Gel composition

Abstract

This invention provides a gel composition that offers sufficient thickening effect even when using naturally derived thickening agents, and has a superior feel. [Solution] One aspect of the present invention relates to a gel composition comprising (A) a biosurfactant and (B) a thickening agent, wherein the thickening agent of component (B) comprises sclerotium gum and xanthan gum.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to a gel composition. [Background technology]

[0002] Oil-in-water emulsion cosmetics, in which oily components are dispersed in an aqueous phase containing water-based components used as a formulation for cosmetics, offer the skin a refreshing feel from the water-based components and high moisturizing properties from the oily components, and are therefore used in skincare products and other applications.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an oil-in-water emulsion composition characterized by containing 0.1 to 5% by mass of a lipopeptide compound (A) derived from a microorganism, 0.05 to 1.5% by mass of xanthan gum (B), an oily component (C), and water (D).

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses an oil-in-water emulsion cosmetic containing a) hydrogenated lecithin, b) an anionic surfactant derived from microorganisms, c) at least one polyol including glycerin, and d) a polysaccharide in a cosmetically acceptable medium, wherein the content of the anionic surfactant is preferably in the range of 0.005% by mass or more and 1% by mass or less on a basis of the total amount of the oil-in-water emulsion cosmetic. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-306863 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2023-512406 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] As a cosmetic product, all-in-one type cosmetics have been developed that combine the functions of multiple skincare products such as lotion, emulsion, and cream into a single product.

[0007] Furthermore, in the field of cosmetics, there is a growing demand to use naturally derived ingredients and avoid petroleum-derived ingredients as much as possible, from the perspective of environmental considerations and providing consumers with a sense of security.

[0008] All-in-one cosmetics, which combine the functions of multiple skincare products such as lotions, emulsions, and creams, are often formulated as gels (all-in-one gels) to integrate water-based and oil-based components for application to the skin. However, gel products, including all-in-one gels, typically use petroleum-derived polymer compounds as thickeners. This is because if gel products were designed using only naturally derived thickeners, the thickening effect would be insufficient, making it impossible to form and maintain a gel-like consistency, or the product might not blend well with the skin upon application, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0009] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention aims to provide a gel composition that can achieve a sufficient thickening effect even when using a naturally derived thickening agent and has excellent usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] As a result of various investigations into means to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present inventors have found that by using a specific naturally derived thickener as the thickener in a gel composition containing (A) a biosurfactant and (B) a thickener, it is possible to produce a gel composition with sufficient thickening effect and excellent usability, thus completing one aspect of the present invention.

[0011] In other words, the gist of one aspect of the present invention is as follows: (1)(A) Biosurfactants, and (B) Thickener Includes, The thickening agent of component (B) includes sclerotium gum and xanthan gum. Gel composition. (2) The gel composition according to (1), wherein the biosurfactant of component (A) is at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactin and its salts. (3) The gel composition according to (2), wherein surfactin and its salts have a structure represented by the following formula (1). [Chemical formula] (In formula (1), X is a residue of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of leucine, isoleucine, and valine, R is an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and M + is independently a hydrogen ion, an alkali metal ion, an ammonium ion, or a pyridinium ion.) (4) The gel composition according to (1), wherein the biosurfactant of component (A) is sodium surfactin. (5) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the content of the biosurfactant of component (A) is 0.10% by mass to 3.0% by mass based on the total mass of the gel composition. (6) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the mass ratio of sclerotium gum to xanthan gum (sclerotium gum / xanthan gum) in the thickener of component (B) is 1.0 to 15. (7) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the total content of sclerotium gum and xanthan gum in the thickener of component (B) is 0.1% by mass to 3.0% by mass based on the total mass of the gel composition. (8) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (7), further comprising an oily component (C). (9) The gel composition according to (8), wherein the oily component of component (C) is one or more selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbon oils, ester oils, fats and oils, silicone oils, higher alcohols, and fatty acids. (10) The gel composition according to (8) or (9), wherein the content of the oily component of component (C) is 10% by mass or more based on the total mass of the gel composition. (11) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (10), further containing a polyhydric alcohol. (12) The gel composition according to (11), wherein the polyhydric alcohol as component (D) is at least one selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, isoprene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, propanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-octanediol, hexylene glycol, xylitol, sorbitol, maltitol, glycerin, diglycerin, and polyglycerin. (13) The gel composition according to (11) or (12), wherein the content of the polyhydric alcohol as component (D) is 2% by mass to 40% by mass based on the total mass of the gel composition. (14) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the total content of the petroleum-derived thickener and the petroleum-derived surfactant is 5% by mass or less based on the total mass of the gel composition. (15) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (14), wherein the content of the petroleum-derived component is 5% by mass or less based on the total mass of the gel composition. (16) The gel composition according to any one of (1) to (15), further containing (E) water. (17) The gel composition according to (16), wherein the content of water as component (E) is 40% by mass to 60% by mass based on the total mass of the gel composition. (18) A cosmetic containing the gel composition according to any one of (1) to (17). (19) The cosmetic according to (18), further containing an active ingredient. (20) The cosmetic according to (19), wherein the active ingredient is at least one selected from the group consisting of vitamin C, arbutin, tranexamic acid, dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, and stearyl glycyrrhetinate.

Advantages of the Invention

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, a gel composition is provided that can be thickened sufficiently even when using a naturally derived thickening agent and has excellent usability. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] A preferred embodiment of one aspect of the present invention will be described in detail below. A gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms with modifications, improvements, etc., that can be made by those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of one embodiment of the present invention. In this specification, the symbol "~" is used to mean a range having the numbers before and after it as the lower and upper limits. In numerical ranges described stepwise in this specification, the upper or lower limit stated in one numerical range may be replaced by the upper or lower limit stated in another stepwise range. The upper or lower limits of numerical ranges described in this specification may be replaced by the values ​​shown in the examples.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, "naturally derived components" means components present in plants, animals, algae, microorganisms, fungi, or components obtained by fermenting, culturing, etc., these components, or components that have been processed by adding hydrogen or the like.

[0015] (A) Biosurfactant (also known as "component (A)") Component (A) contained in a gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention is a biosurfactant. The biosurfactant of component (A) may include at least one biosurfactant selected from the group consisting of peptide-type biosurfactants and sugar-type biosurfactants. From the viewpoint of odor and food hygiene, it is preferable to use a biosurfactant that does not originate from Wickerhamomyces anomalus yeast.

