Hair care compositions

Abstract

The invention provides a hair care composition comprising: (i) taxifolin glucoside; (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine; (iii) at least one yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae; (iv) at least one zinc salt. The invention also provides uses and methods including the hair care composition of the invention.

Description

[0001] HAIR CARE COMPOSITIONS

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a hair care composition, particularly an anti-grey hair care composition.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] As a person ages, the appearance of hair can become less desirable. Hair greying and canities is a common sign of aging. Hair also loses its elasticity, becomes thinner and more fragile. Further, hair follicle diameter and hair number can also decrease giving a sparse appearance to the scalp.

[0006] To many consumers, maintaining colouring of hair and good thickness, volume and hair count is a way to alleviate the signs of aging. Many people chose to colour their hair to disguise age-related greying or whitening of the hair. However, colouring of hair does not help disguise other age-related changes in hair quality. Instead, conversely, chemical hair dyes are known to lead to increased damage of the hair over time.

[0007] To this end, EP3873483A1 describes a hair care active agent comprising taxifolin glucoside and N- acetyl tyrosine which can provide some reduction in the occurrence of grey and white hair in an individual. In EP3873483A1 it was found that the hair care active agent on average reduced the mean number of white hairs by 17% after 4 months.

[0008] However, despite this prior art, there is still a long felt need to provide compositions that provide effective reduction in age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation. It is also required to provide a composition which is also able to reduce or prevent other detrimental changes in hair associated with aging.

[0009] Surprisingly, it has been found that when taxifolin glucoside and N-acetyl tyrosine are combined with a particular hydrolysed yeast protein of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae and zinc salt an effective reduction in age-related functional changes of hair pigmentation can be achieved, while also providing a beneficial improvement in further hair characteristics associated with aging.

[0010] Particularly, surprisingly it has been found that including a yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae can improve the antioxidant activity of a hair care composition. Particularly, when taxifolin glucoside and N-acetyl tyrosine are combined with a yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae according to the invention, the antioxidant activity of the taxifolin glucoside and N-acetyl tyrosine in the haircare composition can be improved and the oxidative stress of melanocytes in the scalp / hair follicle can be reduced.

[0011] Improvements in antioxidant activity of melanocytes are linked to a reduction and / or delay in grey hair formation. Oxidative stress is known to damage melanocytes leading to the greying of hair. Enhancing antioxidant activity helps neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing oxidative damage to melanocytes and grey hair formation. Also, by boosting antioxidant defences, melanocytes and their precursor cells in the hair follicles in the scalp can be better protected from oxidative stress. This protection helps maintain the melanocytes’ function, longevity and sustain melanin production for longer. Improved antioxidant activity is also known to be linked to restoration of pigmentation in grey hair due to reduced ROS levels, protection of melanocyte reservoirs, and reactivation of melanogenesis.

[0012] Further, reducing oxidative stress in the scalp / hair follicle is also associated with improvements in other hair characteristics associated with aging such as a reduction in hair shedding and / or an enhancement of the growth of stronger hair.

[0013] Summary of the Invention

[0014] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a hair care composition comprising:

[0015] (i) taxifolin glucoside;

[0016] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine;

[0017] (iii) at least one yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae ; and

[0018] (iv) at least one zinc salt.

[0019] In a further aspect the invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the invention for reducing the occurrence of grey or white hairs of an individual, for reducing age- related functional changes in hair pigmentation, for increasing melanin production in grey hair, for increasing cell proliferation, for increasing melanocyte proliferation, for increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase, for increasing the volume of hair, for increasing the thickness of hair, for increasing hair count, for increasing hair strength, for reducing hair fall and / or for hair fibre repair, for improving the health of the scalp, for reducing inflammation of the scalp, for reducing oxidative stress on the scalp, for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, for improving sebum control and / or for improving the scalp barrier. In a further aspect the invention relates to a method of reducing the occurrence of grey or white hairs of an individual, reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation, increasing melanin production in grey hair, increasing cell proliferation, increasing melanocyte proliferation, increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase, increasing the volume of hair, increasing the thickness of hair, increasing hair count, increasing hair strength, reducing hair fall, providing hair fibre repair, improving the health of the scalp, reducing inflammation of the scalp, reducing oxidative stress on the scalp, reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, improving sebum control and / or improving the scalp barrier, said method comprising applying to scalp or hair, the hair care composition of the present invention.

[0020] Preferably, the invention provides the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the invention for reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes. Preferably, melanocytes in the hair follicle and / or scalp. Preferably, the invention provides the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the invention for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp.

[0021] Preferably, the invention provides a method for reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes. Preferably, melanocytes in the hair follicle and / or scalp, said method comprising applying to the scalp or hair, the hair care composition of the present invention. Preferably, the invention provides a method for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, said method comprising applying to the scalp or hair, the hair care composition of the present invention.

[0022] Surprisingly, the combination of ingredients of the hair care composition of the invention provide a reduction in the occurrence of grey or white hairs of an individual. In some embodiments, the ingredients of the hair care composition provide a synergistic reduction of grey or white hairs of an individual. In some embodiments the combination of ingredients of the hair care composition of the invention provide a reduction in age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation. In some embodiments, the ingredients of the hair care composition provide a synergistic reduction in age- related functional changes in hair pigmentation. For example, beneficially, the hair care composition of the invention can provide increased melanin production such as a synergistic increase in melanin production. The hair care composition of the invention beneficially provides an increase in cell proliferation such as an increase in melanocyte proliferation such as a synergistic increase in melanocyte proliferation. The hair care composition of the invention beneficially provides increased levels and / or activity of tyrosinase such as a synergistic increase in the levels and / or activity of tyrosinase. The beneficial effects of the hair care composition of the invention described above can surprisingly lead to a high level of observable reduction in age-related functional changes of hair pigmentation and / or the occurrence of grey or white hairs of an individual. For example, compositions according to the invention can show more than a 22% reduction in grey hairs after only 2 months of application and more than a 24% reduction in grey hairs after only 3 months of application.

[0023] In addition to reducing age related functional changes in hair pigmentation, the combination of ingredients of the haircare composition of the invention also provides beneficial improvements of other age-related hair characteristics. For example, the hair care composition of the invention can provide a beneficial increase in volume of the hair such as a synergistic increase in volume of the hair. For example, after application of a composition according to the invention for 1 month, 90% of subjects showed an improvement in the volume of their hair. The hair care composition of the invention can provide a beneficial increase in the thickness of the hair such as a synergistic increase in the thickness of the hair. For example, after application of a composition according to the invention for only 1 month, 93% of subjects showed an improvement in the volume of their hair. The hair care composition of the invention can provide a beneficial increase in hair count such as a synergistic increase in hair count. For example, after application of the composition according to the invention for only 1 month, 93% of subjects showed an improvement in hair count. The hair care composition of the invention can provide a beneficial increase in the strength of the hair / reduce hair fall such as a synergistic increase in the strength of the hair / reduction in hair fall. For example, after application of the composition according to the invention for only 3 months, an over 70% reduction in intact / broken hairs in a brush count is seen. The hair care composition of the invention may also provide observable fibre repair such as a synergistic fibre repair.

