Yellow 27, Acid Yellow 76, et Acid Yellow 17 ; les teintures d'anthraquinone telles que Acid Blue 25, Acid Blue 43, Acid Blue 62, Acid Blue 78, Acid Blue 129, Acid Blue 138, Acid Blue 140, Acid Blue 251, Acid Green 25, Acid Green 41, Acid Violet 42, Acid Violet 43, Mordant Red 3, Purple EXT No. 2, et Acid Black 48 ; les teintures d'anthraquinone telles que Acid Blue 25, Acid Blue 43, Acid Blue 62, Acid Blue 78, Acid Blue 129, Acid Blue 138, Acid Blue 140, Acid Blue 251, Acid Green 25, Acid Green 41, Acid Violet 42, Acid Violet 43, Mordant Red 3, Purple EXT No.2, and Acid Black 48; triarylmethane dyes such as Acid Blue 1, Acid Blue 3, Acid Blue 7, Acid Blue 9, Acid Violet 49, Acid green 3, Acid green 5, and Acid Green 50; xanthene-derived dyes such as Acid Yellow 73, Acid Red 51, Acid Red 52, Acid Red 87, Acid Red 92, Acid Red 95, and Acid Violet 9; indole-derived dyes such as Acid Blue 74; and quinoline-derived dyes such as Acid Yellow 2, Acid Yellow 3, and Acid Yellow 5, or combinations of two or more thereof, may be selected.

[0116] Non-limiting examples of cationic direct dyes, also referred to as "basic" direct dyes, include Basic Red 51, Basic Yellow 87, Basic Orange 31, Basic Blue 6, Basic Blue 7, Basic Blue 9, Basic Blue 26, Basic Blue 41, Basic Blue 99, Basic Violet 1, Basic Violet 2, Basic Violet 3, Basic Violet 10, Basic Violet 14, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0117] Among the natural direct dyes, we can cite, without limitation, lawsone, juglone, alizarin, purpurin, carminic acid, kermesic acid, purpurogallin, protocatechaldehyde, indigo, isatin, curcumin, spinulosin, apigenidin and orceins, or combinations of two or more of these. Extracts or decoctions containing these natural dyes and in particular poultices or extracts based on henna can also be used.

[0118] According to certain embodiments, the direct ionic dye(s) is (are) chosen from blue or violet dyes such as Acid Violet 7, Acid Violet 14, Acid Blue 113, Acid Blue 117, Acid Blue 25, Acid Blue 43, Acid Blue 62, Acid Blue 78, Acid Blue 129, Acid Blue 138, Acid Blue 140, Acid Blue 251, Acid Violet 42, Acid Violet 43 (also called EXT violet No. 2), Acid Blue 1, Acid Blue 3, Acid Blue 7, Acid Blue 9, Acid Violet 49, Acid Violet 9, Acid Blue 74, Basic Blue 6, Basic Blue 7, Basic Blue 9, Basic Blue 26, Basic Blue 41, Basic Blue 99, Basic Violet 1, Basic Violet 2, Basic Violet 3, Basic Violet 10, Basic Violet 14, or combinations of two or more thereof, preferably Ext. Violet 2, Acid Blue 62, Acid Blue 9 and Basic Violet 2, more preferably Ext. Violet 2, Acid Blue 62, Acid Blue 9, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0119] If present, the total amount of direct dyes may range from about 0.001% to about 10%, such as from about 0.001% to about 5%, from about 0.001% to about 3%, from about 0.001% to about 2%, from about 0.001% to about 1%, from about 0.005% to about 5%, from about 0.005% to about 3%, from about 0.005% to about 2%, from about 0.005% to about 1%, from about 0.01% to about 5%, from about 0.01% to about 3%, from about 0.01% to about 2%, or from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. Auxiliary components

[0120] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure may optionally include one or more auxiliary components. Non-limiting examples include preservatives, fragrances, pH adjusters, salts, antioxidants, vitamins, vitamin derivatives, ceramides, botanical extracts, proteins, protein hydrolysates, protein isolates, hydrotropes, pearlescent agents, buffers, sequestering agents, and the like.