[0016] Examples of peptide-type biosurfactants include lipopeptide biosurfactants. Lipopeptide biosurfactants are peptides containing hydrophobic groups and hydrophilic moieties, exhibiting surfactant activity, and are produced by microorganisms. Examples of lipopeptide biosurfactants include surfactant, aruthlofactin, iturine, fengisin, selawettin, lysocin E, viscosine, and their salts. Surfactin and salts of surfactant are preferred as lipopeptide biosurfactants.

[0017] For example, surfactant and its salts can be represented by the following general formula (1). One type of surfactant or two or more types of its salts may be used.

[0018] [ka] [In formula (1), X represents an amino acid residue selected from the group consisting of leucine, isoleucine, and valine, R represents an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and M + Each of them independently produces a hydrogen ion (H + ), represents alkali metal ions, ammonium ions, or pyridinium ions.

[0019] Note M + When it is a hydrogen ion, it is CO2 - (M + ) means that it is a hydroxyl group (COOH group). Two M + If it is a hydrogen ion, then it is surfactin, and at least one M + If the ions are alkali metal ions, ammonium ions, or pyridinium ions, then it is a salt of surfactin. The general formula for surfactin is shown in the following general formula (1').

[0020] [ka] [In formula (1’), X and R have the same meanings as in formula (1)]

[0021] X is a residue of an amino acid selected from the group consisting of leucine, isoleucine and valine, and may be a residue of an L-form amino acid or a residue of a D-form amino acid, and a residue of an L-form amino acid is preferred.

[0022] R is an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and is a linear or branched monovalent saturated hydrocarbon group having 9 or more and 18 or less carbon atoms. Examples of the alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms include n-nonyl group, 6-methyloctyl group, 7-methyloctyl group, n-decyl group, 8-methylnonyl group, n-undecyl group, 9-methyldecyl group, n-dodecyl group, 10-methylundecyl group, n-tridecyl group, 11-methyldodecyl group, n-tetradecyl group, n-pentadecyl group, n-hexadecyl group, n-heptadecyl group, n-octadecyl group, etc., and 10-methylundecyl group is preferred.

[0023] <​​​​​​​​​​​​One preferred embodiment is a quaternary ammonium ion in which all atoms are organic groups. Examples of organic groups include alkyl groups, aralkyl groups, and aryl groups. Specifically, examples of alkyl groups include C1-C10 alkyl groups such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, and t-butyl; examples of aralkyl groups include C7-C12 aralkyl groups such as benzyl, methylbenzyl, and phenylethyl; and examples of aryl groups include C6-C15 aryl groups such as phenyl, toluyl, and xylyl. Examples of ammonium ions include tetramethylammonium ions and tetraethylammonium ions. The pyridinium ion is not particularly limited. In the pyridinium ion, the hydrogen atoms bonded to the carbon atoms constituting the pyridine ring may be substituted with organic groups. In addition, the pyridinium ion may include N atoms constituting the pyridine ring. + The bond to it can be, for example, hydrogen or an organic group. The organic group that the pyridinium ion possesses is R 1 The organic groups mentioned in the explanation can be used as appropriate.

[0024] The two Ms present in general formula (1) + These two Ms may be the same or different. + For example, some M + These are hydrogen ions, and some M + One preferred embodiment is that M is an alkali metal ion. The alkali metal ion is not particularly limited, but represents lithium ions, sodium ions, potassium ions, etc. Note that the two M present in general formula (1) + However, if there are two or more ions, when we focus on one molecule (salt), there are two M + These may be the same type of ion. + When there are two types of ions, the ratio (molar ratio) of ion A to ion B is, for example, 1:10 to 10:1, in one embodiment 1:5 to 5:1, and in another embodiment 1:3 to 3:1. The two M present in general formula (1) +Some of it is hydrogen ions, and some of it is sodium ions (Na + Being one of the desirable characteristics is one of the characteristics.

[0025] Peptide-type biosurfactants, such as surfactant or surfactant salts, can be obtained by culturing a microorganism, such as a strain belonging to Bacillus subtilis, according to known methods, and isolating it from the culture medium. Refined products may be used, or unpurified products, such as the culture medium, may be used. Products obtained by chemical synthesis can also be used if they have the same molecular structure. Commercially available products can also be used.

[0026] Examples of glycoside biosurfactants include rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, mannosylerythritol lipid, cellobiose lipid, trehalose lipid, succinoyltrehalose lipid, glucose lipid, polyol lipid, oligosaccharide fatty acid esters, and salts thereof.

[0027] As the glycoside biosurfactant, at least one glycoside biosurfactant selected from the group consisting of rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof is preferred.

[0028] Glycosyl biosurfactants can be obtained according to known methods. Commercially available products can also be used.

[0029] A preferred embodiment of the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof. A particularly preferred embodiment of the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant and salts thereof.

[0030] The content of component (A) is not limited, but for example, it is usually 0.10% by mass or more, 0.15% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.20% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.25% by mass or more in one embodiment, and usually 3.0% by mass or less, 2.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 2.0% by mass or less in one embodiment, 1.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 1.0% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 0.50% by mass or less in one embodiment.

[0031] By adjusting the content of component (A) to the aforementioned range, the gel-like form can be formed and maintained even when the content of the oily component of component (C), the polyhydric alcohol of component (D), and the water of component (E) is appropriately adjusted, particularly to a high proportion of the oily component of component (C). This allows for the formation of a gel composition that spreads well and blends well with the skin when applied.

[0032] (B) Thickening agent (also called "component (B)") Component (B) contained in a gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention is a thickening agent. The thickening agent of component (B) includes sclerotium gum and xanthan gum.

[0033] Sclerotium gum is a polysaccharide produced from Sclerotium rolfsii, a type of fungus. It is a naturally occurring, water-soluble polymer with a glucopyranosyl unit, which consists of three glucose molecules linked by β-1,3 bonds, as its main chain skeleton, and glucose molecules linked by 1,6 bonds as side chains. Commercially available sclerotium gum can be used; for example, AMIGUM® manufactured by Alban Muller can be used. AMIGUM is a single ingredient consisting of 100% sclerotium gum, but it is also possible to use mixed ingredients. An example of such mixed ingredients is TINOCARE® GLGREEN, manufactured by BASF Japan Ltd., which is an aqueous solution of sclerotium gum.

