composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material

Abstract

The present invention relates to a composition, preferably for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, comprising: a) at least one alpha-hydroxy acid; and b) at least one selenium sulfide; wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size of 65 μm or less.

Description

Title of the invention: composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp. The present invention also relates to a process for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] The scalp is an epidermis that undergoes continuous renewal, like the rest of the skin tissue, and is rich in sebaceous glands. Normally, the scalp is renewed by an imperceptible and invisible elimination of superficial skin cells. However, excessive renewal of cells in the horny layer of the scalp, for various reasons, can lead to the formation of large, thick patches of cells visible to the naked eye, known as "dandruff".

[0003] Dandruff is a chronic, frequent and recurring condition that is socially disabling due to its manifestly unsightly nature. These dandruff-like conditions of the scalp result in an alteration of the barrier function of the epidermis. In addition, these conditions can give rise to sensations of itching or pruritus, leading to scratching behavior that amplifies the phenomenon of the appearance of dandruff.

[0004] Many cosmetic products for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material have been developed to comprise at least one anti-dandruff agent, for example, selenium sulfide, to solve the above problems. However, it is often difficult for cosmetic products comprising selenium sulfide to provide satisfactory revitalizing effects to customers, for example, a smooth texture feeling. In addition, customers also require a desired anti-dandruff efficacy.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, which comprises selenium sulfide, and can provide an improved smooth texture feeling of the keratinous material, and optionally a desired anti-dandruff efficacy. Summary of the invention

[0006] The inventors have discovered that such a need can be satisfied by the composition according to the present invention.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a composition, preferably for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, comprising: a. at least one alpha-hydroxy acid; and b. at least one selenium sulfide;

[0008] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size of 65 qm or less.

[0009] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a process for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp, comprising the following steps: a. applying the composition as described above to a wet keratinous material, b. massaging the keratinous material for 2 seconds to 120 seconds, and c. rinsing the keratinous material with water.

[0010] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a process for preparing the composition as described above, comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a selenium sulfide and at least one additional component, wherein the process comprises a step of premixing the alpha-hydroxy acid with the selenium sulfide at a weight ratio ranging from 0.5 to 1000, before or after the addition of said additional component.

[0011] Due to the as-formed selenium sulfide aggregations having the specific size, after applying the composition to the keratinous material, preferably to the hair and scalp, the composition can provide an improved smooth texture feeling of the keratinous material.

[0012] By premixing the alpha-hydroxy acid with the selenium sulfide at a weight ratio of 0.5 to 1000, the selenium sulfide can be better dispersed in the composition.

[0013] Furthermore, the composition according to the present invention can also provide desirable anti-dandruff efficacy.

[0014] Other subjects and characteristics, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become even more apparent from the detailed description and examples which follow. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] In the following and unless otherwise indicated, the limits of a range of values ​​are included in this range, in particular in the expressions "between...and..." and "from...to...".

[0016] The articles "a" and "an", as used herein, mean one or more when applied to any feature in embodiments of the present invention described in the specification and claims. The use of "a" and "an" does not limit the meaning to a single feature, unless such a limitation is specifically stated. Furthermore, the expression "at least one" as used in this description is equivalent to the expression "one or more".

[0017] Throughout this application, the term "comprising" is to be interpreted as encompassing all of the specifically mentioned features as well as optional, additional, unspecified features. As used herein, the use of the term "comprising" also discloses the embodiment in which no material features or features other than the specifically mentioned features are present (such as "consisting essentially of" or "consisting of"). In the case of "consisting essentially of," any additional composition, material, and / or component that materially affects the fundamental and novel characteristics is excluded from such an embodiment, but any composition, material, and / or component that does not materially affect the fundamental and novel characteristics may be included in the embodiment.

[0018] Unless otherwise specified, all numerical values ​​expressing an amount of ingredients and the like used in the description and claims are to be understood as being modified by the term "about". Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, the numerical values ​​and parameters described herein are approximate values ​​which may be modified depending on the desired performance obtained as required. The term "about" denoting a certain value is intended to denote a range within ± 5% of the value, for example: within ± 3%, ± 2%, ± 1% and ± 0.5% of the value.

[0019] As used herein, the expression "keratinous material(s)" means at least one material selected from hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, skin, nails, mucous membranes and scalp, and preferably hair and scalp.

[0020] For the purposes of the present invention, and unless otherwise indicated:

[0021] - an “alkyl” radical denotes a linear or branched saturated radical containing, for example example, from 1 to 30 carbon atoms.

[0022] - an “alkenyl” radical designates a hydrocarbon group formed when an atom hydrogen is removed from an alkene group.

[0023] - an “alkoxy” radical designates an alkyl attached to the parent molecule by an atom of oxygen (i.e., “-O-alkyl”), where “alkyl” is as defined above.

[0024] - a “heterocyclyl” radical designates a monovalent group derived from a chosen cycle among monocyclic, bicyclic or polycyclic rings of 3 to 8 members, preferably of 4 to 6 members, saturated, partially unsaturated or totally unsaturated comprising at least one carbon atom in addition to 1, 2, 3 or 4 heteroatoms chosen from oxygen, sulfur and nitrogen.

[0025] - an “aryl” radical denotes a monovalent hydrocarbon radical derived from a system of monocyclic, fused bicyclic, or polycyclic rings (in which at least one ring contains a fully conjugated ir electron system) with known aromatic characteristics. Alpha-hydroxy acid

[0026] The composition according to the present invention comprises at least one alpha-hydroxy acid.

[0027] The expression "alpha-hydroxy acid" means, according to the present invention, a carboxylic acid having at least one hydroxyl functional group occupying an alpha position on said acid (carbon adjacent to a carboxylic acid functional group).

[0028] The alpha-hydroxy acid present in the composition, according to the present invention, includes, but is not limited to, glycolic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, methyllactic acid, glucuronic acid, 2-hydroxybutanoic acid, 2-hydroxypentanoic acid, 2-hydroxyhexanoic acid, 2-hydroxyheptanoic acid, 2-hydroxyoctanoic acid, 2-hydroxynonanoic acid, 2-hydroxydecanoic acid, 2-hydroxyundecanoic acid, 2-hydroxydodecanoic acid, 2-hydroxytetradecanoic acid, 2-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxytetracosanoic acid, 2-hydroxyeicosanoic acid, mandelic acid, phenyllactic acid, gluconic acid, galacturonic acid, ribonic acid, tartronic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, fumaric acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0029] Preferably, the alpha-hydroxy acid is a lower acid having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0030] Suitable alpha-hydroxy acids include glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, gluconic acid, and combinations thereof.

[0031] Preferably, the alpha-hydroxy acid is a monocarboxylic acid.

[0032] More preferably, the alpha-hydroxy acid is a lower monocarboxylic acid having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms such as lactic acid.