[0121] The total amount of auxiliary components, if present, typically ranges from about 0.01% to about 10%, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, in some embodiments, the individual amounts of each component or the total amount of components may range from about 0.1% to about 10%, from about 0.1% to about 8%, from about 0.1% to about 5%, from about 0.1% to about 4%, from about 0.1% to about 3%, from about 0.1% to about 2%, from about 1% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 8%, from about 1% to about 5%, from about 1% to about 4%, from about 1% to about 3%, or from about 1% to about 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0122] Compositions that may be used in methods according to the disclosure typically have a pH of less than or equal to about 7, such as less than or equal to about 6, less than or equal to about 5, less than or equal to about 4.5, or less than or equal to about 4. For example, the compositions may have a pH ranging from about 1 to about 7, such as from about 2 to about 6, from about 2.5 to about 5.5, from about 2.5 to about 5, from about 2.5 to about 4.5, or from about 3 to about 4. In some embodiments, the pH of the composition may be, for example, about 3, about 3.25, about 3.5, about 3.75, or about 4, including all ranges and subranges therein.

[0123] The compositions may be in any suitable form. For example, the compositions may be a liquid, a gel, a gel-cream, a high, medium or low density cream, a serum, a lotion, etc. II. PROCESSES

[0124] The disclosure relates to methods of treating hair, for example, to build or rebuild broken bonds in the hair fiber. Surprisingly, hair treated according to the disclosure exhibits reduced signs of damage, including increased strength and / or reduced elasticity, particularly hair that has been damaged by harsh chemical treatments such as bleaching, dyeing, perming, straightening, relaxing, etc., even when compared to hair treated with other products claimed to rebuild bonds in the hair. Without wishing to theorize, it is believed that the enhanced bond-building effect is due to the unexpected synergistic effects of the combination of amino acids, osmolytes, and carboxylic acids, which was not previously known.

[0125] The methods include applying a composition according to the disclosure (also referred to as a "bond building composition") to the hair, optionally leaving the bond building composition on the hair for a period of time ("processing time", "resting period" or "setting period"), and optionally rinsing the composition from the hair.

[0126] The application period may be for a time deemed appropriate to allow the active agents to provide benefits to the hair, such as about 30 seconds, about 1 minute, about 2 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 15 minutes, about 20 minutes, about 30 minutes, about 45 minutes, about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 4 hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours, about 24 hours, etc., or may vary by a time period using any of the foregoing values ​​as upper and lower limits. By way of non-limiting example, the application period may range from about 2 minutes to about 4 hours, from about 5 minutes to about 2 hours, from about 10 minutes to about 1.5 hours, from about 20 minutes to about 1 hour, from about 1 hour to about 12 hours, from about 2 hours to about 10 hours, from about 4 hours to about 8 hours, from about 8 hours to about 24 hours, from about 8 hours to about 12 hours, etc. For example, a leave-in time can be overnight or until the next time the hair is rinsed or shampooed according to the user's usual hygiene rules.

[0127] Although not required, methods of using bond-building compositions according to the disclosure may also include a step of heating the hair to which the composition has been applied, for example during the resting period while the composition is on the hair. For example, a hair dryer, a hair dryer hood, etc., may be used.

[0128] At least in some embodiments, the hair that may be treated according to the disclosed methods may be hair that has been previously bleached, dyed, straightened, relaxed, etc. It will be understood that the hair that is treated according to various methods described herein may be hair that has been previously subjected to such chemical treatments and thus is in need of repair, bond building, or the like. Thus, the methods may occur in any period after such a chemical treatment where the benefits of repair, bond building, etc. are desired. For example, the methods may occur within six months following a chemical treatment such as bleaching, dyeing, straightening, relaxing, etc., such as within five months, within four months, within three months, within two months, within one month, within three weeks, within two weeks, within one week, within five days, within four days, within three days, within two days, within one day, within 12 hours, within 8 hours, within 6 hours, within 4 hours, within 2 hours, or within one hour following such treatment. The period during which it is contemplated to carry out the methods according to the disclosure is not limited.

[0129] In an exemplary embodiment, a bond-building composition according to the disclosure may be applied to hair, for example, to build or rebuild bonds in the hair fiber, to improve the overall health and appearance of hair, to improve the elasticity of hair fibers, to prevent or reduce damage to hair fibers, etc., by applying a composition to wet, damp, or dry hair, leaving the composition on the hair for an appropriate processing time, optionally rinsing the hair, and then, optionally, drying and / or styling the hair according to the individual's routine.

