Hair straightening compositions and hair straightening processes

Abstract

Hair Smoothing Compositions and Hair Smoothing Processes This disclosure relates to a hair smoothing composition and hair smoothing processes. The hair smoothing composition includes: (a) citric acid, one of its salts, or a combination thereof; (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. After application of 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 a smooth texture. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: Hair smoothing compositions and hair smoothing processes SCOPE OF DISCLOSURE

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

[0002] Many consumers use cosmetic and care products to enhance the appearance of their 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 various reasons, for example, exposure to the elements, poor nutrition, mechanical treatments (e.g., brushing), styling treatments using chemicals, dyeing, heat, nutrition, etc. Even cleansing products can remove the hair's natural sebum, 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 hair color. Chemical treatments also include processes to permanently change the shape and structure of hair, for example, by perming, perming, relaxing, or straightening. These chemical treatments often alter the appearance of hair by changing its physical structure, which inevitably causes some degree of hair damage. 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 have 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 a greasy feeling on the hair. In addition, the effects are not usually visible until several hours (e.g., 8 hours) of treatment have passed, and multiple treatments are usually required, making the process time-consuming and laborious.

[0005] Hair damage results in split ends, dryness, breakage, and frizz that makes hair difficult to style. Because the visible part of the hair shaft is dead, it lacks the ability to regenerate itself. Many over-the-counter and salon treatments claim 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 smooth, straighten, or style hair without chemically damaging it are desired.

[0006] There is always a need to improve the smoothness and manageability of hair, for example to improve hair alignment, reduce unwanted volume (in particular to reduce frizz), and increase shine.

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

[0008] This disclosure relates to hair smoothing compositions and hair smoothing processes. Hair treated with the compositions exhibits improved fiber alignment, reduced frizz, and a smooth texture. In addition, the treated hair is soft, shiny, revitalized, and has a healthy appearance. The compositions include a combination of citric acid, or one of its salts, and cyclodextrin, or one of its derivatives. The citric acid, or one of its salts, and the cyclodextrin, or one of its derivatives, are combined separately, and the cyclodextrin or derivative is dissolved in the citric acid. Subsequently, the combination is incorporated into the hair smoothing composition.

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

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

[0011] Cyclodextrins are a family of cyclic oligosaccharides composed of a macrocyclic core of glucose submotifs 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 motifs in a core, creating a cone shape; for example, α(alpha)-cyclodextrin has 6 glucose submotifs, β(3)-cyclodextrin has 7 glucose submotifs, and γ(gamma)-cyclodextrin has 8 glucose submotifs. Non-limiting examples of cyclodextrins for use in the compositions of this disclosure include α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, methyl-α-cyclodextrin, methyl-β-cyclodextrin, methyl-γ-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

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

[0013] Citric acid, its salts, or a combination thereof (a) and cyclodextrin, its derivatives, or a combination thereof (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, one of its salts, 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 in the citric acid component. When the cyclodextrin component is dissolved individually in the citric acid component before combining with other ingredients of the hair-smoothing compositions, the The cyclodextrin / citric acid component offers 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 of the composition without first dissolving the cyclodextrin component in the citric acid component.

[0014] Non-limiting examples of water-soluble solvents include C2-C6 monoalcohols (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 called glycerol, is a simple triol (C3H8O3). It is a colorless, odorless, and 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, in particular cationic hydroxypropyl guar, as well as their salts. 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, in particular cationic hydroxypropyl guar.

[0016] 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 monoalcohols (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 hair smoothing 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, 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 (for example, organic and / or inorganic fillers) such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, special materials, etc.), emollients, color compounds, or mixtures thereof.

[0019] Hair straightening processes employing hair straightening compositions include: i. the application of a hair smoothing composition from this disclosure to the hair; ii. the physical manipulation of the hair on which the hair smoothing composition is applied with a smoothing action; iii. without removing the hair smoothing compound, hair drying; and iv. Optionally, heating the hair to a temperature of about 140 °C to about 220 °C, in which the heating of the hair can optionally be carried out after a pause time.