[0033] The most preferable alpha-hydroxy acid is lactic acid, for example, that sold under the trade name L-LACTIC ACID (90%) (CRG) by the company MUSASHINO CHEMICAL LABORATORY, and that sold under the trade name L(4)-LACTIC ACID 90% HEAT STABLE PERSONAL CARE by the company JUNGBUNZLAUER.

[0034] Advantageously, the alpha-hydroxy acid is in an amount ranging from 0.01% by weight to 30% by weight, preferably from 0.05% by weight to 20% by weight, more preferably from 0.1% by weight to 10% by weight, even more preferably from 0.5% by weight to 8% by weight, and most preferably from 1% by weight to 6% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Selenium sulfide

[0035] The composition according to the present invention comprises at least one selenium sulfide (or selenium disulfide).

[0036] Selenium sulfide is a basic commercial item. Selenium sulfide is generally considered to be a compound containing one mole of selenium and two moles of sulfur. However, it can take the form of a ring structure, SexSy , in which x + y = 8. Since sulfur and selenium readily form rings and chains, selenium sulfide is not a pure chemical compound, but a mixture, for example, a mixture of eight-membered ring compounds where the overall Se:S ratio is 1:2 (often abbreviated as SeS2).

[0037] Selenium sulfide is used to treat dandruff and certain scalp infections (seborrheic dermatitis). It reduces itching, irritation, and redness of the scalp.

[0038] According to the present invention, selenium sulfide is added as a raw material in the form of a powder, the particles of which generally have a particle size (D90) of less than 25 qm, preferably less than 20 qm, more preferably less than 15 qm, and even more preferably less than 10 qm. For example, selenium sulfide, as a raw material, may have a particle size (D90) ranging from 1 qm to 24 qm, preferably from 3 qm to 15 qm, and more preferably from 5 qm to 10 qm, for example, 24 qm, 20 qm, 18 qm, 15 qm, 10 qm, 8 qm, 7 qm, 5 qm, 3 qm, 2 qm or 1 qm. For the purposes of the present invention, the particle size (D90) corresponds to the particle size defined such that 90% by volume of the particles have a size smaller than the particle size (D90). The particle size is, for example, measured by a forward laser light scattering device (e.g., a Malvern 3600 instrument).

[0039] A particularly preferable example of selenium sulfide is that sold under the trade name SELENIUM SULPHIDE EP / USP MICRONIZED by the company ESKAY FINE CHEMICALS.

[0040] Advantageously, the selenium sulfide is present in an amount ranging from 0.001% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.005% by weight to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.1% by weight to 2% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Fatty amine

[0041] According to the present invention, the composition may comprise at least one fatty amine as a conditioning agent. Two or more fatty amines may be used in combination. Thus, a single type of fatty amine or a combination of different types of fatty amines may be used.

[0042] The term "fatty amines" means primary, secondary or tertiary fatty amines, which are optionally (poly)oxyalkylenated, or their salts. The fatty amines generally comprise at least one C6-C3o hydrocarbon-based chain. Preferably, the fatty amines according to the present invention are not quaternized. Preferably, the fatty amines according to the present invention are not (poly)oxyalkylenated.

[0043] Preferably, the composition according to the present invention comprises at least one fatty amine comprising at least one C6-C30 hydrocarbon-based chain.

[0044] Preferably, the composition according to the present invention comprises at least one fatty amine chosen from tertiary fatty amines.

[0045] More preferably, the composition according to the present invention comprises one or more tertiary fatty amines chosen from amidoamines.

[0046] Amidoamines are a class of chemical compounds formed from fatty acids and diamines. Non-limiting examples of amidoamines include those of the following formula (I):

[0047] RCONHR'N(R")2(I)

[0048] in which R represents a hydrocarbon radical containing at least 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 6 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably from 8 to 24 carbon atoms, and in particular a C6-C30, preferably C8-C24, linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated and substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon radical, preferably a C6-C30, preferably C8-C24, linear or branched alkyl radical, or a C6-C30, preferably C8-C24, linear or branched alkenyl radical; and R' represents a divalent hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, which may be linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, and substituted or unsubstituted; and R" which may be the same or different, represents a hydrogen or a hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 4 carbon atoms.Additionally, R" may be linear or branched, acyclic or cyclic, saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted. Preferably, R" is a linear or branched acyclic alkyl or alkenyl group. More preferably, R" is hydrogen or a methyl group.

[0049] Non-limiting examples of amidoamines include, but are not limited to, oleamidopropyl dimethylamine, stearamidopropyl dimethylamine, isostearamidopropyl dimethylamine, stearamidoethyl dimethylamine, lauramidopropyl dimethylamine, myristamidopropyl dimethylamine, behenamidopropyl dimethylamine, dilinoleamidopropyl dimethylamine, palmitamidopropyl dimethylamine, ricinoleamidopropyl dimethylamine, sojamidopropyl dimethylamine, wheat germamidopropyl dimethylamine, toumesolamidopropyl dimethylamine, amandamidopropyl dimethylamine, avocatamidopropyl dimethylamine, babassuamidopropyl dimethylamine, cocamidopropyl dimethylamine, visonamidopropyl dimethylamine, avoinamidopropyl dimethylamine, sesamidopropyl dimethylamine, tallamidopropyl dimethylamine, brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine, olivamidopropyl dimethylamine, stearamidoethyl diethylamine, stearamidopropyl diethylamine, palmitamidopropyl diethylamine,palmitamidoethyl diethylamine, palmitamidoethyl dimethylamine, behenamidopropyl diethylamine, behenamidoethyl diethylamine, behenamidoethyl dimethylamine, arachidamidopropyl dimethylamine, arachidamidopropyl diethylamine, arachidamidoethyl diethylamine, arachidamidoethyl dimethylamine, diethylaminoethylstearamide, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the fatty amine is brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine.

[0050] Other suitable fatty amines include, but are not limited to, octylamine, decylamine, dodecylamine, stearylamine, stearyldimethylamine, and mixtures thereof.

[0051] A particularly preferable example of brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine is that sold under the trade name PROCONDITION 2 by INOLEX CHEMICAL COMPANY.

[0052] Advantageously, the fatty amine is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight, more preferably from 0.05% by weight to 2% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives

[0053] According to the present invention, the composition may comprise at least one beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives.

[0054] The term "beta-hydroxy acid" is understood, according to the present invention, to mean a carboxylic acid having a hydroxyl functional group and a carboxylic functional group separated by two carbon atoms.

[0055] Preferably, the "derivative" in the expression "beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives" means that the hydroxyl functional group of the beta-hydroxy acid, rather than the carboxylic functional group, is derivatized and preferably acylated.

