Cosmetic preparation containing a biopolymer

Abstract

A cosmetic composition is described herein that comprises biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed to have insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent, resulting in a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension. The cosmetic composition can be formulated as a sunscreen composition, a skin care composition, and a hair care composition. In embodiments, the biopolymer is selected from chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, alginic acid, and mixtures thereof. In embodiments, the biopolymer(s) have been mechanically processed under high shear conditions and / or under high mechanical energy to obtain a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel, or milk.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 356,665, filed Jun. 29, 2022, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of cosmetics, and more particularly, to a novel formulation comprising a uniform suspension of biopolymer(s) for use as a sunscreen, skin care agent, and / or hair care agent.

Background Art

[0003] The cosmetics industry is constantly seeking new raw material components that are natural, biocompatible, biodegradable, and non - toxic. For example, microplastics are commonly used in the cosmetics industry, but there are still not many environmentally friendly alternatives.

[0004] Natural polymers or biopolymers are abundant, natural, and renewable polymers, and thus are an attractive resource for the cosmetics industry. However, the most abundant biopolymers such as cellulose and chitin are insoluble, and their use is therefore limited and complicated. Advantageously, the applicant has described in International Publication No. WO 2022 / 137184 a novel uniform suspension of a uniform and stable biopolymer that can find numerous uses in the cosmetics industry.

[0005] Therefore, biodegradable alternatives to microplastics contained in cosmetics are still in demand.

[0006] Also, cosmetic formulations, particularly sunscreen, skin care, and hair care formulations, containing natural, biocompatible, biodegradable, and non - toxic raw material components such as cellulose and chitin are still in demand.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The present invention addresses these and other needs as will become apparent from the following disclosure of the features of the present invention and review of the description content.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] According to one aspect, the present invention is a cosmetic composition comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed to form a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension, wherein the stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension comprises insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

[0009] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a sunscreen composition comprising a biopolymer and at least one of a sun protection factor (SPF) booster, a sensation enhancer, a film-forming agent, an emulsifier, a co-emulsifier, a skin softener, a UVB filter, a UVA filter, and a broad-spectrum filter.

[0010] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a sunscreen composition as defined herein for protecting the skin from sunlight.

[0011] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of skin protection comprising applying a sunscreen composition as defined herein onto the skin.

[0012] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a skin care composition comprising a biopolymer and at least one of a humectant, a skin softener, an occlusive agent, a ceramide, an emulsifier, a thickening agent, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

[0013] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a skin care composition as defined herein for providing benefits to the skin, such as moisturizing the skin, improving the appearance of the skin, protecting against environmental damage, resisting the effects of aging, removing wrinkles and / or freckles, and the like.

[0014] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of protecting the skin and / or improving the appearance of the skin, which comprises applying a skin care composition as defined herein to the skin.

[0015] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a hair care composition comprising a biopolymer and at least one of a surfactant, a conditioning surfactant, a co-surfactant, a conditioning skin softener, a thickener, an opacifier, a ceramide, a conditioner, a pH buffer, a chelating agent, a preservative, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

[0016] According to another aspect, the present invention is a use of a biopolymer for replacing microplastics in a cosmetic composition, the use comprising replacing at least a part of the microplastics with a biopolymer suspension, the biopolymer suspension comprising a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

[0017] According to another aspect, the present invention is a method for replacing microplastics in a sunscreen composition, the method comprising: (1) providing a biopolymer suspension comprising a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent; and (2) mixing the biopolymer suspension with at least one of a sensory enhancer, a film-forming agent, an emulsifier, a skin softener, a UVB filter, a UVA filter, and a broad-spectrum filter.

[0018] According to another aspect, the present invention is a method for replacing microplastics in a skin care composition, the method comprising: (1) providing a biopolymer suspension comprising a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent; and (2) mixing the biopolymer suspension with at least one of a humectant, a skin softener, an occlusive agent, a ceramide, an emulsifier, a thickener, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

[0019] According to another aspect, the present invention is a method for replacing microplastics in a hair care composition, the method comprising: (1) providing a biopolymer suspension comprising a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent; and (2) mixing the biopolymer suspension with at least one of a surfactant, a conditioning surfactant, a co-surfactant, a conditioning skin softener, a thickener, an opacifier, a ceramide, a conditioner, a pH buffer, a chelating agent, a preservative, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

[0020] Additional aspects, advantages, and features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the following non-limiting description of preferred embodiments, which are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] In the following description of the embodiments, examples are given to illustrate how the present invention can be practiced. It will be understood that other embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention disclosed. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

[0022] OVERALL SUMMARY In PCT International Publication No. 2022 / 137184, entitled "HOMOGENEOUS BIOPOLYMER SUSPENSIONS, PROCESSES FOR MAKING SAME AND USES THEREOF" (the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference), the applicant described the production of stable homogeneous suspensions of insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymers.

[0023] The present invention generally relates to the use of such homogeneous suspensions of biopolymers in the manufacture of "cosmetic composition(s)" or "cosmetic formulation(s)" (both terms being used interchangeably herein). Particular aspects relate to novel sunscreen, skin care, and hair care formulations / compositions, and processes for obtaining them. The present invention includes, but is not limited to, the general and specific compositions described in International Publication No. WO 2022 / 137184.

[0024] Biopolymer Cosmetic compositions (e.g., sunscreen, skin care, and / or hair care compositions) according to the present invention minimally require biopolymers. As used herein, the term "biopolymer" means natural polymers produced by the cells of living organisms. Biopolymers are composed of monomer units that form larger molecules by covalent bonds. The present invention includes biopolymers of polypeptides, polysaccharides, and polynucleotides. Other examples of biopolymers include natural rubber (a polymer of isoprene), suberin and lignin (complex polyphenolic polymers), cutin and cutan (complex polymers of long-chain fatty acids), and melanin. In embodiments, the biopolymers used as starting materials and obtained in suspension are substantially pure, i.e., they consist only of purified natural polymers.

[0025] Preferably, the biopolymer used in the cosmetic formulation is substantially free of chemical residues, and any such chemical residues are either absent or present in undetectable or trace amounts. Preferably, the biopolymer is substantially free of chemical residues, and any such chemical residues are either absent or present in undetectable or trace amounts. As used herein, "substantially free of chemical residues" means that chemical compounds such as acids, bases, reactive chemicals, organic and / or inorganic salts, surfactants, dispersants (e.g., Twin 80 (trademark)), silanization reagents, acrylamide, etc. are either absent or present in undetectable or trace amounts in the final composition or final suspension. In embodiments, the biopolymer(s) constitute at least 98 wt%, or at least 99 wt%, or at least 99.9 wt%, or at least 99.99 wt% of the organic compounds in the biopolymer composition or suspension, i.e., the biopolymer composition or suspension contains less than 2 wt%, or less than 1 wt%, less than 0.1 wt%, or less than 0.01 wt%, or less than 0.001 wt% of organic components other than the biopolymer(s) or degradation product(s).

[0026] According to the present invention, the biopolymer can be water-insoluble or semi-soluble. As used herein, the term "insoluble biopolymer" means a biopolymer that is "insoluble" in a polar solvent (especially water), and this term encompasses equivalent terms such as "water-insoluble", or "not water-soluble", or "water-insoluble", or "insoluble". Insolubility can typically be observed by separation, i.e., by two distinct phases in an aqueous mixture, for example, a deposit / precipitate of the biopolymer at the bottom or floating on top of the aqueous mixture. According to the present invention, examples of insoluble biopolymers include, but are not limited to, chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, alginic acid, and mixtures thereof. As used herein, the term "semi-soluble biopolymer" means a biopolymer that is in a polar solvent such as water but can be solubilized under certain conditions (e.g., molecular weight, heat, addition of chemicals such as acids, alcohols, surfactants, etc.). According to the present invention, examples of semi-soluble biopolymers include, but are not limited to, gelatin, pectin, starch, amylopectin, agarose, hyaluronic acid, RNA, DNA, xanthan gum, latex, polymannan, suberin, cutin, cutan, and mixtures thereof.

[0027] In embodiments, the insoluble biopolymer is selected from chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, and mixtures thereof. In embodiments, the semi-soluble biopolymer is selected from gelatin, pectin, starch, amylopectin, agarose, alginic acid, alginate, hyaluronic acid, RNA, DNA, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, latex, polymannan, suberin, cutin, cutan, and mixtures thereof.

[0028] A variety of sources of biopolymers can be used, and the present invention is not limited to a specific material source. For example, suitable sources of chitin can include, but are not limited to, green plants, algae, and fungi. Suitable sources of chitin and chitosan can include, but are not limited to, fungi, crustaceans (e.g., crabs and shrimp), and insects. In embodiments, the insoluble or semi-soluble biopolymer is obtained from fungi and mushrooms. In embodiments, the insoluble or semi-soluble biopolymer is obtained from plant materials including, but not limited to, roots, tubers, leaves, petals, seeds, fruits, etc. Preferred sources are non-animal sources.

[0029] In embodiments, the biopolymer is a 100% natural biopolymer such as SunSpheres Bio™ (microcrystalline cellulose, Dow Chemical), Chemjac™ (konjac (amorphophallus konjac) root extract and xanthan gum, Chemspire), Kelset™ (sodium alginate, Dupont), Instant Pure-Flo F™ (corn starch, Ingredion), Gelcarin™ GP 379 (carrageenan, iota type, Dupont), Betafib™ MCF (cellulose (and) water-microfibrillated cellulose, Cosun Biobased Products), Betafib™ ETD (cellulose and cellulose gum-microfibrillated cellulose, Cosun Biobased Products), Exilva™ FM02-V,L (cellulose-microfibrillated cellulose, Borregard), Naturesoft™ 800 (cellulose-micro powder), Kelcogel™ CG-HA (gellan gum-CP, Kelco), agar, and agarose, mushroom chitosan (e.g., GBS003, Qingdao Chibio Biotech), fungal chitosan (e.g., GBS010, Qingdao Chibio Biotech or Kraeber & Co), fungal-derived chitosan (e.g., Kiosmetine-CS™, Kitozyme).

[0030] In an embodiment, the biopolymer is a natural-derived biopolymer such as Natrathix (trademark) bio cellulose (cellulose gum, Ashland), Aquasorb (trademark) A500 (cellulose gum, Ashland), Polysurf (trademark) CS 67 / Natrosol (trademark) CS plus 330 (cetyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, Ashland), Structure XL (trademark) (hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, Nouryon), CD-58 (chitosan succinimide, Onlystar Bio-Technology Ltd), carboxymethyl chitosan derivative (GBS010, Qingdao Chibio Biotech), Makimousse (trademark) 7 / 400 (sodium polyacrylate starch - kobo products, Daito Kasei Kogyo), Salanjul / Sanfresh (trademark) 1000 / 300sp (sodium polyacrylate starch, Iwase Cosfa USA Inc. / Sanyo), Antaron ECoT ethylcellulose (ethyl cellulose, Ashland).

[0031] In an embodiment, the biopolymer includes synergistic biopolymer combinations such as Chemjac (trademark) (konjac root extract and xanthan gum, Chemspire), PemuPur (trademark) start (microcrystalline cellulose (and) sphingomonas fermentation extract (and) cellulose gum, Lubrizol), Nomcort CG (xanthan gum, carob gum, Ikeda).

[0032] The biopolymer may also include other biopolymer activators such as B-CAN (trademark) 55% (oat beta-glucan, Adams Food Ingredients) and / or mushroom-derived beta-glucan.