[0020] The hair smoothing composition is applied to the hair, and the hair can then be combed, brushed, or pulled, for example, with the fingers and hands, to smooth wet or damp hair. Combing or brushing helps ensure that the hair smoothing composition is evenly distributed throughout the hair while simultaneously smoothing it. During or after the smoothing action, the hair is dried. The hair can dry naturally under ambient conditions, for example, at a temperature of approximately 25°C. Optionally, the hair can be heat-treated to dry and / or style it. Heat treatment is not required, but in various embodiments, heat treatment is preferred.

[0021] Heat treatment may be preceded by a processing time. A "processing time" is a period of time between the application of the hair styling product to the hair and the heat treatment of the hair. For example, the hair styling product may be applied to the hair, after which a processing time is used before the hair is heat treated. The processing time begins after the application of the hair styling product to the hair, before the hair has dried. After the processing time, the hair is heat treated, for example, with a hairdryer or a hot iron, such as a curling iron or a flat iron, at a temperature of approximately 140°C to approximately 220°C.Heat treatment can be used to facilitate hair drying and help with hair shaping, or heat treatment can be applied to hair after it has dried, for example, after a period of time. The processing time can 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 processing time of about 1 minute to about 1 hour, the hair is subjected to a heat treatment, in which 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 processing time or may be blow-dried. Brief description of the drawings

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

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

[0024] [Fig.1B] Figure 1 (b) compares the 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 the hair strands treated with an inventive composition, comparative compositions and a control, after natural drying overnight under ambient conditions, and after 2 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycles (2x);

[0026] [Fig.1D] 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 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycles (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 the hair strands 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 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycles (5x);

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

[0031] [Fig.3A] Figure 3 (a) shows an untreated curly 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, once they have been subjected to 80% RH for 4 hours;

[0032] [Fig. 3B] Figure 3(b) shows an untreated curly-patterned 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 and after 1 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycle (Ix); and

[0033] [Fig.3C] Figure 3 (c) shows an untreated curly 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, once they have been subjected to 80% RH for 4 hours, and after 3 post-treatment cleaning and drying cycles (3x).

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

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

[0036] in which 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. approximately 0.1 to approximately 8% by weight of one or more cationic guar derivatives; and c. approximately 70 to approximately 96% water by weight;

[0037] in which all percentages by weight 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 one of their combinations will vary. Nevertheless, in various embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes approximately 1 to approximately 8% by weight of citric acid, its salts, or one of their combinations, relative to the total weight of the composition.In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes approximately 1 to approximately 6% by weight, approximately 1 to approximately 4% by weight, approximately 1 to approximately 3% by weight, approximately 2 to approximately 8% by weight, approximately 2 to approximately 6% by weight, approximately 2 to approximately 5% by weight, approximately 2 to approximately 4% by weight, approximately 2 to approximately 3% by weight, approximately 2.5 to approximately 8% by weight, approximately 2.5 to approximately 6% by weight, approximately 2.5 to approximately 5% by weight, approximately 2.5 to approximately 4% by weight, approximately 2.5 to approximately 3% by weight, or approximately 1, approximately 1.5, approximately 2, approximately 2.5, approximately 3, approximately 3.5, approximately 4, approximately 4.5, or approximately 5% by weight of citric acid, its salts, or a combination thereof, relative to 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 submotifs joined by α-1,4 glycosidic bonds.

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

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

[0042] For example, in embodiments where R = H, the cyclodextrin can be α-cyclodextrin (n = 6), β-cyclodextrin (n = 7), or γ-cyclodextrin (n = 8). By way of 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 can 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 WACKER under the name CAVASOL W7 could be chosen.

[0044] In various embodiments, the at least one cyclodextrin may comprise a mixture of cyclodextrins and / or their derivatives. 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 solely β-cyclodextrin, and no other cyclodextrin or derivative thereof is present in the composition.

[0045] In one embodiment, the hair smoothing compositions according to this 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, relative to the total weight of the hair smoothing composition.