[0024] In addition to reducing age related functional changes in hair pigmentation, the combination of ingredients of the haircare composition of the invention also provides beneficial improvements in the health of the scalp. For example, the hair care composition of the invention can provide a beneficial reduction in inflammation of the scalp such as a synergistic reduction in inflammation of the scalp. The hair care composition of the invention may also provide beneficial scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in a reduction of oxidative stress of the scalp such as a synergistic reduction in oxidative stress of the scalp. The hair care compositions of the invention may also provide a beneficial reduction of oxidized lipid species on the scalp such as a synergistic reduction of oxidized lipid species on the scalp. The hair care compositions of the invention may also provide a beneficial improved sebum control such as a synergistic improved sebum control. The hair care compositions of the invention may also provide a beneficial improvement in the scalp’s health and barrier properties such as a synergistic improvement in the scalp’s health and barrier properties.

[0025] Description of the Invention

[0026] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] In the present invention the term "extract' refers to any isolated substance obtained by extraction from a raw material. For example, a yeast extract may comprise peptides or oligopeptides isolated from a yeast raw material. The extract is obtained, for example, by dissolving a raw material in a solvent(s) e.g. water or alcohol followed by concentration and / or purification of the substances isolated from the raw material, for example, by evaporation of the solvents.

[0028] By “peptide hydrolysate” it is understood to mean a mixture of compounds consisting for the most part of peptides or oligopeptides obtained by the hydrolysis of peptide bonds in a protein, peptide or oligopeptide.

[0029] (i) Taxifolin glucoside

[0030] The composition of the invention comprises taxifolin glucoside.

[0031] Preferably, at least part of the taxifolin glucoside is taxifolin alpha-D-glucoside. A suitable method of preparing taxifolin alpha-D-glucoside is described in WO 2007 / 144368.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the hair care composition of the present invention further comprises taxifolin.

[0033] A mixture of taxifolin and taxifolin glucoside may be prepared, for instance, by stopping the reaction according to WO 2007 / 144368 prior to full conversion, e.g. after about half of the taxifolin has been converted to obtain a roughly 1 : 1 mixture.

[0034] T axifolin glucoside and taxifolin may be present in a weight ratio of from 100:0 to about 40:60. Preferably the weight ratio of taxifolin glucoside to taxifolin is from 90:10 to 40:60, more preferably from 70:30 to 50:50, and most preferably about 60:40. The amount of taxifolin glucoside in the hair care composition of the present invention may be, for instance, from 0.0001 % to 0.50% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.0005% to 0.025% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably 0.0007% to 0.009% of the total weight of the composition, such as 0.0009% to 0.007% of the total weight of the composition, for example 0.001% to 0.004% of the total weight of the composition such as 0.001 to 0.002% of the total weight of the composition.

[0035] In the hair care composition of the present invention, part of the taxifolin glucoside may be replaced by taxifolin. In particular, up to 60% of taxifolin glucoside may be replaced by taxifolin, preferably up to 50%, and even more preferably up to 40%.

[0036] In some embodiments, the taxifolin glucoside and / or taxifolin of the invention may be derived from Larix Europaea Wood. For example, the taxifolin glucoside and / or taxifolin may be included in a Larix Europaea Wood Extract.

[0037] The amount of Larix Europaea Wood Extract in the composition, for instance, is from 0.0001% to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.001 % to 0.01 % of the total weight of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.002% to 0.008% of the of the total weight of the composition.

[0038] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine

[0039] The composition of the invention comprises N-acetyl tyrosine.

[0040] The amount of N-acetyl tyrosine in the hair care composition of the present invention may be, for instance, from 0.01% to 30% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.05% to 20% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.1% to 5% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.15% to 0.9% of the total weight of the composition, for example 0.15% to 0.4% of the total weight of the composition.

[0041] In the hair care composition of the present invention, the weight ratio of taxifolin glucoside to N- acetyl tyrosine is preferably from 1 :500 to 1 :1 , more preferably from 1 :300 to 1 :50, and most preferably from 1 :200 to 1 : 100, for example about 1 : 150. Compositions comprising taxifolin glucoside and / or N-acetyl tyrosine may be as described in e.g. EP3873483A1 (incorporated herein by reference). Taxifolin glucoside and / or N-acetyl tyrosine may also be provided to the composition of the invention by the commercial material Darkenyl™ available from Givaudan.

[0042] (iii) Yeast extract

[0043] The composition comprises at least one yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

[0044] Preferably, the peptide hydrolysates are low molecular weight peptide hydrolysate. Preferably, the peptide hydrolysates have a molecular weight of 6 kDa or less, more preferably the peptide hydrolysates have a molecular weight of 5 kDas or less, more preferably 3 kDa or less such as 1 kDa or less, most preferably the peptide hydrolysates have a molecular weight of less than 600 Da. The molecular weight of peptide hydrolysates according to the invention can be identified using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and an appropriate solvent system / gradient known in the art.

[0045] Preferably, the yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae is prepared by hydrolysis of yeast proteins from the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae. For example, the yeast extract can be made by extraction of yeast proteins followed by controlled hydrolysis which releases peptides and protein fragments.

[0046] Any extraction or purification method known to those skilled in the art can be used to prepare the extract according to the invention.

[0047] Preferably the yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an aqueous extract. The extracts of the disclosure are preferably purified aqueous extracts.

[0048] In some embodiment of the invention, the yeast peptide hydrolysate contains a quantity of peptides / protein fragments representing between 30 and 70% of the total weight of the dry peptide hydrolysate, more particularly this amount is between 40 and 50% of the total weight of the dry extract. The amount of yeast peptide hydrolysate in the hair care composition of the present invention maybe, for instance, from 0.0001% to 20% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in a concentration of from 0.003% to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in a concentration of from 0.005% to 0.1% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in a concentration of from 0.005% to 0.01% of the total weight of the composition, for example about 0.006 to 0.009 wt%.

[0049] Thus, the content of protein and peptide compounds in the compositions of the present invention will then be from 0.00003% to 14% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in an amount of from 0.0009% to 3.5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.0015% to 0.07% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.0015% to 0.007% of the total weight of the composition, for example from 0.0018% to 0.0063% of the total weight of the composition, for yeast peptide hydrolysate containing between 30% and 70% of peptides / protein fragment compounds.

[0050] Thus, the content of protein and peptide compounds in the compositions of the present invention will then be from 0.00004% to 10% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in a concentration of from 0.0012% to 2.5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in a concentration of from 0.002% to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in a concentration of from 0.002% to 0.005% of the total weight of the composition, for example from 0.0024 wt% to 0.0045 wt%, for yeast peptide hydrolysate containing between 40% and 50% of peptides / protein fragment compounds.

[0051] The yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae may be as described in e.g. LIS2013296251 A1 (incorporated herein by reference). The yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae may also be provided to the composition of the invention by the commercial material Dynagenl™ available from Ashland.