[0056] Preferably, the beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives are chosen from salicylic acid, its derivatives acylated on the hydroxyl group, and its derivative of the following formula (II):

[0057] wherein, R represents a linear, branched or cyclic saturated aliphatic group or an unsaturated aliphatic group containing one or a number of double bonds, which may or may not be conjugated, these groups containing from 2 to 22, preferably from 3 to 11 carbon atoms and being optionally substituted by at least one substituent selected from (a) halogen atoms, (b) the trifluoromethyl group, (c) hydroxyl groups in free form or esterified by an acid having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms or (d) a carboxyl functional group which is free or esterified by a lower alcohol having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms;

[0058] R' represents a hydroxyl group or an ester functional group of the following formula (III): ---O--C — R, (III) II O

[0059] in which Ri is a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched aliphatic group having from 1 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably from 4 to 15 carbon atoms.

[0060] More preferably, the beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives are those having a salicylic moiety, including salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloylsalicylic acid, 5-n-decanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-dodecanoylsalicyl acid, 5-propanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-hexadecanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-oleoylsalicylic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0061] Non-limiting examples of other useful beta-hydroxy acids and / or derivatives thereof include 5-n-octylsalicylic acid, 5-n-heptyloxysalicylic acid, 4-n-heptyloxysalicylic acid, 5-tert-octylsalicylic acid, 3-tert-butyl-5-methylsalicylic acid, 3-tert-butyl-6-methylsalicylic acid, 3,5-diisopropylsalicylic acid, 5-butoxysalicylic acid, 5-octyloxysalicylic acid, 5-benzoylsalicylic acid, beta-hydroxypropionic acid, beta- hydroxybutyric acid, beta-hydroxybeta-methylbutyric acid, carnitine, lipohydroxy acid, 3-hydroxyvaleric acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0062] According to the present invention, the beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives are preferably particularly chosen from salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, and mixtures thereof, and are more preferably salicylic acid.

[0063] A particularly preferred beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives are salicylic acid, for example, that sold under the trade name AMIPRESERVE by the company ALBAN MULLER (CRODA), and that sold under the trade name SALICYLIC ACID USP by the company CELLMARK.

[0064] Advantageously, the beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives are present in an amount ranging from 0.05% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.1% by weight to 8% by weight, and more preferably from 0.5% by weight to 6% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Anionic surfactant

[0065] According to the present invention, the composition may comprise at least one anionic surfactant.

[0066] In the present description, a species is said to be “anionic” when it carries at least one permanent negative charge or when it can be ionized in the form of a negatively charged species, under the conditions of use of the composition of the invention (for example, the medium or the pH).

[0067] Preferably, the anionic surfactant is chosen from alkyl ether sulfates.

[0068] In some cases, the alkyl ether sulfates include those having the following formula (IV): (IV)

[0069] in which, R represents a hydrogen or an alkyl chain having 6 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably an alkyl chain having 8 to 18 carbon atoms, and more preferably an alkyl chain having 12 to 18 carbon atoms, said alkyl chain being saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted;

[0070] M represents a solubilizing cation such as alkali metal ions, for example sodium or potassium, ammonium or substituted ammonium ions, or alkanolammonium ions, for example monoethanolammonium or triethanolammonium ions; and

[0071] n is an integer from 0 to 3, preferably between 1 and 3, more preferably between 2 and 3.

[0072] Preferably, the anionic surfactant is sodium laureth sulfate, for example, that sold under the trade name EMAL 170S by the company KAO, or under the trade name KOPACOL N701 S RENU ULTRA / MB MASPHATE ES70 IM LD RSPO MB by the company KENSING PT MUSIM MAS.

[0073] Advantageously, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount ranging from 1% by weight to 30% by weight, preferably from 5% by weight to 25% by weight, more preferably from 10% by weight to 20% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Nitrogen-containing compound

[0074] The composition according to the present invention may comprise at least one nitrogen-containing compound corresponding to the following formula (V):

[0075] in which Rh R2, R3, R4 and R5, independently of each other, denote a radical chosen from:

[0076] - a hydrogen atom,

[0077] - a carboxyl group, and

[0078] - a linear or branched C1-C6 alkyl group, saturated or unsaturated, which is optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms selected from O, S and N, and / or optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from amino, imino, amidino, guanidino, hydroxyl, sulhydryl, carboxyl, amido, C1-C6 perfluoroalkyl, C1-C6 alkoxy, sulfate, phosphate, aryl and heterocyclyl, and

[0079] wherein R 1 and R 4 optionally form a ring which contains 5 or 6 atoms selected from carbon and nitrogen.

[0080] Preferably, RB R2, R3, R4 and R5, independently of one another, denote a radical chosen from:

[0081] - a hydrogen atom,

[0082] - a carboxyl group, and

[0083] - a linear or branched C1-C6 alkyl group, saturated or unsaturated, which is optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms chosen from O, S and N, and / or optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from amino, imino, amidino, guanidino, hydroxyl, sulhydryl, carboxyl, amido, C1-C6 alkoxy, phenyl and heterocyclyl selected from pyrimidyl, piperidyl, morpholinyl, pyranyl, furyl, piperazinyl, pyridyl, imidazolyl and indolyl, and

[0084] wherein R1 and R4 optionally form a ring which contains 5 or 6 atoms selected from carbon or nitrogen.

[0085] According to the present invention, the nitrogen-containing compound may have a molecular weight of less than 500, preferably less than 400, and more preferably less than 250.

[0086] Non-limiting examples of the nitrogen-containing compound include, but are not limited to, arginine, including L-arginine, trolamine, diethanolamine, L-alanine, L-asparagine, L-aspartate, L-cysteine, L-glutamate, L-glutamine, L-glycine, L-histidine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-proline, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, L-valine, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, monoisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine, N-dimethylaminoethanolamine, triisopropanolamine, 3-isopropoxypropylamine, 3-methoxypropylamine (3-MPA), 3-ethoxypropylamine, 3-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-propylamine, 2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethanol (2-2AEE), 3-butoxypropylamine (3-BPA) and monoethanolamine (MEA), and mixtures thereof.

[0087] Preferably, the nitrogen-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of L-arginine, trolamine, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, and mixtures thereof, more preferably L-arginine.

[0088] Preferably, the composition comprises at least 1% by weight to 10% by weight of the nitrogen-containing compound selected from the group consisting of L-arginine, trolamine, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, and mixtures thereof, more preferably L-arginine.

[0089] One of the particularly preferable nitrogen-containing compounds is L-arginine sold under the trade name L ARGININE by the company KYOWA HAKKO.

[0090] Advantageously, the nitrogen-containing compound is present in an amount ranging from 1% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 1.2% by weight to 8% by weight, more preferably from 1.5% by weight to 5% by weight, and even more preferably from 1.8% by weight to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Cellulose

[0091] The composition according to the present invention may comprise at least one cellulose.