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

[0047] Combination of citric acid / salts and cyclodextrin

[0048] The total combined amount of citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) will vary. Nevertheless, in various embodiments, the total combined amount of citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin and derivatives of (b) is from approximately 1 to approximately 12% by weight, relative to the total weight of the hair-smoothing composition. In other embodiments, the total combined amount of citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin and derivatives of (b) is from approximately 1 to approximately 10% by weight, from approximately 1 to approximately 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, relative to a total weight of the hair smoothing composition.

[0049] The weight ratio between citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) will vary. Nevertheless, in various embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a weight ratio of approximately 8:1 to approximately 1:2((a):(b)). In other embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a weight ratio of approximately 6:1 to approximately 1:2, approximately 5:2 to approximately 1:2, approximately 4:1 to approximately 1:2, approximately 3:1 to approximately 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. Nevertheless, in various embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a molar ratio of approximately 20:1 to approximately 3:1. In other embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or a combination of (a) and cyclodextrin or derivatives of (b) are in a molar ratio of approximately 18:1 to approximately 3:1, approximately 15:1 to approximately 3:1, approximately 20:1 to approximately 5:1, approximately 18:1 to approximately 5:1, approximately 15:1 to approximately 5:1, approximately 20:1 to approximately 8:1, approximately 18:1 to approximately 8:1, approximately 15:1 to approximately 8:1, approximately 20:1 to approximately 10:1, approximately 18:1 to approximately 10:1, approximately 15:1 to approximately 10:1, approximately 14:1, approximately 13:1, approximately 12:1, or approximately 11:1.

[0051] In various embodiments, citric acid, its salts, or the combination of (a) and cyclodextrin from (b) are combined before being added to the hair-smoothing compositions of the present disclosure. For example, 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 the dissolution of the cyclodextrin. The solubility of cyclodextrin in water is not always ideal. Therefore, the combination of cyclodextrin with citric acid and the dissolution of the cyclodextrin in Adding citric acid before combining it with other components of the hair smoothing formula can be beneficial. a. Water-soluble solvents#

[0052] The term "water-soluble solvent" is interchangeable with "water-soluble organic solvent" and "water-miscible solvent" and refers to 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., alcohols of the class C1-8 or C1-4), polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols, and mixtures 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 mixtures 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, and 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 monomethyl ethylene glycol ether, monoethyl ethylene glycol ether, monobutyl ethylene glycol ether, monomethyl ethylene glycol ether acetate, monomethyl diethylene glycol ether, monoethyl diethylene glycol ether, mono-n-propyl diethylene glycol ether, mono-isopropyl ethylene glycol ether, mono-isopropyl diethylene glycol ether, mono-n-butyl ethylene glycol ether, mono-t-butyl ether of ethylene glycol, mono-t-butyl ether of diethylene glycol, 1-methyl-l-methoxybutanol, monomethyl ether of propylene glycol, monoethyl ether of propylene glycol, mono-t-butyl ether of propylene glycol, mono-n-propyl ether of propylene glycol, mono-isopropyl ether of propylene glycol, monomethyl ether of dipropylene glycol, monoethyl ether of dipropylene glycol, mono-n-propyl ether of dipropylene glycol and mono-isopropyl ether of dipropylene glycol; 2-pyrrolidone, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, l,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, formamide, acetamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, sorbit, sorbitan, acetin, diacetinate, 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 mixtures 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 any mixture thereof.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the multiphase 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 multiphasic cleaning composition includes glycerin.

[0058] The amount of water-soluble solvents in hair straightening compositions will vary. Nevertheless, the total amount of one or more water-soluble solvents can be from approximately 0.1 to approximately 20% by weight, relative to the total weight of the hair straightening composition. In other embodiments, the hair straightening composition includes approximately 0.1 to approximately 15% by weight, approximately 0.1 to approximately 10% by weight, approximately 0.1 to approximately 5% by weight, approximately 1 to approximately 20% by weight, approximately 1 to approximately 15% by weight, approximately 1 to approximately 10% by weight, and approximately 1 to approximately 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the hair straightening composition.

