Hair straightening compositions and hair straightening methods

Abstract

Hair Smoothing Compositions and Methods of Smoothing Hair The present disclosure relates to a hair smoothing composition and methods of smoothing hair. The hair smoothing composition includes: (a) citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof; (b) one or more cyclodextrins, derivatives thereof, or a combination thereof; (c) one or more water-soluble solvents; (d) one or more cationic guar derivatives; and (e) water. After applying the hair smoothing composition to the hair, the hair is physically smoothed and dried, optionally with heat. Hair treated with the hair smoothing composition exhibits improved fiber alignment, frizz control, and smooth texture. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of Invention: Hair Straightening Compositions and Hair Straightening Methods FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hair smoothing composition and methods of smoothing hair. Hair treated with the hair smoothing composition exhibits improved fiber alignment, frizz control, and smooth texture. CONTEXT

[0002] Many consumers use cosmetic and care compositions to enhance the appearance of hair, for example, by changing the color, style and / or shape of the hair and / or by imparting various cosmetic properties to the hair, such as shine and conditioning. Hair can become dry or damaged for a variety of reasons, for example, exposure to the elements, poor nutrition, mechanical treatments (e.g., brushing the hair), styling treatments using chemicals, dyeing, heat, nutrition, etc. Even cleansing products can remove the natural sebum from the hair causing it to dry out, which can lead to a dull appearance, split ends and frizz.

[0003] Chemical hair treatments include bleaching and coloring treatments to change the color of the hair. Chemical treatments also include processes to permanently change the shape and structure of the hair, for example, by perming, waving, relaxing, or straightening the hair. These chemical treatments often alter the appearance of the hair by changing its physical structure, which inevitably causes some degree of damage to the hair. Environmental factors, such as salt water, sunlight, and heat, are also known to damage hair. Damaged hair is characterized by unnatural changes in the protein structure of individual hair strands or shafts.

[0004] The popularity and use of oils for hair treatment has increased due to their effectiveness and simplicity. Commonly used oils include olive oil, mineral oil, avocado oil, apricot kernel oil, rice bran oil, and coconut oil. However, these treatments can leave the hair feeling greasy. In addition, the effects are usually not seen until several hours (e.g., 8 hours) of treatment and multiple treatments are usually required, making the treatment time-consuming and laborious.

[0005] Hair damage results in split ends, dryness, hair that breaks easily, and hair that becomes "frizzy" and difficult to style. Because the visible part of the hair is dead, it lacks the ability to regenerate itself. Many over-the-counter and salon treatments are claimed to repair damaged hair. These include conditioners, hot oil treatments, hydrolyzed proteins, vitamin formulations, and extracts of exotic fruits, leaves, or roots. However, these treatments provide little improvement to the hair. Therefore, hair treatment technologies that can straighten, relax, or style hair without chemically damaging it are desired.

[0006] There continues to be a need to improve the smoothness and manageability of hair, for example, to improve hair alignment, reduce unwanted volume (including reducing frizz), and increase shine.

[0007] Furthermore, the formulation of environmentally friendly cosmetic products, designed and developed with environmental issues in mind, is becoming a major objective in the efforts to address global challenges. It is therefore essential to provide more sustainable compositions, preparation processes and ingredients to address these environmental concerns. In this context, it is important to develop new cosmetic compositions with a better carbon footprint, in particular by promoting the use of renewable raw materials and / or cosmetic compositions with a good naturalness index and / or materials of natural origin and, more particularly, materials of plant origin while reducing the use of compounds of petrochemical origin. SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

[0008] The present disclosure relates to hair smoothing compositions and methods of smoothing hair. Hair treated with the compositions exhibits improved fiber alignment, reduced frizz, and a smooth texture. In addition, the treated hair is soft, shiny, conditioned, and has a healthy appearance. The compositions include a combination of citric acid, or a salt thereof, and a cyclodextrin, or a derivative thereof. The citric acid, or a salt thereof, and the cyclodextrin, or a derivative thereof, are separately combined with each other, and the cyclodextrin or derivative is dissolved in the citric acid. Thereafter, the combination is incorporated into the hair smoothing composition.

[0009] Hair smoothing compositions typically include: a. citric acid, one of its salts, or one of their combinations; b. one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives or a combination thereof; c. one or more water-soluble solvents; d. one or more cationic guar derivatives; and e. water.

[0010] Citric acid and its salts provide various benefits to hair. For example, it acts as an antioxidant, removes buildup and debris from the hair, and improves blood circulation in the scalp, which in turn nourishes hair follicles and promotes growth. Its acidic pH is also useful for balancing the pH of the scalp, as many hair care products make it alkaline. Citric acid in hair straightening compositions also interacts with cyclodextrin in a unique way and improves film formation on the hair, which is further potentiated with heat.

[0011] Cyclodextrins are a family of cyclic oligosaccharides composed of a macrocyclic core of glucose subunits joined by α-1,4 glycosidic linkages. Cyclodextrins are produced from starch by enzymatic conversion. Typical cyclodextrins contain a number of glucose monomers ranging from six to eight units in a core, creating a cone shape, e.g., α(alpha)-cyclodextrin has 6 glucose subunits, β(beta)-cyclodextrin has 7 glucose subunits, and γ(gamma)-cyclodextrin has 8 glucose subunits. Non-limiting examples of cyclodextrins for use in the compositions of the present disclosure include α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, methyl-α-cyclodextrin, methyl-β-cyclodextrin, methyl-γ-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

[0012] The weight ratio of citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) to cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) is typically from about 4:1 to about 1:1 ((a):(b)) and / or the molar ratio of citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) to cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) is typically from about 20:1 to about 5:1 ((a):(b)).

[0013] Citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) and cyclodextrin, its derivatives, or a combination of (b) are typically combined with each other before being combined with the other ingredient of the hair smoothing composition. For example, cyclodextrin and / or its derivatives (cyclodextrin component) are preferably dissolved or solubilized in citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof (citric acid component) to form a solubilized combination of citric acid and cyclodextrin. The combination of the cyclodextrin component and the citric acid component may be heated to facilitate or accelerate the dissolution of the cyclodextrin component into the citric acid component. When the cyclodextrin component is individually dissolved into the citric acid component before combination with other ingredients of the hair smoothing compositions, the cyclodextrin / citric acid component provides unique properties to the hair smoothing composition that differ from the properties that result from combining the cyclodextrin component and the citric acid component with the other ingredients in the composition without first dissolving the cyclodextrin component in the citric acid component.

[0014] Non-limiting examples of water-soluble solvents include C2-C6 monohydric alcohols (e.g., ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, etc.), polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycerin, glycols (e.g., ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, etc.), and mixtures thereof. Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a simple triol (C3H8O3). It is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that acts as a natural humectant by attracting moisture from its surroundings.