[0033] The present invention encompasses mixtures of two, three, four, five, or more insoluble biopolymers including, but not limited to, chitin + chitosan, chitin + cellulose, chitin + collagen, chitin + silk, chitosan + silk, chitosan + cellulose, chitosan + collagen, cellulose + collagen, cellulose + silk, collagen + silk, etc. The present invention also encompasses mixtures of two, three, four, five, or more semi - soluble biopolymers including, but not limited to, agarose + DNA, xanthan gum + starch, latex + alginate, xanthan gum + DNA, guar gum + kutan, etc. Also, it can be envisaged to mix together two, three, four, five, or more insoluble and semi - soluble biopolymers including, but not limited to, chitin + agarose, chitosan + agarose, chitin + gelatin, chitin + xanthan gum, chitosan + xanthan gum, chitin + sodium hyaluronate, chitosan + sodium hyaluronate, cellulose + sodium hyaluronate, chitin + agarose, chitosan + agarose, cellulose + agarose, etc.

[0034] The present invention also includes combinations of hydrophobic modified biopolymers and unmodified biopolymers that can form stable and viscous oil - in - water emulsions when dispersed using high - shear processes and / or mechanical energy (with or without emulsifiers). Examples of hydrophobic modified biopolymers include Natrosol™ CS Plus 330 / Polysurf™ CS 67 (cetyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, Ashland), StarDesign Ultra™ (sodium octenyl succinate starch, Cargill Beauty), Inutec™ SP1 (lauroyl inulin carbamate, Beneo), Texturlux Stabil™ (hydrolyzed corn starch hydroxyethyl ether, Primient).

[0035] In an embodiment, the biopolymer consists of a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable, homogeneous aqueous biopolymer suspension. As used herein, the term "homogeneous" generally refers to the appearance of the suspension to the naked eye (e.g., uniform color, uniform texture, etc.). Homogeneity as used herein does not exclude the possibility that the suspension may be "heterogeneous" at the molecular level (e.g., various particle sizes, presence of aggregates, etc.). As used herein, the term "stable, homogeneous aqueous biopolymer suspension", or similar terms that may be used interchangeably herein such as "homogeneous biopolymer suspension" or "stable biopolymer suspension" or simply "biopolymer suspension" all mean a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent. The polar solvent may be a polar protic solvent or a polar aprotic solvent. The polar solvent may be an aqueous solvent. The insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles present in the biopolymer suspension may be in the shape of fibers and / or in the shape of aggregated spheres or aggregates. The stability of the biopolymer suspension may be evaluated by any suitable method. In a preferred embodiment, the stability is measured or observed by not being separated, i.e., by a single phase rather than two separate phases in the aqueous mixture, for example, by the absence of a deposit / precipitate of biopolymer at the bottom or floating on top of the aqueous mixture. Preferably, the biopolymer suspension according to the present invention is stable (e.g., does not separate) over at least 1 day, or at least 1 week, or at least 1 month, or at least 1 year, or longer.

[0036] Notwithstanding the above, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that it is possible that insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymers may never truly become soluble. Instead, they become "swellable" and bind water, which is why biopolymer(s) become a viscous suspension when subjected to high shear conditions and / or mechanical energy according to the present invention. Thus, the present invention encompasses both "swellable biopolymers" and even "non-swellable biopolymers" since non-swellable polymers can become swellable by using high shear and / or mechanical energy. As used herein, swellable biopolymers include biopolymers that absorb and bind water, resulting in an increase in their particle size and the viscosity of their aqueous dispersion.

[0037] In an embodiment, the biopolymer is swellable by wet ball milling. This can include, but is not limited to, chitin, chitosan, hemicellulose, and alpha-corn starch.

[0038] In an embodiment, the biopolymer is swellable by high shear processes other than ball milling. This can include, but is not limited to, microcrystalline cellulose, microfibrillated cellulose, nanocellulose, hairy nanocellulose, konjac glucomannan, hydroxypropyl phosphate starch, high acyl type gellan gum, gellan gum, carboxymethyl starch, carboxymethyl cellulose (low ds type), agar, and agarose.

[0039] According to the present invention, it is also contemplated to use soluble biopolymers including, but not limited to, xanthan gum, diutan gum, sodium alginate, and sclerotium gum.

[0040] In an embodiment, the biopolymer molecules or particles, which are part of the cosmetic composition, are mechanically processed to form a stable homogeneous aqueous biopolymer suspension. In an embodiment, the mechanical processing includes high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy. In an embodiment, the high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy are obtained by processes including, but not limited to, mechanical shearing, shear thinning, planetary ball milling, rolling mill, vibratory ball milling, tumbling agitation ball milling, horizontal media mill, and colloid milling. As shown below, the high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy can be applied, for example, for a certain period of time, under certain parameters, under appropriate conditions, etc., until a desired state change such as a change in color, a change in viscosity, a change from a slurry to a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel, or milk is obtained.

[0041] Without being bound by theory, subjecting the biopolymer to high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy provides performance improvements of the biopolymer that are not seen using conventional processes, including improvements in rheological properties such as viscosity, shear thinning characteristics, and high yield value. Biopolymers dispersed using a high shear process with a fatty alcohol may contain a lamellar crystal gel network (LGN) that can synergistically increase the viscosity of the biopolymer dispersion. The oil + water biopolymer dispersion according to the present invention may also contain a Pickering emulsion in which an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion is stabilized by the biopolymer.

[0042] In an embodiment, high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy requires the use of suitable devices or apparatuses, including but not limited to ball mills (e.g., planetary ball mills, rolling mills, vibratory ball mills, rolling agitation ball mills, horizontal media mills, colloid mills, magnetic mills), twin screw extruders, high pressure homogenizers, blade homogenizers, stirring homogenizers, dispersers, rotor stator homogenizers, high shear mixers, ploughshare mixers, dynamic mixers, plough mixers, turbine mixers, speed mixers, attrition mills, sonicator (e.g., high shear ultrasonic treatment), tissue tearor, cell lyser, polytron, ribbon agitator, microfluidizer, high pressure homogenizer, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention utilizes ball milling under wet conditions. Specific examples of ball mills include, but are not limited to, a vertical planetary mill (e.g., Tencan XQM-2A (trademark)) equipped with a 100 mL zirconia jar and 10 mm diameter zirconia balls, a Flacktek (trademark) speed mixer (DAC 330-11SE) equipped with a 40 mL zirconia jar and 5 mm diameter zirconia balls or zirconia rings, a 1.5 L Supermill Plus (trademark) equipped with 1.4 - 1.7 mm zirconia beads, and a Netzsch Labstar equipped with 0.6 - 0.8 mm beads or 1.4 - 1.7 mm beads.

[0043] In a particular embodiment, the biopolymer compositions and suspensions according to the present invention are obtained using a specific protocol herein referred to as the "10+1 Alt method". This method involves grinding the biopolymer for a certain period of time (e.g., 10 minutes), followed by a short pause (e.g., 1 minute), and then grinding in the opposite direction for a certain period of time (e.g., 10 minutes), and repeating this for a total of 1 hour, or 2 hours, or 3 hours, or 5 hours, 10 hours, or 12 hours.

[0044] Advantageously, the viscosity of the composition / suspension can be altered by varying the high shear conditions and / or mechanical energy applied to the biopolymer(s). These conditions can be adjusted to obtain a stable, homogeneous suspension (e.g., a stable colloidal homogeneous suspension) having the desired viscosity. Typically, supplying more mechanical energy will increase the shear and, correspondingly, decrease the viscosity of the final product. The biopolymer itself and / or the final composition for drug delivery can be formulated as a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel, or milk.

[0045] In embodiments, the biopolymer, and / or the biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules or particles, is a colloidal homogeneous biopolymer suspension. In embodiments, the colloidal homogeneous suspension comprises colloids in the range of about 1 nm to about 1 μm.

[0046] In embodiments, the biopolymer, and / or the biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules, comprises biopolymer fibers. In embodiments, the fibers have a width of about 1 nm to about 5 μm, or about 5 nm to about 5 μm, about 7 nm to about 5 μm, or about 10 nm to about 5 μm, or about 20 nm to about 5 μm, or about 25 nm to about 5 μm, or about 30 nm to about 5 μm, or about 35 nm to about 5 μm, or about 35 nm to about 3 μm. In embodiments, the fibers have a width of at least 1 nm, or at least 5 nm, or at least 10 nm, or at least 20 nm, or at least 30 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm, or at least 75 nm, or at least 100 nm, or at least 250 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or more.

[0047] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules includes biopolymer fibers having a length of about 1 nm to about 200 μm, about 10 nm to about 100 μm, or about 50 nm to about 10 μm, or about 100 nm to about 10 μm, or about 500 nm to about 10 μm, or about 750 nm to about 10 μm, or about 800 nm to about 10 μm, or about 900 nm to about 5 μm, or about 1 μm to about 10 μm, or about 1 μm to about 5 μm, or about 1 μm to about 3 μm. In embodiments, the fibers have a length of at least 1 nm, or at least 10 nm, at least 50 nm, or at least 100 nm, or at least 250 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 800 nm, or at least about 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or at least 6 μm, or at least 7 μm, or at least 8 μm, or at least 9 μm, or at least 10 μm, or at least 25 μm, or at least 50 μm, or at least 75 μm, or at least 100 μm, or at least 150 μm, or at least 200 μm, or longer. In embodiments, the dry particle size range can be from about 1 nm to about 1 μm, or up to 10 μm, and the wet particle size range can be from about 200 nm to about 20 μm, or up to 200 μm.

[0048] In an embodiment, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or a biopolymer molecule comprises biopolymer fibers having both of the following: (i) a width greater than 20 nm (e.g., at least 25 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 50 nm (e.g., at least 100 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (ii) a width greater than 32 nm (e.g., at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 50 nm (e.g., at least 100 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (iii) a width greater than 20 nm (e.g., at least 25 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 500 nm (e.g., at least 600 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (iv) a width greater than 30 nm (e.g., at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 800 nm (e.g., at least 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (v) a width greater than 8 nm (e.g., at least 10 nm, at least 25 nm, or at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 340 nm (e.g., at least 350 nm, or at least 500 nm, at least 750 nm, or at least 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (vi) a width greater than 11 nm (e.g., at least 15 nm, at least 25 nm, or at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 166 nm (e.g., at least 200 nm, or at least 350 nm, or at least 500 nm, at least 750 nm, or at least 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm);or (viii) a width greater than 32 nm (e.g., at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 800 nm (e.g., at least 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or at least 6 μm, or at least 7 μm, or at least 8 μm, or at least 9 μm, or at least 10 μm, or at least 25 μm, or at least 50 μm, or at least 75 μm, or at least 100 μm, or at least 150 μm, or at least 200 μm, or more).;

[0049] In embodiments, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules, comprises biopolymer fibers, and the average width and average length of the fibers in the composition are as defined above, e.g., an average width greater than 20 nm (e.g., at least 25 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and an average length greater than 50 nm (e.g., at least 60 nm, at least 75 nm, or at least 100 nm, or at least 500 nm, at least 750 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or at least 6 μm, or at least 7 μm, or at least 8 μm, or at least 9 μm, or at least 10 μm, or at least 25 μm, or at least 50 μm, or at least 75 μm, or at least 100 μm, or at least 150 μm, or at least 200 μm, or wider).

[0050] In embodiments, a biopolymer suspension and / or a biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules has a pH of about 6.5 to about 8.5. In certain embodiments, the biopolymer suspension is a chitosan suspension having a pH of about 7.8 to about 8.1.

[0051] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules includes biopolymer fibers having both crystalline regions and amorphous regions. In embodiments, a stable homogeneous suspension includes biopolymer fibers having a spherical shape. In embodiments, a stable homogeneous suspension consists primarily of, or solely of, suspended biopolymer nanofibrils.

