Hair composition

Abstract

To improve the use experience of a hair composition during a scalp massage with the hair composition applied on the hair, and also effectively promote the absorption of zinc element into the hair.SOLUTION: A hair composition contains PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil of 0.4 mass% or more and further contains zinc gluconate and xanthan gum.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair composition.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a hair-growth composition containing Scutellaria baicalensis extract, a zinc compound, and a diester of cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid and polyoxyethylene monoalkyl ether.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The hair-growth composition of Patent Document 1, by containing a zinc compound, has an effect of imparting firmness and resilience (hereinafter, also simply referred to as "firmness and resilience") to hair. By the way, when using a hair composition such as a hair-growth composition, there are cases where the scalp is massaged while the hair composition remains adhered to the hair. Massaging the scalp facilitates the penetration of the hair composition into the hair and improves blood flow in the scalp. Attempts have been made to synergistically enhance the effect of the hair composition by improving blood flow in the scalp. Therefore, hair compositions are required to allow smooth massage without discomfort when massaging the scalp while the composition is adhered to hair, that is, to improve the usability of the hair composition. Hair compositions are also required to further promote the penetration of zinc element into hair.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] A hair composition for solving the above problem contains 0.4% by mass or more of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, and further contains zinc gluconate and xanthan gum.

[0006] The above hair composition preferably contains bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate. The above hair composition preferably substantially does not contain hydroxyethyl cellulose. Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the hair composition of the present invention, the feeling of use when massaging the scalp while the composition is applied to hair is improved, and the penetration of zinc element into hair can be suitably promoted. Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] An embodiment embodying the hair composition of the present invention will be described. The hair composition contains 0.4% by mass or more of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, and further contains zinc gluconate and xanthan gum.

[0009] When the hair composition contains the above components, the feeling of use when massaging the scalp while the composition is applied to hair is improved. Further, the penetration of zinc element into hair can be further promoted.

[0010] Each component constituting the hair composition will be described below. <PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil> PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil is a hydrophilic nonionic surfactant obtained by addition-polymerizing approximately 60 moles of ethylene oxide to fatty acids and triglycerides obtained from hydrogenated castor oil. There are no particular limitations on PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, and any known PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil can be used.

[0011] The content of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil is 0.4% by mass or more relative to the total mass of the hair composition. Preferably, the lower limit of the PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil content is 0.5% by mass. While there is no particular upper limit to the PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil content, it is preferably 5% by mass, and more preferably 2% by mass. A range of arbitrary combinations of the above upper and lower limits is also conceivable. The same applies hereafter.

[0012] <Zinc gluconate> Zinc gluconate is used in hair compositions as a zinc compound that imparts firmness and body to the hair. The zinc gluconate used is not particularly limited, and any known zinc gluconate can be used.

[0013] The content of zinc gluconate relative to the total mass of the hair composition is not particularly limited. The lower limit of the zinc gluconate content is preferably 0.1% by mass, more preferably 0.2% by mass, and even more preferably 0.3% by mass. The upper limit of the zinc gluconate content is preferably 2% by mass, more preferably 1.5% by mass, and even more preferably 1% by mass.

[0014] The hair composition may contain other zinc compounds in addition to zinc gluconate. Examples of other zinc compounds include zinc chloride, zinc undecylenate, zinc stearate, zinc paraphenolsulfonate, zinc palmitate, zinc myristate, zinc laurate, basic zinc carbonate, zinc sulfate, zinc oxide, and low-temperature calcined zinc oxide.

[0015] Xanthan gum Xanthan gum is a polymer material used as a thickening agent. There are no particular restrictions on the xanthan gum used; any known xanthan gum can be used.

[0016] The content of xanthan gum relative to the total mass of the hair composition is not particularly limited. The lower limit of the content of xanthan gum is preferably 0.05% by mass, more preferably 0.1% by mass, and still more preferably 0.3% by mass. The upper limit of the content of xanthan gum is preferably 1.5% by mass, more preferably 1% by mass, and still more preferably 0.5% by mass.