[0015] Cationic guar derivatives include modified cationic guar and hydroxypropyl guar and alkyl guar, particularly cationic hydroxypropyl guar, as well as salts thereof. A typical cationic functional group in these cationic guar derivatives is trimethylamino(2-hydroxyl)propyl, with a counterion such as a halide (e.g., chloride, fluoride, bromide, iodide), sulfate, or methyl sulfate. Non-limiting examples of cationic guar derivatives include cationically modified alkylated carboxylated polymers such as methyl and ethyl carboxymethyl guar and cationic hydroxypropyl guar, particularly cationic hydroxypropyl guar.

[0016] The hair smoothing compositions are aqueous compositions containing significant amounts of water. In addition to water, the compositions optionally include one or more water-soluble solvents other than glycerin. Non-limiting examples of water-soluble solvents include C2-C6 monohydric alcohols (e.g., ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, etc.), polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols (e.g., ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, etc.), and mixtures thereof. In various embodiments, at least one of the one or more water-soluble solvents is glycerin, a glycol (e.g., ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, etc.), or mixtures thereof.

[0017] The pH of the hair straightening compositions is typically acidic, for example, from about 3 to about 6.5, preferably from about 3 to about 6, more preferably from about 3 to about 5.

[0018] The hair smoothing composition may optionally include one or more miscellaneous ingredients, for example, one or more preservatives, fragrances, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, amino acids, botanical extracts, UV filtering agents, peptides, proteins, protein hydrolysates and / or isolates, fillers (for example, organic and / or inorganic fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, special materials, etc.), emollients, composition colorants, or their mixtures.

[0019] Hair straightening methods employing the hair straightening compositions include: i. applying a hair smoothing composition of the present disclosure to hair; ii. physical manipulation of the hair to which the hair smoothing composition is applied with a smoothing action; iii. without removing the hair smoothing composition, drying the hair; and iv. optionally, heating the hair to a temperature of about 140°C to about 220°C, wherein the heating of the hair may optionally be carried out after a pause time.

[0020] The hair smoothing composition is applied to the hair and the hair may be combed, brushed, or pulled, for example, with fingers and hands, to smooth wet or damp hair. A combing or brushing action helps ensure that the hair smoothing composition is spread evenly throughout the hair while simultaneously smoothing the hair. During or after performing the smoothing action, the hair is dried. The hair may dry naturally under ambient conditions, for example, at a temperature of about 25°C. The hair may optionally be treated with a thermal treatment (a heat treatment) to dry and / or shape the hair. A heat treatment is not required, but in various embodiments, a heat treatment is preferred.

[0021] The heat treatment may be preceded by a development time. A "development time" is a period of time between applying the hair-styling composition to the hair and treating the hair with a heat treatment. For example, the hair-styling composition may be applied to the hair, after which a development time is employed before treating the hair with a heat treatment. The development time begins after applying the hair-styling composition to the hair before the hair dries. After the development time, the hair is treated with a heat treatment, for example, with a hair dryer or a hot iron, such as a curling iron or a flat iron, at a temperature of about 140°C to about 220°C.Heat treatment can be used to aid in drying the hair and help in styling the hair or heat treatment can be applied to the hair after the hair has dried, for example, after a time. leave-in time. The leave-in time may vary, but is typically from about 1 minute to about 2 hours. In a preferred embodiment, the hair is treated with a hair-styling composition and after a leave-in time of from about 1 minute to about 1 hour, the hair is treated with a heat treatment, wherein the heat treatment is preferably a treatment with a hot iron, such as a curling iron or a flat iron. The hair may dry naturally during the leave-in time or may be blow-dried. Brief description of the drawings

[0022] An implementation of the present technology is described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0023] [Fig.lA] Figure 1(a) compares strands of hair treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, after natural drying overnight under ambient conditions;

[0024] [Fig.lB] Figure 1(b) compares hair strands treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, after natural drying overnight under ambient conditions, and after 1 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycle (Ix);

[0025] [Fig.lC] Figure 1(c) compares hair strands treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, after natural drying overnight under ambient conditions, and after 2 cycles of post-treatment cleaning and drying (2x);

[0026] [Fig.lD] Figure 1(d) compares hair strands treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, after natural drying overnight under ambient conditions, and after 3 cycles of post-treatment cleaning and drying (3x);

[0027] [Fig.2A] Figure 2(a) compares strands of hair treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, then treated with a flat iron, immediately after treatment with the flat iron;

[0028] [Fig.2B] Figure 2(b) compares strands of hair treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, then treated with a flat iron, and after 1 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycle (Ix);

[0029] [Fig.2C] Figure 2(c) compares hair strands treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, then treated with a flat iron, and after 5 cycles of post-treatment cleaning and drying (5x);

[0030] [Fig.2D] Figure 2(d) compares hair strands treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, then treated with a flat iron, and after 6 cycles of post-treatment cleaning and drying (6x);

[0031] [Fig.3A] Figure 3(a) shows an untreated curl pattern hair strand 7, hair strands treated with an inventive composition without heat, hair strands treated with an inventive composition with heat, and a control hair strand, after they have been subjected to 80% RH for 4 hours;

[0032] [Fig.3B] Figure 3(b) shows an untreated strand of curl pattern hair 7, strands of hair treated with an inventive composition without heat, strands of hair treated with an inventive composition with heat and a control strand of hair, after they have been subjected to 80% RH for 4 hours and after 1 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycle (Ix); and

[0033] [Fig.3C] Figure 3(c) shows an untreated strand of curl pattern hair 7, strands of hair treated with an inventive composition without heat, strands of hair treated with an inventive composition with heat and a control strand of hair, after being subjected to 80% RH for 4 hours, and after 3 cycles of post-treatment cleaning and drying (3x).

[0034] It should be understood that the various aspects are not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0035] The present disclosure relates to hair straightening compositions and methods of straightening hair. Hair treated according to the disclosure exhibits improved fiber alignment, reduced frizz, and a smooth texture. The hair straightening effects may be enhanced by heat, for example, with a flat iron, but heating is not necessary. Whether heat is employed or not, the straightening effects are long-lasting and durable, even in high humidity conditions. The hair straightening composition typically includes: a. about 1 to about 8% by weight of citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof; b. about 0.5 to about 5% by weight of one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a combination thereof;

[0036] wherein a combined total amount of (a) and (b) is about 2 to about 12% by weight; a. about 0.1 to about 5% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents; b. about 0.1 to about 8% by weight of one or more cationic guar derivatives; and c. about 70 to about 96% by weight of water;

[0037] wherein all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition. a. Citric acid and its salts#

[0038] The total amount of citric acid, its salts, or a combination thereof will vary. However, in various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes about 1 to about 8% by weight of citric acid, its salts, or a combination thereof, based on a total weight of the composition.In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes about 1 to about 6 wt%, about 1 to about 4 wt%, about 1 to about 3 wt%, about 2 to about 8 wt%, about 2 to about 6 wt%, about 2 to about 5 wt%, about 2 to about 4 wt%, about 2 to about 3 wt%, about 2.5 to about 8 wt%, about 2.5 to about 6 wt%, about 2.5 to about 5 wt%, about 2.5 to about 4 wt%, about 2.5 to about 3 wt%, or about 1, about 1.5, about 2, about 2.5, about 3, about 3.5, about 4, about 4.5, or about 5 wt% of citric acid, its salts, or a combination thereof, based on a total weight of the composition. . a. Cyclodextrin and derivatives#

[0039] Hair smoothing compositions include one or more cyclodextrins or their derivatives. As used herein, the term "cyclodextrins" includes carboxylic acid salts, whether or not expressly indicated. Cyclodextrins are a family of cyclic oligosaccharides composed of a macrocyclic core of glucose subunits joined by α-1,4 glycosidic linkages.