[0034] Xanthan gum is a naturally occurring gum made by purifying and powdering polysaccharides accumulated outside the cell of the microorganism Xanthomonas campestris, which ferments glucose and other substances. Xanthan gum consists of a main chain of two glucose molecules and side chains of two mannose molecules and one glucuronic acid molecule. Because the side chains are significantly longer than the main chain, xanthan gum exhibits extremely high stability. Xanthan gum is a water-soluble polymer with a negative charge due to the carboxyl groups and pyruvate contained in the side chains. Commercially available xanthan gum can be used; for example, the KELTROL CG series from CP KELCO can be used.

[0035] The mass ratio of sclerotium gum to xanthan gum (sclerotium gum / xanthan gum) is not limited, but for example, it is usually 1.0 or more, 1.2 or more in one embodiment, 1.4 or more in one embodiment, 1.6 or more in one embodiment, 1.8 or more in one embodiment, and usually 15 or less, 10 or less in one embodiment, 9.0 or less in one embodiment, 8.0 or less in one embodiment, 7.0 or less in one embodiment, 6.0 or less in one embodiment, 5.0 or less in one embodiment, 4.0 or less in one embodiment, and 3.0 or less in one embodiment.

[0036] By setting the mass ratio of sclerotium gum to xanthan gum within the aforementioned range, it is possible to form and maintain a gel-like form even with a high content of the oily component of component (C), and to produce a gel composition that spreads well and blends well with the skin when applied.

[0037] The total content of sclerotium gum and xanthan gum in component (B) is not limited, but for example, is usually 0.1% by mass or more, 0.2% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.3% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.4% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.5% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.6% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.7% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.8% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.9% by mass or more in one embodiment, and 1% by mass in one embodiment. It is 0.0 mass% or more, and is usually 3.0 mass% or less, 2.9 mass% or less, 2.8 mass% or less, 2.7 mass% or less, 2.6 mass% or less, in one embodiment it is 2.5 mass% or less, 2.4 mass% or less, 2.3 mass% or less, 2.2 mass% or less, 2.1 mass% or less, in one embodiment it is 2.0 mass% or less, in one embodiment it is 1.9 mass% or less, in one embodiment it is 1.8 mass% or less, in one embodiment it is 1.7 mass% or less, and in one embodiment it is 1.6 mass% or less.

[0038] By adjusting the total content of sclerotium gum and xanthan gum in component (B) to the aforementioned range, it is possible to form and maintain a gel-like form even with a high content of oily components in component (C), and to produce a gel composition that spreads well and blends well with the skin when applied.

[0039] In one aspect of the present invention, the thickening agent of component (B) consists solely of sclerotium gum and xanthan gum.

[0040] In one aspect of the present invention, the thickening agent of component (B) may further include, in addition to sclerotium gum and xanthan gum, any known in the art, provided that the effects of the aspect of the present invention are not impaired. Examples of thickening agents that may further be included as the thickening agent of component (B) include, Plant-derived water-soluble polymers such as gum arabic, tragacanth gum, galactan, guar gum, locust bean gum, tamarind gum, carob gum, karaya gum, carrageenan, pectin, agar, quince seed (quince), algae colloid (quince extract), and starch; Hydrogenated polyfarnesene and other plant-derived oil-soluble polymers; Microbial water-soluble polymers such as dextran, succinoglycans, and pullulan; Animal-derived water-soluble polymers such as collagen, casein, albumin, and gelatin; Starch-based water-soluble polymers such as carboxymethyl starch, methylhydroxypropyl starch, hydrolyzed hydrogenated starch, and corn starch; Cellulose-based water-soluble polymers such as methylcellulose, nitrocellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium cellulose sulfate, hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), crystalline cellulose, and cellulose powder; Alginate-based water-soluble polymers such as sodium alginate and propylene glycol alginate; Synthetic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, carboxyvinyl polymer, polyethylene glycol 20,000, polyethylene glycol 4,000,000, polyethylene glycol 600,000, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene copolymer, acrylic acid / alkyl methacrylate copolymer ((acrylates / alkyl acrylate (C10-30)) crosspolymer), sodium polyacrylate, and polyacrylamide; Clay minerals such as bentonite, aluminum / magnesium silicate, laponite, hectorite, and montmorillonite; Cationic polymers such as polyethyleneimine, O-[2-hydroxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propyl]hydroxyethylcellulose chloride, dimethyldiallylammonium chloride / acrylamide copolymer solution, 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine / butyl methacrylate copolymer solution, [2-hydroxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propyl]starch chloride, and O-[2-hydroxy-3(trimethylammonio)propyl]guar gum chloride. These are some examples. Further thickeners that may be included as thickeners in component (B) include, for example, naturally derived components such as hydrogenated polyfarnesene.

[0041] The content of thickeners other than sclerotium gum and xanthan gum in component (B) is not particularly limited and can be adjusted as necessary, provided that the effects of one embodiment of the present invention are not impaired. When included, the content of thickeners other than sclerotium gum and xanthan gum in component (B) is usually 0.010% by mass or more, 0.050% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.10% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.15% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.20% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.25% by mass or more in one embodiment, 0.30% by mass or more in one embodiment, and usually 5.0% by mass or less, 4.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 4.0% by mass or less in one embodiment, 3.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 3.0% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 2.5% by mass or less in one embodiment.

[0042] (C) Oily component (also called "Component (C)") Component (C), which may be included in a gel composition according to one aspect of the present invention, is an oily component. Here, "oily component" means a component that is insoluble in water. Insoluble in water means, for example, that its solubility in water at 25°C is less than 0.1% by mass (less than 1 g / L). "Aqueous component" means a component that can be dissolved and / or diluted by water, and includes water. Any oily component of component (C) that is known in the art, for example in the field of cosmetics, can be used and is not limited to such components. Examples of oily components of component (C) include hydrocarbon oils, ester oils, fats and oils, silicone oils, higher alcohols, and fatty acids. One or more of these can be used.