[0059] In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from approximately 0.1 to approximately 5% by weight of one or more water-soluble solvents, relative to the total weight of the hair smoothing composition. In other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition includes from approximately 0.1 to approximately 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, relative to the total weight of the hair smoothing composition.

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

[0061] Cationic guar derivatives include cationically substituted galactomannan (guar) gum derivatives. The guar molecule itself is a straight-chain mannan branched at regular intervals with single-membered galactose motifs on alternating mannose motifs. The mannose motifs are linked together by means of [3(1-4) glycosidic bonds. The galactose branching occurs by means of an α(1-6) bond. Cationic guar gum derivatives are obtained by reaction between the hydroxyl groups of 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. Suitable quaternary ammonium compounds 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 RI, R2 and R3 are methyl or ethyl groups; R4 is either an epoxyalkyl group with general formula (XIII): (XIII) or R4 is a halohydrine group with general formula (XIV): X-CH2-CH-R5— <xiv>< / xiv> OH in which R5 is a Cl- to C3 alkylene; X is chlorine or bromine, and Z is an anion such as Cl-, Br-, I- or HSO4-. The cationic guar polymers (cationic derivatives of guar gum) formed from the reagents described above are represented by the general formula (XV): Q1 (XV)

[0067] in which R is guar gum. Preferably, the cationic guar polymer is hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium guar chloride, which can 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 of at least about 1.5 meq / gm, more preferably of at least about 1.7 meq / gm, even more preferably of at least about 1.8 meq / gm, still more preferably of at least about 2.0 meq / gm, and even more preferably of at least about 2.3 meq / gm, but preferably less than about 7 meq / gm, more preferably less than about 5 meq / gm, and even more preferably less than about 4.5 meq / gm. The "cationic charge density" of a cationic guar derivative, as this expression is used here, 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] All anionic counterions may be used in combination with cationic guars as long as the cationic guars remain soluble in water, in the hair smoothing composition, or in a coacervated phase of the hair smoothing composition, and as long as the counterions are physically and chemically compatible with the essential components of the hair smoothing 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, carboxymethylhydroxypropyl guar, hydroxypropyltrimonium guar chloride and hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride.

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

[0072] The total amount of water in the hair straightening compositions will vary. Nevertheless, in various embodiments, the hair straightening compositions include approximately 70 to approximately 96% by weight of water, relative to the total weight of the compositions. In other embodiments, the hair straightening composition includes approximately 75 to approximately 96% by weight, approximately 80 to approximately 96% by weight, approximately 85 to approximately 96% by weight, approximately 90 to approximately 96% by weight, approximately 70 to approximately 95% by weight, approximately 75 to approximately 95% by weight, approximately 80 to approximately 95% by weight, approximately 85 to approximately 95% by weight, and approximately 90 to approximately 95% by weight, relative to the total weight of the hair straightening composition. Miscellaneous ingredients

[0073] The compositions optionally include or exclude (or are essentially free from) 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 innovative properties of the compositions. Non-limiting examples of ingredients include preservatives, perfumes, 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.), compositional colorants, etc.In various embodiments, the various ingredients are selected from among preservatives, perfumes, pH adjusters, salts, chelating agents, buffers, composition colorants, and mixtures thereof. In the context of this disclosure, a "composition colorant" is a compound that colors the composition but does not have an appreciable coloring effect on hair. In other words, the composition colorant is included to give color to the composition for aesthetic purposes but is not intended to impart coloring properties to hair. Hair gels, for example, may be found in a variety of different colors (e.g., light blue, light pink, etc.), but applying the hair gel to the hair does not visibly change the hair color.