[0130] In other exemplary embodiments, a bond-building composition according to the disclosure may be applied to the hair before, during, and / or after a chemical hair treatment process. For example, such a routine may include applying a composition according to the disclosure to wet, damp, or dry hair, leaving the composition on the hair for an appropriate processing time, optionally rinsing the hair, and then substantially immediately thereafter (i.e., within the same chemical hair treatment process), preferably with intervening rinsing of the hair, applying a chemical treatment such as a bleaching, dyeing, straightening, relaxing, or permanent waving composition to the hair.Another such routine may include applying a chemical treatment such as a bleaching, dyeing, straightening, relaxing, or permanent waving composition to the hair, and substantially immediately thereafter (i.e., within the same chemical hair treatment process), preferably with an intervening rinse of the hair, applying a bond-building composition according to the disclosure to the hair. Thus, it is contemplated that the compositions according to the disclosure may be incorporated into a process for chemically treating hair, thereby reducing, minimizing, or preventing damage to the hair that might otherwise result from such harsh chemical treatments.

[0131] Surprisingly, hair treated with compositions and methods according to the disclosure exhibits less damage than hair not treated with compositions and methods according to the disclosure, at least in part due to the building of bonds in the hair fiber. The reduction in damage is particularly notable on hair damaged due to harsh chemical treatments, such as bleaching, dyeing, perming, straightening, relaxing, etc., as well as due to repeated styling, for example with heat or styling tools. Hair repaired using compositions and methods according to the disclosure may exhibit lower elasticity and / or higher tensile strength than similarly damaged hair not treated according to the disclosure, even compared to hair treated with other products that claim to build or rebuild bonds.

[0132] The expression "and / or" should be understood to include both the conjunctive and the disjunctive. For example, "amino acids and / or their salts" means "amino acids and their salts" as well as "amino acids or their salts", and expressly covers either case.

[0133] As used herein, the term "salts" throughout the disclosure may include salts having a counterion such as an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, or an ammonium counterion. This list of counterions, however, is not limiting. Salts also include a dissociated form of a compound, for example, in an aqueous solution.

[0134] As used herein, if a component is described as being present "in an amount less than or equal to" a certain amount, it is intended that such component is in fact present in the composition, i.e., is present in an amount greater than 0%.

[0135] All quantities stated herein are relative to the amount of active ingredient unless otherwise stated.

[0136] All percentages, parts and ratios herein are based on the total weight of the compositions of the present disclosure, unless otherwise indicated.

[0137] As used herein, the term "applying a composition to the hair," and variations thereof, is intended to mean contacting the hair with at least one of the compositions of the disclosure, in any manner. It may also mean contacting the hair in an effective amount.

[0138] The term "treating the hair" (and its grammatical variations) as used herein refers to applying the compositions of the present disclosure to the surface of the hair. The term "treating the hair" (and its grammatical variations) as used herein also refers to contacting the hair with the compositions of the present disclosure.

[0139] As used herein, the terms "bond building," "bond reconstruction," "bond formation," "bond building," or the like are used interchangeably to mean that bonds internal to the hair fiber are formed or reformed after such bonds have been broken. For example, disulfide bonds in the hair fiber are typically broken during chemical treatments such as bleaching, permanent waving, etc., but may be reformed or reconstructed when the hair is treated according to the disclosure. Although the degree of bond building achieved will vary depending on factors such as the degree of damage in the treated hair, the duration of treatment, etc., it is intended that any amount of bond building be encompassed within the methods of the disclosure.It is possible to determine whether the bonds have been constructed by various methods known in the art, such as tensile testing, cysteic acid testing, DSC, etc.

[0140] Unless otherwise defined for any specific embodiment, the term "substantially free" or "essentially free" as used herein means that there is less than about 5% by weight of a specific material added to a composition, based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the compositions may include less than about 4%, less than about 3%, less than about 2%, less than about 1.5%, less than about 1%, less than about 0.5%, less than about 0.1%, less than about 0.01%, less than about 0.001%, or less than about 0.0001% of the specified material.

[0141] The following examples serve to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure without, however, being of a limiting nature. EXAMPLES

[0142] The following examples are intended to be non-limiting and explanatory in nature only. In the Examples, unless otherwise indicated, the amounts are expressed as a percentage by weight (% by weight) of active ingredients, relative to the total weight of the composition. Example 1 - Compositions

[0143] Compositions 1A-1G according to the disclosure were prepared as shown in Table 1. The pH of each of the IA to IG bond building compositions was about 3.5.