[0040] Cyclodextrins that may be used include those of the formula:

[0041] in which: • R is chosen from H, CH3 or a hydroxypropyl group, and • n goes from 6 to 8.

[0042] For example, in embodiments where R = H, the cyclodextrin may be α-cyclodextrin (n = 6), β-cyclodextrin (n = 7), or γ-cyclodextrin (n = 8). For example, α-cyclodextrin sold by WACKER under the name CAVAMAX W6 PHARMA, β-cyclodextrin sold by WACKER under the name CAVAMAX W7 PHARMA, or γ-cyclodextrin sold by WACKER under the name CAVAMAX W8 PHARMA may be used.

[0043] In other embodiments where R = CH3, the cyclodextrin may be a methyl-cyclodextrin, such as methyl-α-cyclodextrin (n = 6), methyl-β- cyclodextrin (n = 7) or methyl-γ-cyclodextrin (n = 8). For example, methyl-β-cyclodextrin sold by the company WACKER under the name CAVASOL W7 can be chosen.

[0044] In various embodiments, the at least one cyclodextrin may comprise a mixture of cyclodextrins and / or derivatives thereof. For example, the at least one cyclodextrin may be a mixture of α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin and / or γ-cyclodextrin. In another embodiment, the at least one cyclodextrin includes β-cyclodextrin. In yet another embodiment, the cyclodextrin is only β-cyclodextrin, and no other cyclodextrin or derivative thereof is present in the composition.

[0045] In one embodiment, the hair smoothing compositions according to the present disclosure include B-cyclodextrin in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 10%, such as from 0.2% to about 8%, from about 0.3% to about 7%, from about 0.4% to about 6%, from about 1% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 8%, from about 1% to about 5%, from about 1% to about 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition.

[0046] The total amount of cyclodextrin in the hair smoothing compositions will vary. However, in various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes about 0.5 to about 5% by weight of cyclodextrin, based on a total weight of the composition.In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes about 0.5 to about 4 wt.%, about 0.5 to about 3 wt.%, about 0.5 to about 2 wt.%, about 1 to about 5 wt.%, about 1 to about 4 wt.%, about 1 to about 3 wt.%, about 1 to about 2 wt.%, about 1.5 to about 5 wt.%, about 1.5 to about 4 wt.%, about 1.5 to about 3 wt.%, about 1.5 to about 2 wt.%, about 0.5 wt.%, about 1 wt.%, about 1.25 wt.%, about 1.5 wt.%, about 2 wt.%, about 2.5 wt.%, about 3 wt.%, about 3.5 wt.%, about 4 wt.%, about 4.5 wt.%, or about 5 wt.%, per relative to a total weight of the composition.

[0047] Combination of citric acid / salts and cyclodextrin

[0048] The total combined amount of the citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and the cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) will vary. However, in various embodiments, the total combined amount of the citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and the cyclodextrin and derivatives of (b) is from about 1 to about 12% by weight, based on a total weight of the hair smoothing composition. In other embodiments, the total combined amount of the citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and the cyclodextrin and derivatives of (b) is from about 1 to about 10% by weight, from about 1 to about 8% by weight, from about 1 to about 6% by weight, from about 1 to about 5% by weight, from about 2 to about 12% by weight, from about 2 to about 10% by weight, from about 2 to about 8% by weight, from about 2 to about 6% by weight, from about 2 to about 5% by weight, from about 3 to about 12% by weight, from about 3 to about 10% by weight, from about 3 to about 8% by weight, from about 3 to about 6% by weight, from about 3 to about 5% by weight, or from about 1% by weight, 2% by weight, 3% by weight, 4% by weight, 5% by weight, 6% by weight, 7% by weight, 8% by weight, based on a total weight of the hair smoothing composition.

[0049] The weight ratio of citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) to cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) will vary. However, in various embodiments, the citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) to cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a weight ratio of about 8:1 to about 1:2((a):(b)). In other embodiments, the citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) to cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a weight ratio of about 6:1 to about 1:2, about 5:2 to about 1:2, about 4:1 to about 1:2, about 3:1 to about 1:2; from about 2:1 to about 1:2, from about 8:1 to about 1:1, from about 6:1 to about 1:1, from about 5:1 to about 1:1, from about 4:1 to about 1:1, from about 3:1 to about 1:1, from about 2:1 to about 1:1, from about 1.2:1, from about 1.3:1, from about 1.4:1, from about 1.5:1, from about 1.6:1 or from about 1.8:1 ((a):(b)).

[0050] The molar ratio between citric acid, its salts or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) will vary. However, in various embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a molar ratio of about 20:1 to about 3:1. In other embodiments, the citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) and the cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a molar ratio of about 18:1 to about 3:1, about 15:1 to about 3:1, about 20:1 to about 5:1, about 18:1 to about 5:1, about 15:1 to about 5:1, about 20:1 to about 8:1, about 18:1 to about 8:1, about 15:1 to about 8:1, about 20:1 to about 10:1, about 18:1 to about 10:1, about 15:1 to about 10:1, about 14:1, about 13:1, about 12:1, or about 11:1.

[0051] In various embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and the cyclodextrin of (b) are combined with each other before being added to the hair smoothing compositions of the present disclosure. For example, the cyclodextrin is preferably solubilized in citric acid to form a solubilized combination of citric acid and cyclodextrin. The combination may be heated to facilitate or accelerate dissolution of the cyclodextrin. The solubility of cyclodextrin in water is not always ideal. Therefore, combining cyclodextrin with citric acid and dissolving the cyclodextrin in citric acid before adding the combination with other components of the hair straightening composition can be beneficial. a. Water-soluble solvents#

[0052] The term "water-soluble solvent" is interchangeable with the terms "water-soluble organic solvent" and "water-miscible solvent" and means a compound that is liquid at 25°C and atmospheric pressure (760 mmHg), and that has a solubility of at least 50% in water under these conditions. In some cases, water-soluble solvents have a solubility of at least 60%, 70%, 80% or 90%. Non-limiting examples of water-soluble solvents include, for example, organic solvents selected from glycerin, alcohols (e.g., C1-8, or C1-4 alcohols), polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols and a mixture thereof.