[0052] Those skilled in the art will recognize that particle size measurements can vary depending on the measurement method and the state of the particles (e.g., wet particles are typically larger than the same particles in the dry state). Typically, the particles are in a wet or suspended stage when measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and in a dry stage when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0053] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules includes aggregated spheres of alginic acid having an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm, or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In embodiments, a stable homogeneous suspension includes aggregated spheres of alginic acid having a median diameter of about 30 nm to about 70 nm or about 35 nm to about 65 nm, and an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0054] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules includes aggregated spheres of cellulose having an average size of about 50 nm to about 80 nm, or about 55 nm to about 75 nm, and an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm, or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In embodiments, a stable homogeneous biopolymer suspension includes aggregated spheres of cellulose having a median diameter of about 35 nm to about 75 nm or about 40 nm to about 65, and an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0055] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules comprises aggregated spheres of chitin having an average size of about 45 nm to about 85 nm, or about 50 nm to about 80 nm. In embodiments, a stable homogeneous biopolymer suspension comprises aggregated spheres of cellulose having a median diameter of about 45 nm to about 80 nm, or about 50 nm to about 75 nm as measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0056] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules comprises aggregated spheres of chitosan having an average size of about 75 nm to about 120 nm, or about 80 nm to about 115 nm, or about 85 nm to about 110 nm as measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In embodiments, a stable homogeneous suspension comprises aggregated spheres of chitosan having a median diameter of about 70 nm to about 100 nm, or about 75 nm to about 95 nm as measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0057] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules comprises aggregated spheres of silk having an average size of about 40 nm to about 165 nm, or about 45 nm to about 160 nm as measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In embodiments, a stable homogeneous biopolymer suspension comprises aggregated spheres of silk having a median diameter of about 40 nm to about 150 nm, or about 45 nm to about 140 as measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0058] In embodiments, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules comprises one or more kinds of particles of alginic acid, cellulose, chitin, chitosan, and silk, and when measured by SEM, the range of particle sizes is as defined in the tables and figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0059] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by visual properties as shown in the SEM images shown in the figures of International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0060] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum as shown in the figures of International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0061] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by solid state nuclear magnetic resonance property evaluation (SSNMR) as shown in the figures of International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0062] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern(s) as shown in the figures of International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0063] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurement as reported in International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0064] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by a transmittance spectrum as shown in the figures of International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0065] In an embodiment, a biopolymer, and / or a biopolymer composition containing biopolymer molecules, is characterized by a sweep suspension test as reported in International Publication No. 2022 / 137184.

[0066] In an embodiment, a biopolymer composition comprising a biopolymer and / or biopolymer molecules is characterized by the rheological behavior shown in the figure(s) of International Publication No. WO 2022 / 137184.

[0067] Screening composition One particular aspect of the present invention relates to a screening composition comprising a biopolymer and / or a biopolymer suspension as described herein. In an embodiment, the biopolymer comprises or consists of a biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension (e.g., a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent).

[0068] Advantageously, the screening composition may contain smaller monomeric units of polymeric biopolymers such as acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) and / or NAG oligomers, which may exhibit UV-blocking properties.

[0069] In one embodiment, the screening composition comprises a biopolymer and at least one of a sensory enhancer, a film-forming agent, an emulsifier, a co-emulsifier, a skin softener, a UVB filter, a UVA filter, a broad-spectrum filter, and a preservative. In an embodiment, the screening composition comprises at least water, a biopolymer (acting as a thickening agent), a UVB absorber, a UVA absorber, a skin softener, and a preservative. In an embodiment, the screening composition further comprises one or more of these desired raw material components: a humectant, an emulsifier, and a film-forming agent.

[0070] In an embodiment, the sensory enhancer is selected from the group consisting of cyclopentasiloxane, cyclohexasiloxane, cyclopentasiloxane, cisiloxane, trisiloxane, dimethicone, caprylyl methicone, phenyltrimethicone, cetyl dimethicone, bis-hydroxyethoxypropyl dimethicone, dimethicone / vinyl dimethicone cross polymer, dimethicone / dimethicone cross polymer, PEG-20 sorbitan cocoate, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, potassium sorbate, phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, butylparaben, and mixtures thereof.

[0071] In an embodiment, the film-forming agent is selected from the group consisting of cetyl dimethicone, stearyl dimethicone, phenyl trimethicone, bis-hydroxyethoxypropyl dimethicone, isododecane, polypropylsilsesquioxane, dimethicone / vinyl dimethicone cross polymer, C30-45 alkyl methicone, C30-45 olefin, beeswax, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax, copernicia prunifera (carnauba) wax, isododecane, acrylate polytrimethylsiloxymethacrylate copolymer, hydrogenated polycyclopentadiene, galactomannan, methyl dihydroabietate, trimethylsiloxysilicate, trimethylsiloxysilicate, polypropylsilsesquioxane, C30-45 alkyldimethylsilyl polypropylsilsesquioxane, ethylenediamine / hydrogenated dimer dilinoleic acid copolymer bis-di-C14-18 alkylamide, acrylate copolymer, and mixtures thereof. Specific examples include, but are not limited to, Dermacryl E (trademark) (styrene / acrylate copolymer (Nouryon)), Ganex (trademark) V220 (eicosene / VP), Cosmedia (trademark) DC (hydrogenated dimer dilinoleyl / dimethyl carbonate (BASF)), Baycusan (trademark) C 1000 (urethane-34 (Covestro)), Hercolyn (trademark) D (methyl hydrogenated rosin acid (Pinova)), Tego (trademark) SP 13-1, 13-6 (poly C10-30 alkyl acrylate (Evonik)), Ganex (trademark) P904 (butyl PVP (Ashland)).

[0072] In an embodiment, the emulsifier is selected from the group consisting of acrylate / C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, potassium cetyl phosphate, sodium cetearyl sulfate, C20-22 alkyl phosphate, PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate, polyglyceryl-2 dipolyhydroxystearate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, and mixtures thereof. Specific examples include, but are not limited to, Emulsiphos (trademark) (potassium cetyl phosphate + hydrogenated palm glyceride (Symrise)), Dracorin (trademark) GOC (glyceryl oleate citrate + caprylic / capric triglyceride (Symrise)), Dracorin (trademark) CE (glyceryl stearate citrate (Symrise)), polyglyceryl 10 stearate, and triglyceride stearate.

[0073] In an embodiment, the co-emulsifier is selected from the group consisting of cetyl, stearyl alcohol, stearic acid, glyceryl stearate, sorbitan stearate, polyglyceryl 3 distearate, and mixtures thereof. In an embodiment, the skin softener is selected from the group consisting of C12-15 alkyl benzoate, tricosiloxane, squalene, butyl octyl salicylate, isopropyl isostearate, isostearyl isostearate, caprylyl carbonate, isopropyl myristate, dibutyl adipate, caprylic / capric triglyceride, coco-caprylate, dicaprylyl carbonate, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate, butyl octyl salicylate, tridecyl salicylate, polyester-8, diethylhexyl malonate silicylene, benzotriazolyl dodecyl p-cresol, propyl heptyl caprylate, and mixtures thereof.

[0074] In an embodiment, the UVB filter is selected from the group consisting of Uvivul™ T 150 (ethylhexyl triazone), titanium dioxide, benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone), octinoxate (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate), octocrylene, ethylhexyl salicylate (octisalate), homosalate (homomenthyl salicylate), ensulizole (phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid), amyl o- methoxycinnamate, polysilicone-15, diethylhexyl butamidotriazone (isotrizinol), 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (enxacamene), and mixtures thereof.

[0075] In an embodiment, the UVA filter is selected from the group consisting of butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone™), diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate (Univul™ a plus), terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid (Mexoryl™ SX), disodium phenyl dibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate (Neo Heliopan™ ap), Tinosorb™ S (bis-ethylhexyl oxy-phenol methoxyphenyl triazine), Tinosorb™ M (methylene bis - benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol (and) water (and) decyl glucoside (and) propylene glycol (and) xanthan gum), Tinosorb™ A2B (tris - biphenyl triazine (and) water (and) decyl glucoside (and) butylene glycol (and) disodium phosphate (and) xanthan gum), and mixtures thereof.

[0076] In an embodiment, the broad - spectrum filter is selected from the group consisting of bis - ethylhexyl oxy - phenol methoxyphenyl triazine, tris - biphenyl triazine (nano), methylene bis - benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, droxmetrizole trisiloxane, zinc oxide, and mixtures thereof.

[0077] In the embodiment, the SPF boosters are Soltex INO(™) Polymer (acrylate / methacryloyloxyethyl phosphate copolymer, Dow Chemical), Soltex INO(™) Polymer (acrylate / methacryloyloxyethyl phosphate copolymer, Dow Chemical), Solterra Boost(™) (methylcellulose, Dow Chemical), Synoxyl HSS(™) (trimethoxybenzylidene pentanedione, Sytheon), SunSpheres(™) Powder (styrene acrylate copolymer, Dow Chemical), SunSpheres BIO(™) SPF Booster (microcrystalline cellulose, Dow Chemical), SunBoost ATB(™) (argania spinosa kernel oil (and) tocopheryl acetate (and) bisabolol, Kobo Products), NS Boost(™) (3% active ingredient), NS Boost(™) (mica, silica, Next Step Labs), LaraCare(™) A200 (galactoarabinan, Lonza), HallBrite(™) BHB (butyloctyl salicylate, Hallstar), Dow Corning(™) 5562 Carbinol Fluid (bishydroxyethoxypropyl dimethicone, Nexeo Solutions), Performacol(™) 350 (C20 - 40 alcohol, New Phase Technologies), Corapan(™) TQ (diethylhexyl 2,6 - naphthalate, Symrise), Lexgard(™) O (caprylyl glycol, Inolex), HallBrite(™) BHB (butyloctyl salicvlate, Hallstar), TDSA (tridecyl salicylate, Alzo Inc.) Karansun (trademark) SC 50 concentrated (pongamia seed oil, BioSynthis), Pongamia Butter (pongamia extract, Biosynthis), Solastay (trademark) S1 (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, Hallstar), AvoBrite (trademark) (acrylate copolymer, Hallstar), Tego (trademark) SP 13-1, 13-6 (poly C10-30 alkyl acrylate, Evonik), Oleocraft (trademark) HP 31, MP30, MP31 (polyamide 3, Croda), Koboguard (trademark) HRPC (hydrogenated polycyclopentadiene (and) polyethylene (and) copernicia cerifera (carnauba) wax (and) tocopherol, Kobo Products), Baycusan (trademark) C1000 (polyurethane 34, latex solids 40%, Bayer Material Science), SolPerForm (trademark) (water, hydrolyzed wheat gluten / PVP cross polymer, solids 29%, Croda), and mixtures thereof.

[0078] In an embodiment, the preservative is selected from the group consisting of benzyl alcohol, sodium benzoate, caprylyl glycol, glyceryl caprylate, phenoxyethanol, hexanediol, hydroxyacetophenone, sodium dehydroacetate, sodium phytate, and mixtures thereof.

[0079] In an embodiment, the biopolymer serves as a thickening agent. However, it is contemplated that thickening agent(s) such as cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, carnauba wax, and stearic acid, hydroxyethyl cellulose, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, gelatin, silica, bentonite, and magnesium aluminum silicate, carbomer, sodium chloride may be added to the sunscreen composition, but are not limited thereto.

[0080] In an embodiment, the sunscreen composition comprises the following raw material components.

Table 1

[0081] In embodiments, the sunscreen composition provides a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, or at least 30, or at least 45, or at least 50, or at least 60.

[0082] In the sunscreen composition according to the present invention, many uses can be found for at least protecting the skin from sunlight. The method of use may simply include applying the composition(s) to the skin. The application(s) may be repeated, if necessary, at various time intervals, for example, every 1 hour, or every 2 hours, or every 6 hours, or every 12 hours, or once a day, or twice a day, or three times a day, or once or twice or three times a week, etc.

[0083] Skin care composition One particular aspect of the present invention relates to a skin care composition comprising the biopolymer and / or biopolymer suspension described herein. In embodiments, the biopolymer comprises or consists of a biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension, such as a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

[0084] Advantageously, the skin care composition may contain smaller monomeric units of multimeric biopolymers such as N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) and / or NAG oligomers that may exhibit anti-aging properties.

[0085] In one embodiment, the skin care composition comprises a biopolymer and at least one of a humectant, a skin softener, an occlusive agent, a ceramide, an emulsifier, a thickener, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component. In embodiments, the skin care composition comprises at least a biopolymer, an emulsifier / stabilizer, and a preservative.