[0092] As used herein, the term "cellulose" is intended to refer to any polysaccharide compound having within its structure sequences of linked glucose residues together via beta-1,4 bonds. Cellulose can be unsubstituted or substituted. In addition, cellulose can be anionic, cationic, amphoteric, or nonionic.

[0093] Preferably, the cellulose used according to the invention is chosen from unsubstituted celluloses, including those in microcrystalline form; cellulose esters; cellulose ethers; cellulose ester ethers; and mixtures thereof.

[0094] Among the cellulose esters are inorganic cellulose esters (cellulose nitrates, sulfates, phosphates, etc.), organic cellulose esters (cellulose monoacetates, triacetates, amidopropionates, acetate butyrates, acetate propionates and acetate trimellitates, etc.) and mixed organic / inorganic cellulose esters, such as cellulose acetate butyrate sulfates and cellulose acetate propionate sulfates.

[0095] Cellulose ethers include nonionic cellulose ethers, anionic cellulose ethers, and cationic cellulose ethers.

[0096] Examples of non-ionic cellulose ethers include (Ci-C4)alkylcelluloses, such as methylcelluloses and ethylcelluloses (e.g., Ethocel Standard 100 Premium from Dow Chemical); (poly)hydroxy(Ci-C4)alkylcelluloses, such as hydroxymethylcelluloses, hydroxyethylcelluloses (e.g., Natrosol 250 HHR supplied by Ashland) and hydroxypropylcelluloses (e.g., Klucel EF from Aqualon); mixed (poly)hydroxy(Ci-C4)alkyl(Cl-C4)alkylcelluloses, such as hydroxypropylmethylcelluloses (e.g., Methocel E4M from Dow Chemical), hydroxyethylmethylcelluloses, hydroxyethylethylcelluloses (e.g., Bermocoll 20 E 481 FQ from Akzo Nobel) and hydroxybutylmethylcelluloses.

[0097] Among the anionic cellulose ethers, mention may be made of (poly)carboxy(C i-C4)alkylcelluloses and their salts. By way of example, mention may be made of carboxymethylcelluloses (for example Blanose 7M from the company Aqualon) and carboxymethylhydroxyethylcelluloses, and their sodium salts.

[0098] Among the cationic cellulose ethers, mention may be made of cationic cellulose derivatives such as cellulose copolymers or cellulose derivatives grafted with a water-soluble quaternary ammonium monomer, and described in particular in US patent 4,131,576, such as (poly)hydroxy(Ci-C4)alkyl celluloses, for example hydroxymethyl, hydroxyethyl or hydroxypropylcelluloses grafted in particular with a methacryloylethyltrimethylammonium, methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium or dimethyldiallylammonium salt.

[0099] Among the cellulose ester ethers, mention may be made of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalates and ethylcellulose sulfates.

[0100] According to the present invention, the cellulose is preferably chosen from unsubstituted celluloses, cellulose esters, cellulose ethers, cellulose ester ethers, cellulose, and mixtures thereof, more preferably chosen from unsubstituted celluloses.

[0101] Advantageously, the cellulose is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.05% by weight to 5% by weight, and more preferably from 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Amphoteric surfactant

[0102] The composition according to the present invention may comprise at least one amphoteric surfactant.

[0103] The term "amphoteric surfactant" refers to a surfactant that simultaneously carries the anionic and cationic hydrophilic group with its structure simultaneously containing hermaphroditic ions that are capable of forming cations or anions depending on ambient conditions (such as pH changes).

[0104] Useful amphoteric surfactants include betaines, sultaines (also known as sulfobetaines), alkyl amphoacetates and alkyl amphodiacetates, alkyl amphoproprionates, and mixtures thereof.

[0105] Preferably, the amphoteric surfactant is chosen from sultaines.

[0106] More preferably, the amphoteric surfactant is chosen from hydroxysultaine type surfactants.

[0107] In certain cases, the hydroxysultaine surfactant is chosen from (C8-C20 alkyl)amido(C1-C6 alkyl)hydroxylsulfobetaines.

[0108] Preferably, non-limiting examples of the hydroxysultaine surfactant include hydroxysultaines of formula (VI): O Œ3 (VI> RC—WtCH^—CH2CHCfL^ CIL OH

[0109] in which R represents an alkyl group having 7 to 18 carbon atoms.

[0110] One of the particularly preferable hydroxysultaine surfactants is cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, for example, that sold under the trade name TC-SHD 50 RSPO MB by the company GUANGZHOU TINCI MATERIALS, or those available from SEPPIC or KAO CHEMICAL.

[0111] Advantageously, the amphoteric surfactant is present in an amount ranging from 0.1% by weight to 20% by weight, preferably from 0.5% by weight to 15% by weight, and more preferably from 1% by weight to 10% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Cationic polymer

[0112] The composition according to the present invention may comprise at least one cationic polymer, other than celluloses.

[0113] Preferably, said cationic polymer is chosen from polyquaterniums, cationic guar gum derivatives, and mixtures thereof.

[0114] In some cases, the cationic polymer may comprise monomer units derived from amine and / or quaternary ammonium substituted monomer and / or compatible spacer monomers.

[0115] A suitable cationic polymer includes, for example: copolymers of 1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidine and l-vinyl-3-methylimidazolium salt (e.g., the chloride salt) (referred to as Polyquaternium-16) such as those commercially available from BASF under the trade name LUVIQUAT (e.g., LUVIQUAT FC 370); copolymers of l-vinyl-2-pyrrolidine and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (referred to as Polyquaternium-11) such as those commercially available from Gar Corporation (Wayne, NJ, USA) under the trade name GAFQUAT (e.g., GAFQUAT 755N); and a cationic polymer containing diallyl quaternary ammonium including, for example, a homopolymer of dimethyldiallyammonium chloride and copolymers of acrylamide and dimethyldiallyammonium chloride (referred to as Polyquaternium-6 and Polyquaternium-7).

[0116] Un polymère cationique approprié peut inclure d’autres polyquaterniums, tels que polyquaternium-1, polyquaternium-2, polyquatemium-3, polyquatemium-4, polyquaternium-5, polyquaternium-8, polyquaternium-9, polyquaternium-10, polyquaternium-12, polyquaternium-13, polyquaternium-14, polyquaternium-15, polyquaternium-17, polyquaternium-18, polyquaternium-19, polyquaternium-20, polyquaternium-21, polyquaternium-22, polyquaternium-23, polyquaternium-24, polyquaternium-25, polyquaternium-26, polyquaternium-27, polyquaternium-28, polyquaternium-29, polyquaternium-30, polyquaternium-40, polyquaternium-41, polyquaternium-42, polyquaternium-43, polyquaternium-44, polyquaternium-45, polyquaternium-46, polyquaternium-47, polyquaternium-48, polyquaternium-49, polyquaternium-50, polyquaternium-51, polyquaternium-52, polyquaternium-53, polyquaternium-54, polyquaternium-55, polyquaternium-56, polyquaternium-57, polyquaternium-58, polyquaternium-59, polyquaternium-60, polyquaternium-61,polyquaternium-62, polyquaternium-63, polyquaternium-64, polyquaternium-65, polyquaternium-66, polyquaternium-67, and combinations thereof. ,

[0117] The preferred cationic guar gum derivative may be guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, and preferably hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride.