[0053] Non-limiting examples of water-soluble organic solvents. Non-limiting examples of water-soluble organic solvents include, for example, organic solvents selected from alcohols (e.g., C2_6 or C2.4 alcohols), polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols, and a mixture thereof. Non-limiting examples of monoalcohols and polyols include 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.Other suitable examples of organic solvents are ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol and propane diol.

[0054] Other non-limiting examples of water-soluble organic solvents include alkanediols (polyhydric alcohols) such as 1,2,6-hexanetriol, trimethylolpropane, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, pentaethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 2-butene-1,4-diol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, (caprylyl glycol), 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-pentanediol and 4-methyl-1,2-pentanediol; alkyl alcohols having 1 to 4 carbon atoms such as ethanol, methanol, butanol, propanol and isopropanol; glycol ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-iso-propyl ether, diethylene glycol mono-iso-propyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-t-butyl ether, diethylene glycol mono-t-butyl ether, 1-methyl-l-methoxybutanol, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol mono-t-butyl ether, propylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether, propylene glycol mono-iso-propyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monoethyl ether, dipropylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether and dipropylene glycol mono-iso-propyl ether; 2-pyrrolidone, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, l,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, formamide, acetamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, sorbit, sorbitan, acetin, diacetin, triacetin, sulfolane, and a mixture thereof.

[0055] Polyhydric alcohols are useful. Examples of polyhydric alcohols include ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, polyethylene glycol, 1,2,4-butanetriol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, and a mixture thereof. Polyol compounds may also be used. Non-limiting examples include aliphatic diols, such as 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 and 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol and a mixture thereof.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the multi-phase cleaning composition includes one or more glycols selected from propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, hexylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, dipropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the multi-phase cleaning composition includes glycerin.

[0058] The amount of water-soluble solvents in the hair smoothing compositions will vary. However, the total amount of one or more water-soluble solvents may be from about 0.1 to about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition. In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 15% by weight, about 0.1 to about 10% by weight, about 0.1 to about 5% by weight, about 1 to about 20% by weight, about 1 to about 15% by weight, about 1 to about 10% by weight, about 1 to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition.

[0059] In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 5% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition. In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 4% by weight, from about 0.1 to about 3% by weight, from about 0.1 to about 2% by weight, from about 0.2 to about 5% by weight, from about 0.2 to about 4% by weight, from about 0.2 to about 3% by weight, from about 0.2 to about 2% by weight, from about 0.5 to about 5% by weight, from about 0.5 to about 4% by weight, from about 0.5 to about 3% by weight, from about 0.5 to about 2% by weight, from about 0.8 to about 5% by weight, from about 0.8 to about 4% by weight, from about 0.5 to about 3% by weight, from about 0.8 to about 2% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents, based on the total weight of the hair straightening composition.

[0060] In still other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 5% by weight of glycerin, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition. In additional embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.1 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.1 to about 2 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 2 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 2 wt%, from about 0.8 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.8 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.8 to about 2 wt% of glycerin, relative to the total weight of the hair straightening composition. a. cationic guar derivatives#

[0061] Cationic guar derivatives include cationically substituted galactomannan gum (guar) derivatives. The guar molecule itself is a straight-chain mannan branched at regular intervals with single-membered galactose units on alternating mannose units. The mannose units are linked together by means of [3(1-4) glycosidic linkages. Branching of the galactose occurs by means of an α(1-6) linkage. Cationic derivatives of guar gums are obtained by reaction between the hydroxyl groups of the polygalactomannan and reactive quaternary ammonium compounds. The degree of substitution of the cationic groups on the guar structure must be sufficient to provide a desired cationic charge density. Quaternary ammonium compounds suitable for use in the formation of cationic guar polymers include those conforming to the general formula (XII): R 1 (XII) Z”

[0062]

[0063]

[0064]

[0065]

[0066] in which R1, R2 and R3 are methyl or ethyl groups; R4 is either an epoxyalkyl group of general formula (XIII): (XIII) or R4 is a halohydrin group of general formula (XIV): X-CH2-CH-R5— <xiv>< / xiv> OH in which R5 is C1-C3 alkylene; X is chlorine or bromine, and Z is an anion such as Cl-, Br-, I- or HSO4-. Cationic guar polymers (cationic derivatives of guar gum) formed from the reagents described above are represented by the general formula (XV): Q1 (XV)

[0067] wherein R is guar gum. Preferably, the cationic guar polymer is guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride, which may be more specifically represented by the general formula (XVI): OH

[0068] Suitable cationic guar derivatives have cationic charge densities of at least about 1.25 meq / gm, preferably at least about 1.5 meq / gm, more preferably at least about 1.7 meq / gm, even more preferably at least about 1.8 meq / gm, still more preferably at least about 2.0 meq / gm, and even more preferably at least about 2.3 meq / gm, but also preferably less than about 7 meq / gm, more preferably less than about 5 meq / gm, still more preferably less than about 4.5 meq / gm. The "cationic charge density" of a cationic guar derivative, as that term is used herein, refers to the ratio of the number of positive charges on a monomeric unit comprising the polymer to the molecular weight of said monomeric unit. The cationic charge density multiplied by the molecular weight of the polymer determines the number of positively charged sites on a given polymer chain.

[0069] Any anionic counterions may be used in combination with the cationic guars so long as the cationic guars remain soluble in water, in the hair straightening composition, or in a coacervate phase of the hair straightening composition, and so long as the counterions are physically and chemically compatible with the essential components of the hair straightening composition or do not otherwise unduly impair the performance, stability, or aesthetics of the product. Non-limiting examples of such counterions include: halides (e.g., chloride, fluoride, bromide, iodide), sulfate, methyl sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0070] Non-limiting examples of cationic guar derivatives include cationic hydroxyethyl guar, cationic hydroxypropyl guar, cationic hydroxybutyl guar, cationic carboxymethyl guar, cationic carboxylpropyl guar, cationic carboxybutyl guar, cationic carboxymethylhydroxypropyl guar, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride and hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride.