[0043] Any hydrocarbon oil known in the art can be used, such as liquid paraffin, ozokerite, squalane, pristane, paraffin, ceresin, squalene, petrolatum, microcrystalline wax, olefin oligomer, tetradecane, isododecane, isohexadecane, and (C15-19) alkanes.

[0044] Examples of ester oils that can be used include monoester oils, diester oils, triester oils, and tetraester oils.

[0045] Examples of monoester oils include isononyl isononanoate, isodecyl isononanoate, isotridecyl isononanoate, tricyclodecanemethyl isononanoate, hexyl laurate, octyldodecyl malate, cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, 2-hexyldecyl 2-ethylhexanoate, isopropyl myristate, 2-hexyldecyl myristate, octyldodecyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, 2-ethylhexyl palmitate, ethyl isostearate, isopropyl isostearate, isobutyl isostearate, 2-hexyldecyl isostearate, 2-ethylhexyl hydroxystearate, octyldodecyl oleate, oleyl oleate, octyldodecyl ricinoleate, and propylene carbonate.

[0046] Examples of diester oils include di-2-hexyl succinate, bisethoxydiglycol succinate, di(caprylic / capric acid)propanediol, neopentyl glycol diisononanoate, neopentyl glycol dicaprate, glyceryl diisostearate, polyglyceryl diisostearate, propanediol diisostearate, diisostearyl malate, di(phytosteryl / octyldodecyl) lauroyl glutamate, di(cholesteryl / behenyl / octyldodecyl) lauroyl glutamate, di(octyldodecyl / phytosteryl / behenyl) lauroyl glutamate, neopentyl glycol di-2-ethylhexanoate, and neopentyl glycol dioctanoate.

[0047] Examples of triester oils include trimethylolpropane triisostearate, glyceryl triisostearate, diglyceryl triisostearate, trimethylolpropane tri-2-hexylhexanoate, glyceryl tri-2-ethylhexanoate, caprylic / capric triglyceride, and tridecyl trimellitate.

[0048] Examples of tetraester oils include pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate, diglyceryl tetraisostearate, dipentaerythrityl tetraisostearate, and pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate.

[0049] As oils and fats, any known oils and fats in the art can be used, for example, liquid oils and fats such as avocado oil, camellia oil, turtle oil, macadamia nut oil, sunflower seed oil, corn oil, mink oil, olive fruit oil, rapeseed oil, egg yolk oil, sesame oil, peach kernel oil, wheat germ oil, sasanqua oil, castor oil, linseed oil, safflower oil, cottonseed oil, perilla oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, tea seed oil, kaya oil, rice bran oil, cinnamon oil, Japanese tuni oil, jojoba seed oil, and rice germ oil; Solid fats such as cocoa butter, coconut oil, horse fat, hydrogenated coconut oil, palm oil, beef tallow, palm kernel oil, hydrogenated oil, Japanese wax, hydrogenated castor oil, shea butter, beeswax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, and privet wax. These are some examples.

[0050] Any silicone oil known in the art can be used, such as dimethicone, diphenyl dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, diphenylsiloxyphenyl trimethicone, dimethiconol, amodimethicone, aminoethylaminopropyl dimethicone, and aminopropyl dimethicone.

[0051] Any higher alcohol known in the art can be used, such as hydrogenated rapeseed alcohol, lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, isostearyl alcohol, 2-octyldodecanol, oleyl alcohol, and behenyl alcohol.

[0052] Any fatty acid known in the art can be used, such as lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, undecylenic acid, tallic acid, isostearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and behenic acid.

[0053] The oily component of component (C) is, for example, a naturally derived component, one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, squalane, caprylic / capric triglyceride, sunflower seed oil, (C15-19) alkanes, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, hydrogenated rapeseed alcohol, and olive fruit oil.

[0054] The content of component (C) is not limited, but for example, it is usually 10% by mass or more, 11% by mass or more in one embodiment, 12% by mass or more in one embodiment, 13% by mass or more in one embodiment, 14% by mass or more in one embodiment, 15% by mass or more in one embodiment, and usually 30% by mass or less, 29% by mass or less in one embodiment, 28% by mass or less in one embodiment, 27% by mass or less in one embodiment, 26% by mass or less in one embodiment, 25% by mass or less in one embodiment, 24% by mass or less in one embodiment, 23% by mass or less in one embodiment, 22% by mass or less in one embodiment, 21% by mass or less in one embodiment, 20% by mass or less in one embodiment, 19% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 18% by mass or less in one embodiment.

[0055] By adjusting the content of ingredient (C) to the aforementioned range, it is possible to avoid poor gel formation, improve skin compatibility, enhance moisturizing properties, and further improve moisturizing effects due to the oily components of ingredient (C) at a high proportion.

[0056] (D) Polyhydric alcohol (also called "component (D)") Component (D) that may be included in a gel composition according to one aspect of the present invention is a polyhydric alcohol, which is an organic compound having two or more alcoholic hydroxyl groups in one molecule.

[0057] Any polyhydric alcohol known in the art can be used as component (D), and is not limited to any other. Examples of polyhydric alcohols for component (D) include ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, isoprene glycol, BG, propanediol, pentylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-octanediol, hexylene glycol, xylitol, sorbitol, maltitol, glycerin, diglycerin, polyglycerin, glycosyl trehalose, and the like. One or more of these can be used.

[0058] The number of OH groups per molecule of component (D) is not limited. Typically, the number of OH groups per molecule of component (D) is 2 or more, 3 or more in one embodiment, and 6 or more in another embodiment. On the other hand, the upper limit of the number of OH groups per molecule of component (D) is not limited. If component (D) is not a polymer, the number of OH groups per molecule of component (D) is typically 12 or less. If component (D) is a polymer, the number of OH groups per molecule of component (D) is not limited.

[0059] Examples of component (D) having the number of OH groups per molecule within the above range include glycerin, diglycerin, sorbitol, maltitol, and polyethylene glycol, with glycerin and sorbitol being particularly preferred.

[0060] The polyhydric alcohol of component (D) is, for example, a naturally derived component, and is one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, glycerin, BG, propanediol, and pentylene glycol.