[0118] According to the present invention, the cationic polymer, other than celluloses, is preferentially chosen from polyquaterniums, cationic guar gum derivatives and mixtures thereof, more preferentially chosen from cationic guar gum derivatives, is even more preferentially guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, and even more preferentially hydroxypropyl guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride.

[0119] Advantageously, the cationic polymer is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight, more preferably from 0.05% by weight to 2% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Aqueous solvent

[0120] The composition of the present invention may comprise at least one aqueous solvent.

[0121] Preferably, the aqueous solvent of the composition according to the present invention includes water and one or more water-miscible or at least partially water-miscible compounds, for example C2-C8 polyols and monoalcohols.

[0122] The term “polyol” should be understood to mean any organic molecule comprising at least two free hydroxyl groups.

[0123] More preferably, the composition according to the present invention comprises water.

[0124] Advantageously, the water is present in an amount ranging from 30% to 95% by weight, preferably from 40% to 90% by weight, and more preferably from 50% to 85% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. Additional ingredients

[0125] The composition according to the present invention may comprise one or more additional ingredients, chosen from those conventionally used in cleaning and / or care products for keratinous material, for example, hair and scalp.

[0126] The composition according to the present invention may comprise any of the following additives: pH correcting agents, biological extracts, perfumes, preservatives and chelating agents.

[0127] According to the present invention, non-limiting examples of pH correcting agents include potassium acetate, potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, sodium hydrogen carbonate, ethanol amines, and mixtures thereof. A particularly preferred pH correcting agent is sodium hydroxide.

[0128] A person skilled in the art can correct the type and amount of additional ingredients present in the compositions according to the present invention by means of routine operations, so that the desired properties of these compositions are not adversely affected by the additional ingredients. Composition

[0129] According to the present invention, the composition comprising the above components is a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp.

[0130] According to the present invention, the composition comprising the above components is preferably in the form of a fluid, for example a lotion, an emulsion, a paste, a cream or a gel. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "fluid" means that the composition can flow due to an external force.

[0131] For the composition according to the present invention, the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size of 65 pm or less, preferably 62 pm or less, more preferably 50 pm or less, even more preferably 40 pm or less, even more preferably 30 pm or less, for example, 25 pm or less, or about 20 pm. For example, the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 10 pm to 65 pm, preferably from 15 pm to 62 pm, more preferably from 20 pm to 50 pm, and even more preferably from 20 pm to 30 pm, and for example, about 25 pm.

[0132] The inventor surprisingly discovers that selenium sulfide aggregations having an average size of 65 pm or less in the composition can effectively improve the smooth texture feeling of keratinous material.

[0133] In the context of the present disclosure, the expressions "aggregations" and "selenium sulfide aggregations" refer to aggregations which are formed from the raw material of two or more selenium sulfide powders or particles and have a size larger than that of a single selenium sulfide powder or particle.

[0134] According to the present invention, the average size of the selenium sulfide aggregations in the composition is measured from the following method: a random drop of the composition is taken, poured onto a slide, covered with a coverslip and observed under a microscope; for one view, the three largest selenium sulfide aggregations are selected, the greatest length of each of the three aggregations was measured and the average of the three greatest lengths was calculated to obtain the average size of the selenium sulfide aggregations. The microscope can be of any model or type capable of measuring the size of powders, particles or aggregations. For example, the sizes of the selenium sulfide aggregations of the present invention can be measured using the Leika DM2500 microscope.

[0135] Preferably, for the composition according to the present invention, the weight ratio between the alpha-hydroxy acid and the selenium sulfide ranges from 0.5 to 1000, preferably from 0.5 to 800, more preferably from 0.5 to 600, more preferably from 0.5 to 500, more preferably from 0.5 to 200, more preferably from 0.5 to 100, more preferably from 0.5 to 50, even more preferably from 0.75 to 600, even more preferably from 1 to 300, even more preferably from 1.5 to 200, even more preferably from 2 to 100, even more preferably from 3 to 50, even more preferably from 3 to 20.

[0136] Preferably, the composition has a pH value of 2 to 6.5, preferably 2 to 6, more preferably 3.5 to 5.2.

[0137] By virtue of the above specific components, the composition according to the present invention can provide an improved dispersion of selenium sulfide therein and thus an improved smooth texture feeling of the keratinous material, and even a desirable inhibition of microorganisms and thus a desired anti-dandruff efficacy, even at a lower pH value, for example, a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0138] According to the present invention, microorganisms include all microorganisms that can affect the skin, nails, hair and scalp, as well as mucous membranes. Examples of microorganisms include, but are not limited to, non-dermatophytes (Candida species such as C. albicans, etc., Scopulariopsis species such as S. brevicaulis and Malassezia spp.). These are yeasts represented by the genus candida and by Malassezia furfur (formerly called pityrosporon). Candida affects the skin, nails, hair and scalp, as well as mucous membranes. Malassezia furfur, which is a common saprophyte of the skin, especially seborrheic skin, is the agent of pityriasis versicolor.

[0139] Furthermore, thanks to the specific fatty amine as defined above, the composition comprising it can further improve the smooth texture feeling of the keratinous material, even at a lower pH value, for example, a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0140] Thanks to the specific arginine and / or the cationic polymer as defined above, the composition comprising them can further improve the feeling of smooth texture and / or the feeling of softness of the keratinous material, even at a lower pH value, for example, a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0141] By virtue of the specific hydroxysultaine surfactant as mentioned above, the foaming property of the composition comprising it can be improved even at a lower pH value, for example, a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0142] By virtue of the specific cellulose as mentioned above, the stability of the composition comprising it can be improved even at a lower pH value, for example, a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0143] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, comprising: a. at least one alpha-hydroxy acid being a lower acid having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms; b. at least one selenium sulfide; and optionally c. at least one fatty amine,

[0144] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 10 qm to 65 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising: a. 0.5% by weight to 8% by weight of at least one alpha-hydroxy acid being a lower acid having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms; b. 0.005% by weight to 5% by weight of at least one selenium sulfide; and optionally c. 0.05 wt% to 2 wt% of at least one fatty amine,

[0146] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 15 qm to 62 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0147] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising: a. 0.5% by weight to 8% by weight of at least one alpha-hydroxy acid being a lower acid having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms; b. 0.005% by weight to 5% by weight of at least one selenium sulfide; c. 0.05% by weight to 2% by weight of at least one amidoamine; and optionally d. 0.1% by weight to 8% by weight of at least one beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives chosen from salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, and mixtures thereof,