[0017] <bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate> The hair composition preferably contains bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate. Bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate is used as a humectant. It also has the effect of promoting the penetration of active ingredients into hair and scalp.

[0018] There are no particular restrictions on bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate, and known bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylates can be used. Specific examples of bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate include, for example, bisethoxydiglycol cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylate.

[0019] The content of bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate relative to the total mass of the hair composition is not particularly limited. The lower limit of the content of bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate is preferably 0.5% by mass, more preferably 1% by mass, and still more preferably 2% by mass. The upper limit of the content of bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylate is preferably 10% by mass, more preferably 7% by mass, and still more preferably 5% by mass.

[0020] <Other components> In addition to the components described above, the hair composition of the present invention can normally contain other components that can be formulated into hair compositions, as long as the effects of the present invention are not impaired.

[0021] Examples of other components include hair growth ingredients, surfactants, fatliquors, hair protectants, moisturizers, polymers, ultraviolet absorbers, sequestering agents, solvents, pH adjusters, vitamins, antioxidants, antioxidant aids, preservatives, fragrances, cooling agents, and the like. One of these components may be used alone, or two or more thereof may be used in combination.

[0022] (Hair Growth Ingredient) Examples of hair growth ingredients include peripheral vasodilators, hair root activators, anti-inflammatory agents, sebum secretion inhibitors, and the like.

[0023] Examples of the peripheral vasodilators include carpronium chloride, nicotinic acid derivatives (e.g., benzyl nicotinate, nicotinamide, dl-α-tocopherol nicotinate, etc.), vitamin E derivatives (e.g., dl-α-tocopherol, d-α-tocopherol, dl-α-tocopherol acetate, etc.), acetylcholine, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, garlic iodine extract, spironolactone, γ-oryzanol, cepharanthine, nicorandil, minoxidil, diisopropylamine dichloroacetate, Swertia japonica extract, carrot extract, ginkgo biloba extract, cinchona extract, spruce extract, Sophora angustifolia extract, and the like.

[0024] Examples of the hair root activators include sodium mononitroguaiacol, placenta extract, N-acetyl-L-methionine, adenosine, adenine, disodium adenosine triphosphate, cepharanthine, potassium aspartate, pentadecanoic acid glyceride, pantothenic acid, ethyl pantothenate, panthenol, yeast extract, garlic extract, royal jelly, and the like.

[0025] Examples of the anti-inflammatory agents include glycyrrhizic acid derivatives (dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, etc.), hydrocortisone acetate, azulene, guaiazulene, prednisolone, chamomile extract, Sasa veitchii extract, birch extract, and the like.

[0026] Examples of sebum secretion inhibitors include resorcinol, pyridoxine hydrochloride, and estradiol. (Surfactants) Examples of surfactants include anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, lipophilic nonionic surfactants, and hydrophilic nonionic surfactants.

[0027] Examples of anionic surfactants include higher alkyl sulfate esters such as sodium lauryl sulfate and potassium lauryl sulfate, alkyl ether sulfate esters such as POE-lauryl sulfate triethanolamine and POE-sodium lauryl sulfate, N-acyl sarcosinates such as sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, higher fatty acid amide sulfonates such as sodium N-myristoyl-N-methyl taurate, sodium coconut oil fatty acid methyl taulide, and sodium lauryl methyl taulide, phosphate esters such as sodium POE-oleyl ether phosphate and POE-stearyl ether phosphate, sodium di-2-ethylhexyl sulfosuccinate, sodium monolauroyl monoethanolamide polyoxyethylene sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl polypropylene glycol sulfosuccinate, and linear Examples include alkylbenzene sulfonates such as sodium decylbenzenesulfonate, linear dodecylbenzenesulfonate triethanolamine, and dodecylbenzenesulfonate; N-acyl glutamates such as monosodium N-lauroyl glutamate, disodium N-stearoyl glutamate, and monosodium N-myristoyl-L-glutamate; higher fatty acid ester sulfates such as sodium hydrogenated coconut oil fatty acid glycerin sulfate; POE-alkyl ether carboxylic acid, POE-alkyl allyl ether carboxylic acid salt, α-olefin sulfonate, higher fatty acid ester sulfonate, secondary alcohol sulfate, higher fatty acid alkylolamide sulfate, sodium lauroyl monoethanolamide succinate, ditriethanolamine N-palmitoyl aspartate, and sodium caseinate.