[0061] The content of component (D) is not limited, but for example, it is usually 2% by mass or more with respect to the total mass of the gel composition, 4% by mass or more in one embodiment, 6% by mass or more in one embodiment, 8% by mass or more in one embodiment, 10% by mass or more in one embodiment, 12% by mass or more in one embodiment, 14% by mass or more in one embodiment, 16% by mass or more in one embodiment, 18% by mass or more in one embodiment, 20% by mass or more in one embodiment, 21% by mass or more in one embodiment, 22% by mass or more in one embodiment, 23% by mass or more in one embodiment, and usually 40% by mass or less in one embodiment, 38% by mass or less in one embodiment, 36% by mass or less in one embodiment, 34% by mass or less in one embodiment, 32% by mass or less in one embodiment, 30% by mass or less in one embodiment, 29% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 28% by mass or less in one embodiment.

[0062] By adjusting the content of ingredient (D) to the aforementioned range, it is possible to improve the feel of the product, such as its ability to blend into the skin, while avoiding poor gel formation.

[0063] (E) Water (also called "component (E)") Component (E) that may be included in a gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention is water.

[0064] Water refers to water or purified water as listed in the cosmetic ingredient labeling. The water content is not limited, but for example, is usually 40% by mass or more of the total mass of the gel composition, 42% by mass or more in one embodiment, 44% by mass or more in one embodiment, 46% by mass or more in one embodiment, 48% by mass or more in one embodiment, 50% by mass or more in one embodiment, 51% by mass or more in one embodiment, 52% by mass or more in one embodiment, 53% by mass or more in one embodiment, 54% by mass or more in one embodiment, and usually 60% by mass or less, 59% by mass or less in one embodiment, 58% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 57% by mass or less in one embodiment.

[0065] By adjusting the content of component (E) to the aforementioned range, a gel-like form can be formed and maintained, and a gel composition with good spreadability and compatibility with the skin can be produced.

[0066] (F) Other components (also referred to as "Component (F)") A composition according to one aspect of the present invention may include, provided that the effects of the aspect of the present invention are not impaired, any optional components that do not fall under components (A) to (E), such as surfactants other than component (A), fragrances, pH adjusters, preservatives, extracts, oil-soluble components, water-soluble components, powder components, etc., that are known in the art. Two or more of these may be used in combination.

[0067] The surfactant other than component (A) is not limited. Any surfactant known in the art can be used as the surfactant other than component (A), and examples include nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and amphoteric surfactants. One or more of these can be used.

[0068] Any nonionic surfactant known in the art can be used, such as polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers including laureth-4, laureth-7, laureth-9, laureth-21, laureth-23, ceteth-10, ceteth-20, steareth-2, steareth-20, steareth-21, steareth-25, beheneth-20, beheneth-30, oleth-2, and oleth-10; Polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters such as PEG-25 stearate, PEG-40 stearate, PEG-45 stearate, PEG-55 stearate, PEG-75 stearate, PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate, and PEG-150 distearate; Glycerin fatty acid esters such as glyceryl myristate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl isostearate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl dioleate, and glyceryl distearate; Polyglyceryl-10 stearate, polyglyceryl-10 distearate, polyglyceryl-10 tristearate, polyglyceryl-10 pentastearate, polyglyceryl-10 oleate, polyglyceryl-10 isostearate, polyglyceryl-10 myristate, polyglyceryl-6 laurate, polyglyceryl-10 laurate, polyglyceryl-4 stearate, polyglyceryl-6 stearate, polyglyceryl-2 stearate, and other polyglycerin fatty acid esters; Polyoxyethylene glycerin fatty acid esters such as PEG-6 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-20 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, PEG-20 glyceryl tristearate, and PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate; Sorbitan fatty acid esters such as sorbitan laurate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitan isostearate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan sesquistearate, sorbitan sesquiisostearate, sorbitan sesquioleate, sorbitan trioleate, sorbitan tristearate, sorbitan olive oil fatty acid, sorbitan coconut oil fatty acid; Polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters such as POE(20) sorbitan laurate, POE(20) sorbitan stearate, POE(20) sorbitan oleate, and POE(20) sorbitan isostearate. These are some examples.

[0069] Any anionic surfactant known in the art can be used, such as inorganic and organic salts of fatty acids like stearic acid and lauric acid, alkylbenzene sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, α-olefin sulfonates, acylmethyl taurates, N-methyl-N-alkyl taurates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfates, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether sulfates, alkyl phosphates, acyl glutamates, and acyl methyl alanine salts.

[0070] Any cationic surfactant known in the art can be used, such as alkylamine salts, polyamines and alkanolamine fatty acid derivatives, alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, and cyclic quaternary ammonium salts.

[0071] Any amphoteric surfactant known in the art can be used, such as amino acid type, betaine type, carboxylic acid type, sulfate ester type, sulfonic acid type, phosphate ester type, and phospholipid.

[0072] Examples of fragrances include hinokitiol, lavender oil, peppermint oil, orange oil, ylang-ylang oil, frankincense oil, laurel oil, and rosewood oil.

[0073] Any inorganic acid, organic acid, inorganic base, or organic base known in the art can be used as the pH adjuster. Organic acids or inorganic bases are preferred. Examples of organic acids include citric acid, lactic acid, butyric acid, and glycolic acid, while examples of inorganic bases include sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide.

[0074] Any preservative known in the art can be used, such as phenoxyethanol, hinokitiol, phenethyl alcohol, tea extract, Lactobacillus / radish root ferment filtrate, Lactobacillus / wasabi root ferment extract, and white willow bark extract.

