Hair care compositions

Abstract

The invention provides a hair care composition comprising: (i) taxifolin glucoside; (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine; (iii) at least one cysteine precursor selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof. 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 haircare 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 consumers with 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 cysteine precursor selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof., 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. Particulariy, surprisingly it has been found that when taxifolin glucoside and N-acetyl tyrosine are combined with a selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof., the antioxidant activity of a hair care composition can be improved and the oxidative stress of melanocytes in the scalp / hair follicle can be reduced.

[0010] 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.

[0011] 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.

[0012] Summary of the Invention

[0013] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a hair care composition comprising:

[0014] (i) taxifolin glucoside;

[0015] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0016] (iii) a cysteine precursor compound selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof..

[0017] 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 melanosome transfer, for increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase, for increasing gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways associated with hair, 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 scalp itch, for reducing oxidative stress, for reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, for improving sebum control, for improving the scalp barrier, for reducing cortisol production, for increasing cellular metabolic activity of melanocytes and / or for aiding in elimination of senescent cells. Preferably, the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the invention is for increasing melanin production in a hair follicle. Preferably, the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the invention is for increasing cellular metabolic activity of cells in a hair follicle, preferably for increasing the cellular metabolic activity of melanocytes in a hair follicle.

[0018] 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, for increasing melanosome transfer, increasing the level and / or activity of tyrosinase and / or increasing gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways associated with hair, 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 scalp itch, reducing oxidative stress on the scalp, reducing oxidized lipid species on the scalp, improving sebum control, improving the scalp barrier, for reducing cortisol production, and / or for increasing cellular metabolic activity said method comprising applying to scalp or hair, the hair care composition of the present invention. Preferably, the method is a method for increasing melanin production in a hair follicle. Preferably, the method is a method of increasing cellular metabolic activity of cells in a hair follicle, preferably increasing the cellular metabolic activity of melanocytes in a hair follicle.

[0019] 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.

[0020] Preferably, the invention provides a method for reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes.

[0021] Preferably, melanocytes in the hair follicle and / or scalp, said method comprising applying to 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 scalp or hair, the hair care composition of the present invention 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 haircare composition of the invention provide a reduction in age-related functional changes in hair pigmentation. In some embodiments, the ingredients of the haircare 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 haircare composition of the invention beneficially provides improved transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes such as a synergistic improvement in the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes. 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. Further, the haircare composition of the invention can beneficially provide increased gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways (e.g. MITF, QYR, TYRP1, MSH, MC1R) such as a synergistic increase in gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways. Further, the hair care composition of the invention may provide an increase in cellular metabolic activity such as a synergistic increase in cellular metabolic activity.

[0022] 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.

[0023] In addition to reducing age related functional changes in hair pigmentation, the combination of ingredients of the hair care 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. 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. The hair care composition of the invention can provide a beneficial increase in hair count such as a synergistic increase in hair count of the hair. 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. 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 hair care 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 haircare composition of the invention may also provide a beneficial reduction in scalp itch. The haircare 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 haircare 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. The haircare composition may also provide a reduction in cortisol production, such as a synergistic reduction in cortisol production.

[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. 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] (i) Taxifolin glucoside

[0029] The composition of the invention comprises taxifolin glucoside. 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.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the hair care composition of the present invention further comprises taxifolin.

[0031] 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.

[0032] Taxifolin 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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%.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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 composition, and most preferably from 0.002% to 0.008% of the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the ratio of cysteine precursor to larix europaea wood extract is from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :1 , more preferably, the ratio of cysteine precursor to larix europaea wood extract is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :0.1 , more preferably from 1 :0.005 to 1 :0.01. In some embodiments the ratio of cysteine precursor to larix europaea wood extract is from 1 :0.006 to 1 :0.008.

[0037] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine

[0038] The composition of the invention comprises N-acetyl tyrosine.

[0039] The amount of N-acetyl tyrosine in the haircare 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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) A cysteine precursor compound

[0043] The hair care composition of the invention comprises a cysteine precursor compound selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof.

[0044] A “cysteine precursor compound” can be understood according to the invention to be a compound which increases in vivo cysteine concentrations. For example, a cysteine precursor may be a compound that increases the availability of cysteine to cells, such as a compound that provides delivery of cysteine to cells to increase the intracellular production of glutathione. Surprisingly, it has been found that by including cystine and / or carboxymethyl cysteine compounds in a hair care composition that can be converted into cysteine in vivo, detrimental changes in hair associated with aging can be reduced or prevented as discussed above.