[0028] Examples of cationic surfactants include quaternary ammonium salt type cationic surfactants, poly(N,N'-dimethyl-3,5-methylenepiperidinium) chloride, alkylisoquinolinium salts, dialkylmolyphonium salts, POE-alkylamines, alkylamine salts, polyamine fatty acid derivatives, amyl alcohol fatty acid derivatives, benzalkonium chloride, and benzethonium chloride. Examples of quaternary ammonium salt type cationic surfactants include stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, behenyltrimethylammonium chloride, stearyltrimethylammonium bromide, distearyldimethylammonium chloride, and laurylbenzyldimethylammonium chloride.

[0029] Examples of amphoteric surfactants include imidazoline-based amphoteric surfactants such as 2-undecyl-N,N,N-(hydroxyethylcarboxymethyl)-2-imidazoline sodium, and betaine-based surfactants such as 2-heptadecyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethylimidazolinium betaine, lauryldimethylaminoacetic acid betaine, alkyl betaine, amide betaine, and sulfobetaine.

[0030] Examples of lipophilic nonionic surfactants include sorbitan fatty acid esters such as sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monoisostearate, sorbitan monolaurate, sorbitan monopalmitate, and sorbitan monostearate; glycerin fatty acids such as glycerin monoerucate, glycerin sesquioleate, and glycerin monostearate; propylene glycol fatty acid esters such as propylene glycol monostearate; hydrogenated castor oil derivatives; and glycerin alkyl ethers.

[0031] Examples of hydrophilic nonionic surfactants include, in addition to the above-mentioned PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, POE-sorbitan fatty acid esters such as POE-sorbitan monooleate and POE-sorbitan monostearate, POE-sorbitan fatty acid esters such as POE-sorbitan monolaurate and POE-sorbitan monooleate, POE-glycerin fatty acid esters such as POE-glycerin monostearate, POE-glycerin monoisostearate and POE-glycerin triisostearate, POE-fatty acid esters such as POE-monoleate, POE-distearate and POE-monodiooleate, POE-alkyl ethers such as POE-lauryl ether, POE-oleyl ether, POE-stearyl ether and POE-behenyl ether, POE-alkylphenyl ethers such as POE-octylphenyl ether, POE-nonylphenyl ether and POE-dinonylphenyl ether, and brulonic, etc. Examples include POE-POP alkyl ethers such as Pluronic type, POE-POP cetyl ether, POE-POP-2-decyltetradecyl ether, POE-POP-monobutyl ether, and POE-POP-hydrogenated lanolin, tetra-POE-tetraPOP-ethylenediamine condensates such as Tetronic, POE-castor oil, POE-hydrogenated castor oil (with an average number of added moles of ethylene oxide of 10, 20, or 40), POE-hydrogenated castor oil derivatives such as POE-hydrogenated castor oil monoisostearate, POE-beeswax-lanolin derivatives such as POE-sorbitol beeswax, alkanolamides such as coconut oil fatty acid diethanolamide, lauric acid monoethanolamide, and fatty acid isopropanolamide, POE-propylene glycol fatty acid esters, POE-alkylamines, POE-fatty acid amides, sucrose fatty acid esters, POE-nonylphenylformaldehyde condensates, and alkylethoxydimethylamine oxide.

[0032] Note that "POE" above is an abbreviation for polyoxyethylene and refers to the same compound as polyethylene glycol, represented by "PEG" above. Also, "POE-hydrogenated castor oil" above refers to the same compound as "PEG-hydrogenated castor oil".