[0052] Preferably, the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.5 to 1 : 100, more preferably, the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1:1 to 1:50, more preferably from 1 : 1 :5 to 1 :30. In some embodiments the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to N- acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :10 to 1 :25. Preferably, the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably, the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.01 to 1 :3, more preferably from 1 :0.05 to 1 : 1. In some embodiments the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.1 to 1:0.5.

[0053] Preferably, the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to larix europaea wood extract is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably, the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to larix europaea wood extract is from 1 :0.01 to 1 :3, more preferably from 1 :0.05 to 1 : 1. In some embodiments the ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to larix europaea wood extract is from 1 :0.1 to 1 :0.8.

[0054] (iv) Zinc Salt

[0055] The hair care composition of the present invention further comprises one or more zinc salts. Zinc can act as an inhibitor of enzymes associated with hair loss. Therefore, inhibition of the enzyme can contribute beneficially to reduction of hair fall or hair loss effects. Inclusion of zinc salt in the compositions of the invention can contribute to the provision of the beneficial reduction in age- related functional changes of hair pigmentation effects and beneficial improvements in other hair characteristics associated with aging described above.

[0056] Zinc salts suitable for use in the invention include zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc chloride, zinc pyrithione or combinations thereof.

[0057] Most preferably, the composition comprises zinc sulfate.

[0058] The amount of zinc salt in the hair care composition of the present invention maybe, for instance, from 0.00001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in an amount of from 0.0001 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.001 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, most preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition, for example up to 0.03%.

[0059] Preferably, the amount of zinc sulfate in the hair care composition of the present invention maybe, for instance, from 0.00001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in an amount of from 0.0001 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.001 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, most preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition, for example up to 0.03%.

[0060] Preferably, the amount of zinc gluconate in the hair care composition of the present invention maybe, for instance, from 0.00001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in an amount of from 0.00001 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.00005% to 1% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.00005% to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, most preferably in an amount of from 0.00005% to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition, for example about 0.00008% to 0.0005% of the total weight of the composition.

[0061] Preferably, the amount of zinc chloride in the hair care composition of the present invention maybe, for instance, from 0.00001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in an amount of from 0.0001 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.0005% to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.0005% to 0.1% of the total weight of the composition, most preferably in an amount of from 0.0005% to 0.04% of the total weight of the composition, for example about 0.0008 to 0.03% of the total weight of the composition.

[0062] Preferably, the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc salt is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 10, more preferably, the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc salt is from 1 :0.1 to 1 :5, more preferably from 1:0.15 to 1:3. In some embodiments the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc salt is from 1 : 1 to 1 :2.5.

[0063] Preferably, the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc sulfate is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 10, more preferably, the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc sulfate is peptide hydrolysate 1 :0.1 to 1 :5, more preferably from 1 :0.15 to 1 :3. In some embodiments the weight ratio of yeast extract to zinc sulfate is from 1 : 1 to 1 :2.5.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the haircare composition comprises:

[0065] (i) 0.0005% to 0.25% taxifolin glucoside;

[0066] (ii) 0.05% to 20% N-acetyl tyrosine;

[0067] (iii) 0.001 % to 5% of a yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and

[0068] (iv) 0.001 % to 0.1 % of zinc salt. In a preferred embodiment, the haircare composition comprises:

[0069] (i) 0.0005% to 0.25% taxifolin glucoside;

[0070] (ii) 0.05% to 20% N-acetyl tyrosine;

[0071] (iii) 0.001 % to 1 % of a yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and

[0072] (iv) 0.001 % to 0.1 % of zinc salt.

[0073] Most preferably, the hair care composition comprises:

[0074] (i) 0.0007% to 0.009% taxifolin glucoside;

[0075] (ii) 0.1% to 5% N-acetyl tyrosine;

[0076] (iii) 0.003% to 0.1% a yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and

[0077] (iv) 0.01 % to 0.1 % of zinc sulfate.

[0078] Product Format and Other Ingredients

[0079] Compositions for use in the invention (as described above) may include additional actives for improving the physical and / or aesthetic characteristics of the scalp and / or the hair. Examples include amino acids, vitamins, minerals and / or antioxidants, emollients, humectants, sunscreens, anti-irritants, exfoliating agents, botanical extracts (such as pomegranate, white birch, green tea, chamomile and licorice extracts) and mixtures thereof, preservatives (such as sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, pentylene glycol, phenoxyethanol and sodium metabisulfite), pH adjusters and fragrances (such as essential oils, flower oils, natural extracts from resins, gums, balsams, beans, mosses and other plants, as well as synthetic aromatic materials).

[0080] In some embodiments, preferably the composition of the invention further comprises a thickening agent. Suitable thickening agents are selected from polyacrylic acids, cross-linked polymers of acrylic acid, copolymers of acrylic acid with a hydrophobic monomer, copolymers of carboxylic acidcontaining monomers and acrylic esters, cross-linked copolymers of acrylic acid and acrylate esters, heteropolysaccharide gums and crystalline long chain acyl derivatives. The long chain acyl derivative is desirably selected from ethylene glycol stearate, alkanolamides of fatty acids having from 16 to 22 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof. Ethylene glycol distearate and polyethylene glycol 3 distearate are preferred long chain acyl derivatives, since these impart pearlescence to the composition. Polyacrylic acid is available commercially as Carbopol 420, Carbopol 488 or Carbopol 493. Polymers of acrylic acid cross-linked with a polyfunctional agent may also be used; they are available commercially as Carbopol 910, Carbopol 934, Carbopol 941 and Carbopol 980. An example of a suitable copolymer of a carboxylic acid containing monomer and acrylic acid esters is Carbopol 1342. All Carbopol (trademark) materials are available from Goodrich. Suitable crosslinked polymers of acrylic acid and acrylate esters are Pemulen TR1 or Pemulen TR2. A suitable heteropolysaccharide gum is xanthan gum, for example that available as Kelzan mu.

[0081] The hair care composition of the invention may further comprise a penetration enhancer. “Penetration enhancers” can be understood according to the invention as compounds which can penetrate the hair follicle and / or scalp to reversible decrease barrier resistance and increase the bioavailability of actives to the site of action in the hair follicle and / or scalp e.g. to increase the bioavailability of actives to the hair bulb.

[0082] In some embodiments, the penetration enhancer is selected from glycols such as polyethylene glycol; phospholipids for example in the form of one or more liposomes, non-ionic emulsifiers such as polysorbate, laurocapram, isohexadecane, dodecane, DMSO, ethanol, decanol, dimethyl isosorbide and / or combinations thereof.

[0083] In some embodiments, the penetration enhancer is present in amount of between 0.01% to 20% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably at least 0.1%, even more preferably at least 1%, still even more preferably at least 2%, and most preferably at least 6% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the penetration enhancer is present in amount of no greater than 15%, even more preferably no greater than 10%, still even more preferably no greater than 8%, and most preferably no greater than 3% by weight of the composition.