[0086] In an embodiment, the humectant is selected from the group consisting of glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, α-hydroxy acid, propylene glycol, honey, sorbitol, butylene glycol, sodium PCA, allantoin, sodium lactate, dicyandiamide, tremella extract, seaweed, aloe vera, and mixtures thereof.

[0087] In an embodiment, the emollient is selected from the group consisting of beeswax, butyl phthalimide isopropyl phthalimide, candelilla, castor, cocoa butter, coconut oil, cyclomethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, dicaprylyl ether, diisopropyl dimer dilinoleate, dimethicone, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, glycerin, hydrogenated polyisobutene, isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isododecane, isohexadecane, isoparaffin, isopropyl isostearate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate, jojoba oil, lanolin, mineral oil, octyldodecanol, octyl palmitate, olive oil, palm, pentaerythritol tetraoctanoate, petrolatum, phenylethyl benzoate, polyglyceryl-4 oleate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dibenzoate, propylene glycol isostearate, shea butter, sorbitol, squalane, sunflower, tricosane, and mixtures thereof.

[0088] In an embodiment, the occlusive agent is selected from the group consisting of mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, dimethicone, shea butter, and mixtures thereof.

[0089] In an embodiment, the ceramide is selected from the group consisting of ceramide EOS, ceramide NS, ceramide NG, ceramide NP, ceramide AP, ceramide EOP, phytosphingosine, sphingosine, and mixtures thereof.

[0090] In an embodiment, the emulsifier is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate, tragacanthins, lecithin, mustard, soybean lecithin, sodium phosphate, diacetyl tartaric acid ester of monoglyceride, sodium stearoyl lactate, and mixtures thereof.

[0091] In an embodiment, the thickener is selected from the group consisting of magnesium aluminum, silicate, silica, bentonite, carbomer, cetyl palmitate, acryloyldimethyltaurine ammonium, and mixtures thereof.

[0092] In an embodiment, the preservative is selected from the group consisting of phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, ethylhexylglycerin, DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (bromopol), glyoxal, ethyl paraben, butyl paraben, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, isobutyl paraben, isopropyl paraben, benzylate, benzoic acid, benzyl ester, methylisothiazolinone (MIT; 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one), methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT; 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one), phenoxyethanol, 2-phenoxyethanol, Euxyl K(trademark)400 (a mixture of phenoxyethanol and 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane), triclosan (TSC), triclocarban (tcc), benzyl alcohol, benzalkonium chloride, citric acid, dehydroacetic acid, essential oils, grapefruit seed extract, lactic acid, levulinic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium dehydroacetate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium salicylate, sorbic acid, vitamin E, zinc pyrithione, and mixtures thereof. In an embodiment, the preservative comprises at least one of Dermosoft(trademark) and Spectrastat(trademark).

[0093] In an embodiment, the antioxidant is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B3, green tea extract, resveratrol, curcumin, lycopene, coenzyme Q10, polyphenols, Centella asiatica, tamanu, and mixtures thereof.

[0094] In an embodiment, the fragrance is selected from the group consisting of linalool, citronellol, limonene, geraniol, eugenol, lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia), rose flower extract (Rosa damascene, canina, centifolia, gallica, multiflora), bergamot oil (Citrus bergamia), ylang-ylang oil (Canaga odorata), lemon (Citrus limon), lime (Citrus aurantifolia or Citrus medica), orange (Citrus sinensis), tangerine (Citrus tangerine), peppermint (Mentha piperita), spearmint (Mentha spicata), eucalyptus, cinnamon (Cinnamomum), cinnamal, and mixtures thereof.

[0095] In an embodiment, the functional raw material components are selected from the group consisting of biological extracts, vitamins, amino acids, peptides, proteins, essential fatty acids (e.g., α-hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, β-glucan, and mixtures thereof).

[0096] In the skin care composition according to the present invention, many uses can be found for at least bringing benefits to the skin. For example, the skin care composition can provide one or more of the following benefits: moisturizing the skin, improving the appearance of the skin, protecting from environmental damage, resisting the effects of aging, removing wrinkles and / or freckles.

[0097] In an embodiment, the skin care composition includes the following raw material components. [Table 2]

[0098] The method of use may simply include applying the composition(s) to the skin. The application(s) may be repeated at various time intervals as needed, for example, every 1 hour, or every 2 hours, or every 6 hours, or every 12 hours, or once a day, or twice a day, or three times a day, or once, twice, or three times a week, etc.

[0099] In an embodiment, the skin care composition according to the present invention is useful for "smoothing" the skin (e.g., removing wrinkles). In an embodiment, the skin care composition reduces the average Ra parameter (line average profile roughness) by at least 0.1%, or at least 0.25%, or at least 0.5%, or at least 1%, or at least 1.5%, or at least 2%, or at least 2.5%, or at least 3%, or at least 3.5%, or at least 4%, or at least 4.5%, or at least 5%, or from 0.5% to 5%, or from 1% to 3%, or by an average value of about 2.5% 15 minutes after application to the skin of a human subject. In other embodiments, the skin care composition reduces the average Ra parameter by the same values as described above, provided that it is after 10 days of use (applied to the skin once, twice, or three times a day for 10 days).

[0100] In an embodiment, the skin care composition according to the present invention has a waterproof effect when measured after spraying water 10 times from the application of the product. In an embodiment, the skin care composition has a waterproof score of 7 or more, for example at least 7, or at least 7.5, or at least 8, or at least 8.5, or at least 9, or at least 9.5.

[0101] In an embodiment, the skin care composition according to the present invention is dermatologically safe. In an embodiment, the application of the composition to the skin does not cause any undesirable effects such as erythema, desquamation, edema, and small blisters. Preferably, the skin care composition according to the present invention exhibits a very low or zero mean irritation index (MII) (e.g., MII is 0 at both 15 minutes and 24 hours after application according to a normal patch test (see Example 9 below)). Preferably, the skin care composition according to the present invention can be classified as "non-irritant" and "dermatologically tested for skin compatibility".

[0102] In an embodiment, a skin care composition according to the present invention can fully meet the requirements of a preservation effect test for a topical product according to the USP standard (e.g., USP51 and / or USP61). Preferably, the skin care composition can reduce the microbial count of various microbial strains including, but not limited to, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, and Aspergillus brasiliensis ATCC 16404. Preferably, the skin care composition is effective in reducing the microbial count by at least 1 log, or at least 2 log, or at least 3 log, or at least 4 log, or at least 5 log over 14 days. In an embodiment, the skin care composition can be properly preserved and prevent the growth of bacteria over at least 5 days, or at least 10 days, at least 14 days, at least 21 days, at least 28 days, or longer.

[0103] Hair care composition One particular aspect of the present invention relates to a hair care composition comprising the biopolymer and / or biopolymer suspension described herein. In an embodiment, the biopolymer comprises, or consists of, a biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension (e.g., a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent).

[0104] In one embodiment, the hair care composition comprises a biopolymer and at least one of a surfactant, a hair conditioning surfactant, a co-surfactant, a cationic conditioning polymer, a conditioning skin softener, a thickener, an opacifier, a ceramide, a conditioner, a pH buffer, a chelating agent, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component. In an embodiment, the skin care composition comprises at least a biopolymer, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, and a preservative.

[0105] In an embodiment, the biopolymer is selected from chitin, chitosan, cellulose, and mixtures thereof. In an embodiment, the biopolymer is microcrystalline cellulose (e.g., SunSpheres™ BIO SPF Booster), microfibrillated cellulose (e.g., Exilva™ (FM02-V), Borregaard). It is also conceivable to use mixtures of these celluloses.

[0106] In an embodiment, the surfactant is selected from lauryl sulfate (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate), laureth sulfate (e.g., sodium laureth sulfate), sarcosine (e.g., sodium lauroyl sarcosinate), sulfosuccinate (e.g., sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate), betaine (e.g., cocamidopropyl betaine), alkyl amino acid, poloxamer, amine oxide (e.g., cocamidopropyl amine oxide), polyglucoside (e.g., lauryl glucoside), and mixtures thereof.

[0107] In an embodiment, the hair conditioning surfactant is selected from behentrimonium chloride, stearyldimethylaminopropylamine, cetrimonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride, and mixtures thereof.

[0108] In embodiments, the cationic conditioning polymer is selected from polyquaternium 7, 10, 53, 87, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, starch hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, Sensomer™ CI-50 (33% active ingredient, Lubrizol), cassia hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, and mixtures thereof.

[0109] In embodiments, the co-surfactant is selected from cetyl, stearyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate, and mixtures thereof.

[0110] In embodiments, the conditioning skin softener is selected from dimethicone, dimethiconol, trisioloxane, amodimethicone, polylysinoic acid, polyester 37, trimethylolpropane tricaprylate / tricaprate, and polyester-11, PPG-3 benzyl ether ethylhexanoate, and mixtures thereof.

[0111] In embodiments, the preservative is selected from caprylyl glycol, hexanediol, lauroyl arginine ethyl HCl, Everguard™ LAE 20 (20% solution in glycerin), benzyl alcohol, glyceryl caprylate, trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, Euxyl™ k 712 preservative (sodium benzoate (and) potassium sorbate (and) water - ashland), and mixtures thereof.

[0112] In embodiments, the thickener is selected from sodium chloride, gums, cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, acrylate copolymers, and mixtures thereof.

[0113] In embodiments, the preservative is selected from isothiazolones (e.g., methylchloroisothiazolinone), cationic surfactants (e.g., benzalkonium chloride), and mixtures thereof. Further examples of possible preservatives, and even further possible stabilizers and / or emulsifiers, are shown below.

[0114] In an embodiment, the opacifying agent and the pearlescent agent are selected from a polyglycol ester latex opacifying agent, a pearlescent colorant additive, and mixtures thereof.

[0115] In an embodiment, the conditioner is selected from quaternary surfactants (e.g., stearalkonium chloride, cetrimonium chloride, quaternium, and polyquaternium (e.g., polyquaternium-10)), polyvinylpyrrolidone, wetting agents (e.g., glycerin), proteins, silicones (e.g., dimethicone cyclomethicone, dimethicone, and amodimethicone), and mixtures thereof.

[0116] In an embodiment, the pH buffer is selected from citric acid, glycolic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0117] In an embodiment, the chelating agent is EDTA.

[0118] In an embodiment, the active ingredient components are selected from anti-dandruff agents (e.g., ketoconazole), zinc pyrithione, sulfur, and salicylic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0119] In an embodiment, the additional raw material components are selected from vitamins, fragrances, plant extracts, and mixtures thereof.

[0120] In the hair care composition according to the present invention, many uses can be found, for example, in shampoos, rinse-out cream hair conditioners, spray-on hair conditioners, body washes, and / or any other products for hair washing, prevention and / or treatment of damage to hair. The method of use may simply include applying the composition(s) to the hair (and / or body) during washing, rinsing with water, and drying the hair (and / or). The application(s) may be repeated, if necessary, at various time intervals (e.g., once a day, or twice a day, or once or twice or three times a week, etc.).

[0121] In an embodiment, the hair care composition is formulated as a shampoo (e.g., a conditioning shampoo) and contains the following raw material components.

Table 3

[0122] In an embodiment, the hair care composition is formulated as a rinse-out cream hair conditioner and contains the following raw material components.

Table 4

[0123] In an embodiment, the hair care composition is formulated as a spray-on hair conditioner and contains the following raw material components.

Table 5

[0124] Desirable properties The cosmetic composition according to the present invention is preferably stable. By stability is meant, at least, that the biopolymer (e.g., fiber, spheroid) or any other component of the composition does not precipitate to the bottom. In an embodiment, the insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer(s) are maintained in a suspended state for at least one week, or at least one month, or at least six months, or at least twelve months, or at least eighteen months, or at least two years, or at least three years, or more.