[0033] (Lipidulant) Examples of fatliquoring agents include oils and fats, waxes, hydrocarbons, higher fatty acids, higher alcohols, and synthetic ester oils.

[0034] Examples of oils and fats include avocado oil, camellia oil, almond oil, macadamia nut oil, corn oil, grapeseed oil, meadowfoam oil, olive oil, rapeseed oil, egg yolk oil, sesame oil, wheat germ oil, sasanqua oil, castor oil, safflower oil, cottonseed oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, tea seed oil, kaya oil, rice bran oil, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, cocoa butter, coconut oil, horse fat, hydrogenated coconut oil, palm oil, beef tallow, mutton fat, hydrogenated beef tallow, palm kernel oil, lard, Japanese wax kernel oil, and hydrogenated castor oil.

[0035] Examples of waxes include beeswax, candelilla wax, cotton wax, carnauba wax, Japanese wax, bayberry wax, privet wax, whale wax, montan wax, rice bran wax, lanolin, kapok wax, lanolin acetate, liquid lanolin, sugarcane wax, reduced lanolin, jojoba wax, hard lanolin, shellac wax, and POE-lanolin alcohol ether.

[0036] Examples of hydrocarbons include liquid paraffin, ozokerite, squalene, paraffin, ceresin, petrolatum, and microcrystalline wax. Examples of high-grade fatty acids include lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, 12-hydroxystearic acid, undecylenic acid, tallic acid, isostearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

[0037] Examples of higher alcohols include linear alcohols such as lauryl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, and cetostearyl alcohol, as well as branched-chain alcohols such as monostearyl glycerol ether (batyl alcohol), 2-decyltetradecinol, lanolin alcohol, cholesterol, phytosterols, hexyldodecanol, isostearyl alcohol, and octyldodecanol.

[0038] Synthetic ester oils include isopropyl myristate, cetyl octanoate, octyldodecyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, butyl stearate, hexyl laurate, myristyl myristate, decyl oleate, hexyldecyl dimethyloctanoate, cetyl lactate, myristyl lactate, lanolin acetate, isocetyl stearate, isocetyl isostearate, ethylene glycol di-2-ethylhexylate, dipentaerythritol fatty acid ester, N-alkyl glycol monoisostearate, neopentyl glycol dicaprate, diisostearyl malate, glycerin di-2-heptylundecanoate, trimethylolpropane tri-2-ethylhexylate, trimethylolpropane triisostearate, pentaneerythritol tetra-2-ethylhexylate, glycerin tri-2-ethylhexylate, and tri Trimethylolpropane isostearate, cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, 2-ethylhexyl palmitate, glyceryl trimyristate, glyceride tri-2-heptyl undecanoate, methyl castor oil fatty acid ester, oleic acid oil, cetostearyl alcohol, acetoglyceride, 2-heptyl undecyl palmitate, diisobutyl adipate, 2-octyl lauroyl-L-glutamate Examples include dodecyl esters, di-2-heptylundecyl adipate, ethyl laurate, di-2-ethylhexyl sebatate, 2-hexyldecyl myristate, 2-hexyldecyl palmitate, 2-hexyldecyl adipate, diisopropyl sebatate, 2-ethylhexyl succinate, glyceryl trioctanoate, glyceryl triisopalmitate, isopropyl lanolinate, and hexyl laurate.

[0039] (Hair protectant) Examples of hair protectants include linear polysiloxanes such as dimethylpolysiloxane, methylphenylpolysiloxane, and methylhydrogenpolysiloxane; cyclic polysiloxanes such as decamethylpolysiloxane, dodecamethylpolysiloxane, and tetramethyltetrahydrogenpolysiloxane; and silicone resins.