[0071] The amount of cationic guar derivative in the hair smoothing compositions will vary. However, in various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 8% by weight of the cationic guar derivative, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition.In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from about 0.1 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.1 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.1 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.1 to about 2 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.2 to about 2 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 2 wt%, from about 0.8 to about 5 wt%, from about 0.8 to about 4 wt%, from about 0.5 to about 3 wt%, from about 0.8 to about 2% by weight of the cationic guar derivative, based on the total weight of the hair straightening composition. a. Water#

[0072] The total amount of water in the hair smoothing compositions will vary. However, in various embodiments, the hair smoothing compositions include about 70 to about 96% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the compositions. In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes about 75 to about 96% by weight, about 80 to about 96% by weight, about 85 to about 96% by weight, about 90 to about 96% by weight, about 70 to about 95% by weight, about 75 to about 95% by weight, about 80 to about 95% by weight, about 85 to about 95% by weight, about 90 to about 95% by weight, based on the total weight of the hair smoothing composition. Miscellaneous Ingredients

[0073] The compositions optionally include or exclude (or are substantially free of) one or more miscellaneous ingredients. Miscellaneous ingredients are ingredients that are compatible with the compositions and do not disrupt or materially affect the fundamental and novel properties of the compositions. Non-limiting examples of ingredients include preservatives, fragrances, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, botanical extracts, UV filtering agents, proteins, protein hydrolysates and / or isolates, fillers (e.g., organic and / or inorganic fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, etc.), composition colorants, etc.In various embodiments, the various ingredients are selected from preservatives, fragrances, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, composition colorants, and mixtures thereof. In the context of the present disclosure, a "composition colorant" is a compound that colors the composition but does not have an appreciable coloring effect on the hair. In other words, the composition colorant is included to impart coloring to the composition for aesthetic purposes but is not intended to impart coloring properties to the hair. Hair styling gels, for example, may come in a variety of different colors (e.g., light blue, light pink, etc.), but application of the styling gel to the hair does not visibly change the color of the hair.

[0074] The total amount of the one or more miscellaneous ingredients in the compositions, if any, will vary. However, in various embodiments, the compositions include about 0.1 to about 15% by weight of the one or more miscellaneous ingredients, based on the total weight of the compositions. In other embodiments, the compositions include about 0.1 to about 12% by weight, about 0.1 to about 10% by weight, about 0.1 to about 5% by weight, about 0.5 to about 15% by weight, about 0.5 to about 12% by weight, about 0.5 to about 10% by weight, about 0.5 to about 8% by weight, about 0.5 to about 5% by weight, about 1 to about 15% by weight, about 1 to about 12% by weight, about 1 to about 10% by weight, about 1 to about 8% by weight, about 1 to about 5% by weight, about 2 to about 15% by weight, about 2 to about 12% by weight, about 2 to about 10% by weight, about 2 to about 8% by weight, or about 2 to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the compositions. PH

[0075] The pH of the composition will vary. However, the compositions typically have a pH less than 7 (an acidic pH). For example, the pH may be from about 2.5 to about 6.5, 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 3 to about 6.5, 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, or from about 3 to about 4. Processes

[0076] As explained throughout the present disclosure, the hair smoothing compositions are particularly useful in methods of smoothing hair, preferably human hair, particularly human head hair. Treatment with the compositions improves fiber alignment, reduces frizz, and imparts a smooth texture to the hair. The methods typically include applying a hair smoothing composition of the present disclosure to the hair. The hair is preferably wet or damp, but the composition can also be applied to dry hair. Applying the compositions to the hair will moisten the hair because the compositions are aqueous (contain a large portion of water).

[0077] The hair smoothing composition is spread throughout the hair, preferably spread substantially uniformly throughout the hair, as a leave-in product, i.e., the hair smoothing composition is typically not rinsed from the hair prior to straightening and / or drying the hair. The hair to which the hair smoothing composition is applied may be physically straightened or physically manipulated with a straightening action. For example, a comb or brush may be used to incorporate the hair smoothing composition into the hair while simultaneously straightening the hair, i.e., pulling the hair in a manner that straightens the hair. Similarly, the hair may be physically manipulated with the hands to spread the straightening composition throughout the hair and the hands may also be used to pull or lay the hair flat to straighten the hair.

[0078] While the hair is brushed or physically manipulated with a straightening action, the hair is allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions. Alternatively, a hair dryer may be used to accelerate the drying of the hair. For example, the hair may be combed or brushed while being blow-dried to simultaneously straighten and dry the hair. The hair dryer may provide heat to the hair and accelerate the straightening and drying. In various embodiments, the hair is subjected to a thermal treatment (heat treatment), i.e., the hair is heated to a temperature of about 120°C to about 250°C, preferably 140°C to about 250°C, more preferably about 150°C to about 200°C. In various embodiments, after the hair is dry or nearly dry, the hair may be treated with a thermal treatment (heat treated). For example, the hair may be treated with a hot iron, particularly a flat iron.Typically, the hot iron is passed over the hair at least once, at least twice, at least three times, or more. The hot iron is preferably at a temperature of about 120°C to about 250°C, preferably 140°C to about 250°C, more preferably about 150°C to about 200°C.

[0079] In various embodiments, the method includes a dwell time between applying the hair smoothing composition to the hair and a heat treatment. The dwell time begins immediately after applying the hair smoothing composition to the hair, while the hair is still wet. The hair may dry naturally during the dwell time, or the hair may be subjected to a drying process to accelerate the drying of the hair, for example, the hair may be dried with a hair dryer, provided that the hair dryer does not heat the hair according to a subsequent heat treatment (heat treatment). Alternatively, blow drying is considered a heat treatment according to the present disclosure. After a dwell time, a heat treatment (heat treatment) is applied to the hair.For example, the heat treatment preferably heats the hair to a temperature of about 120°C to about 250°C, preferably 140°C to about 250°C, more preferably about 150°C to about 200°C. A hair dryer may provide the heat treatment provided that the hair dryer heats the hair to the temperatures expressed. In a preferred embodiment, the hot iron is used for the heat treatment, for example, a curling iron or a flat iron, wherein the hot iron heats the hair to a temperature of about 120°C to about 250°C, preferably 140°C to about 250°C, more preferably about 150°C to about 200°C.

[0080] Where a pause is employed between application of the hair smoothing composition and a heat treatment, the pause time will vary but is typically from about 1 minute to about 2 hours. In other embodiments, the break time is from about 1 minute to about 1 hour, from about 1 minute to about 30 minutes, from about 1 minute to about 20 minutes, from about 2 minutes to about 2 hours, from about 2 minutes to about 1 hour, from about 2 minutes to about 30 minutes, from about 2 minutes to about 20 minutes, from about 5 minutes to about 2 hours, from about 5 minutes to about 1 hour, from about 5 minutes to about 30 minutes, from about 5 minutes to about 20 minutes, from about 15 minutes to about 2 hours, from about 15 minutes to about 1 hour, or from about 15 minutes to about 30 minutes. Exclusions

[0081] Any components positively presented in the present disclosure may be negatively excluded from the claims, for example, a claimed composition may be "free", "essentially free" (or "substantially free") of one or more components that are positively presented in the present disclosure.

[0082] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of anionic surfactants.

[0083] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of polymers, copolymers and crosslinked polymers formed with acrylate or methacrylate monomers, e.g., free or essentially free of polymers and crosslinked polymers of polyacrylic acid and polyacrylate.

[0084] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of N-alkyl-2-mercaptoacetamide. In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of all mercaptoacetamides.