[0125] The cosmetic composition according to the present invention can be formulated to have a desired viscosity (e.g., the viscosity of what is generally referred to as a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel, or milk). In embodiments, the viscosity of the composition / suspension can be varied by varying the high shear conditions and / or mechanical energy applied to the biopolymer(s). In embodiments, a stable, homogeneous suspension has a viscosity of from about 25 mPa to about 85,000 mPa. Table 1 below provides non-limiting examples of desired viscosities of the composition / suspension according to the present invention.

[0126]

Table 6

[0127] In embodiments, the viscosity of the skincare and / or sunscreen composition according to the present invention can be varied by appropriately selecting a sensory enhancer, film-forming agent, emulsifier, skin softener, UVB filter, UVA filter, and / or broad-spectrum filter.

[0128] The viscosity of the cosmetic composition according to the present invention can also be varied according to the ratio or concentration of each compound incorporated into the composition, in addition to the biopolymer. In embodiments, the weight ratio of biopolymer: other components (such as, for example, sensory enhancers, film formers, emulsifiers, skin softeners, UVB filters, UVA filters, and / or broad spectrum filters, etc.) is from about 0.1:20 to about 10:20, or from about 0.5:20 to about 3:20, or about 0.75:20, or about 1.0:20, 1.25:20, or about 1.5:20. In embodiments, the cosmetic composition according to the present invention comprises from about 0.01 to 10 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or from 0.01 to 5 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or from 0.01 to 2 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or from 0.01 to 1 wt / wt% of the biopolymer. In embodiments, the cosmetic composition according to the present invention comprises about 0.01 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 0.05 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 0.1 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 0.25 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 0.5 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 0.75 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 1 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 1.5 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 2.5 wt / wt% of the biopolymer, or about 5 wt / wt% of the biopolymer.

[0129] The cosmetic composition according to the present invention can also be formulated as a stable emulsion comprising fatty acids (e.g., C 10 ~C 22 fatty acids), oils, and / or waxes, and / or N-acetylglucosamine, and / or emulsifiers, and preservatives, and / or additives.

[0130] A non-limiting list of possible additives includes preservatives, stabilizers, and emulsifiers (e.g., cetyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate, soybean butter, PC90, tara gum, PSC3, PEG, guar, xanthan gum, agarose, sodium hyaluronate, Tween 80 (trademark), glycerol (humectant)), thickeners, dyes, powders (e.g., mica, pigments, chalk), inks, colorants, fragrances, essential oils, extracts (e.g., plant extracts such as aloe vera), vitamins (e.g., ascorbic acid), acids (e.g., acetic acid, citric acid, stearic acid), oils (cocoa butter, emu oil, olive oil, shea butter, silicone oil, mineral oil), metal oxides (e.g., zinc oxide), salts (e.g., sea salt, sodium lactate), honey, clay, propenyl glycol, polyethylene glycol, dry raw material components (e.g., rose petal powder, orange peel powder, chamomile flowers, calendula petals, etc.), allantoin, acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), waxes (e.g., beeswax), peptides and proteins, pharmaceutical compounds (e.g., N-acetylglucosamine, lidocaine, capsaicin, baclofen, ketamine, methylsulfonylmethane, orphenadrine, tetracaine, amitriptyline, bupivacaine, cyclobenzaprine, doxepin, gabapentin, guaifenesin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, meloxicam, piroxicam, ketoprofen, any NSAID), sugars (e.g., glucose, fructose, galactose, etc.), cellulose, starch, chitin, chitosan, alginic acid, collagen, silk, or any monomer such as these, but not limited thereto. The additive(s) may be added before, during, and / or after a process of high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy.

[0131] In the embodiment, the additive or stabilizer is selected from the following stabilizers: Canteen, sodium alginate, carrageenan, guar, konjac, tragacanth, locust bean gum, psyllium, tara gum, fenugreek gum, xanthan gum, abietic acid, acetylmannosylerythritol lipid, acrylamide / sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer, acrylate / aminoacrylate / C10-30 alkyl PEG-20 itaconate copolymer, acrylate / C10-30 alkyl acrylate cross-polymer, acrylate / C5-8 alkyl acrylate copolymer, acrylate / stearyl methacrylate copolymer, acrylate / vinyl isodecanoate cross-polymer, acrylate / vinyl neodecanoate cross-polymer, acrylic acid / stearyl acrylate copolymer, acrylic acid / stearyl methacrylate / dimethicone methacrylate copolymer, bisacryloyl poloxamer, alkaligenes polysaccharide, alcohol C9-11, allyl methacrylate cross-polymer, sweet almond oil polyglyceryl-4 ester, aluminum behenate, aluminum caprylate, aluminum dicetyl phosphate, aluminum dilinoleate, aluminum dimyristate, aluminum distearate, aluminum isostearate, aluminum isostearate / lauric acid / palmitic acid, aluminum isostearate / lauric acid / stearic acid, aluminum isostearate / myristic acid, aluminum isostearate / palmitic acid, aluminum isostearate / stearic acid, aluminum lanolate, aluminum monostearate, aluminum myristate, aluminum myristate / palmitic acid, aluminum hydroxide stearate / magnesium, acryloyldimethyltaurine ammonium / stearess-25 methacrylate cross-polymer, acryloyldimethyltaurine ammonium / stearess-8 methacrylate copolymer, acryloyldimethyltaurine ammonium / vinyl formamide copolymer, ammonium alginate, phosphatidyl nata fatty acid ammonium salt, polyacryloyldimethyltaurine ammonium, ammonium ceracate, amodimethicone glycylcarbamate,AMP-C8~18 Perfluoroalkyl Ethyl Phosphate, Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide, Arachidyl Alcohol, Tragacanth Gum, Tragacanth Root Extract, Avocadoamide DEA, Babassu Acid, Crosslinked Bacillus / Glucose / Sodium Glutamate Ferment, Dextrorotatory, Levorotatory - Butyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Beeswax, Synthetic Beeswax, Behenyl Alcohol, Bentonite, Benzalkonium Montmorillonite, Benzalkonium Sepiolite, Bittern Emulsification Stabilizer, Brassica Alcohol Skin Softener, Brassidyl Isoleucine Ester, Butanediol / Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer, Butoxyhydroxypropyl Cetyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Butyldecyl Ester, Butyl Acrylate / Isopropylacrylamide / PEG - 18 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer, Babassu Oil Fatty Acid Butyl, Butylene Glycol Coat, Butylene Glycol Isostearate, C1~5 Alkyl Galactomannan, C12~13 Alcohol, C12~14 sec - Parles - 3, C12~14 sec - Parles - 5, C12~14 sec - Parles - 7, C12~14 sec - Parles - 8, C12~14 sec - Parles - 9, C12~14 sec - Parles - 12, C12~14 sec - Parles - 15, C12~14 sec - Parles - 20, C12~14 sec - Parles - 30, C12~14 sec - Parles - 40, C12~14 sec - Parles - 50, C12~15 Alcohol, C12~16 Alkyl PEG - 2 Hydroxypropyl Hydroxyethyl Ethyl Cellulose, C12~18 Alkyl Glucoside, Hydrogenated C12~18 Triglyceride, C14~15 Alcohol, C14~18 Glycol, C14~22 Alcohol, C15~18 Glycol, Bis - C16~18 Alkyl Glyceryl Undecyldimethicone, C18~22 Alkyl PEG - 25 Methacrylate / Diethylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, C18~30 Glycol, C18~38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate, C20~22 Alcohol, C20~30 Glycol, C20~40 Alcohol, C20~40 Alkyl Crelene, C22~24 Parles - 33, Bis - C24~28 Hydroxyalkyl Olivoyl Glutamate, C28~52 Olefin / Undecylenic Acid Copolymer, C30~50 Alcohol, Carboxymethyl Cellulose Calcium,Carrageenan calcium, calcium laurate, calcium myristate, calcium polyglutamate cross-polymer, calcium potassium carbomer, calcium saccharinate, calcium octenyl succinate starch, calcium stearate, callitris quadrivalvis resin, candelilla wax, candelilla wax, candelilla / jojoba / rice bran polyglyceryl-3 ester, cannabis sativa seed oil glyceryl-8 ester, caprylyl dimethicone ethoxy glucoside, caprylyl / capryl wheatgerm / walnut glycoside, carbomer 934, carboxymethyl cellulose acetate butyrate, carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl hydroxypropyl guar, carnauba wax, safflower oleosome, hydrogenated castor oil behenyl ester, castor oil phosphate, hydrogenated castor oil stearyl ester, hydrogenated castor oil / sebacic acid copolymer caprylate / caprylate, cellulose acetate propionate carboxylate, hydrolyzed cellulose gum, microcrystalline cellulose, ceramide NS / peg-8 / succinic acid copolymer, locust bean gum, ceresin, cetearyl-6 olivate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, cetyl dimethicone peg-7 acetate, cetyl dodecenyl succinate, cetyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, cetyl peg / peg-7 / 3 dimethicone, bis-cetyl / peg-8 cetyl peg-8 dimethicone, chitosan laurylamide succinimide, chitosan lauroyl glycinate, cholesterol / hdi / pullulan copolymer, citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract, citrus aurantium sinensis fiber, cocoamide, cocoamide DEA, cocoamide MEA, cocoamide MIPA, cocoamidopropyl lauryl ether, cocoa butter glyceryl ester, palm alcohol, palm oil methyl propanediol ester, hydrolyzed corn starch hydroxyethyl ether, cyamopsis tetragonoloba gum, decyl castorate, decyl glucoside,decyl hempseedate, 7-dehydrocholesterol, dehydroxanthan gum, disodium dicaprylyl sulfosuccinate, diethylene glycol / hydrogenated dimer dilinoleate copolymer, digalactosyl glyceryl linoleate / palmitate / oleate, diglycerin / dilinoleic acid / hydroxystearic acid copolymer, dihydrolanosterol, dihydroxyethyl cocamine oxide, dihydroxyethyl lauramine oxide, diisotridecyl lauroyl glutamate, dilauryl maleate / C20 olefin copolymer, dimaltocyclodextrin, hydrogenated dimer dilinoleyl / dimethyl carbonate copolymer, dimethicone crospolymer, dimethicone ethoxyl glucoside, dimethicone / lauryl dimethicone / bis-vinyl dimethicone crospolymer, dimethicone / PEG-15 crospolymer, dimethyl capramide, dimethyl cocoamine, dimethyl lauramine isostearate, dioleyl phosphate, dipropylene glycol isobornyl ether, dodecyl hexadecanol, bis-ethoxydiglycol cyclohexane 1,4-dicarboxylate, ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, bis-ethyl ppg-behenate dimonium methosulfate, bis-(ethyl ppg-3 behenate) dimonium methosulfate, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene / acrylic acid copolymer, ethylene / sodium acrylate copolymer, ferroyl soybean glyceride, perfluorocyclohexyl methanol, perfluoroheptane, perfluoromethylcyclohexane, perfluoromethyldecalin, ghatti gum, glucose pentaacetate, α-dextro-glucose pentaacetate, glycereth-7 malate, glycereth-8 hydroxystearate, glycereth-7 benzoate, glyceryl hydrogenated abietate, glycol stearate, acetylated glycol stearate, glycosyl trehalose, grape seed oil glycereth-8 ester, grape seed oil polyglycerin-6 ester, maleic acid-modified hexene / propylene copolymer, hydroxyquinoline sulfate, hydroxyapatite, hydroxybutyl methyl cellulose, bis-hydroxyethoxypropyl dimethicone beeswax ester,Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone Isostearate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate / Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Hydroxyethyl Isostearyloxy Isopropanolamine, Hydroxypropyl Cellulose, Hydroxypropyl Guar Gum, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Hydroxypropyl Xanthan Gum, Hydroxypropyl Trimonium Inulin, Hydroxypropyl Trimonium Xanthan Gum, Hydroxystearic Acid / Linolenic Acid / Linoleic Acid Polyglyceride, Hydroxystearic Acid / Linolenic Acid / Oleic Acid Polyglyceride, Lauryl Carbamate Inulin, Synthetic Beeswax, Jojoba Oil Glyceryl-8 Ester, Hydrogenated Lanolin Alcohol, Lanolin Amide DEA, Lauryl Alcohol, Lauryl Alcohol Diphosphonic Acid, Lauryl Dodecenyl Succinate, Lauryl / Myristyl Wheat Germ / Walnut Glycoside, Hydrogenated Lime Seed Oil, Magnesium Alginate, Lauric Acid Maltitol, Maltodextrin, Methoxy PEG-22 / Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer, Methoxy PEG / PPG-25 / 4 Dimethicone, Methyl Cellulose, Methyl Vinyl Ether / Maleic Anhydride Copolymer, Montmorillonite, Myristyl Acetate / Palmitamide Butylguanidine, Myristyl Alaninate, Myristyl Alcohol, Oleic Acid / Linoleic Acid / Linolenic Acid Polyglyceride, Olive Alcohol, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Caprylyl Ester, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Cetyl Ester, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Decyl Ester, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Hexyl Ester, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Lauryl Ester, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Myristyl Ester, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Stearyl Ester, Hydrogenated Orange Seed Oil, Ozokerite, Palm Kernel Amide DEA, Palm Kernel Amide MEA, Palm Kernel Amide MIPA, Palm Amide DEA, Palm Amide MEA, Palm Amide MIPA, Peanut Amide MEA, Peanut Amide MIPA, Pectin, Tris(PEG-2 Phenylalanylcarboxamide) Cyclohexane, PEG-2 Tallow Amide DEA, peg-4peg-12 Dimethicone, peg-5 Pentaerythrityl Dimethylolpropionate-2 Dendrimer, peg-5 Pentaerythrityl Dimethylolpropionate-3 Dendrimerpeg-5 pentaerythrityl dimethylolpropionate-4 dendrimer, peg-7 propylheptyl ether, peg-7m, peg-8 dimethicone / polysorbate 20 copolymer, peg-8 propylheptyl ether, peg-9m, peg-12 carnauba, peg-12 glyceryl linoleate, peg-14m, peg-20m, peg-23m, peg-65m, p, eg-90m, peg-100 / IPDI copolymer, peg-114 polylactic acid, peg-115m, peg-160m, peg-180m, peg-400, peg-45 / dodecyl glycol copolymer, peg-450, peg-500, peg / ppg-10 / 3 oleyl ether dimethicone, peg / ppg-100 / 70 tocopheryl ether, bis-peg / ppg-15 / 5 dimethicone, peg / ppg-18 / 18 isostearate, peg / ppg-18 / 18 laurate, peg / ppg-2 / 5 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-20 / 23 dimethicone, bis-peg / ppg-20 / 5 peg / ppg-20 / 5 dimethicone, peg / ppg-2000 / 200 copolymer, peg / ppg-23 / 6 dimethicone, peg / ppg-30 / 10 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-5 / 10 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-5 / 20 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-5 / 30 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-50 / 20 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-6 / 4 dimethicone, peg / ppg-70 / 30 tocopheryl ether, peg / ppg-8 / 3 laurate, pentadecyl alcohol, microcrystalline wax, phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylglycerol, pineamidopropyl betaine, poly C10-30 alkyl acrylate, polyacrylate cross polymer-4, polyacrylate cross polymer-6, polyacrylate cross polymer-11, polyacrylate cross polymer-14, polyacrylate-10, polyacrylate-11, polyacrylate-27, polyacrylate-28, polyacrylic acid, polyester-14, polyester-15, polyethylene / maleic acid isopropyl / MA copolyiol, polyglyceryl-2 diisostearate / ipdi copolymer, polyglyceryl-3 sunflower seed fatty acid / citric acid cross polymer, polyglyceryl-4 diisostearate / polyhydroxystearate / sebacate, polyglyceryl-6 behenate, polypropanediol, polypropylene terephthalate, polyquaternium cross polymer-2, polyquaternium-65, polyquaternium-83, polyquaternium-102, polyquaternium-103,Polysilicone-25, Polyurethane-29, Polyvinyl Acetate, Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Potassium Alginate, Behenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein Potassium, Behenoyl Hydroxyproline Potassium, Carbomer Potassium, Carrageenan Potassium, Stearoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein Potassium, Undecylenoyl Alginate Potassium, Undecylenoyl Carrageenan Potassium, Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein Potassium, Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Potassium, Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Potassium, Hydrolyzed Potato Tuber Extract, PPG-4 Jojoba Alcohol, PPG-4 Laureth-2, PPG-4 Laureth-5, PPG-6 Laureth-3, PPG-20 Tocophereth-5, PPG-10 Jojoba Acid, PPG-2-Buteth-2, Propyl Ester of PVM / MA Copolymer, Hydrogenated Sweet Almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) Oil, Fermentation Filtrate of Pseudozyma epicola / Tea Seed Oil / Glucose / Soybean (Glycine soja) Meal Powder / Malt Extract / Yeast Extract, PVP Montmorillonite, PVP / Decene Copolymer, Apple (Pyrus malus) Fiber, Quaternium-90 Sepiolite, Lamnolipid, Sclerotium Gum, Hydrogenated Sesame Seed Oil, Sesquiethoxytriethanolamine, Sesquioctyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Shea Butter Glycerides, Silica Dimethylsilylate, Silica Silicate, β-Sitosterol, Sodium Acrylate / Acryloyldimethyltaurine / Dimethylacrylamide Copolymer, Sodium Acrylate / Acryloyldimethyltaurine Sodium Copolymer, Sodium Acrylate / Acryloyldimethyltaurine Sodium / Acrylamide Copolymer, Sodium Acrylate / Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer, Sodium Acrylate / Vinyl Isodecanoate Cross Polymer, Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurine / Acrylamide / VP Copolymer, Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurine / VP Cross Polymer, Sodium Arachidate, Sodium Salt of C4-12 Olefin / Maleic Acid Copolymer, Carbomer Sodium, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium Carboxymethyldextran,Sodium carboxymethyl starch, sodium carrageenan, cellulose sulfate sodium conjugate, sodium cocoyl barley amino acid, cocoyl / stearoyl sodium (alanine / arginine / asparagine / aspartic acid / glutamic acid / glutamine / glycine / histidine), sodium cyclodextrin sulfate, sodium octenyl succinate dextrin, sodium ranesulfate, sodium polyacrylate, sodium polyacrylate starch, sodium polyacryloyldimethyl taurine, sodium polyγ-glutamic acid, sodium polyγ-glutamic acid cross-polymer, sodium polyglutamic acid cross-polymer, sodium polymethacrylate, sodium polynaphthalene sulfonate, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, sodium octenyl succinate dextrin, styrene / MA copolymer sodium salt, sodium tocopheryl phosphate antioxidant, sodium trehalose octenyl succinate, sodium / TEA-undecylenoyl arginate, sodium / TEA-undecylenoyl carrageenan, palm fatty acid sorbitan, phthalic acid soybean protein, soybean amide DEA, Sparassis crispa extract, starch hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, isostearyl palmitate-200, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, stearyl glycol, stearyl vinyl ether / MA copolymer, Sterculia urens gum, stigmasteryl chloride, stigmasteryl nonanoate, stigmasteryl succinate, styrene / ma copolymer, sucrose poly palm fatty acid, ethyl ferulate ester of sunflower seed oil, polyglyceryl-10 ester of sunflower seed oil, polyglyceryl-6 ester of sunflower seed oil, tallow alcohol, tallow amide cosmetics, Tamarindus indica seed gum, TEA alginate, TEA-octenyl succinate dextrin, tetradecyl eicosanoic acid, tetradecyl octadecanoic acid, tetradecyl octadecyl behenate, tetradecyl octadecyl myristate, tetradecyl octadecyl stearate, tetrasodium etidronate,Theobroma grandiflorum seed butter glyceryl ester, succinic acid tocopheryl methyl glucamide, Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide, tricontene / VP copolymer, 1-tridecanol, tripropylene glycol, undeces-40, undecylenoyl inulin, undecylenoyl xanthan gum, vinyl alcohol / vinyl formamide copolymer, bis-vinyl dimethicone / dimethicone copolymer, bis-vinyl dimethicone / peg-10 dimethicone crosspolymer, hydrogenated microcrystalline wax hydrogenation treatment, welan gum, xanthan gum, undecylenoyl hydrolyzed wheat gluten zinc.,