[0084] In some embodiments the penetration enhancer is selected from ethanol, dimethyl isosorbide or combinations thereof. Preferably, the penetration enhancer is a combination of dimethyl isosorbide and ethanol.

[0085] In some preferred embodiments the penetration enhancer comprises dimethyl isosorbide.

[0086] In one embodiment, dimethyl isosorbide is included in an amount of from 0.01 to 10% of the total weight of the composition, or in the alternative of from to 0.1 to 5% of the total weight of the composition, or from 1 to 3% of the total weight of the composition such as 2.5% of the total weight of the composition.

[0087] In some embodiments the penetration enhancer comprises ethanol. Preferably, the ethanol is present in amount of between 0.01 % to 20% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably at least 0.1%, even more preferably at least 1%, still even more preferably at least 2%, and most preferably at least 3% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the ethanol is present in amount of no greater than 15%, even more preferably no greater than 10%, still even more preferably no greater than 8%, and most preferably no greater than 7% by weight of the composition.

[0088] Preferably, the weight ratio of penetration enhancer to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 : 10, more preferably the weight ratio of penetration enhancer to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.01 to 1 :5 more preferably from 1 :0.03 to 1 : 1. In some embodiments the weight ratio of penetration enhancer to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1:0.1 to 1:0.5.

[0089] Preferably, the weight ratio of penetration enhancer to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1 :1 , more preferably, the weight ratio of penetration enhancer to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00005 to 1:0.1 , more preferably from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :0.01. In some embodiments the weight ratio of penetration enhancer to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :0.005.

[0090] Preferably, the weight ratio of dimethyl isosorbide to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of dimethyl isosorbide to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 1 more preferably from 1 :0.03 to 1 :0.1. In some embodiments the weight ratio of dimethyl isosorbide to N- acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.05 to 1 :0.09.

[0091] Preferably, the weight ratio of dimethyl isosorbide to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1 :1 , more preferably, the weight ratio of dimethyl isosorbide to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00005 to 1:0.1 , more preferably from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :0.01. In some embodiments the weight ratio of dimethyl isosorbide to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.002 to 1 :0.006.

[0092] Preferably, the weight ratio of ethanol to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of ethanol to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :1 more preferably from 1 :0.01 to 1 :0.5. In some embodiments the weight ratio of ethanol to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.02 to 1 :0.05.

[0093] Preferably, the weight ratio of ethanol to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1 :1 , more preferably, the weight ratio of ethanol to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00005 to 1 :0.1 , more preferably from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :0.01 . In some embodiments the weight ratio of ethanol to taxifolin glucoside is from 1:0.001 to 1:0.005. In some embodiments of the invention, the hair care composition further comprises additional antioxidants. For example, the composition of the present invention may further comprise epigallocatechin gallate and / or epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside.

[0094] Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG, also known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate) is the ester of epigallocatechin and gallic acid, and is a type of catechin. Epigallocatechin gallate may aid hair growth. A suitable method of preparing epigallocatechin gallatyl alpha-D-glucoside is described in WO 2007 / 144368.

[0095] Epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside may be used in an amount of from 0.00001 to 0.60 wt%, more preferably from 0.00010 to 0.060 wt%, and most preferably from 0.00015 to 0.0045 wt%.

[0096] Sources of epigallocatechin gallate and / or epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside which can be included in the composition of the invention include Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract. Preferably, the amount of Camellia Sinensis leaf Extract in the haircare composition of the present invention maybe, for instance, from 0.0001 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, and preferably in an amount of from 0.0005% to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.0009% to 0.01 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.0009% to 0.005% of the total weight of the composition.

[0097] In some embodiments of the invention, the composition comprising an extract prepared from the plant Pisum Sativum.

[0098] Peas Liquid Extract which may be used in the present invention includes extracts obtained from plant Peas. The botanical name of pea is Pisum Sativum. Pisum Sativum peptides may delivers volumizing and antioxidant benefits. Additionally, Peas Liquid Extract may have film-forming properties which can provide provides protective benefits and a silky feel to the hair or skin. Pisum Sativum peptides may reduce the damage caused by free radicals to promote the scalp and follicle health.

[0099] The amount of the Peas Liquid Extract in the composition in the present invention may be, for instance, from 0.001 % to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.005% to 0.03% of the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the haircare composition of the invention comprises glycine. Glycine is an amino acid. Glycine may be used in a concentration of from 0.001 % to 0.50% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.001 % to 0.30% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.001 % to 0.008% of the total weight of the composition.

[0100] In some embodiment of the invention, the composition comprises in one or more cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable solvents such as, glycerol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, ethoxylated or propoxylated diglycols, ethanol, propanol, or isopropanol to help solubilise the active components of the composition e.g. the yeast extract.

[0101] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the yeast extract of the invention is first solubilized in a cosmetic or pharmaceutical vector such as liposomes or adsorbed on powdery organic polymers, mineral supports such as talcs and bentonites before inclusion in a hair care composition.

[0102] In some embodiments, the composition of the invention further comprises a yeast lysate. Preferably the yeast lysate is a fermented yeast lysate. Preferably, the composition comprises material obtained by the fermentation of a genus Saccharomyces yeast lysate such as a Saccharomyces ferment lysate filtrate.

[0103] In some embodiments, the amount of Saccharomyces ferment lysate filtrate in the hair care composition of the present invention may be, for instance, from 0.001 % to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.001 % to 0.5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01% to 0.1% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.01 % to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, for example about 0.03 to 0.12% of the total weight of the composition.

[0104] In some embodiments, the composition of the invention further comprises additional anti-shedding actives such as Nettle Leaf Extract (urtica dioica). Nettle Leaf Extract may be beneficial for promoting the blood flow in the skin or the scalp.

[0105] The amount of Nettle Leaf Extract in the hair care composition of the present invention may be, for instance, from 0.001 % to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.1 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.1 % to 0.5 % of the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition of the invention further comprises Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract. Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract may beneficial provide some anti-inflammatory and / or scalp soothing effects. Glycyrrhiza Glabra L is a liquorice root of liquorice, a perennial plant belonging to the family Bean and its major pharmacological components are Glycyrrhizin, a saponin component, and various flavonoids, organic acids, amino acids, choline, gum, fructose, and glucose.

[0106] The amount of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract in the hair care composition of the present invention may be, for instance, from 0.001 % to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.1 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.1 % to 0.5% of the total weight of the composition, for example about 0.1 % to 0.3% of the total weight of the composition.

[0107] In some embodiments, the composition of the invention further comprises a mono, di or tricarboxylic acid. Preferably, the composition of the invention comprises a tricarboxylic acid. Suitable tricarboxylic acids include citric acid, aconitic acid or mixtures thereof. The most preferred tricarboxylic acid is citric acid.

[0108] Preferably, the tricarboxylic acid is present in the composition in an amount of 0.001% to 20% of the total weight of the composition, for instance, in an amount of from 0.005% to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01% to 0.1% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.02% to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, for example about 0.02% to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition.