[0074] The total quantity of one or more miscellaneous ingredients in the compositions, if any, will vary. Nevertheless, in various embodiments, the compositions include approximately 0.1 to approximately 15% by weight of one or more miscellaneous ingredients, relative to the total weight of the compositions. In other embodiments, the compositions include approximately 0.1 to approximately 12% by weight, approximately 0.1 to approximately 10% by weight, approximately 0.1 to approximately 5% by weight, approximately 0.5 to approximately 15% by weight, approximately 0.5 to approximately 12% by weight, approximately 0.5 to approximately 10% by weight, approximately 0.5 to approximately 8% by weight, approximately 0.5 to approximately 5% by weight, approximately 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, relative to the total weight of the compositions. PH

[0075] The pH of the composition will vary. Nevertheless, 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 this disclosure, hair smoothing compositions are particularly useful in hair smoothing processes, preferably for human hair, especially human scalp hair. Treatment with the compositions improves fiber alignment, reduces frizz, and imparts a smooth texture to the hair. The processes typically involve applying a hair smoothing composition from this 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 it because the compositions are aqueous (contain a large proportion of water).

[0077] The hair smoothing composition is applied to the entire length of the hair, preferably in a substantially uniform manner, as a leave-in product; that is, the hair smoothing composition is typically not rinsed from the hair before straightening and / or drying. The hair to which the hair smoothing composition is applied may be physically straightened or manipulated with a straightening action. For example, a comb or brush may be used to work the hair smoothing composition into the hair while simultaneously straightening the hair, i.e., pulling the hair in a way that smooths it. Similarly, the hair may be physically manipulated with the hands to spread the straightening composition, and the hands may also be used to pull or lay the hair flat to smooth it.

[0078] While the hair is being brushed or physically manipulated with a smoothing action, the hair can dry naturally under ambient conditions. Alternatively, a hairdryer can be used to speed up hair drying. For example, the hair can be combed or brushed while being blow-dried to simultaneously straighten and dry it. The hairdryer can provide heat to the hair, accelerating the straightening and drying process. In various embodiments, the hair undergoes heat treatment, meaning it is heated to a temperature of approximately 120°C to approximately 250°C, preferably 140°C to approximately 250°C, and more preferably approximately 150°C to approximately 200°C. In various embodiments, after the hair is dry or nearly dry, it can be further heat-treated. For example, the hair can be treated with a hot iron, in particular, 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 approximately 120°C to approximately 250°C, preferably 140°C to approximately 250°C, and more preferably approximately 150°C to approximately 200°C.

[0079] In various embodiments, the process includes a waiting period between the application of the hair smoothing composition to the hair and a heat treatment. The waiting period begins immediately after the application of the hair smoothing composition to the hair, while the hair is still wet. The hair may dry naturally during the waiting period, or the hair may be subjected to a drying process to accelerate drying; for example, the hair may be dried with a hairdryer, provided that the hairdryer does not heat the hair according to a subsequent heat treatment (heat treatment). Otherwise, blow-drying is considered a heat treatment according to this disclosure. After a waiting period, a heat treatment (heat treatment) is applied to the hair.For example, heat treatment preferably heats the hair to a temperature of approximately 120 °C to approximately 250 °C, preferably from 140 °C to approximately 250 °C, and more preferably from approximately 150 °C to approximately 200 °C. A hair dryer can provide the heat treatment provided that the hair dryer heats the hair to the stated temperatures. In a preferred embodiment, a hot iron is used for the heat treatment, for example, a curling iron or a flat iron, in which the hot iron heats the hair to a temperature of approximately 120 °C to approximately 250 °C, preferably from 140 °C to approximately 250 °C, and more preferably from approximately 150 °C to approximately 200 °C.

[0080] When a pause is used between the application of the hair smoothing composition and a heat treatment, the processing time will vary but is typically from about 1 minute to about 2 hours. In other embodiments, the pause 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] All components presented positively in this disclosure may be excluded negatively from the claims, for example, a claimed composition may be "free", "essentially free" (or "substantially free") of one or more components that are presented positively in this 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, for example, free or essentially free of polyacrylic acid and polyacrylate polymers and crosslinked polymers.