[0075] As extract components, any known in the art can be used, for example, Angelica keiskei extract, Catechuan catechu extract, Avocado extract, Hydrangea macrophylla extract, Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract, Althaea officinalis extract, Arnica montana extract, oil-soluble Arnica montana extract, Almond extract, Aloe vera extract, Benzoin extract, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nettle extract, Iris root extract, Fennel extract, Turmeric extract, Rosa multiflora extract, Echinacea leaf extract, Scutellaria baicalensis extract, Phellodendron amurense extract, Coptis japonica extract, Barley extract, Okra extract, Hypericum perforatum extract, oil-soluble St. John's wort extract, Lamium album extract, Oil-soluble Lamium album extract, Ononis extract, Nasturtium officinale extract, Orange extract, Orange flower water, Seaweed extract, Persimmon tannin, Pueraria lobata extract, Valerian extract, Cattail extract, Chamomile extract, Oil-soluble Chamomile extract, Chamomile water, Oat extract, Carrot extract, Oil-soluble Carrot extract, Carrot oil, Artemisia capillaris extract, Licorice extract, Licorice extract powder, Licorice flavonoids, Cantharis tincture, Raspberry extract, Kiwi extract, Cinchona extract, Cucumber extract, Dulcis berry extract Ingredients: cinnamon extract, quince seed extract, gardenia extract, bamboo grass extract, Sophora flavescens extract, walnut shell extract, grapefruit extract, clematis extract, brown sugar extract, chlorella extract, mulberry extract, cinnamon extract, gentian extract, Geranium thunbergii extract, black tea extract, water lily extract, burdock extract, oil-soluble burdock extract, wheat germ extract, hydrolyzed wheat powder, rice bran extract, rice bran fermentation extract, comfrey extract, Asarum extract, saffron extract, soapwort extract, oil-soluble sage extract, hawthorn extract, Japanese pepper extract, citronella extract Itake mushroom extract, shiitake mushroom extract powder, Rehmannia glutinosa extract, Lithospermum erythrorhizon extract, oil-soluble Lithospermum erythrorhizon extract, Perilla extract, Linden extract, oil-soluble Linden extract, Spiraea japonica extract, Peony extract, Job's tears extract, Ginger extract, oil-soluble Ginger extract, Ginger tincture, Calamus root extract, Birch extract, oil-soluble Birch extract, Birch sap, Honeysuckle extract, Horsetail extract, oil-soluble Horsetail extract, Scordinin, Stevia extract, Hedera helix extract, Crataegus monogyna extract, Elderberry extract, Juniper extract,Yarrow extract, oil-soluble yarrow extract, peppermint extract, sage extract, oil-soluble sage extract, sage water, mallow extract, celery extract, Cnidium officinale extract, Cnidium officinale water, Swertia japonica extract, soybean extract, jujube extract, thyme extract, tea extract, tea distillate, tea seed extract, clove extract, citrus peel extract, camellia extract, centella asiatica extract, oil-soluble walnut extract, Duke extract, Terminalia extract, capsicum tincture, tofu Angelica extract, oil-soluble Angelica extract, Angelica water, Calendula extract, oil-soluble Calendula extract, soy milk powder, Peach kernel extract, Spruce extract, Houttuynia cordata extract, Tomato extract, Tormentilla extract, Natto extract, Carrot extract, oil-soluble Carrot extract, Garlic extract, Wild rose extract, oil-soluble Wild rose extract, Bakuga extract, Bakuga root extract, Bakumondo extract, Parsley extract, Naruto leaf juice concentrate, Distilled peppermint water, Hamamelis water, Hamamelis extract, Rose extract, Parietaria extract Kiss, Isodon japonicus extract, Loquat leaf extract, Oil-soluble Loquat leaf extract, Coltsfoot extract, Poria cocos extract, Butcher's broom extract, Butcher's broom extract powder, Grape extract, Grape leaf extract, Grape water, Hayflower extract, Loofah extract, Loofah water, Safflower extract, Oil-soluble linden extract, Linden water, Peony extract, Hop extract, Oil-soluble hop extract, Pine extract, Milk thistle extract, Horse chestnut extract, Oil-soluble horse chestnut extract, Soapberry extract, Melissa extract Examples include: sucrose extract, melilot extract, peach leaf extract, oil-soluble peach leaf extract, bean sprout extract, cornflower extract, cornflower water, eucalyptus extract, saxifrage extract, lily extract, coix seed extract, oil-soluble coix seed extract, mugwort extract, mugwort water, lavender extract, lavender water, apple extract, reishi mushroom extract, lettuce extract, lemon extract, astragalus extract, rose water, rosemary extract, oil-soluble rosemary extract, Roman chamomile extract, and burnet extract.

[0076] Any oil-soluble component known in the art can be used, such as tocopherol, ascorbyl tetrahexyldecanoate, retinol, and ceramide.

[0077] Any water-soluble component known in the art can be used, such as chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, mucoitin sulfate, carotenoid acid, atelocollagen, elastin, amino acids, nucleic acids, bile salts, dl-pyrrolidone carboxylate, hydrolyzed collagen, and diglycerin (EO)PO adducts.

[0078] Any powder component known in the art can be used, for example, Inorganic powders such as talc, kaolin, mica, sericite, muscovite, phlogopite, synthetic mica, red mica, biotite, vermiculite, magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate, aluminum silicate, barium silicate, calcium silicate, magnesium silicate, strontium silicate, tungstate metal salts, magnesium, silica, zeolite, barium sulfate, calcined calcium sulfate (calcined gypsum), calcium phosphate, fluorapatite, hydroxyapatite, ceramic powder, and boron nitride; Metal soap powders such as zinc myristate, calcium palmitate, and aluminum stearate; Organic powders such as polyamide resin powder (nylon powder), polyethylene powder, polymethyl methacrylate powder, polystyrene powder, styrene-acrylic acid copolymer resin powder, benzoguanamine resin powder, polytetrafluoroethylene powder, cellulose powder, and silicone powder; Inorganic pigments such as red iron oxide, yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide, ultramarine, chromium oxide, and manganese violet; Pearl pigments such as titanium dioxide-coated mica, titanium dioxide-coated bismuth oxychloride, titanium dioxide-coated talc, colored titanium dioxide-coated mica, bismuth oxychloride, and fish scale foil; Metal powders such as aluminum powder and copper powder; Organic pigments such as Red No. 201, Red No. 202, Yellow No. 401, Blue No. 403, and Blue No. 404; Natural pigments such as chlorophyll and beta-carotene These are some examples.

[0079] Other components of component (F) include, for example, naturally derived components such as tocopherol, which is an oil-soluble component used as a preservative and stabilizer.

[0080] The content of component (F) is not particularly limited, provided that it does not impair the effects of one embodiment of the present invention, and can be appropriately determined according to the use and purpose of each component.

[0081] A gel composition according to one aspect of the present invention may contain petroleum-derived components, such as a petroleum-derived thickener that may be included as component (B) and / or a petroleum-derived surfactant that may be included as component (F).

[0082] In one embodiment of the present invention, "petroleum-derived components" means components made from petroleum or natural gas.