[0109] In some embodiments the composition comprises amaranthus seed extract. Preferably, the composition comprises amaranthus audatus seed extract. The amaranthus caudatus seed extract comprises various small molecular peptides and polysaccharides, including phenylalanine, histidine and other unique peptides which can permeate into hair fibres and is attached to an internal structure, improving characteristics of the hair.

[0110] Preferably, the amaranthus seed extract is present in the composition in an amount of 0.001 % to 10% of the total weight of the composition, for instance, in an amount of from 0.005% to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.05% to 0.5% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.08% to 0.2% of the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments the composition comprises Vitis Vinifera extract. Preferably, the Vitis Vinifera extract is present in the composition in an amount of 0.000001 % to 0.001 % of the total weight of the composition, for instance, in an amount of from 0.000005% to 0.00005% of the total weight of the composition.

[0111] In some embodiment, the hair care composition comprises a first active component and a second active component. The first active component and the second active component may be blended optionally with further ingredients and components to form the hair care composition of the invention.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first active component comprises:

[0113] (i) taxifolin glucoside; and

[0114] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine.

[0115] The amount of taxifolin glucoside in the first active component may be, for instance, from 0.01% to 0.50% of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.05% to 0.25% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.07% to 0.23% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0116] The ratio of taxifolin glucoside to taxifolin in the first active component may be as described above for the total hair care composition.

[0117] In some embodiments, the taxifolin glucoside and / or taxifolin of the first active component may be derived from Larix Europaea Wood. For example, the taxifolin glucoside and / or taxifolin may include in a Larix Europaea Wood Extract.

[0118] The amount of Larix Europaea Wood Extract in the first active component may be, for instance, from 0.01 % to 0.1 % of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.05% to 0.8% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.1 % to 0.7% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0119] The amount of N-acetyl tyrosine in the hair care active agent of the present invention may be, for instance, from 1 .0% to 30% of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 10% to 20% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 15% to 20% of the total weight of the first active component. The first active component may comprise glycine. For instance, glycine may be used in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1 % of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.10% to 0.80% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.20% to 0.60% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0120] The first active component may comprise Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract. For instance, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract may be included in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1.5% of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.05% to 1 % of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.08% to 0.5% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0121] The first active component may comprise epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside. For instance, epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside may be included in an amount of from 0.001% to 0.60% of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.010% to 0.060% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.015% to 0.045% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0122] The first active component may comprise preservatives such as sodium metabisulfite. For instance, preservative may be included in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1.00% of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.10% to 0.750% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.45% to 0.55% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0123] In some embodiments, the first active component may comprise zinc salts, preferably zinc chloride. For instance, zinc salts may be included in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1 % of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 0.05% to 0.5 % of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 0.08% to 0.2% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0124] The first active component may comprise one or more cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable solvents such as, glycerol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, ethoxylated or propoxylated diglycols, ethanol, propanol, or isopropanol to help solubilise the active components of the ingredients of the first active component. For instance, glycerol may be included in an amount of from 1 % to 95% of the total weight of the first active component, more preferably from 10% to 80% of the total weight of the first active component, and most preferably from 20% to 60% of the total weight of the first active component.

[0125] The first active component may be present in the hair care composition in an amount of 0.001 % to 20% of the total weight of the composition, for instance, in an amount of from 0.005% to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01% to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.1 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.5% to 2% of the total weight of the composition.

[0126] In some embodiments the first active component may comprise a composition such as that described in W02020089216.

[0127] The first active component may be provided e.g. as the commercial material Darkenyl™ available from Givaudan.

[0128] In some embodiments, the second active component comprises:

[0129] (iii) at least one yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

[0130] . Preferably, the peptide hydrolysates are low molecular weight peptide hydrolysates. Preferably, the peptide hydrolysates have a molecular weight of 6 kDa or less, more preferably the peptide hydrolysates have a molecular weight of 5 kDas or less, more preferably 3 kDa or less such as 1 kDa or less, most preferably the peptide hydrolysates have a molecular weight of less than 600 Da.

[0131] The peptide hydrolysates obtained according to the invention can be analyzed using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) using an appropriate solvent system / gradient known in the art.

[0132] Preferably, the yeast peptide hydrolysate of the second active component is prepared by hydrolysis of yeast proteins from the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Preferably the yeast peptide hydrolysate of the second active component is an aqueous extract. The extracts of the disclosure are preferably purified aqueous extracts.

[0133] The yeast peptide hydrolysate may be included in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1 .00% of the total weight of the second active component, more preferably from 0.10% to 0.80% of the total weight of the second active component, and most preferably from 0.30% to 0.60% of the total weight of the second active component.

[0134] The second active component may comprise preservatives such as sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate and combinations thereof. For instance, preservative may be included in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1.00% of the total weight of the second active component, more preferably from 0.10% to 0.80% of the total weight of the second active component, and most preferably from 0.30% to 0.60% of the total weight of the second active component, for example about 0.45% of the total weight of the second active component.

[0135] The second active component may comprise a one or more cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable solvents such as, glycerol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, ethoxylated or propoxylated diglycols, ethanol, propanol, or isopropanol to help solubilise the active components of the ingredients of the first active component.

[0136] For instance, glycerol may be included in an amount of from 1 % to 95% of the total weight of the second active component, more preferably from 10% to 80% of the total weight of the second active component, and most preferably from 20% to 60% of the total weight of the second active component.

[0137] The second active component may be present in the hair care composition in an amount of 0.001 % to 20% of the total weight of the composition, for instance, in an amount of from 0.005% to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.1 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.5% to 2% of the total weight of the composition.

[0138] The second active component may be provided e.g. as the commercial material Dynagen™ available from Ashland.

[0139] In some embodiments, the hair care composition comprises a third active component comprising zinc sulfate. In some embodiments the amount of zinc sulfate in the third active component maybe, for instance, from 0.00001 % to 5% of the total weight of the third active component, and preferably in an amount of from 0.0001% to 3% of the total weight of the third active component, more preferably in an amount of from 0.001 % to 1 % of the total weight of the third active component, more preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.1 % of the total weight of the third active component, most preferably in a concentration of from 0.01 % to 0.05% of the total weight of the third active component, for example up to 0.03%.

[0140] In some embodiments, the hair care composition comprises a fourth active component. In some embodiment the fourth active component may comprise one or more of Nettle Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Querus Robur Bark Extract, tricarboxylic acid and Saccharomyces ferment lysate filtrate.

[0141] Nettle Leaf Extract may be included in the fourth active component in an amount of from 0.1% to 30% of the total weight of the fourth active component, more preferably from 1% to 20% of the total weight of the fourth active component, and most preferably from 2% to 15% of the total weight of the fourth active component.

[0142] Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract may be included in the fourth active component in an amount of from 0.1% to 20% of the total weight of the fourth active component, more preferably from 1 % to 10% of the total weight of the fourth active component, and most preferably from 2% to 8% of the total weight of the fourth active component.

[0143] Querus Robur Bark Extract may be included in the fourth active component in an amount of from 0.1 % to 20% of the total weight of the fourth active component, more preferably from 1 % to 10% of the total weight of the fourth active component, and most preferably from 2% to 8% of the total weight of the fourth active component.