[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, for example, dimethyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, etc. In various embodiments, the composition is free or essentially free of cyclic lactones (for example, valerolactone, caprolactone, pantolactone, meadowlactone, etc.), free or essentially free of heterocyclic molecules (for example, 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 (for example, urea, ethylene urea, etc.). In still other embodiments, the hair smoothing composition is free from or essentially free from carbonates. For example, the hair smoothing composition may be free or substantially 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 mixtures 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 substantially 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 substantially 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, one of its salts or one of its combinations; 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 one of their combinations;

[0092] wherein a total combined amount of citric acid, one of its salts, or one of its combinations of (a) and one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or one of their combinations of (b) is approximately 2 to approximately 12% by weight, preferably approximately 2 to approximately 8%, more preferably approximately 3 to approximately 6% by weight; and

[0093] wherein preferably (a) and (b) are individually combined to form a composition in which (b) is dissolved in (a) before being 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 monoalcohols (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, hydroxypropyltrimonium guar chloride and hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, preferably wherein the one or more cationic guar derivatives are hydroxypropyltrimonium guar 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] in which all percentages by weight 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 monoalcohols, polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols, or mixtures 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, compositional colorants, or mixtures thereof;

[0095] in which all percentages by weight are based on a total weight of the composition.

[0096] The pH of the composition may vary. However, in various embodiments, a pH below 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, one of its salts or one of its combinations; 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 one of their combinations;

[0098] wherein a total combined amount of citric acid, its salts, or one of their combinations of (a) and one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or one of their combinations 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;

[0099] in which preferably (a) and (b) are individually combined with each other to form a composition in which (b) is dissolved in (a) before being further 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 monoalcohols (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 their mixtures, in which 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, 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] in which all percentages by weight 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 monoalcohols, polyols (polyhydric alcohols), glycols, or mixtures 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 (for example, organic and / or inorganic fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, silica, special materials, etc.), emollients, compositional colorants, or a mixture thereof;

[0101] in which all percentages by weight are based on a total weight of the composition.

[0102] The pH of the composition may vary. However, in various embodiments, a pH below 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 this disclosure is provided by means of the following examples. The examples are intended to illustrate the technology but are not intended to be exhaustive. 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 Molar ratio 10:1 10:1 10:1 10:1 10:1 (c) Glycerin 1 1 1 1 (d) Hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride 1 1 Guar gum 1 Carrageenan 1 Miscellaneous * <5 <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 3 to 4

[0105] * Fillers, pH adjusters, preservatives, botanical extracts, perfumes, buffers, stabilizers, vitamins and / or emollients, etc., for example phenoxyethanol, sodium hydroxide and acetic acid. EXAMPLE 2 (Heatless straightening performance)

[0106] Inventive Composition A and Comparative Compositions B to E were tested to determine their ability to straighten hair. Strands of Caucasian hair (curl pattern 4) were obtained and cleaned 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 hair strand. The hair strands were combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers and to spread the various compositions over all the hair fibers. For comparison, a control hair strand was used that had been cleaned 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 For the control hair, while the hair was wet, the control 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 left 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 washed with standard shampoo (2 washes), combed six times to smooth and align the hair fibers, hung up, and left 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 left 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, resulting in improved fiber alignment and frizz control (no frizz). These effects were maintained even after shampooing the hair strand. As shown in Figure 1(d), after three shampooings, the smoothing effects diminished, but the hair fibers remained aligned and did 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 (Heat straightening performance)

[0111] Inventive Composition A and Comparative Compositions B to E were tested for their ability to straighten hair in combination with heat treatment. Strands of Caucasian hair (curl pattern 4) were obtained and cleaned 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 hair strands (n = 2) while the hair was wet. The hair strands were combed six times to straighten and align the hair fibers and to distribute the Composition Inventive A was applied to the entire hair fiber. For comparison, a control hair strand was washed 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 and left to dry naturally under ambient conditions for approximately one 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 six 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 left 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 repeatedly cleaned and dried 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 photographs of the wicks are shown in Figure 2(d).