[0132] In addition, the cosmetic composition according to the present invention may also contain microbial raw material components (e.g., filtrates, extracts, and / or fermented products derived from the genus Saccharomyces, Lactobacillus), and / or microbial preparations (plural possible) such as Lallemand's Lallhair (registered trademark) P&R, Lallbiome (trademark) 300, Lallbiome (trademark) 201, Lallskin (registered trademark) Hydra, and / or Lallskin (registered trademark) Zn.

[0133] The cosmetic composition according to the present invention may also contain cross-linked hyaluronic acid. This compound can be used, for example, as a thickening agent for making a transparent moisturizing hydrogel. Specific examples include, but are not limited to, Hyacross (trademark) Hyaluronic Acid Microbeads TG300 (sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, Bloomage Biotechnology Corp. Ltd.) and Hylasome (trademark) EG10 (sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, Vantage Personal Care).

[0134] Manufacturing method and replacement of microplastics Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a cosmetic composition (e.g., a sunscreen, skin care, and / or hair care composition) as defined herein. A related aspect relates to the use of the biopolymers described herein for replacing microplastics in a cosmetic composition.

[0135] In one embodiment, the method includes replacing at least a portion of the microplastics that may be present in the cosmetic composition with a biopolymer, such as a biopolymer suspension, as defined herein. In an embodiment, the biopolymer suspension includes a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

[0136] In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a sunscreen composition and / or for replacing microplastics in a sunscreen composition includes: (1) providing a biopolymer suspension (e.g., a suspension of nano-sized insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent) as defined herein; and (2) mixing the biopolymer suspension with at least one of a sensory enhancer, a film-forming agent, an emulsifier, a skin softener, a UVB filter, a UVA filter, and a broad-spectrum filter.

[0137] In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a skin care composition and / or for replacing microplastics in a skin care composition includes: (1) providing a biopolymer suspension that includes a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent; and (2) mixing the biopolymer suspension with at least one of a humectant, a skin softener, an occlusive agent, a ceramide, an emulsifier, a thickening agent, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

[0138] In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a hair care composition and / or a method for replacing microplastics in a hair care composition includes: (1) providing a biopolymer suspension including a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent; and (2) mixing the biopolymer suspension with at least one of a surfactant, a thickener, an opacifier, a ceramide, a conditioner, a pH buffer, a chelating agent, a preservative, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

[0139] In an embodiment, a method for manufacturing a cosmetic composition and / or a method for replacing microplastics in a cosmetic composition includes adding raw material components in sequence. The manufacturing method may also include combining aqueous raw material components together, combining oily raw material components together, and mixing both phases together. Water may be added to oil, or oil may be added to water. The emulsifier, if present, may be present in either phase. Additional water or oil may be added during the mixing process(es). Naturally, multiple modifications are possible depending on the desired properties of the cosmetic being manufactured, the final cosmetic, etc. Testing and identifying appropriate manufacturing processes and steps are within the skill of those in the art.

[0140] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain, many equivalents to the specific procedures, embodiments, claims, and examples described herein without the use of experimentation beyond the ordinary. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of the present invention and are encompassed by the appended claims. The present invention is further illustrated by the following examples, which should not be construed as further or specifically limiting.

Examples

[0141] Example 1: Mineral Filter Sunscreen Tables 2 and 3 provide non-limiting examples of the contemplated sunscreen compositions.