[0085] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of ethylene carbonate. In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of linear carbonates, e.g., dimethyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, etc. In various embodiments, the composition is free or essentially free of cyclic lactones (e.g., valerolactone, caprolactone, pantolactone, meadowlactone, etc.), free or essentially free of heterocyclic molecules (e.g., 2-oxazolidinone, 2-imidazolidinone, etc.), free or essentially free of sulfones (dimethylsulfone, 2,3,4,5-tetrahydrothiophene-1,1-dioxide), and / or free or essentially free of ureas (e.g., urea, ethylene urea, etc.). In still further embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of carbonates. For example, the hair smoothing composition may be free or essentially free of cyclic carbonates, preferably cyclic carbonates selected from propylene carbonate, dipropylene carbonate, butylene carbonate, 2,3-butylene carbonate, 2,3-pentylene carbonate, pentylene carbonate, ethylene carbonate, glycerol carbonate, or a mixture thereof.

[0086] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing compositions are free or essentially free of polysaccharides other than cyclodextrin and / or its derivatives and cationic guar derivatives.

[0087] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of silicones, including amino-functionalized silicones, such as amodimethicone.

[0088] In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of monosaccharides and disaccharides. For example, the composition is free or essentially free of ribose, arabinose, glucose, fructose, xylose, sucrose and / or methyl glucoside.

[0089] In various embodiments, the hair treatment composition is free or essentially free of formaldehyde, formalin, and compounds that produce formaldehyde when heated.

[0090] In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free or essentially free of thioglycolic acid, thiolactic acid, or their salts. Methods of implementation

[0091] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition comprises or consists of: a. about 1 to about 8% by weight, preferably about 1 to about 6% by weight, more preferably about 2 to about 5% by weight of citric acid, a salt thereof or a combination thereof; b. about 0.5 to about 5% by weight, preferably about 1 to about 5% by weight, more preferably about 1 to about 3% by weight of one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a combination thereof;

[0092] wherein a total combined amount of the citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof of (a) and the one or more cyclodextrins, derivatives thereof, or a combination thereof of (b) is about 2 to about 12% by weight, preferably about 2 to about 8, more preferably about 3 to about 6% by weight; and

[0093] wherein preferably (a) and (b) are individually combined with each other to form a composition wherein (b) is dissolved in (a) before being subsequently combined with additional components of the hair treatment composition; a. about 0.1 to about 5% by weight, preferably about 0.1 to about 3% by weight, more preferably about 0.5 to about 2% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents, wherein preferably the one or more water-soluble solvents are selected from C2-C6 monohydric alcohols (e.g., ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, etc.), polyols (polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerin), glycols (e.g., ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, etc.), and mixtures thereof, wherein preferably at least one of the one or more water-soluble solvents is glycerin; b. about 0.1 to about 8% by weight, preferably about 0.2 to about 5% by weight, more preferably about 0.5 to about 4% by weight of one or more cationic guar derivatives, wherein the one or more cationic guar derivatives are preferably selected from cationic hydroxyethyl guar, cationic hydroxypropyl guar, cationic hydroxybutyl guar, cationic carboxymethyl guar, cationic carboxylpropyl guar, cationic carboxybutyl guar, carboxymethylhydroxypropyl guar, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride and hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, preferably wherein the one or more cationic guar derivatives are guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, or a mixture thereof; c. about 70 to about 96% by weight, preferably about 80 to about 95% by weight, more preferably about 85 to about 95% by weight of water;

[0094] wherein all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition; a. optionally, about 0.1 to about 15% by weight, preferably about 0.5 to about 10% by weight, more preferably about 0.5 to about 5% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents, preferably wherein the one or more water-soluble solvents are selected from C2-C6 monohydric alcohols, polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols, or a mixture thereof; and b. optionally, about 0.01 to about 10% by weight, preferably about 0.1 to about 8% by weight, more preferably about 1 to about 5% by weight of one or more miscellaneous ingredients, preferably selected from preservatives, perfumes, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, amino acids, botanical extracts, UV filtering agents, peptides, proteins, protein hydrolysates and / or isolates, fillers (e.g., organic and / or inorganic fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, special materials, etc.), emollients, composition colorants, or a mixture thereof;

[0095] wherein all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition.

[0096] The pH of the composition may vary. However, in various embodiments, a pH of less than 7 (an acidic pH) is desirable. For example, the pH may be from about 3 to about 6.5, 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 3.5 to about 6.5, from about 3.5 to about 6, from about 3.5 to about 5.5, from about 3.5 to about 5, or from about 3.5 to about 4.5.

[0097] In various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of: a. about 1 to about 8% by weight, preferably about 1 to about 6% by weight, more preferably about 2 to about 5% by weight of citric acid, a salt thereof or a combination thereof; b. about 0.5 to about 5 wt. %, preferably about 1 to about 5 wt. %, more preferably about 1 to about 3 wt. % of one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a combination thereof;

[0098] wherein a combined total amount of the citric acid, its salts, or a combination thereof of (a) and the one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a combination thereof of (b) is about 2 to about 12 wt. %, preferably about 2 to about 8 wt. %, more preferably about 3 to about 6 wt. %;

[0099] wherein preferably (a) and (b) are individually combined with each other to form a composition wherein (b) is dissolved in (a) before being subsequently combined with additional components of the hair treatment composition; a. about 0.1 to about 5 wt. %, preferably about 0.1 to about 3 wt. %, more preferably about 0.5 to about 2 wt. % of one or more water-soluble solvents, wherein preferably the one or more water-soluble solvents are selected from C2-C6 monohydric alcohols (e.g., ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, etc.), polyols (polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerin), glycols (e.g., ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, etc.), and mixtures thereof, wherein preferably at least one of the one or more water-soluble solvents is glycerin; b. about 0.1 to about 8% by weight, preferably about 0.2 to about 5% by weight, more preferably about 0.5 to about 4% by weight of guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, or a mixture thereof; c. about 70 to about 96% by weight, preferably about 80 to about 95% by weight, more preferably about 85 to about 95% by weight of water;

[0100] wherein all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition; a. optionally, about 0.1 to about 15% by weight, preferably about 0.5 to about 10% by weight, more preferably about 0.5 to about 5% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents, preferably wherein the one or more water-soluble solvents are selected from C2-C6 monohydric alcohols, polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols, or a mixture thereof; and b. optionally, about 0.01 to about 10% by weight, preferably about 0.1 to about 8% by weight, more preferably about 1 to about 5% by weight of one or more miscellaneous ingredients, preferably selected from preservatives, fragrances, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, amino acids, botanical extracts, UV filtering agents, peptides, proteins, protein hydrolysates and / or isolates, fillers (e.g., organic and / or inorganic fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, special materials, etc.), emollients, composition colorants, or a mixture thereof;

[0101] wherein all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition.

[0102] The pH of the composition may vary. However, in various embodiments, a pH of less than 7 (an acidic pH) is desirable. For example, the pH may be from about 3 to about 6.5, 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 3.5 to about 6.5, from about 3.5 to about 6, from about 3.5 to about 5.5, from about 3.5 to about 5, or from about 3.5 to about 4.5.