[0083] For example, a petroleum-derived thickener that may be included as component (B) is: Acrylic acid-based materials such as carboxyvinyl polymers, acrylic acid / alkyl methacrylate copolymers, sodium polyacrylate, and polyacrylamide; Vinyl-based materials such as polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinylpyrrolidone; Polymer systems of ethylene oxide such as polyethylene glycol 20,000, polyethylene glycol 4,000,000, polyethylene glycol 600,000; and Copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, such as polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene copolymers. These are some examples, and petroleum-derived surfactants that may be included as component (F) include: Products containing PEG (polyethylene glycol) components; Nonionic surfactants, including polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, and polyoxyethylene glycerol fatty acid esters; and Anionic surfactants and cationic surfactants that are 100% plant-derived and those other than fatty acid salts. These are some examples.

[0084] In one embodiment of the present invention, the total content of a petroleum-derived thickener that may be included as component (B) and a petroleum-derived surfactant that may be included as component (F) is not limited, but if included, it is usually 5% by mass or less of the total mass of the gel composition, 4.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 4% by mass or less in one embodiment, 3.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 2.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 2% by mass or less in one embodiment, 1.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 1% by mass or less in one embodiment, 0.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 0.1% by mass or less in one embodiment. Since one embodiment of the present invention does not require the inclusion of a petroleum-derived thickener and a petroleum-derived surfactant, the lower limit of the total content of the petroleum-derived thickener and petroleum-derived surfactant is not limited.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention, by adjusting the total content of petroleum-derived thickeners and petroleum-derived surfactants to the aforementioned range, it is possible to produce a gel composition that is environmentally friendly and provides consumers with peace of mind.

[0086] In one embodiment of the present invention, the content of petroleum-derived components is not limited, but if included, it is usually 6% by mass or less of the total mass of the gel composition, 5.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 4.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 4% by mass or less in one embodiment, 3.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 3% by mass or less in one embodiment, 2.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 2% by mass or less in one embodiment, 1.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, 1% by mass or less in one embodiment, 0.5% by mass or less in one embodiment, and 0.1% by mass or less in one embodiment. Since one embodiment of the present invention does not have to contain petroleum-derived components, the lower limit of the content of petroleum-derived components is not limited.

[0087] In one embodiment of the present invention, by adjusting the content of petroleum-derived components within the aforementioned range, it is possible to produce a gel composition that is environmentally friendly and provides consumers with peace of mind.

[0088] In one embodiment of the present invention, the petroleum-derived component may be replaced with a component other than a naturally derived component.

[0089] A gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention may also be free of components other than those derived from nature. Therefore, a gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention does not contain petroleum-derived components.

[0090] In one embodiment of the present invention, a gel composition can be manufactured that does not contain petroleum-derived components, thereby providing consumers with peace of mind while being environmentally conscious.

[0091] One embodiment of the present invention is an oil-in-water emulsion composition, which is in a gel-like state. "Gel-like" means that the appearance is uniform, the entire system forms a network structure due to the gelation of polymers, and it has elasticity under weak stress.

[0092] A gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention can form and maintain a gel-like form through a combination of components (A) and (B). Furthermore, in one embodiment, the content of components (A) to (C), in another embodiment, components (A) to (D), in yet another embodiment, components (A) to (E), and in yet another embodiment, components (A) to (F) are well-balanced, resulting in a highly moisturizing gel composition that is easily absorbed by the skin, non-sticky, refreshing, and environmentally friendly, while providing consumers with a sense of security.

[0093] A gel composition according to one aspect of the present invention can be used in cosmetics. Examples of such cosmetics include hair care cosmetics such as shampoos, skin care cosmetics such as body washes, facial cleansers, lotions, emulsions, creams, and sunscreens, and all-in-one cosmetics that perform the functions of multiple cosmetics in one form. It is particularly preferable to use the gel composition in an all-in-one gel that performs the functions of multiple skin care cosmetics such as lotions, emulsions, and creams in one form. When the gel composition is used in a cosmetic, the gel composition may be used as is in the cosmetic, or the gel composition may be included in a part of the cosmetic.

[0094] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is a cosmetic composition comprising the gel composition. In addition to the gel composition, the cosmetic composition may further contain active ingredients commonly used in cosmetics. Examples of such active ingredients include whitening active ingredients such as vitamin C derivatives and arbutin, and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as tranexamic acid, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, and stearyl glycyrrhetinate. Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is a cosmetic composition comprising the gel composition and the active ingredients.

[0095] A gel composition according to one aspect of the present invention can be manufactured by mixing raw materials containing each component, or raw materials consisting of each component, and performing an emulsification treatment. The emulsification treatment can be carried out using any method and equipment known in the art, with the conditions set appropriately.

[0096] For example, a gel composition according to one embodiment of the present invention can be manufactured as follows. (1) Mix components (B) and a portion of component (D), for example, a dihydric polyhydric alcohol and component (E), by stirring at, for example, 60°C to 90°C until homogenized. (2) Mix component (A) and a portion of component (D), such as a trivalent polyhydric alcohol, by stirring at, for example, 40°C to 80°C until homogenized. (3) Next, add the mixture of component (C) and component (F), which has been prepared in advance by stirring and mixing at, for example, 40°C to 80°C, to the mixture from (2), and stir and mix at, for example, 40°C to 80°C to homogenize it. (4) Next, the mixture from (1) is added to the mixture from (3), and the mixture is stirred and mixed at, for example, 40°C to 80°C to obtain a gel composition. [Examples]

[0097] The following describes several embodiments relating to one aspect of the present invention, but it is not intended that the embodiments of the present invention are limited to those shown in these embodiments.