[0148] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 20 qm to 50 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0149] In a more preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising: a. 0.5% by weight to 8% by weight of at least one alpha-hydroxy acid being a lower acid having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms; b. 0.005% by weight to 5% by weight of at least one selenium sulfide; c. 0.05% by weight to 2% by weight of at least one amidoamine; d. 0.1% by weight to 8% by weight of at least one beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives selected from salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid and mixtures thereof; and optionally at least one of the following components: e. 0.05% by weight to 5% by weight of at least one cellulose; f. 0.5% by weight to 15% by weight of at least one surfactant of the type hydroxysultaine; g. 1.2% by weight to 8% by weight of at least one nitrogen-containing compound selected from L-arginine, trolamine, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, and mixtures thereof; and h. 0.05% by weight to 2% by weight of at least one cationic guar gum derivative,

[0150] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 20 qm to 50 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 2 to 6.5.

[0151] In a more preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising: a. 1% by weight to 6% by weight of at least one alpha-hydroxy acid being a lower monocarboxylic acid having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms, more preferably lactic acid; b. 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight of selenium sulfide; c. 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight of at least one amidoamine corresponding to the following formula (I):

[0152] RCONHR'N(R")2(I)

[0153] in which R represents a hydrocarbon radical containing at least 6 carbon atoms, R' represents a divalent hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, and R" which may be identical or different, represents hydrogen or a hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, and preferably brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine; a. 0.5% by weight to 6% by weight of beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives chosen from salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, and mixtures thereof,

[0154] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 20 qm to 30 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 3.5 to 5.2

[0155] In a more preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising: a. 1% by weight to 6% by weight of lactic acid; b. 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight of selenium sulfide; c. 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight of brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine; and optionally d. 0.5% by weight to 6% by weight of salicylic acid,

[0156] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 20 qm to 30 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 3.5 to 5.2.

[0157] According to an even more preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising: a. 1% by weight to 6% by weight of lactic acid; b. 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight of selenium sulfide; c. 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight of brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine; d. 0.5% by weight to 6% by weight of salicylic acid; and optionally less than one of the following components: e. 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight of an unsubstituted cellulose; f. 1% by weight to 10% by weight of cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine; g. 1.5% by weight to 5% by weight of L-arginine; and h. 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight of hydroxypropyl guar chloride hydroxypropyltrimonium;

[0158] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 20 qm to 30 qm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 3.5 to 5.2. Process and use

[0159] The composition according to the present invention can be used in a process of cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp, by being applied to the keratinous material.

[0160] It has been found that the composition according to the present invention can provide an improved smooth texture sensation of the keratinous material, and optionally a desired anti-dandruff efficacy.

[0161] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a process for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp, comprising the following steps: a. applying the above composition to the wet keratinous material, b. massaging the keratinous material for 2 seconds to 120 seconds, and c. rinsing the keratinous material with water.

[0162] Optionally, the process according to the present invention further comprises step d) of drying the keratinous material.

[0163] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a process for preparing the above composition comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a selenium sulfide and at least one additional component, comprising a step of premixing the alpha-hydroxy acid with the selenium sulfide at a weight ratio ranging from 0.5 to 1000, preferably from 0.5 to 600, more preferably from 0.75 to 600, more preferably from 1 to 100, more preferably from 1.5 to 200, even more preferably from 2 to 100, even more preferably from 3 to 50, even more preferably from 3 to 20, even more preferably about 5, before or after the addition of said additional component, wherein the additional component is preferably selected from one or more of beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives, fatty acid, anionic surfactant, cellulose, amphoteric surfactant, arginine,the cationic polymer and the aqueous solvent as defined above, and the alpha-hydroxy acid and the selenium sulfide are both preferably defined above.,

[0164] Advantageously, the present invention provides a process for preparing the above composition, comprising: a. adding an anionic surfactant (if any) to water to form Premix 2; b. the addition of a fatty amine and a beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives (if any) in Premix 2 to Premix 3; c. mixing selenium sulfide with an alpha-hydroxy acid to form Premix 3'; d. adding Premix 3' into Premix 3 to form Mix 1; and e. correcting the pH value of Mixture 1 to a pH value ranging from 2 to 6.5, preferably from 2 to 6, more preferably from 3.5 to 5.2, to form the composition,

[0165] wherein the process optionally further comprises one or more steps of adding at least one of cellulose, an amphoteric surfactant, an arginine and a cationic polymer, and each of said components in this process is defined above.

[0166] By virtue of this specific process of preparing the composition according to the present invention, selenium sulfide can be better dispersed in the composition, resulting in an improved smooth texture feeling of the keratinous material, and even desirable anti-dandruff efficacy.

[0167] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a composition which is prepared from the process according to the third aspect above, comprising: a. at least one alpha-hydroxy acid; and b. at least one selenium sulfide;

[0168] wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size of 65 qm or less, preferably 15 qm to 62 qm, more preferably 20 qm to 50 qm, and even more preferably 20 qm to 30 qm, and

[0169] preferably, the weight ratio between the alpha-hydroxy acid and the selenium sulfide ranges from 0.5 to 1000, preferably from 0.5 to 600, more preferably from 0.75 to 600, even more preferably from 1 to 300, even more preferably from 2 to 100, even more preferably from 3 to 50, even more preferably from 3 to 20, and / or the selenium sulfide is added as a raw material in the form of a powder whose particles have a size (D90) ranging from 1 qm to 24 qm, preferably 3 qm to 15 qm, and more preferably 5 qm to 10 qm, and

[0170] wherein the additional component is preferably selected from one or more of beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives, fatty amine, anionic surfactant, cellulose, amphoteric surfactant, arginine, cationic polymer and aqueous solvent as defined above, and alpha-hydroxy acid and selenium sulfide are both preferably defined above.

[0171] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention provides the use of an alpha-hydroxy acid for improving the dispersion of selenium sulfide in a composition comprising an aqueous solvent.

[0172] Preferably, the weight ratio between the alpha-hydroxy acid and the selenium sulfide ranges from 0.5 to 1000. More preferably, the weight ratio between the alpha- hydroxy acid and selenium sulfide ranges from 0.5 to 800, preferably from 0.5 to 600, more preferably from 0.5 to 500, more preferably from 0.5 to 200, more preferably from 0.5 to 100, more preferably from 0.5 to 50, more preferably from 0.75 to 600, even more preferably from 1 to 300, even more preferably from 1.5 to 200, even more preferably from 2 to 100, even more preferably from 3 to 50, even more preferably from 3 to 20.

[0173] Preferably, the alpha-hydroxy acid is lactic acid.