[0040] (Moisturizer) Examples of humectants include polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin, 1,3-butylene glycol, sorbitol, maltitol, maltotriose, mannitol, sucrose, erythritol, glucose, fructose, starch-derived sugars, maltose, xylitol, sugar alcohols such as starch-derived sugar-reduced alcohols, amino acids, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, acetylated sodium hyaluronate, mucoitin sulfate, collagen derivatives, cholesteryl-12-hydroxystearate, sodium lactate, bile salts, seawater (including dried material), deep-sea water (including dried material), chitosan derivatives, sodium pyrrolidone carboxylate, and diglycerin-ethylene oxide-propylene oxide adducts.

[0041] (Polymers) Examples of polymers include natural water-soluble polymers, semi-synthetic water-soluble polymers, synthetic water-soluble polymers, and inorganic aqueous polymers.

[0042] Examples of naturally occurring water-soluble polymers include plant-derived polymers such as gum arabic, tragacanth gum, galactan, guar gum, carob gum, karaya gum, carrageenan, pectin, agar, quince seed, algae colloid (cassia extract), and starch (rice, potato, wheat); microbial polymers such as dextran, succinoglucan, and pullulan; and animal-derived polymers such as casein, albumin, and gelatin.

[0043] Examples of semi-synthetic water-soluble polymers include starch-based polymers such as carboxymethyl starch and methylhydroxypropyl starch; cellulose-based polymers such as methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, methylhydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium cellulose sulfate, hydroxypropylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), crystalline cellulose, and cellulose powder; and alginate-based polymers such as sodium alginate and propylene glycol alginate.

[0044] Examples of synthetic water-soluble polymers include vinyl polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl methyl ether, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and carboxyvinyl polymer; polyoxyethylene polymers such as polyethylene glycol 20,000, 40,000, and 60,000; copolymer polymers such as polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene copolymer; acrylic polymers such as sodium polyacrylate, polyethyl acrylate, and polyacrylamide; polyethyleneimine; and cationized polymers.

[0045] Examples of inorganic aqueous polymers include bentonite, aluminum magnesium silicate (beegum), laponite, hectorite, and anhydrous silicic acid. The above polymers are used as thickeners. The polymer content is preferably low, and more preferably substantially absent. Specifically, it is preferable that the composition is substantially free of hydroxyethylcellulose. By substantially omitting hydroxyethylcellulose, it becomes easier to adjust the viscosity of the hair composition to a viscosity that is easily retained on the hair and scalp.

[0046] Furthermore, "substantially absent" means that the presence of the substance at an impurity level is acceptable. (UV absorber) Examples of UV absorbers include benzoic acid-based UV absorbers such as para-aminobenzoic acid, ethyl para-aminobenzoate, glyceryl para-aminobenzoate, amyl para-dimethylaminobenzoate, octyl para-dimethylaminobenzoate, and ethyl 4-[N,N-di(2-hydroxypropyl)amino]benzoate; anthranilic acid-based UV absorbers such as homomenthyl-N-acetylantranilate; salicylic acid-based UV absorbers such as ethylene glycol salicylate, phenyl salicylate, octyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, p-tert-butylphenyl salicylate, and homomenthyl salicylate; benzyl cinnamate, 2-ethoxyethyl para-methoxycinnamate, octyl para-methoxycinnamate, glyceryl mono-2-ethylhexanoate dipara-methoxycinnamate, and isopodium para-methoxycinnamate. Examples include cinnamic acid-based UV absorbers such as ropyl-diisopropylcinnamic acid mixture, urocanic acid-based UV absorbers such as urocanic acid and ethyl urocanic acid, benzophenone-based UV absorbers such as hydroxymethoxybenzophenone, hydroxymethoxybenzophenone sulfonic acid, sodium hydroxymethoxybenzophenone sulfonate, dihydroxydimethoxybenzophenone, sodium dihydroxydimethoxybenzophenone disulfonate, dihydroxybenzophenone, and tetrahydroxybenzophenone, as well as 4-tert-butyl-4'-methoxydibenzoylmethane, 2,4,6-trianilino-p-(carbo-2'-ethylhexyl-1'-oxy)-1,3,5-triazine, and 2-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)benzotriazole.