[0098] The raw materials used in the examples and comparative examples are as follows:

[0099] Ingredient (A): Biosurfactant • Surfactin Na (Product name: Kaneka Surfactin, manufactured by Kaneka Corporation) Ingredient (B): Thickener • Sclerotium gum (product name: AMIGEL (trademark) or AMIGUM (trademark), manufactured by Alban Muller) • Xanthan gum (Product names: KELTROL CG LAX-T, KELTROL CG-SFT, manufactured by CP Kelco) • Hydrogenated polyfarnesene (Product name: EMOGREEN® HP 40, manufactured by Seppic SA) • Glucomannan (Product name: Rheorex® RS, manufactured by Shimizu Chemical Co., Ltd.) Component (C): Oily component • Squalane (Product name: OLIVE SQUALANE, manufactured by efp biotek, Lda) or (Product name: NIKKOL Refined Olive Squalane, manufactured by Nippon Surfactant Industry Co., Ltd.) • Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride (Product Name: MASESTER E-6000, manufactured by PT. MUSIM MAS) • Sunflower seed oil (Product name: StoppOx® Toco 70 Soy - Mixed Tocopherols, manufactured by All Organic Treasures GmbH) • (C15-19) Alkane (Product name: EMOGREEN (trademark) HP 40, manufactured by Seppic SA) ·Jojoba seed oil (product name: Inca Jojoba Oil Lite Organic, manufactured by JOJOBA COMPANY INC.) or (product name: JD Jojoba Organic Colorless Odorless Oil, manufactured by Jojoba Desert (ACS) Ltd.) Shea butter (Product name: ORGANIC PRESSED AND REFINED SHEA BUTTER, manufactured by OLVEA VEGETABLE OILS) • Hydrogenated rapeseed alcohol (Product name: Alcohol No. 20-B, manufactured by Higher Alcohol Industry Co., Ltd.) • Olive fruit oil (Product name: Refined Olive Oil, manufactured by MIGASA ACEITES, SLU) Ingredient (D1): Polyhydric alcohol (trihydric) • Glycerin (Product name: Refined Glycerin USP99.7% (Wilfarin USP-997), manufactured by Natural Oleochemicals Sdn Bhd.) or (Product name: GLYCERINE, manufactured by IOI ACIDCHEM SDN. BHD.) Ingredient (D2): Polyhydric alcohol (dihydric) • BG (Product name: High Sugar Cane BG, manufactured by Higher Alcohol Industry Co., Ltd.) • Propanediol (Product name: ZEMEA® Select Propanediol, manufactured by DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products Company, LLC.) • Pentylene glycol (Product name: A-Leen 5, manufactured by Minasolve SAS) Ingredients (E): Water (base) • Water (distilled water) Ingredients (F): Other ingredients • Tocopherol (Product name: StoppOx® Toco 70 Soy - Mixed Tocopherols, manufactured by All Organic Treasures GmbH)

[0100] [Preparation of gel composition] (Examples 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and Comparative Example 1) (1) Components (B), (D2), and (E) were mixed and heated at 70-85°C to obtain the composition shown in Table 1, and then homogenized. (2) Next, components (A) and (D1) were mixed at 55-70°C and homogenized to obtain the composition shown in Table 1. (3) Furthermore, components (C) and (F), which had been pre-mixed by heating to 55-70°C to obtain the composition shown in Table 1, were added to (2) at 55-70°C and homogenized. (4) The mixture of components (A), (D1), (C), and (F) prepared in (3) was further mixed with the mixture of components (B), (D2), and (E) prepared in (1) to obtain the composition. (Example 3) In Example 1 (3), a gel-like composition was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that hydrogenated polyfarnesene of component (B) was pre-mixed with components (C) and (F), to obtain the composition shown in Table 1.

[0101] [Evaluation of gel compositions] The gel-like compositions obtained from the examples or comparative examples were evaluated by the following methods (i) and (ii). (i) Property evaluation The gel-like compositions of the examples or comparative examples were evaluated to see if they remained gel-like when scooped with a spatula, rather than continuously dripping like a liquid. (ii) Evaluation of the feel when applied to the skin. Approximately 0.5 g of the gel-like composition of the example or comparative example was applied to the skin, and the feel was evaluated according to the following criteria. The evaluation was conducted by five trained panelists, and the average of their evaluation scores was calculated. <Evaluation Criteria> 3 points: When applied to the skin, it spreads very smoothly and blends in without any discomfort, which is very good. 2 points: When applied to the skin, it spreads smoothly and blends well, good. 1 point: When applied to the skin, it crumbles and doesn't blend into the skin, which is a defect.

[0102] [Table 1]

[0103] From Table 1, the following was found: The thickening agent in component (B), which includes sclerotium gum and xanthan gum, allows the composition containing the biosurfactant surfactant Na to take on a gel-like form and maintain that gel-like state. The thickening agent of component (B) contains sclerotium gum and xanthan gum, so that even if the composition containing the biosurfactant surfactant Na contains 10% by mass or more of the oily component of component (C), it can form a gel-like state and maintain that gel-like state. • Because the thickening agent of component (B) includes sclerotium gum and xanthan gum, even if the composition containing the biosurfactant surfactant Na contains 10% by mass or more of the oily component of component (C) and 40% by mass or more of the water of component (E), it will form a gel-like state and maintain that gel-like state.

Claims

1. (A) Biosurfactants, and (B) Thickening agent Includes, The thickening agent of component (B) includes sclerotium gum and xanthan gum. Gel composition.

2. The gel composition according to claim 1, wherein the biosurfactant of component (A) is surfactant sodium.

3. The gel composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mass ratio of sclerotium gum to xanthan gum (sclerotium gum / xanthan gum) in the thickening agent of component (B) is 1.0 to 15.

4. The gel composition according to claim 3, wherein the total content of sclerotium gum and xanthan gum in the thickening agent of component (B) is 0.1% by mass to 3.0% by mass with respect to the total mass of the gel composition.

5. (C) The gel composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an oily component.

6. The gel composition according to claim 5, wherein the content of the oily component of component (C) is 10% by mass or more relative to the total mass of the gel composition.

7. The gel composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the total content of petroleum-derived thickeners and petroleum-derived surfactants is 5% by mass or less based on the total mass of the gel composition.

8. The gel composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the content of petroleum-derived components is 5% by mass or less of the total mass of the gel composition.

9. (D) The gel composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a polyhydric alcohol.

10. The gel composition according to claim 9, wherein the polyhydric alcohol content of component (D) is 2% by mass to 40% by mass relative to the total mass of the gel composition.

11. (E) The gel composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising water.

12. The gel composition according to claim 11, wherein the water content of component (E) is 40% to 60% by mass relative to the total mass of the gel composition.

13. A cosmetic containing the gel composition described in claim 1 or 2.

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