[0144] [Table 1] TABLE 1 IA IB IC 1D 1E 1F IG Basic amino acid(s) 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 2.0 Glycine betaine 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 Citric and / or lactic acid 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.1 4.1 Neutral amino acid(s) 0.5 Preservative(s) 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 Solvents (water and / or non-aqueous solvents) QS QS QS QS QS QS QS

[0145] The compositions contained a synergistic combination of bond-building components: carboxylic acids (citric and / or lactic acid), osmolytes (glycine betaine) and amino acids (arginine and / or serine).

[0146] Example 2- Assessment of damage repair

[0147] In order to evaluate the ability of the compositions according to the disclosure to rebuild bonds and to minimize, prevent or repair damage to hair, the following studies were conducted. Example 2A#- Ultra-bleached hair

[0148] Eight strands (S1 to S8) of virgin Caucasian hair were bleached with a composition prepared by mixing a commercial bleaching powder with a commercial oxidizing composition (hydrogen peroxide 40V) at a ratio of 1:1.5 mixture (bleach powder:oxidant composition) and treated at a temperature of about 55°C for about 45 minutes. The strands were rinsed, then seven of the strands (S1-S7) were subjected to the following treatment routines (strand S8 did not undergo any treatment after rinsing the hair bleaching composition).

[0149] The SI strand was cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. This treatment protocol was repeated daily for five days.

[0150] Strands S2 to S7 were each cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all of the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. Immediately thereafter, one of compositions 1A to 1F (Table 2A) was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. This treatment protocol was repeated daily for five days.

[0151] [Table 2] TABLE 2A IA IB IC 1D 1E 1F Wick S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7

[0152] The integrity of the hair fibers in each of the strands S1-S8 was studied after the first and fifth days. Elasticity was assessed to determine whether the hair fibers stretched, and if so, whether they returned to their original state (lower elasticity, i.e., healthy), whether the fibers stretched easily and remained stretched (higher elasticity, i.e., damaged), or whether the hair fibers broke during testing.

[0153] The evaluation was carried out by stretching a standardized amount of wet hair fibers, with two experts independently evaluating each strand. The experts were trained to stretch the area of ​​the strand being assessed by uniformly applying manual pulling force using their hands / fingers. The strand behavior was ranked by each expert on a 6-level scale as follows, with the result reported for each strand being the average of the two:

[0154] 0 = Natural, healthy hair (no damage);

[0155] 1 = Low elasticity (when stretched, hair fibers exhibit a slight elasticity, returning to the initial state after testing);

[0156] 2 = Moderate elasticity (when stretched, hair fibers exhibit a elasticity, returning to the initial state after the test);

[0157] 3 = High elasticity (when stretched, hair fibers exhibit elasticity and some hair fibers do not return to their initial state after testing);

[0158] 4 = Very high elasticity (when stretched, hair fibers exhibit elasticity and most hair fibers do not return to their original state after testing); and

[0159] 5 = Immediate breakage (when stretched, hair fibers exhibit a high elasticity and break during testing).

[0160] The results showed that the hair fibers of strands S2 to S7, treated with one of the compositions IA to 1F, surprisingly exhibited lower elasticity than the fibers of strands SI or S8 both after day 1 ([Fig.lA]) and day 5 ([Fig.lB]). In other words, the hair of strands SI and S8 were damaged by the aggressive bleaching process, resulting in an increase in elasticity, while the damaged strands S2 to S7 were repaired thanks to the treatment with one of the compositions IA to 1F. Example 2B# - Straightened and ultra-bleached hair

[0161] Eight strands (S9-S16) of Caucasian hair that had previously been straightened using formaldehyde were bleached with a composition prepared by mixing a commercial bleaching powder with a commercial oxidizing composition (hydrogen peroxide 40V) at a mixing ratio of 1:1.5 (bleach powder:oxidizing composition) and treated at a temperature of about 55°C for about 45 minutes. The strands were rinsed, and then seven of the strands (S9-S15) were subjected to the following treatment routines.

[0162] The S9 strand was cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to remain on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, It was left to rest for approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in serum for hair straighteners were applied to the hair. The treatment was repeated a second time. This treatment protocol was repeated daily for five days.

[0163] Strands S10-S15 were each cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all of the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, one of compositions 1A to 1F (Table 2B) was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly.A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair. This treatment protocol was repeated daily for five days.