[0144] The tricarboxylic acid may be included in the fourth active component in an amount of from 0.01% to 5% of the total weight of the fourth active component, more preferably from 0.1% to 3% of the total weight of the fourth active component, and most preferably from 1 % to 2% of the total weight of the fourth active component.

[0145] The Saccharomyces ferment lysate filtrate may be included in the fourth active component in an amount of from 0.1% to 20% of the total weight of the fourth active component, more preferably from 1 % to 10% of the total weight of the fourth active component, and most preferably from 2% to 5% of the total weight of the fourth active component.

[0146] The fourth active component may comprise preservatives such as sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate and combinations thereof. For instance, preservative may be included in an amount of from 0.01 % to 1 % of the total weight of the fourth active component, more preferably from 0.1 % to 0.8% of the total weight of the fourth active component, and most preferably from 0.2% to 0.6% of the total weight of the fourth active component.

[0147] The fourth active component may be present in the hair care composition in an amount of 0.001 % to 20% of the total weight of the composition, for instance, in an amount of from 0.005% to 10% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.01 % to 8% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.1 % to 6% of the total weight of the composition, and most preferably from 0.5% to 5% of the total weight of the composition.

[0148] The hair care compositions of the invention are primarily intended for topical application to the hair and / or scalp of a human subject in order to improve hair properties.

[0149] Preferably, the hair care composition is selected from a rinse-off hair composition, a hair mask, a leave-on hair care composition, and a pre-treatment hair care composition, and most preferably selected from a rinse-off hair composition, a hair mask and a leave-on composition. The treatment composition is preferably a leave-on hair care composition. The hair care compositions of the invention may also be a "rinse-off " compositions to be applied to the hair and then, in part, rinsed away.

[0150] Rinse off composition for use in the invention are typically left on wet hair for 1 to 2 minutes before being rinsed off. Typically, from about 1 g to about 50g of the composition is applied to the hair or scalp.

[0151] Hair masks for use in the present invention are treatments that are typically left on the hair for 3 to 10 minutes, preferably from 3 to 5 minutes, more preferably 4 to 5 minutes, before being rinsed off.

[0152] Leave-on compositions for use in the invention are typically applied to the hair and left on the hair for more than 10 minutes, and preferably are applied to the hair after washing and not rinsed out until the next wash.

[0153] The hair care compositions of the invention will generally comprise from about 20% to about 95% of water, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, still more preferably at least 50%, even more preferably at least 60% or even at least 70%, but typically not more than 94%, preferably not more than 93%, more preferably not more than 92%, still more preferably not more than 91 %, even more preferably not more than 90% or even not more than 80% by weight based on total weight. Other organic solvents may also be present, such as lower alkyl alcohols and polyhydric alcohols. Examples of lower alkyl alcohols include C1 to C6 monohydric alcohols such as ethanol and isopropanol. Examples of polyhydric alcohols include propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, glycerin, and propanediol. Mixtures of any of the above-described organic solvents may also be used.

[0154] Uses and Methods

[0155] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the present invention.

[0156] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the present invention for reducing the occurrence of grey or white hairs in of an individual, for reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation, for increasing melanin production in grey hair, for increasing cell proliferation, for increasing melanocyte proliferation, for increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase.

[0157] In some embodiment, the present invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the present invention for reducing age related functional change in hair pigmentation and for increasing the volume of hair, for increasing the thickness of hair, for increasing hair count, for increasing hair strength, for reducing hair fall and / or for fibre repair.

[0158] In some embodiment, the present invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the present invention for reducing age related functional change in hair pigmentation and for improving the health of the scalp, for reducing inflammation of the scalp, for reducing oxidates stress of the scalp, for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, for improving sebum control and / or for improving the scalp barrier.

[0159] In some embodiments, the current invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the invention for reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes. Preferably, melanocytes in the hair follicle and / or scalp.

[0160] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a hair care composition of the present invention for use in reducing the occurrence of grey or white hairs in of an individual, for reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation, for increasing melanin production in grey hair, for increasing cell proliferation, for increasing melanocyte proliferation, for increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase. In some embodiment, the present invention relates to a hair care composition of the present invention for use in reducing age related functional change in hair pigmentation and for increasing the volume of hair, for increasing the thickness of hair, for increasing hair count, for increasing hair strength, for reducing hair fall and / or for fibre repair.

[0161] In some embodiment, the present invention relates to a hair care composition of the present invention for use in reducing age related functional change in hair pigmentation and for improving the health of the scalp, for reducing inflammation of the scalp, for reducing oxidates stress of the scalp, for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, for improving sebum control and / or for improving the scalp barrier.

[0162] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to methods of treatment comprising the hair care composition of the present invention.

[0163] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method of reducing the occurrence of grey or white hairs in of an individual, of reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation, increasing melanin production in grey hair, increasing cell proliferation, increasing melanocyte proliferation, increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase; said method comprising applying the hair care composition of the present invention to the hair or scalp.

[0164] In some embodiment, the present invention relates to a method of reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation and to a method of increasing the volume of hair, increasing the thickness of hair, increasing hair count, increasing hair strength, reducing hair fall and / or providing fibre repair; said method comprising applying the haircare composition of the present invention to the hair or scalp.

[0165] In some embodiment, the present invention relates to a method of reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation and to a method of improving the health of the scalp, reducing inflammation of the scalp, reducing oxidative stress of the scalp, reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, improving sebum control and / or improving the scalp barrier; said method comprising applying the hair care composition of the present invention to the hair or scalp.

[0166] In some embodiments, the invention relates to a method of reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes said method comprising applying to hair or scalp the hair care composition of the invention. Preferably, melanocytes in the hair follicle and / or scalp. The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention.

[0167] While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0168] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations. Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0169] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and “include”, and variations such as “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0170] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about’ one particular value, and / or to “about’ another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about’ in relation to a numerical value is optional and means for example + / - 10%.

[0171] The invention will now be further described by reference to the following Examples. All percentages are by weight based on total weight, unless otherwise specified. Examples

[0172] Example 1: HairCare Composition - Preparation Method

[0173] A vessel was filed with deionized water. Separately, powdered rheology modifiers were dispersed and then added to the vessel ensuring proper hydration is achieved. The vessel was heated to 60°C then preservative was added until solubilized. The vessel was cooled to room temperature. Once at 35°C or below Zinc Sulfate, Dynagen™, and Darkenyl™ were added with continued mixing and adequate mixing between additions of ingredients. The remaining ingredients where added and mixed. The pH of the solution was then adjusted 4.5-5.0 using 18% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution.

[0174] Example 2: Hair Care Composition

[0175] Table 1

[0176] Example 3: Effect of the hair care composition on hair pigmentation and other hair characteristics

[0177] In this example, a single centre, single blind, home use clinical study was conducted in healthy male and female subjects to evaluate the efficacy of a scalp treatment via photography, expert visual assessments, and self-perception questionnaires over a 3- month period. The study included 32 subjects who met the eligibility criteria. 30 completed the study. 2 subjects did not complete the study and withdrew for personal reasons.