[0047] (Metal chelating agent) Examples of chelating agents include alanine, trisodium ethylenediaminehydroxyethyl triacetate, disodium edetate, trisodium edetate, tetrasodium edetate, sodium citrate, sodium polyphosphate, sodium metaphosphate, gluconic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, edetic acid, and phytic acid.

[0048] (solvent) Water is an example of a solvent. Furthermore, examples include lower alcohols such as methanol, propanol, isopropanol, isobutyl alcohol, and t-butyl alcohol; dihydric alcohols such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, 1,2-butylene glycol, and 1,3-butylene glycol; trihydric alcohols such as glycerin, trimethylolpropane, and 1,2,6-hexanetriol; tetrahydric alcohols such as pentaerythritol; pentahydric alcohols such as xylitol; hexahydric alcohols such as sorbitol and mannitol; polyhydric alcohol polymers such as diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, diglycerin, polyethylene glycol, triglycerin, tetraglycerin, and polyglycerin; dihydric alcohol alkyl ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether; dihydric alcohol alkyl ethers such as diethylene glycol monomethyl ether and diethylene glycol monoethyl ether; dihydric alcohol ether esters such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate; and glycerin monoalkyl ethers such as xyl alcohol, cerakyl alcohol, and batyl alcohol.

[0049] The type of water used is not particularly limited; for example, distilled water, pure water, ultrapure water, purified water, tap water, etc., can be used. It can also be used in mixture with alcohol, which is used as a solvent. (pH adjuster) Examples of pH adjusting agents include citric acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, sodium lactate, sodium citrate, and sodium lactate. These can be used individually or in combination and can be used not only to adjust the pH value but also to buffer the adjusted pH value.

[0050] (Vitamins) Examples of vitamins include vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, E, and their derivatives, pantothenic acid, and its derivatives.

[0051] (Antioxidant) Examples of antioxidants include tocopherols, dibutylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole, and gallic acid esters.

[0052] (Antioxidant) Examples of preservatives include organic acids and their derivatives such as benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, undecylenic acid, salicylic acid, sorbic acid, and parahydroxybenzoates; phenols such as isopropylmethylphenol; phenoxyethanol; 1,2-hexanediol; and 1,2-pentanediol.

[0053] (Preservative) Examples of preservatives include organic acids and their derivatives such as benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, undecylenic acid, salicylic acid, sorbic acid, and parahydroxybenzoates; phenols such as isopropylmethylphenol; phenoxyethanol; 1,2-hexanediol; and 1,2-pentanediol.

[0054] (fragrance) As for the fragrance, known fragrances used in hair compositions may include natural fragrances or synthetic fragrances. Alternatively, single fragrances or blended fragrances may be used.

[0055] Specific examples of fragrances include menthol, carvone, anethole, eugenol, methyl salicylate, limonene, ocimene, n-decyl alcohol, citronellol, α-terpineol, methyl acetate, citronellyl acetate, methyl eugenol, cineole, linalool, ethyl linalool, thymol, spearmint oil, peppermint oil, lemon oil, orange oil, sage oil, rosemary oil, perilla oil, wintergreen oil, clove oil, eucalyptus oil, pimento oil, d-camphor, d-borneol, fennel oil, cinnamon oil, cinnamaldehyde, peppermint oil, vanillin, and others.

[0056] (Cooling agent) Examples of cooling agents include l-menthol, menthyl lactate, and 3-(menthyloxy)propane-1,2-diol.

[0057] <pH and viscosity of hair composition> The pH of the hair composition is not particularly limited, but is preferably 5 to 6.4, and more preferably 5.2 to 6.2.

[0058] The stability of the hair composition against temperature changes can be improved by having a pH of 5 to 6.4. The method for measuring pH is not particularly limited and can be measured using a known pH meter.