[0164] [Table 3] TABLE 2B IA IB IC 1D 1E 1F Wick S10 SU S12 S13 S14 S15

[0165] The integrity of the hair fibers of each of the strands S9-S16 was studied in the same manner as described in Example 2A. The results showed that the hair fibers of strands S10 to S15, treated with one of the compositions 1A to 1F, surprisingly exhibited lower elasticity than the fibers of strands S9 and S16 both after day 1 ([Fig.2A]) and day 5 ([Fig.2B]).

[0166] Examples 2A-2B therefore demonstrate that treating hair that has been damaged by harsh chemical processes with a composition according to the disclosure surprisingly rebuilds bonds and repairs damage, leaving the hair stronger and less elastic than without treatment. Example 3 - Compositions

[0167] Compositions 2A to 2E according to the disclosure were prepared as shown in Table 3.

[0168] [Table 4] TABLE 3 2A 2B 2C 2D 2E Basic amino acid(s) 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 Glycine betaine 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 Citric acid 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.1 Silicone oil(s) (dimethicone and / or amodimethicone) 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3 1.0 Fatty alcohol(s) (stearyl alcohol and / or cetearyl alcohol) 4.5 4.5 6.0 5.0 6.0 Cetyl esters 1.0 Cationic surfactant(s) (cetrimonium chloride, behentrimonium chloride and / or stearamidopropyl dimethylamine) 1.6 1.6 1.6 2.5 1.6 Cocamidopropyl betaine 1.1 1.1 1.1 0.2 Hydroxyethylcellulose 0.8 1.0 1.5 1.5 0.4 Auxiliary component(s) (pH regulators, preservatives, vitamins, extracts) <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 Solvents (water and non-aqueous solvents) QS QS QS QS QS Measured pH 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 4.0

[0169] The compositions contained a synergistic combination of bond-building components: carboxylic acids (citric acid), osmolytes (glycine betaine) and amino acids (arginine).

[0170] Example 4- Assessment of damage repair

[0171] In order to evaluate the ability of the bond building compositions according to the disclosure to rebuild bonds and minimize, prevent or repair hair damage, the following studies were conducted.

[0172] A comparison product, Cl, had the following list of ingredients on the packaging: Water (Aqua), Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Quaternium-91, Sodium Benzoate, Cetrimonium Methosulfate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum), Tetrasodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-37, Benzyl Benzoate, Etidronic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Phytantriol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate. Composition Cl, which is described as a "pre-shampoo hair treatment that reduces breakage and split ends split ends for visibly healthier hair,” is presented as part of a system that claims its ability to “reform broken disulfide bonds damaged by chemical treatments, heat, and styling.” The instructions for composition Cl are to use the product before using the shampoo (“Cl-S”) and conditioner (“Cl-C”) that are part of this system, both of which include bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate as the listed active agent.

[0173] Example 4A - Ultra-bleached hair: Elasticity and resistance

[0174] Five strands (S 17 to S21) of virgin Caucasian hair were bleached with a composition prepared by mixing a commercial bleaching powder with a commercial oxidizing composition (hydrogen peroxide 40V) at a mixing ratio of 1:1.5 (bleach powder:oxidizing composition) and treated at a temperature of about 55°C for about 45 minutes. The strands were rinsed, and then four of the strands (S17-S20) were subjected to the following treatment routines (strand S21 did not undergo any treatment after rinsing the bleaching composition from the hair).

[0175] The S17 strand was cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. This treatment protocol was repeated four more times.

[0176] Strands S18 and S19 were each cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all of the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. Immediately thereafter, one of compositions 2D (S 18) or 2B (S 19) was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. This treatment protocol was repeated four more times.

[0177] Strand S20 was treated with composition C1 by applying the composition to the strand and distributing it so as to ensure that the hair was fully coated. Composition Cl was left on the hair for a resting period of approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. Immediately afterward, the strand was cleansed with Cl-S shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, leaving it on the strand for approximately one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately afterward, the Cl-C conditioner was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, it was left to rest for approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. This treatment protocol was repeated four more times.

[0178] Once the five treatments of the strands S17-S20 were completed, the integrity of the hair fibers of each of the strands S17-S21 was studied in the same manner as described in Example 2A. The results showed that the hair fibers of the strands S18 and S19, treated with the compositions 2D and 2B respectively, had lower elasticity than the fibers of the strands S17 and S20-S21 ([Fig.3]).