[0178] The hair care composition as shown in table 1 was supplied and directions for use were provided. The subjects were instructed to apply 2-3 dropperfuls of the product once a day directly to a dry or damp scalp without rinsing (massage in) during the duration of the study (either at night or day as preferred).

[0179] Study Procedure

[0180] Day 1, Visit 1 (Baseline)

[0181] Subjects arrived at the study centre with clean un-styled hair, free of product and also a clean face free of makeup for photography purposes. Day 1 expert stylist grading, assessments, and photographs were taken. Subjects were then issued the test article for home use along with instructions and a weekly diary.

[0182] Month 1, Visit 2

[0183] Subjects arrived at the study centre with clean un-styled hair, free of product and also a clean face free of makeup for photography purposes. Month 1 expert stylist grading, assessments and photographs were taken. Subject diary was reviewed for compliance and any adverse effects.

[0184] Month 2, Visit 3

[0185] Subjects arrived at the study centre with clean un-styled hair, free of product and also a clean face free of makeup for photography purposes. Month 2 expert stylist grading, assessments, and photographs were taken. Subject diary was reviewed for compliance and any adverse effects.

[0186] Month 3, Visit 4 (End of study)

[0187] Subjects arrived at the study centre with clean un-styled hair, free of product and also a clean face free of makeup for photography purposes. Month 3 expert stylist grading, assessments, and photographs were taken. Subject diary was reviewed for compliance and any adverse effects.

[0188] Results

[0189] Professional photography Images

[0190] The following angles were taken of the subjects at baseline, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months (end of study): • Frontal view - straight on, nose pointed towards camera

[0191] • Left view - angled left view, left temple facing camera

[0192] • Right view - angled right view, right temple facing camera

[0193] Hair Volume

[0194] Visual Grading Assessment

[0195] Expert visual grading was used to determine Hair Volume at baseline and then after 1 month, 2 months and 3 months of home use of the test article. An expert grader visually inspected the hair with the aid of a 60-watt pearl bulb with distance maintained at approximately 30cm from the site using the following grading scales:

[0196] 0 - Thick voluminous

[0197] 1 - Ample volume

[0198] 2 - Greater than average volume

[0199] 3 -Average volume

[0200] 4 - Limp flyaway

[0201] 5 - Very limp, flyaway

[0202] Table 2 ] Percent change is calculated from the mean changes from baseline

[0203] [2] Percent change is calculated individually by subject and averaged (Note if 0 at baseline, % not calculated forthat subject).

[0204] It was observed from within-treatment Wilcoxon’s Signed Rank tests that the test article performed statistically significantly (p<0.05) at increasing hair volume. A baseline mean of 4.30 was seen to show improvement after 1 month of home use to 3.55, after 2 months 2.92 and after 3 months of home use a mean of 2.77 was recorded. Compared to baseline, after 3 months of test article use, mean percent changes show an improvement from 0.00% (baseline post app) to -17.44% at 1 month, -32.17% at 2 months and - 35.66% at study end.

[0205] 100% of subjects had visible improvements in hair volume after 2 months of home use. 100% of subjects continued to show improvement after 3 months of home use.

[0206] Hair Thickness

[0207] Visual Grading Assessment

[0208] Expert visual grading was used to determine Hair Thickness at baseline and then after 1 month, 2 months and 3 months of home use of the test article. An expert grader visually inspected the hair with the aid of a 60-watt pearl bulb with distance maintained at approximately 30cm from the site using the following grading scales: 0 - Very thick

[0209] 1 -Thick

[0210] 2 -Average 3 - Fine

[0211] 4 -Thin

[0212] 5 - Very thin, fragile

[0213] Table 3 ] Percent change is calculated from the mean changes from baseline

[0214] [2] Percent change is calculated individually by subject and averaged (Note if 0 at baseline, % not calculated forthat subject).

[0215] It was observed from within-treatment Wilcoxon’s Signed Rank tests that the test article performed statistically significantly (p<0.05) at increasing hair thickness. A baseline mean of 4.03 was seen to show improvement after 1 month of home use to 3.33, after 2 months 2.77 and after 3 months of home use a mean of 2.75 was recorded. Compared to baseline, after 3 months of test article use, mean percent changes show an improvement from 0.00% (baseline post app) to -17.36% at 1 month, -31.40% at 2 months and -31 .82% at study end.

[0216] 100% of subjects had visible improvements in hair thickness after 2 months of home use tapering off slightly to 93.33% at month 3.

[0217] Hair Count

[0218] Macro Hair Count

[0219] At the baseline visit, the evaluator designated a 2cm x 2cm area where thinning hair was evident. This area served as the site for macro grading from which the evaluator assessed hair count (density) and grey hair count. A record was made of the designated area and used to locate the site on subsequent visits. These assessments were completed at Baseline, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months (end of study).

[0220] Table 4 ] Percent change is calculated from the mean changes from baseline

[0221] [2] Percent change is calculated individually by subject and averaged (Note if 0 at baseline, % not calculated forthat subject).

[0222] It was observed from within-treatment Wilcoxon’s Signed Rank tests that the test article performed statistically significantly (p<0.05) at increasing hair count. A baseline mean of 31 .97 was seen to show improvement after 1 month of home use to 35.30, after 2 months 38.87 and after 3 months of home use a mean of 39.70 was recorded. Compared to baseline, after 3 months of test article use, mean percent changes show an improvement from 0.00% (baseline post app) to 10.43% at 1 month, 21.58% at 2 months and 24.19% at study end.

[0223] 100% of subjects had visible increased hair count after 2 months of home use, 100% of subjects continued to show an increase in hair count after 3 months of home use. Grey Hair Count

[0224] Macro grading was used to monitor Grey Hair Count at baseline and then after 1 month, 2 months and 3 months of home use of the test article. At the baseline visit 21 out of the 30 subjects presented with grey hairs, the evaluator designated a 2cm x 2cm area where thinning hair and grey hair was evident. This area served as the site for macro grading from which the evaluator assessed grey hair count. A record was made of the designated area and used to locate the site on subsequent visits.

[0225] Table 5 ] Percent change is calculated from the mean changes from baseline

[0226] [2] Percent change is calculated individually by subject and averaged (Note if 0 at baseline, % not calculated forthat subject).

[0227] It was observed from within-treatment Wilcoxon’s Signed Rank tests that the test article performed statistically significantly (p<0.05) at reducing grey hair count. A baseline mean of 7.76 was seen to show improvement after 1 month of home use to 6.67, after 2 months 6.10 and after 3 months of home use a mean of 5.86 was recorded. Compared to baseline, after 3 months of test article use, mean percent changes show an improvement from 0.00% (baseline post app) to -12.88% at 1 month, -21.47% at 2 months and -24.54% at study end.

[0228] 76.19% of subjects were observed to have reduced grey hair count after 2 and 3 months of home use.