[0059] The viscosity of the hair composition is not particularly limited, but is preferably between 1000 mPa·s and 3500 mPa·s. More preferably, the viscosity of the hair composition is between 1500 mPa·s and 3000 mPa·s, and even more preferably between 1500 mPa·s and 2500 mPa·s.

[0060] The viscosity of the hair composition is between 1000 mPa·s and 3500 mPa·s, which allows it to adhere well to the hair and scalp when applied. The viscosity of the hair composition refers to the viscosity of the hair composition at 25°C. While there are no particular restrictions on the method of measuring viscosity, it can be measured using a known method, for example, a Type B viscometer (manufactured by Toki Sangyo Co., Ltd.).

[0061] <Application forms, dosage forms, and uses of hair compositions> The application forms of the hair composition are not particularly limited and can be used, for example, as a pharmaceutical product, a quasi-drug, or a cosmetic product.

[0062] The dosage form of the hair composition is not particularly limited and includes, for example, paste, mousse, gel, liquid, emulsion, suspension, cream, ointment, aerosol, spray, etc.

[0063] The hair composition can be used in various ways, including, for example, as a hair growth agent, hair tonic, lotion, toner, shampoo, rinse, and conditioner. Furthermore, because the hair composition of the present invention adheres well to the hair and scalp, it can be suitably used on relatively long hair. For example, it can be suitably used on hair 10 cm or longer. It can also be used as a hair composition for women.

[0064] <Mechanism and Effects> The action of the hair composition of this embodiment will now be described. By containing 0.4% by mass or more of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil in the hair composition, it becomes possible to stably disperse xanthan gum within the hair composition. Because the xanthan gum is stably dispersed, the hair composition is more likely to maintain a uniform viscosity overall. This allows the hair composition to adhere more easily to the hair and scalp, enabling a comfortable scalp massage. In other words, it becomes possible to smoothly massage the scalp without worrying about dripping due to excessively low viscosity or difficulty in applying the hair due to excessively high viscosity. Furthermore, because the hair composition is easier to apply to the hair, the zinc element synergistically penetrates the hair more easily.

[0065] Furthermore, because xanthan gum is a polyanion, it readily binds to zinc ions, which are cations, in aqueous solutions, for example. This binding of xanthan gum to zinc ions may inhibit the introduction of zinc into the hair. However, by containing 0.4% by mass or more of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil in the hair composition, the binding of xanthan gum to zinc ions can be suppressed. Therefore, effective introduction of zinc into the hair becomes possible.

[0066] The effects of the hair composition of this embodiment will now be described. (1) Contains 0.4% by mass or more of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, and further contains zinc gluconate and xanthan gum.

[0067] Therefore, the user experience is improved when massaging the scalp while the product is attached to the hair, and the penetration of zinc into the hair can be effectively promoted. (2) Contains cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid bisethoxyglycol. Therefore, it can promote the penetration of zinc into the hair.

[0068] (3) It is substantially free of hydroxyethylcellulose. Therefore, it is easy to adjust the viscosity of the hair composition to a viscosity that is easily retained on the hair and scalp. <Example of changes> This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0069] The hair composition of this embodiment may be composed without containing cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid bisethoxyglycol. • The hair composition of this embodiment uses zinc gluconate as the zinc compound, but is not limited to this embodiment. Other zinc compounds may be used instead of zinc gluconate. [Examples]

[0070] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to test examples, but the present invention is not limited to these. The hair compositions of Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 shown in Table 1 were prepared by mixing and stirring each component according to a conventional method. In Table 1, the numbers to the right of each component represent the content (mass %). In Table 1, "Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC Daicel SE900)" means hydroxyethylcellulose of product number SE900 manufactured by Daicel Mirise Co., Ltd.

[0071] [Table 1] (Evaluation test) The pH and viscosity of the hair compositions of Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 were measured. pH was measured using a known pH meter. Viscosity was measured using a known B-type viscometer (manufactured by Toki Sangyo Co., Ltd.). In addition, the effect of the hair compositions on promoting zinc element penetration into hair and the feel of use were evaluated.