[0103] An implementation of the present disclosure is provided by means of the following examples. The examples serve to illustrate the technology without being limiting in nature. EXAMPLE 1 (Compositions)

[0104] [Tables 1] Inventive Comparative ABCDE (a) Citric acid 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 (b) Cyclodextrin 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Total (a)+(b) 4 4 4 4 4 Weight ratio 1.7:1 1.7:1 1.7:1 1.7:1 1.7:1 1.7:1 Molar ratio 10:1 10:1 10:1 10:1 10:1 (c) Glycerin 1 1 1 1 (d) Hydroxypropyl gu ar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride 1 1 Guar gum 1 Carrageenan 1 Miscellaneous * <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 (e) Water 94 95 95 94 94 PH 3 to 4 3 to 4 3 to 4 3 to 4

[0105] * Fillers, pH adjusters, preservatives, botanical extracts, perfumes, buffers, stabilizers, vitamins and / or emollients, etc., e.g. phenoxyethanol, sodium hydroxide and acetic acid. EXAMPLE 2 (Heat-free smoothing performance)

[0106] Inventive Composition A and Comparative Compositions B to E were tested to determine their ability to smooth hair. Strands of Caucasian hair (curl pattern 4) were obtained and cleansed with a standard shampoo. After rinsing the shampoo from the hair strands, 0.4 grams (per gram of hair) of Inventive Composition A or Comparative Compositions B to E was applied to a wet strand of hair. The hair strands were combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, and to spread the various compositions throughout the hair fibers. For comparison, a control strand of hair was used that was cleansed with the same standard shampoo but not treated with Inventive Composition A or Comparative Compositions B to E. After rinsing the shampoo from the strand of control hair, while the hair was wet, the control hair strand was combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers. The hair strands treated with Inventive Composition A, Comparative Compositions B to E and the control were hung and allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions (approximately 2 hours). The strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 1(a).

[0107] The hair strands were then cleaned with standard shampoo (1 wash), combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, hung and allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions (approximately 2 hours). The strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 1(b).

[0108] The hair strands were again cleaned with standard shampoo (2 washes), combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, hung and allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions (approximately 2 hours). The strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 1(c).

[0109] The hair strands were further cleaned with standard shampoo (3 washes), combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, hung and allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions (approximately 2 hours). The strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 1(d).

[0110] The results show that treatment with Inventive Composition A significantly smoothed the hair fibers without heat, and resulted in improved fiber alignment and frizz control (no frizz). These effects were maintained even after cleansing the hair strand with shampoo. As shown in Figure 1(d), after cleansing three times with shampoo, the smoothing effects dissipate, but the hair fibers remain aligned and do not frizz. The hair strands treated with Inventive Composition A were straighter, more aligned, and less frizzy than the hair treated with the control and the hair treated with the comparative compositions. EXAMPLE 3 (Smoothing performance with heat)

[0111] Inventive Composition A and Comparative Compositions BE were tested for their ability to straighten hair in combination with heat treatment. Strands of Caucasian hair (curl pattern 4) were obtained and cleansed with a standard shampoo. After rinsing the shampoo from the hair strands, 0.4 grams (per gram of hair) of Inventive Composition A or Comparative Compositions B to E was applied to two strands of hair (n = 2) while the hair was wet. The strands of hair were combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, and to spread the Composition Inventive A on the entire hair fibers. For comparison, a control hair strand was cleaned with the same standard shampoo. After rinsing the shampoo from the control hair strand, while the hair was still wet, the control hair strand was combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers. The hair strands were hung up and allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions for approximately 1 hour. Then, the hair strands were straightened using a flat iron at a temperature of approximately 180°C. The flat iron was passed over the hair strands 6 times (for approximately 10 seconds per pass). The strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 2(a).

[0112] The hair strands were then cleaned with standard shampoo (1 wash), combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, hung and allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions (approximately 2 hours). The strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 2(b).

[0113] The hair strands were cleaned and dried repeatedly, in one cycle. After five cleaning and drying cycles, the strands were photographed and are shown in Figure 2(c).

[0114] The cleaning and drying cycle was carried out a sixth time and pictures of the wicks are shown in Figure 2(d).

[0115] The results show that heat treatment in combination with hair treatment with Inventive Composition A enhances the hair straightening effects, with improved fiber alignment and frizz control (no frizz). These effects were maintained even after cleansing the hair strands with shampoo. As shown in Figure 2(d), after cleansing six times with shampoo, the straightening effects dissipate but the hair fibers remain aligned and do not frizz. The hair strands treated with Inventive Composition A were straighter, more aligned and less frizzy than the hair treated with the control and the hair treated with the comparative compositions. EXAMPLE 4 (Smoothing performance)

[0116] A test was carried out on hair strands (curl pattern 7) according to the straightening procedures described above in Example 3 (without heat) and Example 4 (with heat). However, after the initial treatment, the hair strands were placed in a humidity chamber for 4 hours at 80% relative humidity. Photographs of the strands after 4 hours in the humidity chamber are shown in Figure 3(a). Photographs of the hair strands after 1 post-treatment wash and dry cycle are shown in Figure 3(b). Photographs of the hair strands hair after 3 post-treatment wash and dry cycles are shown in Figure 3(c). The table below identifies how strands A to G were treated.

[0117] [Tables2] A Untreated hair strand B Control strand without heat C&D Treated strands without heat E Control strand with heat F&G Treated strands with heat

[0118] The foregoing description illustrates and describes the disclosure. Furthermore, the disclosure shows and describes only the preferred embodiments. However, as mentioned above, it is to be understood that it is capable of use in many other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concepts as expressed herein, consistent with the above teachings and / or the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. The embodiments described herein are further intended to explain the best modes known to the applicant and to enable others skilled in the art to use the disclosure in such or other embodiments and with the various modifications required by the particular applications or uses thereof. Accordingly, the description is not intended to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein.Likewise, the appended claims are intended to be construed as including alternative embodiments.

[0119] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "having," and "including" are used in their broad and non-limiting sense.

[0120] The terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are understood to encompass both the plural and the singular. Thus, the expression “a mixture thereof” also relates to “mixtures thereof.” Throughout the disclosure, the expression “a mixture thereof” is used, after a list of elements as shown in the following example where the letters A through F represent the elements: “one or more elements selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, D, E, F, and a mixture thereof.” The expression “a mixture thereof” does not require that the mixture include all of the elements A, B, C, D, E, and F (although all of the elements A, B, C, D, E, and F may be included). Rather, it indicates that a mixture of two or more of A, B, C, D, E, and F may be included. In other words, it is equivalent to the formulation “one or more elements selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, D, E, F, and a mixture of two or more of A, B, C, D, E and F.”