[0179] Next, the strength was evaluated using a Dia-Stron fiber tensile testing instrument called MTT (Miniature Tensile Tester). The results showed that the hair in strands S18 and S19, treated with compositions 2D and 2B respectively, was surprisingly stronger than the hair in strands S17 or S20, meaning that a greater force was required to break the individual hair fibers in strands S18-S19. [Fig.4A] shows the breaking stress (MPa) for a control strand (CTL), consisting of the same hair but not bleached, strand S17, which was bleached but without further treatment, and strands S18 and S19, treated with compositions 2D and 2B respectively, and strand S20, treated with the comparative compositions. As shown in [Fig.4A], the breaking strain of the control strand (CTL) was more than twice that of strand S17, demonstrating the significant damage caused by the bleaching process. After five (5) treatments with composition 2D (strand S18), 2B (strand S19), or the comparative compositions (S20), the breaking strain of the treated strands increased compared to strand S17. Surprisingly, the increase in breaking strain for strands S18-S19 was considered statistically significant compared to that of strand S20, meaning that compositions 2D and 2B repaired the hair by rebuilding the bonds in the hair to a greater extent than the comparative compositions.

[0180] Example 4B - Straightened and ultra-bleached hair: Elasticity

[0181] Four strands (S22 to S25) of Caucasian hair that had been previously straightened using formaldehyde were bleached with a composition prepared by mixing a commercial bleaching powder with an oxidizing composition commercially available (40V hydrogen peroxide) at a mixing ratio of 1:1.5 (bleach powder:oxidizing composition) and treated at a temperature of approximately 55°C for approximately 45 minutes. The strands were rinsed and, for a five-week treatment period, all four strands were subjected to the following routine twice a week.

[0182] First, the strands were cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair.

[0183] Three of the strands (S22-S24) were subjected to the following additional treatment routines once a week during the 5-week period.

[0184] The S22 strand was cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to remain on the strand for a period of approximately one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all of the shampoo was removed. A mask composition was applied to the hair and left on the hair, after which the hair was rinsed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioner composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to remain for a resting period of approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair.

[0185] The strand S23 was cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, composition 2C was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was thoroughly rinsed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioner composition was applied and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed. Carefully. A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in serum for hair straighteners were applied to the hair.

[0186] The strand S24 was treated with the composition C1 by applying the composition to the strand and distributing it so as to ensure that the hair was fully coated. The composition C1 was left on the hair for a resting period of approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. Immediately thereafter, the strand was cleansed with the shampoo C1-S by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to remain on the strand for a period of approximately one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, the conditioner C1-C was applied to the strand and distributed so as to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to remain for a resting period of approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly.A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair.

[0187] After the five-week treatment period, the elasticity and strength of the hair fibers of each of the strands S22-S25 were studied in the same manner as described in Example 2A. The results showed that the hair fibers of strand S23, treated with composition 2C, exhibited lower elasticity than the fibers of any of the strands S22 or S24 and S25.

[0188] Example 4C - Straightened and ultra-bleached hair: Resistance

[0189] Four strands (S26 to S29) of Caucasian hair that had been previously straightened using formaldehyde were bleached with a composition prepared by mixing a commercial bleaching powder with a commercial oxidizing composition (hydrogen peroxide 40V) at a mixing ratio of 1:1.5 (bleach powder:oxidizing composition) and treated at a temperature of about 55°C for about 45 minutes. The strands were rinsed and, during a treatment period of five weeks, all four strands were subjected to the following routine.

[0190] First, the strands were cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to sit on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to sit for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair.

[0191] Three of the strands (S27-S29) were subjected to the following additional treatment routines once a week during the 5-week period.

[0192] Strands S27 and S28 were cleansed with a commercially available shampoo by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to remain on the strand for a period of about one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. One of compositions 2B (S28) or 2D (S27) was applied to the hair and left on the hair, after which the hair was rinsed. Immediately thereafter, a commercially available conditioning composition was applied to the strand and distributed to ensure that the hair was fully coated, allowed to remain for a resting period of about five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair.