[0174] Preferably, the aqueous solvent includes water and one or more water-miscible or at least partially water-miscible compounds, for example C2-C8 polyols and monoalcohols, and more preferably water.

[0175] Advantageously, the water is present in an amount ranging from 30% to 95% by weight, preferably from 40% to 90% by weight, and more preferably from 50% to 85% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0176] The present invention is illustrated in more detail by the examples described below, which are given by way of non-limiting illustrations. EXAMPLES

[0177] The main raw materials used, their trade names and suppliers were listed in Table 1, and the materials not specified here were all commercially available.

[0178] [Table 1] Table 1 INCI Name Trade Name Supplier LACTIC ACID (LACTIC ACID) L-LACTIC ACID (90%) (CRG) MUSASHINO CHEMI CAL LABORATORY SALICYLIC ACID (SALICYLIC ACID) AMIPRESERVE ALBAN MULLER (CR ODA) SELENIUM SULFIDE (SELENIUM SULFIDE) SELENIUM SULPHIDE EP / USP MICRONIZED ESKAY FINE CHEMIC ALS BRASSICAMIDOPROPYL D IMETHYLAMINE (BRASSIC AMIDOPROPYL DIMETHY LAMINE) PROCONDITION 2 INOLEX CHEMICAL COMPANY ARGININE L ARGININE KYOWA HAKKO COCAMIDOPROPYL HYDR OXYSULTAINE (COCAMID TC-SHD 50 RSPO MB GUANGZHOU TINCI MATERIALS OPROPYL HYDROXYSULT AINE) CELLULOSE AQUALON CMC 7H3S XF ASHLAND

[0179] Comparative Examples 1 and 2 and Inventive Examples 1 to 8

[0180] The compositions according to Comparative Examples (CE.) 1 and 2 and Inventive Examples (Ex.) 1 to 8 comprising the active ingredients indicated in Table 2 were prepared, all quantities being expressed as percentages by weight of active material relative to the total weight of each composition.

[0181] [Table 2] Table 2 Components Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex. 4 Ex. 5 Ex. 6 Ex. 7 Ex. 8 EC . 1 EC .2 Phase A WATER QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 QS P 1 00 H YDROXYPROPY CHLORIDE L GUAR HYDRO XYPROPYL-TRI MONIUM / / / / / 0.3 / / / / CELLULOSE / / / / / 0.2 / / / / Phas eB COCAMIDOPRO PYL HYDROXY SULTAINE / / / / / 2.5 / / / / LAURETH SULFATE OF SODIU M 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 Phases eC SALICYL ACID IQUE 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 / 1.5 1.5 BRASSICAMIDO -PROPYL DIMET HYLAMINE 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 / 0.3 0.3 / 0.3 0.3 ARGININE / / / / / 2 / / / / Phas eD LACTIC ACID 3 0.6 0.4 0.3 3 3 6 3 / 0.2 SELENIUM SULFIDE (D90: not more than 10 pm) 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.01 0.6 0.6 0.6 pH(SODIUM HYDROXIDE) 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 Average size of selenium sulfide aggregations (pm)* 25 40 50 62 25 25 20 25 80 72

[0182] *: Measurement of the average size of selenium sulfide aggregations: For each of the compositions of Inventive Examples 1 to 8 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2, a random drop of the composition was taken, poured onto a slide, covered with a coverslip and observed under a Leika DM2500 microscope. For one view, the three largest selenium sulfide aggregations were selected, the greatest length of each of the three aggregations was measured and the average of the three greatest lengths was calculated to obtain the average size of the selenium sulfide aggregations. Preparation process

[0183] The composition was prepared from a process comprising the following steps: 1. mixing each component of phase A until Premix 1 is formed; 2. adding each component of Phase B into Premix 1 and mixing them until transparent to form Premix 2; 3. adding each component of Phase C, if applicable, to Premix 2 to form Premix 3; 4. mixing the selenium sulfide with the lactic acid, if lactic acid was present, to form Premix 3'; 5. adding Premix 3' to Premix 3 and mixing them until homogenized to form Mix 1; 6. Correction of the pH value of Mixture 1 to 3.8 by adding sodium hydroxide to form the final composition. Evaluation of compositions

[0184] The compositions as prepared were evaluated in terms of smooth texture sensation and anti-dandruff efficacy. Smooth texture sensation test

[0185] The smooth texture sensation of each composition of Inventive Examples 1 to 8 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 was evaluated as follows: I. Hair treatment with the composition:

[0186] A strand of damaged hair was chosen. The hair was combed and wetted under running water, the composition was applied evenly to the damaged hair from root to tip, and the composition was gently distributed by massaging with two fingers from root to tip (without making a knot) to lather the composition. The composition was rinsed under running tap water until all the foam was removed. I. Evaluation of smooth texture in the wet state:

[0187] The hair strand was stroked by two fingers from the root, and the smoothness of the hair strand surface was evaluated by 6 volunteers. They gave scores shown below and the average of the scores was calculated.

[0188] The rating standard for the smooth texture feel of each composition was as follows.

[0189] Score 1: The hair strand was very difficult to comb, comb stuck 9 to 10 times by tangled hair;

[0190] Score 2: The hair strand was moderately difficult to comb, comb stuck 7 to 8 times by tangled hair;

[0191] Score 3: The hair strand was slightly difficult to comb, comb stuck 5 to 6 times by tangled hair;

[0192] Score 4: The hair strand was easy to comb, comb stuck 3 to 4 times by tangled hair; and

[0193] Score 5: 1a strand of hair was very easy to comb, comb stuck 2 times or less by tangled hair.

[0194] The smooth texture sensation results for the compositions of Inventive Examples 1 to 8 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 were shown in the following Table 3.

[0195] [Table 3] Table 3 Properties Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex. 4 Ex. 5 Ex. 6 Ex. 7 Ex. 8 EC. 1 EC. 2 Texture sensation 1 smoothness (hair feel) 5 3 3 3 3 5 3 3 1 1

[0196] From the data as shown in Table 3, it can be seen that all the compositions of Inventive Examples 1 to 8, in which the aggregations as formed from selenium sulfide have an average size of 65 qm or less, can achieve a score of 3 or more regarding the smooth texture sensation evaluation. In contrast, each of the compositions of Comparative Examples 1 and 2, in which the aggregations as formed from selenium sulfide have an average size of 70 qm or more, can only achieve a score of 1, i.e., a very poor smooth texture sensation. Anti-dandruff efficacy trial

[0197] The anti-dandruff efficacy of each composition of Inventive Examples 1 and 5 to 7 was evaluated as follows: 15 ml of each test sample was diluted by a factor of 10 and kept at a temperature of 20 °C for 5 min. The diluted sample was quickly and immediately mixed with a test solution of Malassezia furfur. After contacting for 5 min, the surviving microorganisms were tested by plate counting method.