[0045] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is thought that including compounds in a hair care composition that can be converted into cysteine in vivo may increase the intracellular production of glutathione.

[0046] Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide that consists of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It is present in all mammalian tissues. It is the main anti-oxidant in the living body: it protects cells from oxidation by quenching reactive oxygen species. GSH and cysteine are also associated with melanogenesis pathways involved in formation of pigmented hair, particularly blonde and / or red hair. Biosynthesis of GSH occurs in the cell in a tightly regulated manner. The quantity of glutathione in cells depends to a large degree on the availability of cysteine in the cells. Therefore, it is thought that agents the provide delivery of cysteine materials to cells can increase the intracellular production of glutathione.

[0047] Cysteine, a composite amino acid of GSH, may increase cellular levels of GSH, but exposed sulfhydryl group of cysteine renders it unstable and reactive and also causes strong unpleasant odor. Therefore, it is preferable to administer a cysteine precursor compound which can be administered safely and converted to cysteine within the cell, the cysteine then being available for intracellular GSH production.

[0048] In some embodiments, including a cysteine precursor compound in the composition of the invention may be particularly beneficial for improving the pigmentation of red and / or blonde hair.

[0049] In some embodiments, the cysteine precursor compound is present in amount of between 0.0001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably at least 0.001%, even more preferably at least 0.01 %, still even more preferably at least 0.1 %, and most preferably at least 0.4% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the cysteine precursor compound is present in amount of no greater than 3%, even more preferably no greater than 2%, still even more preferably no greater than 1.5%, and most preferably no greater than 1 % by weight of the composition.

[0050] The cysteine precursor compound is selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof. In some preferred embodiments the cysteine precursor compound is cystine.

[0051] In some embodiments, the cystine is present in amount of 0.0001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably at least 0.001 %, even more preferably at least 0.01 %, still even more preferably at least 0.1%, and most preferably at least 0.4% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the cysteine precursor compound is present in amount of no greater than 3%, even more preferably no greater than 2%, still even more preferably no greater than 1.5%, and most preferably no greater than 1% by weight of the composition.

[0052] In some embodiments the cysteine precursor compound is a carboxymethyl cysteine compound.

[0053] The carboxymethyl cysteine compound refers to compounds selected from carboxymethyl cysteine, salt of carboxymethyl cysteine, ester of carboxymethyl cysteine, amide of carboxymethyl cysteine or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises carboxymethyl cysteine, ester of carboxymethyl cysteine, and / or salt of carboxymethyl cysteine. More preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises carboxymethyl cysteine, and / or salt of carboxymethyl cysteine. Even more preferably, carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises salt of carboxymethyl cysteine. Still even more preferably the carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate and most preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate.

[0054] Preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is present in an amount of between 0.0001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably at least 0.001 %, even more preferably at least 0.01 %, still even more preferably at least 0.1 %, and most preferably at least 0.2% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is present in amount of no greater than 3%, even more preferably no greater than 2%, still even more preferably no greater than 1.4%, and most preferably no greater than 1 % by weight of the composition.

[0055] Preferably, the lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate is present in amount of between 0.0001% to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably no greater than 3%, even more preferably no greater than 2%, still even more preferably no greater than 1 .4%, and most preferably no greater than 1% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate is present in amount of at least 0.001 %, more preferably at least 0.01 %, even more preferably at least 0.1 %, still even more preferably at least 0.2%. Preferably, the hair care composition further comprises a glutamate source selected from the group consisting of glutamine, glutamine ester, glutamic acid, pyroglutamic acid, salts, and mixtures thereof. More preferably, the composition comprises pyroglutamic acid and / or salt of pyroglutamic acid. Even more preferably, the composition comprises sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid.

[0056] Preferably, the glutamate source is present in amount of 0.0001 to 10% by weight of the composition, more preferably 0.001 to 6%, even more preferably 0.01 to 3% by weight of the composition.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the hair care composition of the invention comprises glycine. 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.