[0193] The strand S29 was treated with the composition Cl by applying the composition to the strand and distributing it to ensure that the hair was fully coated. The composition Cl was left on the hair for a resting period of approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly. Immediately thereafter, the strand was cleansed with the shampoo Cl-S by wetting the strand, applying the shampoo to the strand, lathering the shampoo, allowing it to remain on the strand for a period of approximately one minute, and then rinsing the strand until all the shampoo was removed. Immediately thereafter, the conditioner Cl-C was applied to the strand and distributed so as to ensure that the hair was fully coated, it was allowed to remain for a resting period of approximately five minutes, and then the strand was rinsed thoroughly.A leave-in conditioner and a leave-in hair straightener serum were applied to the hair.

[0194] The MTT tests were carried out in the same manner as described in Example 4A. The results showed that the hair in strands S27 and S28, treated with compositions 2D and 2B respectively, was surprisingly stronger than the hair in strands S26 or S29, meaning that a greater force was required to break the individual hair fibers in strands S27-S28. [Fig.4B] shows the breaking stress (MPa) for a control strand (CTL), consisting of the same hair but not bleached, strand S26, which was bleached but without further treatment, strands S27 and S28, treated with compositions 2D and 2B respectively, and strand S29, treated with the comparative compositions. As shown in [Fig.4B], the breaking stress of the control strand (CTL) was about three times higher than that of the S26 strand, showing the significant damage caused by the bleaching process.After five (5) treatments with composition 2B (wick S28), 2D (wick S27), the breaking stress of the treated wicks was increased compared to wick S26, and the improvement was considered statistically significant. [Fig.4B]. shows, however, that the breaking stress of the wick treated with the comparative composition (S29) did not show any improvement in breaking stress.

[0195] Examples 4A-4C thus demonstrate that treating hair that has been damaged by harsh chemical processes with a composition according to the disclosure surprisingly rebuilds bonds and repairs damage. The damage repair achieved with compositions according to the disclosure is also surprisingly superior to that achieved with a commercial product that claims to do the same. Example 5 - Compositions

[0196] Compositions 3A to 3D according to the disclosure were prepared as shown in Table 4.

[0197] [Table 5] TABLE 4 3A 3B 3C 3D Basic amino acid(s) 5.50 5.50 3.80 3.80 Thickening agent(s) 0.30 0.90 0.90 Non-ionic surfactant(s) 0.30 1.50 0.50 0.50 Amphoteric surfactant(s) 0.30 Conditioning agent(s) 0.80 Cationic surfactant(s) 2.10 3.84 3.00 3.00 Glycine betaine 2.50 2.50 1.80 1.80 Citric acid 6.00 6.00 5.50 5.50 Wax(s) 0.50 0.50 Fatty alcohol(s) 6.30 6.30 Vegetable oil(s) 0.50 Fatty acid ester(s) 2.50 1.50 Additives (preservatives, perfume) <2 <2 <2 <2 Solvents (water and non-aqueous solvents) QS QS QS QS

[0198] Compositions 3A-3D, which contained a synergistic combination of bond-building components (carboxylic acids (citric acid), osmolytes (glycine betaine) and amino acids (arginine)), are expected to rebuild bonds in the hair fiber and minimize, prevent and / or repair damage to the hair. The compositions are also expected to improve the elasticity and tensile strength of the treated hair fibers. Example 6#- Additional compositions

[0199] The following compositions according to the disclosure may be prepared and are believed to similarly rebuild bonds in the hair fiber and minimize, prevent and / or repair damage to the hair.

[0200] [Table 6] TABLE 5 4A 4B 4C 4D 4E Arginine 2.0 9.8 2.5 Lysine 2.5 2.0 10 Valine betaine 2.0 4.5 2.0 1.0 4.0 Citric acid 3 2.0 9.8 Lactic acid 2.0 10 2 Serine 0.05 0.5 0.05 0.5 Fatty compound(s) 10 8.0 9.0 15 Cationic and / or amphoteric surfactant(s) 3.0 0.5 2.5 5.0 Additional component(s) (e.g. pH adjusters, vitamins, preservatives, extracts, thickeners) <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 Solvent(s) (water and / or non-aqueous solvents) QS QS QS QS QS

[0201] The above examples demonstrate that the compositions and methods of the disclosure surprisingly and unexpectedly rebuild bonds and repair damaged hair, prevent or minimize hair damage, and reduce hair elasticity.