[0121] Similarly, the expression "one of their salts" also relates to "their salts". Thus, when the disclosure refers to "an element selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, D, E, F, one of their salts, and a mixture thereof", it indicates that one or more of A, B, C, D and F may be included, one or more of a salt of A, a salt of B, a salt of C, a salt of D, a salt of E and a salt of F may be included, or a mixture of any two of A, B, C, D, E, F, a salt of A, a salt of B, a salt of C, a salt of D, a salt of E and a salt of F may be included.

[0122] Salts referred to throughout the disclosure may include salts having a counterion such as an alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, or ammonium counterion. This list of counterions, however, is not limiting. Suitable counterions for the components described herein are known in the art.

[0123] The expression “one or more” means “at least one” and therefore includes individual components as well as mixtures / combinations.

[0124] The term “plurality” means “more than one” or “two or more”.

[0125] Except in operational examples, or unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients and / or reaction conditions may be modified in all cases by the term "approximately", meaning to within + / - 5% of the number indicated.

[0126] All percentages, parts and ratios herein are based on the total weight of the compositions of the present invention, unless otherwise indicated.

[0127] Some of the various categories of components identified may overlap. In such cases where an overlap may exist and the composition includes both components (or the composition includes more than two overlapping components), an overlapping compound does not represent more than one component. For example, some compounds may be considered both a nonionic surfactant or emulsifier and a fat component. If a particular composition includes both a nonionic surfactant or emulsifier and a fat compound, a single compound will serve solely as the nonionic surfactant or emulsifier or solely as the fat component (the single compound does not serve as both a nonionic surfactant or emulsifier and a fat component).

[0128] A "rinse-out" product refers to a composition that is rinsed and / or washed from the hair with water after or during application of the composition to the hair, and before drying and / or styling the hair. At least a portion of the composition is removed from the hair during rinsing and / or washing.

[0129] A "leave-in" product refers to a composition that is not rinsed and / or washed out of the hair after or during application of the composition to the hair. The composition remains on the hair during drying and / or throughout styling.

[0130] As used herein, all ranges provided are intended to include each specific range within the given ranges, as well as a combination of intermediate sub-ranges. Thus, a range of 1 to 5 specifically includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as sub-ranges such as 2 to 5, 3 to 5, 2 to 3, 2 to 4, 1 to 4, etc. All ranges and values ​​disclosed herein are inclusive and combinable. For example, any value or point described herein that falls within a range described herein may serve as a minimum or maximum value to derive a sub-range, etc.

[0131] The composition of the present case optionally includes one or more surfactants and / or emulsifiers, e.g., one or more nonionic, anionic, cationic, and / or amphoteric / zwitterionic surfactants. The terms "surfactants" and "emulsifiers" include salts of the surfactants and emulsifiers even if not explicitly stated. In other words, whenever the disclosure refers to a surfactant or emulsifier, it is intended that salts are also encompassed to the extent that such salts exist, even though the specification may not specifically refer to a salt (or may not refer to a salt in all instances throughout the disclosure), e.g., by using language such as "a salt thereof" or "their salts." Sodium and potassium are common cations that form salts with surfactants and emulsifiers.However, additional cations such as ammonium ions, or alkanolammonium ions such as monoethanolammonium or triethanolammonium ions, can also form surfactant salts.

[0132] The term "substantially free" or "essentially free" as used herein means that less than about 2% by weight of a specific material is added to a composition, based on the total weight of the compositions. However, the compositions may include less than about 1% by weight, less than about 0.5% by weight, less than about 0.1% by weight, or none of the specified material.

[0133] Any components positively presented in the present disclosure may be negatively excluded from the claims, for example, a claimed composition may be "free", "essentially free" (or "substantially free") of one or more components that are positively presented in the present disclosure.

Claims

Claims

1. A hair smoothing composition comprising: (a) about 1 to about 8 weight percent of citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof; (b) about 0.5 to about 5 weight percent of one or more cyclodextrins, derivatives thereof, or a combination thereof; wherein a combined total amount of (a) and (b) is about 2 to about 12 weight percent; (c) about 0.1 to about 5 weight percent of one or more water-soluble solvents; (d) about 0.1 to about 8 weight percent of one or more cationic guar derivatives; (e) about 70 to about 96 weight percent of water; wherein all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition.

2. A composition according to claim 1, having a pH of about 3 to about 6 and / or wherein (a) and (b) are in a weight ratio of about 4:1 to about 1:1((a):(b)) and / or a molar ratio of about 20:1 to about 5:1 ((a):(b)).

3. A composition according to claims 1 or 2, wherein (a) and (b) are individually combined with each other to form a mixture wherein (b) is dissolved in (a); and the mixture is then combined with additional components of the composition.

4. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a mixture thereof, are chosen from α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, methyl-α-cyclodextrin, methyl-β-cyclodextrin, methyl-γ-cyclodextrin, or mixtures thereof, preferably in which the one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a mixture thereof are chosen from β-cyclodextrin, its derivatives, or its mixtures.

5. A composition according to any preceding claim, further comprising: (f) about 0.1 to about 10% by weight of one or more miscellaneous ingredients, preferably wherein the one or more miscellaneous ingredients are selected from preservatives, perfumes, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, amino acids, botanical extracts, UV filtering agents, peptides, proteins, protein hydrolysates and / or isolates, fillers (e.g., organic and / or inorganic fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, special materials, etc.), emollients, composition colorants, or mixtures thereof.

6. A hair smoothing composition according to any preceding claim comprising: (a) about 1 to about 5% by weight of citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof; (b) about 1 to about 5% by weight of one or more cyclodextrins, derivatives thereof, or a combination thereof; wherein a combined total amount of (a) and (b) is about 2 to about 8% by weight; (c) about 0.5 to about 4% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents; (d) about 0.5 to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride; (e) about 70 to about 96% by weight of water; (f) optionally, about 0.1 to about 10% by weight of one or more miscellaneous ingredients; wherein the composition has a pH of about 3 to about 5, (a) and (b) are in a weight ratio of about 4:1 to about 1:1((a):(b)) and / or a molar ratio of about 20:1 to about 5:1;and all weight percentages are based on a total weight of the composition.;

7. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the composition is free of film-forming polymers.

8. A method of straightening hair comprising: (i) applying the hair straightening composition of any preceding claim to the hair; (ii) physically manipulating the hair to which the hair straightening composition is applied with a straightening action; and (iii) without removing the straightening composition from the hair, drying the hair.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: (iv) treating the hair with a flat iron at a temperature of about 140°C to about 220°C, wherein the treatment with the flat iron is optionally preceded by a pause time of 1 minute to approximately 1 hour.

10. A method of manufacturing the hair smoothing composition of any one of claims 1 to 7 comprising: (i) dissolving (b) in (a) to obtain a mixture; and (ii) combining the mixture with an additional component of the composition, preferably wherein (a) and (b) are in a weight ratio of about 4:1 to about 1:1 ((a):(b)) and / or a molar ratio of about 20:1 to about 5:1 ((a):(b)) and (a) and (b) are heated at a temperature of about 70 to about 120°C for about 1 to about 5 hours to dissolve (b) in (a).

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