[0115] The results show that heat treatment in combination with hair treatment using Inventive Composition A enhances the hair-smoothing effects, with improved fiber alignment and frizz control (no frizz). These effects were maintained even after shampooing the hair strands. As shown in Figure 2(d), after six shampooings, the smoothing effects diminish, 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 one post-treatment wash and drying cycle are shown in Figure 3(b). Photographs of the strands of Hair after 3 post-treatment wash and drying cycles is 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 Heat-treated strands E Heat-treated strand F&G Heat-treated strands

[0118] The preceding description illustrates and describes the disclosure. Furthermore, the disclosure shows and describes only the preferred embodiments. However, as mentioned above, it should be understood that it is suitable for use in several other combinations, modifications, and environments, and that it is suitable for changes or modifications in the scope of the inventive concepts as expressed herein, in accordance with the teachings above and / or the skills or knowledge of the relevant art. The embodiments described herein are further intended to explain the best known means 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 particular applications or uses thereof. Accordingly, the description is not intended to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein.Similarly, the annexed claims are to be interpreted as including variant 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 phrase "one of their mixtures" also refers to "their mixtures." Throughout the disclosure, the phrase "one of their mixtures" is used after a list of items, as shown in the following example where the letters A through F represent the items: "one or more items selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, D, E, F, and one of their mixtures." The phrase "one of their mixtures" does not require that the mixture include all of the items A, B, C, D, E, and F (although all of the items 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 items 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 / its salts" also refers to "their / its salts." Thus, when the disclosure refers to "an item selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, D, E, F, one of their salts, and one of their mixtures," 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] The 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 exhaustive. The appropriate counterions for the components described herein are known in 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 can be modified in all cases by the term "approximately", meaning 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 identified component categories 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 surfactant or a nonionic emulsifier and a fatty compound. If a particular composition includes both a surfactant or a nonionic emulsifier and a fatty compound, a single compound will serve only as a surfactant or nonionic emulsifier or only as a fatty compound (the single compound does not serve as both a surfactant or nonionic emulsifier and a fatty component).

[0128] A "rinse-off" 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 from the hair after or during its application. The composition remains on the hair during drying and / or throughout styling.

[0130] As used herein, all provided ranges are intended to include each specific range within the given ranges, as well as a combination of intermediate subranges. Thus, a range of 1 to 5 specifically includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as subranges 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 can serve as a minimum or maximum value to derive a subrange, etc.

[0131] The composition of this case optionally includes one or more surfactants and / or emulsifiers, for example, one or more nonionic, anionic, cationic, and / or amphoteric / zwitterionic surfactants. The terms "surfactants" and "emulsifiers" include the salts of 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 if the disclosure description may not specifically refer to a salt (or may not refer to a salt in all instances throughout the disclosure), for example, by using language such as "one of their salts" or "their salts." Sodium and potassium are common cations that form salts with surfactants and emulsifiers.However, additional cations such as ammonium ions, or alkanoammonium ions such as monoethanolammonium or triethanolammonium ions, can also form surfactant salts.

[0132] The expression "substantially free" or "essentially free" as used here means that less than about 2% by weight of a specific material is added to a composition, relative to 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] All components presented positively in this disclosure may be excluded negatively from the claims, for example, a claimed composition may be "free", "substantially free" (or "substantially free") of one or more components that are presented positively in this disclosure.

Claims

Demands

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

2. 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. Composition according to claims 1 or 2, wherein (a) and (b) are individually combined with each other to form a mixture in which (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, wherein one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a mixture thereof, are selected from α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, methyl-α-cyclodextrin, methyl-β-cyclodextrin, methyl-γ-cyclodextrin, or mixtures thereof, preferably wherein one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, or a mixture thereof are selected from β-cyclodextrin, its derivatives, or mixtures thereof.

5. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, 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, compositional colorants, or mixtures thereof.

6. A hair smoothing composition according to any one of the preceding claims comprising: (a) about 1 to about 5% by weight of citric acid, one of its salts, or a combination thereof; (b) about 1 to about 5% by weight of one or more cyclodextrins, their derivatives, 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; in which 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 l:l((a):(b)) and / or a molar ratio of about 20:1 to about 5:1;and all percentages by weight are based on the total weight of the composition.

7. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is free of film-forming polymers.

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

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

10. A method for 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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