[0198] The results of the anti-dandruff efficacy of the compositions of Inventive Examples 1 and 5 to 7 have been presented respectively in the following Table 4.

[0199] [Table 4] Table 4 Properties Ex. 1 Ex. 5 Ex. 6 Ex. 7 % inhibition of Malassezia Furfu r (5 min) 99.99% 99.99% 99.99% 99.99%

[0200] From the data as presented in Table 4, it can be seen that the compositions of Inventive Examples 1 and 5 to 7 can provide inhibition of up to 99.99%, i.e. provide desired anti-dandruff efficacy.

[0201] In summary, the compositions of the present invention can provide an improved smooth texture feel and, optionally, a desired anti-dandruff efficacy.

Claims

Claims

1. Composition, preferably for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, comprising: a) at least one alpha-hydroxy acid; and b) at least one selenium sulfide, wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size of 65 pm or less.

2. A composition according to claim 1, wherein the alpha-hydroxy acid is a lower acid having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, more preferably a lower monocarboxylic acid having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms, and is most preferably lactic acid.

3. A composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 10 pm to 65 pm, preferably from 15 pm to 62 pm, more preferably from 20 pm to 50 pm, and even more preferably from 20 pm to 30 pm.

4. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the weight ratio between the alpha-hydroxy acid and the selenium sulfide ranges from 0.5 to 1000, preferably from 0.5 to 600, more preferably from 0.75 to 600, more preferably from 1 to 300, even more preferably from 1.5 to 200, even more preferably from 2 to 100, even more preferably from 3 to 50, most preferably from 3 to 20.

5. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one fatty amine, which is preferably chosen from amidoamines corresponding to the following formula (I): RCONHR'N(R")2(I) in which R represents a hydrocarbon radical containing at least 6 carbon atoms, R' represents a divalent hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, and R" which may be the same or different, represents hydrogen or a hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, and

6. more preferably, is selected from the group consisting of oleamidopropyl dimethylamine, stearamidopropyl dimethylamine, isostearamidopropyl dimethylamine, stearamidoethyl dimethylamine, lauramidopropyl dimethylamine, myristamidopropyl dimethylamine, behenamidopropyl dimethylamine, dilinoleamidopropyl dimethylamine, palmitamidopropyl dimethylamine, ricinoleamidopropyl dimethylamine, sojamidopropyl dimethylamine, wheat germamidopropyl dimethylamine, sunfloweramidopropyl dimethylamine, amandamidopropyl dimethylamine, avocadoamidopropyl dimethylamine, babassuamidopropyl dimethylamine, cocamidopropyl dimethylamine, visonamidopropyl dimethylamine, avoinamidopropyl dimethylamine, sesamidopropyl dimethylamine, tallamidopropyl dimethylamine, brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine, olivamidopropyl dimethylamine, stearamidoethyl diethylamine, stearamidopropyl diethylamine, palmitamidopropyl diethylamine,palmitamidoethyl diethylamine, palmitamidoethyl dimethylamine, behenamidopropyl diethylamine, behenamidoethyl diethylamine, behenamidoethyl dimethylamine, arachidamidopropyl dimethylamine, arachidamidopropyl diethylamine, arachidamidoethyl, 1 diethylamine, arachidamidoethyl dimethylamine, diethylaminoethylstearamide, and mixtures thereof; and most preferably, is brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives, which is preferably chosen from salicylic acid, its derivatives acylated on the hydroxyl group and its derivatives of formula (II): in which, R represents a linear, branched or cyclic saturated aliphatic group or an unsaturated aliphatic group containing one or more double bonds, which may or may not be conjugated, said groups containing from 2 to 22, preferably from 3 to 11 carbon atoms and being optionally substituted by at least one substituent selected from (a) halogen atoms, (b) the trifluoromethyl group, (c) hydroxyl groups in free form or esterified by an acid having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms or (d) a carboxyl functional group which is free or esterified by a lower alcohol having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; R' represents a hydroxyl group or an ester functional group of the following formula (III): ---O--C — Rj (III) O in which Ri is a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched aliphatic group having from 1 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably from 4 to 15 carbon atoms; and is more preferably chosen from salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, and mixtures thereof, and most preferably salicylic acid.

7. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one anionic surfactant, which is preferably chosen from alkyl ether sulfates corresponding to formula (IV): (IV) in which, R represents a hydrogen or an alkyl chain having 6 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably 8 to 18 carbon atoms, and more preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms; M is a solubilizing cation such as alkali metal ions, ammonium or substituted ammonium ions, or alkanolammonium ions; and n is an integer from 0 to 3, preferably between 1 and 3, more preferably between 2 and 3; and is most preferably sodium laureth sulfate, and wherein the anionic surfactant is preferably present in an amount ranging from 1% by weight to 30% by weight, preferably from 5% by weight to 25% by weight, and more preferably from 10% by weight to 20% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

8. A composition for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, relative to the total weight of the composition, comprising a) 1% by weight to 6% by weight of at least one alpha-hydroxy acid being a lower monocarboxylic acid having 2 to 8 carbon atoms, even more preferably 2 to 6 carbon atoms, more preferably lactic acid; b) 0.01% by weight to 3% by weight of selenium sulfide; c) 0.1% by weight to 1% by weight of at least one amidoamine corresponding to the following formula (I): RCONHR'N(R")2(I) in which R represents a hydrocarbon radical containing at least 6 carbon atoms, R' represents a divalent hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, and R" which may be identical or different, represents a hydrogen or a hydrocarbon radical containing less than 6 carbon atoms, and preferably brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine;d) 0.5 wt% to 6 wt% of the beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives selected from salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, and mixtures thereof, wherein the selenium sulfide forms aggregations in the composition, and the aggregations have an average size ranging from 20 pm to 30 pm, and the composition optionally has a pH value of 3.5 to 5.2.;

9. A process for cleaning and / or caring for keratinous material, preferably hair and scalp, comprising the following steps: a) applying the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8 to the wet keratinous material, b) massaging the keratinous material for 2 seconds to 120 seconds, and c) rinsing the keratinous material with water.

10. A process for preparing a composition comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a selenium sulfide and at least one additional component, comprising a step of premixing the alpha- hydroxy acid with selenium sulfide at a weight ratio of from 0.5 to 1000, preferably from 0.5 to 600, more preferably from 0.75 to 600, more preferably from 1 to 300, even more preferably from 1.5 to 200, even more preferably from 2 to 100, even more preferably from 3 to 50, most preferably from 3 to 20, before or after the addition of said additional component, wherein the additional component is preferably selected from one or more of beta-hydroxy acid and / or its derivatives, fatty amine, anionic surfactant, cellulose and arginine, as defined in any one of claims 5 to 7, and alpha-hydroxy acid and selenium sulfide are both preferably defined in any one of claims 1 to 8.