[0142]

Table 7

[0143]

Table 8

[0144] In these compositions, the biopolymer composition is a chitosan suspension. Such a composition can be prepared as follows. The chitosan suspension is produced by grinding in a 1.5 L Supermill Plus™ containing 1.25 mm zirconia beads, in 20 L batches, at a pump flow rate of 8 GPH (gallons per hour) using 956 mL of 1.25 mm zirconia beads and a rotational speed of 2400 FPM (feet per minute) under typical grinding conditions, where 20 liters of slurry is treated at a solids content of 10% (2.2:20) with chitosan powder having particles with D99 of 19 μm, D50 of 5 μm, and D10 of 2 μm.

[0145] The supposed manufacturing process of these screen compositions is as follows. Phase A · Step 1: Put raw material component 1 into the main tank. · Step 2: Put raw material components #2 and #3 into a stainless steel container and stir until the mixture becomes uniform. Add the mixture to the main tank and stir until uniform. · Step 3: While stirring, add raw material component #4 to the main tank. Stir until the mixture becomes uniform. Heat to 75 °C ± 2 °C. When this temperature is reached, stop heating and maintain the temperature. Stir until the mixture becomes uniform. Phase B · Step 4: Put raw material components #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, #11, and #12 into a stainless steel container. Heat to 75 °C ± 2 °C. When this temperature is reached, stop heating and maintain the temperature. Stir until the mixture becomes uniform. Phase A + B · Step 5: While stirring, add the mixture from Step 4 to the main tank. Stir until the mixture becomes uniform. Start cooling and continue stirring until the temperature reaches 40°C ± 2°C. Phase A + B + C · Step 6: When the temperature in the main tank is less than 40°C ± 2°C, add raw material components #13, #14, #15, #16, and #17 one by one. During each addition, stir until the mixture becomes uniform. Continue stirring until the temperature reaches 25°C ± 2°C.

[0146] Example 2: SPF30 sunscreen product Table 4 shows a non - limiting example of a supposed sunscreen composition that provides SPF30 protection.

[0147]

Table 9

[0148] The supposed manufacturing process of this sunscreen composition is as follows. Put B into A and grind with a wet ball mill until it becomes viscous and uniform. Put C into AB and grind using a rotor / stator mill. Switch to sweep mixing and add D to ABC.

[0149] Example 3: Zinc oxide formulation (SPF30+) water - in - oil emulsion Table 5 shows a non - limiting example of a supposed sunscreen composition that contains zinc oxide and provides SPF30+ protection.

[0150]

Table 10

[0151] The assumed manufacturing process of this screen composition is as follows. Grind A in a wet ball mill and add B. Heat AB to 70°C. Put D into C and grind at 10Krpm for 5 minutes using a rotor-stator mill, then heat CD to 70°C. Put CD into ABC and grind for 5 minutes at 5Krpm using a rotor-stator mill. Cool the batch using side sweep mixing and add F at 45°C. Cool to 30°C.

[0152] Example 4: Rinse-Out Cream Hair Conditioner Table 6 shows a non-limiting example of an assumed rinse-out cream hair conditioner.

[0153] [Table 11]

[0154] The assumed manufacturing process of this screen composition is as follows. Grind A in a wet ball mill. Heat A and B to 80°C. Put B into A and homogenize for 5 minutes at 5Krpm using a rotor-stator mill. Mix AB with a propeller mixer and cool. Add C at 45°C. Cool to 30°C.

[0155] Example 5: Spray-On Hair Conditioner Table 7 shows a non-limiting example of an assumed rinse-out cream hair conditioner.

[0156] [Table 12]

[0157] The assumed manufacturing process of this screen composition is as follows. Grind A in a wet ball mill. Mix B with A using a propeller mixer. Mix C with AB using a propeller mixer.

[0158] Example 6: Conditioning Shampoo Table 8 shows non-limiting examples of an envisioned conditioning shampoo.

[0159] [Table 13]

[0160] The envisioned manufacturing process for this screen composition is as follows. Grind A in a wet ball mill. Sweep-mix B into A. Add C. Add D. Add E.

[0161] Example 7: Reduction of Wrinkles and Fine Wrinkles - Cellulose / Chitosan Composition

[0162] In this study, a cellulose / chitosan composition according to the present invention containing 5 wt / wt% mushroom chitosan, 0.4 wt / wt% cellulose, 5 wt / wt% Dermosoft™, and water was used for the purpose of evaluating the reduction of wrinkles and fine wrinkles [Batch DEF23041801]. Briefly, chitosan and cellulose were ground in a wet mill with water for 30 minutes (agitator pressure 7 - 9 PSI, agitator speed 3000 rpm). After 30 minutes, the Dermosoft™ preservative was added and grinding was continued for an additional 60 minutes. The temperature of the mixture was maintained at approximately 30°C to 40°C.

[0163] The above-mentioned cellulose / chitosan-based composition was evaluated by an independent third-party institute using standard guidelines. Briefly, 1.5 g of the composition was applied twice a day (morning and evening) to the volar surface of the face of 12 volunteers for 10 days. Measurements and photography were taken before product application (T0), 15 minutes after the first application (T15 minutes), and after 10 days of product use (T10 days ± 2 days). The effect of the product was monitored using 3D images with VisioTOP-300 (registered trademark) + AEVA-V4 software. Point analysis of the skin at different times was performed by randomly extracting the left and right sides of the face for each analysis time. Evaluation of the area was performed in each magnified photograph using VisioTOP-300 (registered trademark). The most representative parameters for anti-wrinkle effect evaluation, namely Ra and Rz, were also measured with measuring instruments, where Ra is the line average profile roughness and Rz is the average maximum profile height.

[0164] The results were very good in terms of the roughness of crow's feet wrinkles and the improvement of wrinkles. In fact, in this study, a statistically significant decrease in wrinkles was observed after application of the tested cellulose / chitosan-based composition. The average reduction rate was 4.1% after just 15 minutes and 5.7% after 10 days.

[0165] Furthermore, the cellulose / chitosan-based composition was also useful in "smoothing the skin". The average Ra parameter (line average profile roughness) showed a reduction rate equal to -2.2% on average 15 minutes after product application. After 10 days of use, the average value was equal to -3.0%. At both time points, these reduction rates were considered statistically significant compared to the average value measured before application.

[0166] Therefore, these results clearly demonstrate that the biopolymer composition according to the present invention is active and useful in reducing both wrinkles and fine lines.

[0167] Example 8: Cellulose Waterproof Test The waterproof effect of the cellulose biopolymer composition according to the present invention was evaluated by a research institute of an independent third-party organization. The composition was prepared by ball milling and contained 5 wt / wt% cellulose and water [Batch: CMC B2AC, 450G]. Briefly, the cellulose was pre-ground in isopropanol alcohol for 23 hours using a 1.5 L Supermill PLUS™ horizontal mill (grinding speed 2750 FPM, 1.25 mm zirconia beads). Next, the resulting product was wet-milled using a 1.5 L Supermill PLUS™ horizontal mill with 1.25 mm zirconia beads at a flow rate of 11 gallons per hour, a grinding speed of 2400 FPM, and PSI 3.

[0168] Briefly, the composition was applied to the forearm area of 14 volunteers, and after spraying water, the waterproof effect of the composition was evaluated by a professional. During the evaluation, the technician scored the persistence of the composition from 1 to 10 after spraying water 10 times from the first application.

[0169] Typically, a tested product is considered waterproof if the average of these scores after spraying water 10 times from product application is 7 or higher. In the case of the present invention, an average score equal to 7.6 out of 10 was given for the persistence of the composition. Thus, the objective evaluation of the present invention conducted by the professional staff of a research institute of an independent third-party organization demonstrated that the cosmetic biopolymer composition according to the present invention has a waterproof effect.

[0170] Example 9: Cellulose Patch Test To evaluate the local skin tolerance of the cellulose biopolymer composition according to the present invention, a test was conducted by a research institute of an independent third-party organization. The composition was the same batch as in Example 8 (i.e., prepared by ball milling and containing 5 wt / wt% cellulose and water [Batch: CMC B2AC, 450G].

[0171] Briefly stated, approximately 0.07 - 0.1 ml of the test product (i.e., the cellulose biopolymer composition) was applied to the unblemished skin on the back of adult volunteers. The product was brought into contact with the skin for 48 hours under a semi-occlusive patch. Along with the test product, an empty patch, the "negative" control, was also applied. To evaluate the skin reaction considering parameters such as erythema, desquamation, edema, and small blisters with a severity score ranging from 0 to 3, the effects caused by the application of the test product were observed 15 minutes and 24 hours after patch removal.

[0172] The mean irritation index (MII) of the test product was 0 for both periods (15 minutes and 24 hours after patch removal). For this reason, the test product was classified as "non-irritant" and "scientifically tested for skin compatibility" according to the reference criteria (data not shown). Therefore, from these results, it is confirmed that the cosmetic biopolymer composition according to the present invention is scientifically safe for the skin.

[0173] Example 10: Evaluation of Skin Barrier Effect and Water Resistance - Cellulose / Chitosan Composition

[0174] In this study, the aim was to demonstrate the waterproof effect of the cellulose / chitosan composition according to the present invention. The cellulose / chitosan composition was prepared by wet grinding according to the details shown in Example 7 (i.e., 5 wt / wt% mushroom chitosan, 0.4 wt / wt% cellulose, 5 wt / wt% Dermosoft (trademark), and water) [batch DEF23041801].

[0175] Thirteen volunteers and two technicians participated in the evaluation. To evaluate the waterproof effect, a baseline pigment called Timica® Terra Brown was used for comparison with the cellulose-based composition under test. The evaluation process involved spraying water onto the forearm area of the volunteers after applying the test product (i.e., the cellulose / chitosan-based composition defined above). During the evaluation, two technicians scored the test product on a scale of 1 to 10 based on its persistence after 10 water sprays. If the average of these scores was 7 or higher, the product was considered waterproof after 10 water sprays from the initial application.

[0176] The two technicians gave the test product an average score of 9.1 out of 10 for persistence. Such a high score indicates a high level of waterproof effect. Therefore, the biopolymer composition according to the present invention can withstand water spraying even after 10 applications.

[0177] Furthermore, in this study, the conclusion was obtained that the test product "significantly reduced the trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) value of the skin where the product was applied". These results further confirm that the biopolymer composition according to the present invention has an important skin barrier effect.

[0178] Example 11: Cellulose Challenge Test

[0179] The "preservation efficacy test" is a useful method used to evaluate the effectiveness of preservation systems in non-sterile cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and similar products. This test involves artificially contaminating the product in the laboratory to mimic the microbial contamination that the product may encounter during manufacture, storage, and consumer use. This test provides very important information regarding the product's ability to resist microbial attack and maintain stability. Since cosmetics and similar products are not required to be sterile, they may have a certain level of environmental microbial contamination that needs to be controlled by appropriate preservation. The preservation efficacy test exceeds the range of typical environmental contamination by introducing a high concentration of microorganisms and enables the evaluation of the reduction of microbial growth at various time points. This test is carried out by examining the total microbial load of the product in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the United States Pharmacopeia.

[0180] The inoculum in the preservation efficacy test of the present invention was composed of various microbial strains with different concentrations. The strains used included Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, and Aspergillus brasiliensis ATCC 16404.

[0181] Using the cellulose-based composition according to the present invention, the preservation efficacy test of the present invention was carried out according to the method of USP 61. The composition was prepared by ball milling and contained 5 wt / wt% cellulose and water [Batch: CMC B2AC, 450G].

[0182] Different microbial strains were suspended in physiological saline solution and inoculated into the test product at final concentrations in the range of 10 5 ~10 6 . Next, the treated samples were stored at room temperature in the dark until seeded for microbial counting. The results are shown in Table 9 below.

Table 14

[0183] The results of this study were very good because the test composition was effective in microbial reduction (>2 log) for all strains on day 14. The test composition also effectively blocked the increase in growth for all strains tested when measured on day 28. Therefore, the authors of this study concluded that the cellulose-based composition according to the present invention fully meets the requirements of the preservation efficacy test for topically used products according to the USP standard.

[0184] Example 12: Successful preservation efficacy test for preservation A USP 51 preservative challenge was performed using a chitosan-based composition [batch CMCB3.1] according to the present invention, which further contained the commercially available preservation system Spectrastat™ (Univar Solutions).