[0072] (Effect of promoting the penetration of zinc element into hair) To evaluate the effect of promoting zinc element penetration into hair, the following steps (1) to (9) were performed in order.

[0073] (1) Four bundles of hair weighing approximately 2g each were prepared. Five strands of hair, each between 10cm and 15cm in length, were cut from each bundle. The middle section of each hair, approximately 5cm in length, excluding one end (top) and the other end (bottom), was left untreated.

[0074] (2) 0.2 g of each hair composition was applied to the hair bundles, and after being distributed evenly through the hair bundles using a comb, the bundles were left at room temperature for 30 minutes. (3) 150 mL of 1% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) aqueous solution was placed in a beaker, and the hair bundle was placed in the beaker and washed for 5 seconds.

[0075] (4) The hair bundles were placed in 150 mL of deionized water in a beaker and washed for 5 seconds. (5) The hair bundle was placed in 150 mL of deionized water in a separate beaker and washed for 5 seconds. (6) The washed hair bundles were placed in a dryer set to 57°C and dried for 30 minutes.

[0076] (7) The above steps (2) to (6) were repeated 9 times, resulting in a total of 10 chemical treatments and washes. (8) From the hair bundles that had undergone a total of 10 chemical treatments and washes, five strands of hair between 10 cm and 15 cm in length were cut off. The middle section of each hair, approximately 5 cm in length, excluding one end (upper end) and the other end (lower end), was used as the treated hair.

[0077] (9) The zinc content of the above-mentioned untreated and treated hair was measured using an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence analyzer EDX-7000 (manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation). The percentage change in zinc content between treated hair and untreated hair is shown in the "Zinc Change Rate (%)" column of Table 1.

[0078] (Feeling of use) The user experience was evaluated through sensory evaluation by 90 monitors, 30 women each in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Each of the 90 monitors used the hair composition of Example 1, Comparative Examples 1 and 2. When using the product, the hair composition was applied to the hair, and then the scalp was massaged to allow it to penetrate the hair.

[0079] The user experience was evaluated on a 7-point scale from 1 to 7. A higher level (7) indicates a better evaluation. Stage 1: Dripping and difficulty in applying to hair are extremely noticeable, making it unsuitable for use.

[0080] Stage 2: Dripping and difficulty in applying to the hair are strongly felt, resulting in an unpleasant user experience. Stage 3: There are issues with use, such as dripping or difficulty in applying the product to the hair. Stage 4: Although there is some slight dripping and difficulty in applying to the hair, it is still at a usable level.

[0081] Stage 5: There is virtually no dripping or difficulty in applying to the hair, and there are no problems with use. Stage 6: There is virtually no dripping or difficulty in applying to the hair, resulting in a good user experience. Stage 7: It has an excellent user experience, with no dripping or difficulty in applying it to the hair.

[0082] Of the above, ratings of levels 5 to 7 were considered good, and the percentage of responses receiving levels 5 to 7 was calculated. The following evaluation criteria were used. • Evaluation criteria for user experience ◎(Good): 80% or more ○ (Acceptable): 50% or more, less than 80% × (Not acceptable): Less than 50% (Evaluation results) In Table 1, the zinc change rates for Comparative Examples 1 and 2 were -9.0% and -47.6%, respectively. In Comparative Examples 1 and 2, the zinc element content decreased after treatment, indicating low zinc element permeability. In contrast, in Example 1, the zinc change rate was +24.5%, confirming that zinc element permeability was suitably promoted. Furthermore, while the usability of Comparative Examples 1 and 2 was either acceptable or unacceptable, the usability of Example 1 was found to be good.

Claims

1. It contains 0.4% by mass or more of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil. Furthermore, it contains zinc gluconate, xanthan gum, and bisethoxyglycol cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid. A hair composition characterized in that the xanthan gum content is 0.05 to 1.5% by mass.

2. The hair composition according to claim 1, which is substantially free of hydroxyethylcellulose.

Images