[0229] Brush Friction Count

[0230] Brush Friction Count Method (BFCM)

[0231] The BFCM involved brushing the subject’s hair with moderate force using a large paddle brush with cushioned head and narrow quills with round tips (e.g., Kent Airhedz Mega Taming Brush) at a rate of 1 stroke / second for 10 seconds ensuring the entire head was brushed. Hair captured by the brush was then removed. Broken / damaged hairs were separated from intact hairs and examined under a magnifying glass at 2x magnification. The number of broken / damaged hairs and intact hairs were counted. These assessments were completed at Baseline, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months (end of study).

[0232] Brush Friction Count Intact

[0233] Table 6 ] Percent change is calculated from the mean changes from baseline

[0234] [2] Percent change is calculated individually by subject and averaged (Note if 0 at baseline, % not calculated forthat subject).

[0235] Brush Friction Count Broken

[0236] Table 7 ] Percent change is calculated from the mean changes from baseline

[0237] [2] Percent change is calculated individually by subject and averaged (Note if 0 at baseline, % not calculated forthat subject).

[0238] It was observed from statistical analysis with within treatment t-tests that broken / damaged hair counts, intact hair counts, and total hair count were reduced, showing statistically significant improvements.

[0239] Total mean for intact hairs counted at baseline was recorded as 7.80, after 3 months of home use the total mean was observed to be 2.30, a percentage improvement of -70.51 %. Total mean for broken hairs counted at baseline was recorded as 6.67, after 3 months of home use the total mean was recorded as 1.03, a percentage improvement of -84.50%.

[0240] Example 4: Hair Care Lotion A vessel was filed with deionized water. Separately, carbomer was dispersed and then added to the vessel ensuring proper hydration is achieved. The vessel was heated to 60°C then preservatives including pentylene glycol was added until solubilized. The vessel was cooled to room temperature. Once at 35°C or below Zinc Sulfate, Dynagen™, and Darkenyl™ were added with continued mixing and adequate mixing between additions of ingredients. The remaining ingredients where added and mixed. The pH of the solution was then adjusted to 4.5-5.0 using sodium hydroxide and / or citric acid solution as needed.

[0241] Table 8

[0242] Example 5 - Dichlorofluorescein Diacetate (DCFDA) Assay

[0243] Adult primary human epidermal melanocytes were cultured in melanocyte medium supplemented with melanocyte growth factor mix and antibiotic mix in T75 flasks maintained at 37°C in a humidified chamber with 5% CO2. Cells were further sub-cultured in microtiter plates at a density of ~5x104cel IsA / vel I and incubated at 37°C in a humidified chamber with 5% CO2as above for 24 hours. After 24hours, cells were treated with test materials or combinations of test materials at desired concentrations along with 5pM menadione and further incubated as above for 6hrs. Post incubation, cells were assessed for ROS levels by incubating the cells for 45 mins in DCFDA dye. The cells were then washed, and the fluorescence was measured at Excitation: 485nm and emission 535nm. The experiment was run in duplicate (n=2) on 3 different donor cells (n=3). The data was represented as % ROS levels compared to menadione.

[0244] Test Material Concentrations in Cell medium:

[0245] Darkenyl™ containing taxifolin glucoside / acetyl tyrosine (available from Givaudan) - 0.005% Dynagen™ - yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae (available from Ashland) - 0.75%

[0246] Statistical analysis

[0247] For every test, data was shown as a percent difference from a menadione treated control using an average of two replicates across three distinct experiments. T-test statistical significance was performed for comparisons against menadione control vs respective treatments.

[0248] Menadione induces oxidative stress in melanocytes by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The antioxidant effect of the test materials on melanocyte cells stressed with menadione was assessed by comparing the level of ROS of treated and untreated stressed cells. Yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae was able to reduce the level of ROS compared to the level of ROS in menadione stressed cells. This indicates that the inclusion of yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a formulation improves the antioxidant activity of the melanocytes. Further, inclusion of yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the composition improved the antioxidant performance of a mix of taxifolin glucoside / acetyl tyrosine in the assay.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A hair care composition comprising:(i) taxifolin glucoside;(ii) N-acetyl tyrosine;(iii) at least one yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and(iv) at least one zinc salt.

2. A hair care composition according to claim 1 , wherein the zinc salt is selected from zinc chloride, zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc pyrithione or combinations thereof, preferably the zinc salt is zinc sulfate.

3. A hair care composition according any of the preceding claims wherein the amount of zinc salt in the hair care composition is from 0.00001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, preferably in an amount of from 0.0001 % to 3% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.001 % to 1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.1 % of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition, most preferably in an amount of from 0.01 % to 0.03% of the total weight of the composition.

4. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises taxifolin.

5. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the amount of taxifolin glucoside in the hair care composition is from 0.0001 % to 0.50% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.0005% to 0.25% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably 0.0007% to 0.009% of the total weight of the composition, preferably 0.0009% to 0.007% of the total weight of the composition, most preferably 0.001 to 0.004 wt% of the total weight of the composition.

6. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the amount of N- acetyl tyrosine in the hair care composition is from 0.001 % to 30% of the total weight of the composition, preferably from 0.05% to 20% of the total weight of the composition, morepreferably from 0.1 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, and more preferably from 0.15% to 0.9% of the total weight of the composition, most preferably 0.15% to 0.4% of the total weight of the composition.

7. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the weight ratio of taxifolin glucoside to N-acetyl tyrosine is preferably from 1 :500 to 1:1, more preferably from 1 :300 to 1 :50, and most preferably from 1 :200 to 1 : 100, for example about 1 : 150.

8. A hair care composition according to any on the preceding claims wherein the amount of yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the hair composition is from 0.0001% to 20% of the total weight of the composition, preferably in an amount of from 0.001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably in an amount of from 0.001% to 0.01% of the total weight of the composition.

9. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae to zinc salt is from1 :0.01 to 1 : 10, more preferably the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc salt is from 1 :0.1 to 1 :5, more preferably in a weight ratio of from 1 :0.15 to 1 :3, most preferably the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to zinc salt is from 1 : 1 to 1 :2.5.

10. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.5 to 1 : 100, more preferably the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to N- acetyl tyrosine is from 1 : 1 to 1 :50, more preferably the weight ratio is from 1 : 1 :5 to 1 :30, most preferably the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1:10 to 1 :25.

11. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.01 to 1 :3, more preferably the weight ratio is from 1 :0.05 to 1 : 1 , most preferably the weight ratio of yeast peptide hydrolysate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.1 to 1:0.5.

12. Non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of any of the preceding claims for reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation, for increasing melaninproduction in grey hair for reducing oxidates stress of the scalp, for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp.

13. Non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of any one of claims 1-11 for reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes.

14. A method of reducing age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation, increasing melanin production in grey hair, reducing oxidates stress of the scalp, reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, said method comprising applying to hair or scalp the hair care composition of any of claims 1-11.

15. A method of reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes said method comprising applying to hair or scalp the hair care composition of any of claims 1-11.

Images