[0185] Chitosan was pre-ground in isopropanol alcohol for 2.5 hours using a basket mill BM-100™ (mixing speed 15 hz, grinding speed 40 / 1600 hz, zirconia beads 1.4 - 1.7 mm). Next, the resulting product was wet-ground using a 1.5 L Supermill PLUS™ horizontal mill. Using 1.25 mm zirconia beads, six passes were made at a flow rate of 5.5 gallons per hour, a grinding speed of 2400 FPM, and 1 - 2 PSI. Next, Spectrastat™ was added to the ground product and mixed for several minutes according to the supplier's recommendations.

[0186] The tests were conducted by a research institute of a third - party organization recognized by Health Canada. Briefly, the tests were carried out by exposing the composition to the following pathogens according to the test method of USP51: A. brasiliensis ATCC 16404, C. albicans ATCC 10231, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, P. aeruginosa ATCC 9027, and S. aureus ATCC 6538. To identify the growth of the pathogens, the composition was examined at three different time intervals (day 0, day 14, day 28). Interestingly, from day 14 to day 28, no significant growth of bacteria was observed, and the authors of this study concluded that "the proposed formulation is properly preserved".

[0187] These results confirm that the cosmetic biopolymer composition according to the present invention can be well - preserved and that such a composition can prevent the growth of pathogens, especially when the composition contains a cosmetically acceptable preservative such as Spectrastat (trademark).

[0188] Example 13: Evaluation of Skin Barrier Effect and Water Resistance - Cellulose / Chitosan / Beeswax - based Composition

[0189] In this study, it was aimed to demonstrate the waterproof effect of the cellulose / chitosan / beeswax - based composition according to the present invention. The cellulose / chitosan / beeswax - based composition contained 5.7 wt / wt% of mushroom chitosan, 0.43 wt / wt% of alpha - cellulose, 5 wt / wt% of Dermasoft (trademark), 0.55% of cetyl alcohol, and 0.93% of beeswax [batch DEF23051502].

[0190] The composition was prepared as follows. First, the original batch "grinding formulation" containing alpha cellulose, chitosan, and water was ground for 110 minutes with a NETZSCH LabStar Zeta Small Media Mill (trademark) (PSI was 6.9 - 11, the agitator rotation speed was 3000 rpm, and the chiller was turned on to maintain a temperature of 32°C). Separately, the following mixture, the "oily mixture", was prepared by melting cetyl alcohol, beeswax synthetic pellets, and Dermosoft (trademark) together at 57°C. The oily mixture was mixed until the temperature dropped to 52°C. One-sixth of the ground formulation (385 grams in total) was added to the oily mixture all at once. The two were mixed together until the temperature dropped to 45°C. After thorough mixing, the resulting mixture was added very slowly to the ball mill containing the remaining original batch of the ground formulation at the 110-minute mark. Then, grinding was continued for an additional 10 minutes.

[0191] Thirteen volunteers and two technicians participated in the evaluation. The evaluation process followed Example 10 above.

[0192] In this test, two technicians gave the test product an average score of 9.7 out of 10 for durability. Such a very high score indicates a high level of waterproof effect. Therefore, the biopolymer composition according to the present invention can withstand water spraying even after being applied 10 times.

[0193] Furthermore, in this study, it was concluded that the test product "significantly reduced the trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) value of the skin to which the product was applied". These results further confirm that the biopolymer composition according to the present invention has an important skin barrier effect.

[0194] Example 14: Cellulose / Chitosan Patch Test To evaluate the local skin tolerance of the cellulose biopolymer composition according to the present invention, a test was conducted by a research institute of an independent third party. The composition was the same batch as in Example 7 (i.e., 5 wt / wt% mushroom chitosan, 0.4 wt / wt% cellulose, 5 wt / wt% Dermosoft™, and water) [Batch DEF23041801]. The test procedure was the same as the cellulose patch test in Example 9.

[0195] In this test, the mean irritation index (MII) of the test product was 0 in both periods (15 minutes and 24 hours after patch removal). For this reason, the test product was classified as "non-irritant" and "scientifically tested for skin compatibility" according to the reference standard (data not shown). From these results, it is further confirmed that the cosmetic biopolymer composition according to the present invention is scientifically safe for the skin.

[0196] Example 15: Reduction of Wrinkles and Fine Lines - Cellulose / Chitosan / Beeswax Composition

[0197] In this study, the aim was to evaluate the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines using the cellulose / chitosan / beeswax composition according to the present invention. The composition contained 5.7 wt / wt% mushroom chitosan, 0.43 wt / wt% α-cellulose, 5 wt / wt% Dermosoft™, 0.55% cetyl alcohol, and 0.93% beeswax, and was manufactured according to Example 13 above [Batch DEF23051502].

[0198] The above composition was evaluated for efficacy on 13 healthy male and female volunteers by an independent third-party research institute using the same evaluation process as described in Example 7.

[0199] The results were very good in terms of the roughness and improvement of the crow's feet wrinkles. In fact, in this study, a statistically significant reduction in wrinkles was observed after application of the tested cellulose / chitosan-based composition. The average reduction rate was 5.9% after just 15 minutes.

[0200] Furthermore, the composition was also useful in "smoothing the skin". The average Ra parameter (line average profile roughness) showed a reduction rate equal to -4.5% on average 15 minutes after product application. After 10 days of use, the average value was equal to -2.2%. This reduction rate was considered statistically significant at the 15-minute time point relative to the average value measured before application.

[0201] Therefore, these results clearly demonstrate that the biopolymer composition according to the present invention is active and useful in reducing both wrinkles and fine lines.

[0202] For reference and to assist in the location identification of specific sections, headings are included in this specification. These headings are not intended to limit the scope of the concepts described therein, and these concepts may be applicable to other sections throughout this specification. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown in this specification, and the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed in this specification should be given.

[0203] The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include references to plural instances unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a biopolymer" includes reference to one or more such biopolymers, and reference to "the method" includes reference to equivalent processes and methods known to those skilled in the art that may be modified or substituted in the methods described herein.

[0204] Unless otherwise specified, all numerical values representing amounts of raw material components, reaction conditions, concentrations, properties, etc. used in this specification and the claims should be understood to be modified in all cases by the term "about". At a minimum, each numerical parameter should be interpreted in consideration of the reported number of significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in this specification and the appended claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought. Numerical ranges and parameters setting forth broad ranges of embodiments are approximations, but the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains certain errors resulting from variations such as experiments, test measurements, statistical analysis, etc.

[0205] It is understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes may be suggested to those skilled in the art and should be included within the scope of the present invention and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cosmetic composition comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed to form a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension, wherein the stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension comprises insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent. The aforementioned cosmetic composition: A sunscreen composition further comprising at least one of the following: a sensory enhancer, a film-forming agent, an emulsifier, a co-emulsifier, a skin emollient, a UVB filter, a UVA filter, and a broad-spectrum filter; A skincare composition further comprising at least one of the following: a humectant, a emollient, an occlusive agent, a ceramide, an emulsifier, a thickener, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component; or, A hair care composition further comprising a surfactant, a thickener, an emulsion, a ceramide, a conditioner, a pH buffer, a chelating agent, a preservative, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and at least one of the functional raw material components; A cosmetic composition consisting of the following.

2. A skincare composition comprising a biopolymer and at least one of the following: a humectant, a emollient, an occlusive agent, a ceramide, an emulsifier, a thickener, a preservative, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component, The composition comprises biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically treated to form a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension, and The skincare composition is formulated as a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel, and / or milk. Skincare composition.

3. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension is composed of insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles.

4. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the biopolymer is selected from the group consisting of chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, alginic acid, and mixtures thereof.

5. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the humectant is selected from the group consisting of glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, α-hydroxy acid, propylene glycol, honey, sorbitol, butylene glycol, sodium PCA, allantoin, sodium lactate, dicyanamide, Tremella fuciformis extract, seaweed, aloe vera, and mixtures thereof.

6. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the skin emollient is selected from the group consisting of petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, dimethicone, and mixtures thereof.

7. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the occlusive agent is selected from the group consisting of mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, dimethicone, shea butter, and mixtures thereof.

8. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the ceramide is selected from the group consisting of ceramide EOS, ceramide NS, ceramide NG, ceramide NP, ceramide AP, ceramide EOP, phytosphingosine, sphingosine, and mixtures thereof.

9. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the emulsifier is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate, tragacanthin, lecithin, mustard, soy lecithin, sodium phosphate, diacetyl tartrate ester of monoglycerides, sodium stearoyl lactylate, and mixtures thereof.

10. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the thickening agent is selected from the group consisting of magnesium aluminum, silicate, silica, bentonite, carbomer, cetyl palmitate, ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate, and mixtures thereof.

11. The aforementioned preservatives include phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, ethylhexylglycerin, DMDM ​​hydantoin, quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (bromopol), glyoxal, ethylparaben, butylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben, isobutylparaben, isopropylparaben, benzilate, benzoic acid, benzyl ester, methylisothiazolinone (MIT; 2-methyl-4-isothiazolinone-3-one), methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT; 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolinone-3-one), phenoxyethanol, 2-phenoxyethanol, Euxyl A skincare composition according to claim 2, selected from the group consisting of K (trademark) 400 (a mixture of phenoxyethanol and 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyabutane), triclosan (TSC), triclocarban (tcc), benzyl alcohol, benzalkonium chloride, citric acid, dehydroacetic acid, essential oils, grapefruit seed extract, lactic acid, levulinic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium dehydroacetate, sodium metadisulfite, sodium salicylate, sorbic acid, vitamin E, zinc pyrithione, and mixtures thereof.

12. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the antioxidant is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B3, green tea extract, resveratrol, curcumin, lycopene, coenzyme Q10, polyphenols, centella asiatica, tamanu, and mixtures thereof.

13. The aforementioned fragrances include linalool, citronellol, limonene, geraniol, eugenol, lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia), rose flower extract (Rosa damascena), bergamot oil (Citrus bergamia), ylang-ylang oil (Canaga odorata), lemon (Citrus limon), lime (Citrus aurantifolia or Citrus medica), orange (Citrus sinensis) A skincare composition according to claim 2, selected from the group consisting of (sinensis), tangerine (Citrus tangerine), peppermint (Mentha piperita), spearmint (Mentha spicata), eucalyptus, cinnamon (cinnamonum), cinnamal, and mixtures thereof.

14. The skincare composition according to claim 2, wherein the functional raw material component is selected from the group consisting of biological extracts, vitamins, amino acids, peptides, proteins, essential fatty acids, hydroxy acids, β-glucans, and mixtures thereof.

15. A cosmetic use of the skincare composition according to claim 2 for providing benefits to the skin, The skincare composition provides at least one of the following benefits to the skin: moisturizing the skin, improving the appearance of the skin, protecting from environmental damage, resisting the effects of aging, and removing wrinkles and / or freckles. For cosmetic use.

16. A hair care composition comprising a biopolymer and at least one of the following: a surfactant, a conditioning surfactant, a co-surfactant, a conditioning emollient, a thickener, an emulsion, a ceramide, a conditioner, a pH buffer, a chelating agent, a preservative, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, a fragrance, and a functional raw material component.

17. The hair care composition according to claim 16, comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed to form a stable, homogeneous aqueous suspension.

18. The hair care composition according to claim 16, wherein the biopolymer is selected from chitin, chitosan, microcrystalline cellulose, and microfibrillated cellulose.

19. (1) for washing hair, preventing damage to hair, and / or for treating hair; and / or (2) for the manufacture of shampoo, rinse-out cream hair conditioner, and / or spray-on hair conditioner, the use of the hair care composition according to claim 16.

20. Use of a biopolymer for replacing microplastics in a cosmetic composition, wherein the use comprises replacing at least a portion of the microplastics with a biopolymer suspension, the biopolymer suspension comprising a suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.