Claims

Claims

1. A method of building bonds in hair, comprising: (i) applying a bond-building composition to the hair, comprising: a) at least one compound selected from amino acids or their salts; b) at least one osmolyte; c) at least one compound selected from carboxylic acids or their salts; and (d) water, and (ii) optionally rinsing the hair.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the bond-building composition comprises a) at least one amino acid selected from the compounds of formula (I) or their salts: ÇOOH (!) H — Ç — N(H)PR in which: - p is an integer equal to 1 or 2, and - when p = 1, R forms, together with the nitrogen atom, a saturated heterocycle comprising from 5 to 8 ring members, preferably 5 ring members, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl or alkyl (C1-C4); or - when p = 2, R represents a hydrogen atom or a saturated, linear or branched (C1-C12) alkyl group, preferably a (C1-C4) alkyl group, optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups selected from -S-, -NH- or -C(NH)-, and / or optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH, -CONH 2, -NH-C(NH)-NH2, or an imidazole ring.

3. A method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the bond-building composition comprises a) at least one amino acid selected from arginine, glycine, proline, methionine, serine, lysine, histidine, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof.

4. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bond-building composition comprises b) at least one osmolyte selected from carbohydrate sugars, polyamines, betaines or combinations of two or more thereof, preferably comprising at least one betaine selected from compounds of formula (II) or its salts: (Rl)(R2)(R3)m-A+-CR4R5-(X)nY (II) wherein: - RI, R2 and R3 are independently selected from C1-C4 alkyl groups; - A is N or S; - m and n are independently 0 or 1; - X is a divalent C1-C6 alkyl group, straight or branched, saturated or unsaturated, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH) or amino (-NH2); and - Y is -COO- or -OSO3-;provided that: • when A is S, then m = 0 and R4 and R5 are independently selected from a hydrogen atom or a saturated, unsaturated, linear, branched and / or cyclic (C1-C10) hydrocarbon chain (including aromatic and polycyclic chains), optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups selected from -S-, -N=, -NH-, or -C(NH)-, and / or optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH, or -CONH2; • when A is N and m = 0, R4 represents a hydrogen atom or a saturated, linear or branched (C1-C8) alkyl, and R5 forms, together with the nitrogen atom, a saturated heterocycle comprising from 5 to 8 ring members, optionally substituted by one or more groups chosen from hydroxyl or (C1-C4) alkyl;and • when A is N and m = 1, then R4 and R5 are independently selected from a hydrogen atom or a saturated, unsaturated, linear, branched and / or cyclic (C1-C10) hydrocarbon chain (including aromatic and polycyclic chains), optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups selected from -S-, -N=, -NH-, or -C(NH)-, and / or; optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from hydroxyl (-OH), amino (-NH2), -SH, -COOH, or -CONH2.

5. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the bond-building composition comprises b) at least one compound of formula (II) selected from valine betaine, glutamic acid betaine, glutamine betaine, trimethyl lysine, glycine betaine, histidine betaine, N-methyl histidine betaine, alanine betaine, beta-alanine betaine, choline sulfate, pipecolic acid betaine, proline betaine, hydroxyproline betaine, tyrosine betaine, phenylalanine betaine, tryptophan betaine, leucine betaine, isoleucine betaine, their salts or combinations of two or more thereof, preferably comprising glycine betaine.

6. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the bond-building composition comprises c) at least one compound selected from formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, enanthic acid, caprylic acid, lactic acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, glutaric acid, citraconic acid, succinic acid, adipic acid, tartaric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, citric acid, isocitric acid, aconitic acid, propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof.

7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the total amount of amino acids and their salts in the bond-building composition is from about 2% to about 15%, preferably from about 2.5% to about 12%, more preferably from about 3% to about 10%, and most preferably from about 3.5% to about 8% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the total amount of osmolytes in the bond-building composition is from about 0.5% to about 10%, preferably from about 1% to about 8%, more preferably from about 1% to about 5%, and most preferably from about 1.5% to about 3.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

9. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the total amount of carboxylic acids and their salts in the bond building composition ranges from about 3% to about 15%, preferably from about 3% to about 12%, more preferably from about 3.5% to about 10%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 8% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

10. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the bond-building composition comprises: a) at least one compound selected from arginine or its salts; b) glycine betaine or a salt thereof; c) at least one compound selected from carboxylic acids having from 3 to 14 carbon atoms or their salts, preferably selected from citric acid, lactic acid, their salts or combinations thereof; d) water and optionally at least one polyol; and e) optionally at least one film-forming agent.

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