[0058] Any of the amino acids included in the present invention may be in the form of a salt, ester, or a salt thereof and the term "cystine, " “glutamate source”, and “glycine” used in the present specification also encompasses salts, esters, and salts of such esters. The salt, ester, and salt of such ester is not particularly limited as long as it is acceptable for topical application. For example, salts with inorganic acid or organic acid or anionic surfactants can be mentioned. As the inorganic acid, for example, hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, nitric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid and the like can be mentioned, and as the organic acid 01-018 linear, branched or cyclic, saturated or unsaturated, unsubstituted or substituted with heteroatoms, for example formic acid, acetic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, oxalic acid, fumaric acid, succinic acid, maleic acid, citric acid, malonic acid, methanesulfonic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, 12- hydroxystearic acid, ricinoleic acid, and the like can be mentioned.

[0059] As the salt with a base, for example, alkali metal salts such as sodium salt, potassium salt and the like, alkaline earth metal salts such as calcium salt, magnesium salt and the like, and the like can be mentioned.

[0060] Esters of amino acids are typically 01-08 esters or salts thereof, or in the alternative 01-05 esters, or in the alternative 01-03 esters. Such esters may be straight or branched or cyclic. Especially esters of cystine are beneficial, due to their increased solubility, compared to cystine. Methyl and ethyl esters of cystine or salts thereof are most preferred, due to their efficacy to boost glutathione production and provide antioxidant activity. When salts of esters are used, the same salts are suitable as listed above.

[0061] Preferably, the weight ratio of cysteine precursor compound to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of cysteine precursor compound to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 1 more preferably from 1 :0.1 to 1 :0.5. In some embodiments the weight ratio of cysteine precursor compound to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1:0.1 to 1:0.3.

[0062] Preferably, the weight ratio of cysteine precursor compound to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1 : 1 , more preferably, the weight ratio of cysteine precursor compound to taxifolin glucoside is from 1:0.0001 to 1:0.1, more preferably from 1:0.001 to 1 :0.01. In some embodiments the weight ratio of cysteine precursor compound to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :0.005.

[0063] Preferably, the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 1 more preferably from 1 :0.1 to 1 :0.5. In some embodiments the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.1 to 1 :0.3.

[0064] Preferably, the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1 : 1 , more preferably, the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.0001 to 1:0.1, more preferably from 1:0.001 to 1 :0.01. In some embodiments the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :0.005.

[0065] Preferably, the weight ratio of cystine to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of lysine cystine to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 1 more preferably from 1 :0.1 to 1 :0.5. In some embodiments the weight ratio of cystine to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.1 to 1 :0.3.

[0066] Preferably, the weight ratio of cystine to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1 : 1 , more preferably, the weight ratio of cystine to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :0.1 , more preferably from 1 :0.001 to 1 :0.01 . In some embodiments the weight ratio of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.001 to 1:0.005. In preferred embodiment the hair care composition comprises:

[0067] (i) taxifolin glucoside;

[0068] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0069] (iii) cystine.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the hair care composition comprises:

[0071] (i) 0.0005% to 0.25% taxifolin glucoside;

[0072] (ii) 0.05% to 20% N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0073] (iii) 0.001 to 3% of cystine.

[0074] Most preferably, the hair care composition comprises:

[0075] (i) 0.0007% to 0.009% taxifolin glucoside;

[0076] (ii) 0.1% to 5% N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0077] (iii) 0.1 to 2% of cystine.

[0078] In an alternative preferred embodiment, the hair care composition comprises:

[0079] (i) taxifolin glucoside;

[0080] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0081] (iii) a carboxymethyl cysteine compound.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the hair care composition comprises:

[0083] (i) 0.0005% to 0.25% taxifolin glucoside;

[0084] (ii) 0.05% to 20% N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0085] (iii) 0.01 % to 2% of a carboxymethyl cysteine compound.

[0086] More preferably, the hair care composition comprises:

[0087] (i) 0.0007% to 0.009% taxifolin glucoside;

[0088] (ii) 0.1% to 5% N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0089] (iii) 0.1% to 1.4% of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate. Most preferably, the hair care composition comprises:

[0090] (i) 0.0007% to 0.009% taxifolin glucoside;

[0091] (ii) 0.1% to 5% N-acetyl tyrosine; and

[0092] (iii) 0.2% to 1.4% of lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate.

[0093] Product Format and Other Ingredients

[0094] The hair care composition of the present invention may further comprise other beneficial active agents, such as, for example, 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.

[0095] Zinc salts suitable for use in the invention include zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc chloride, zinc pyrithione or combinations thereof. Preferably, the composition comprises zinc sulfate, zinc glutonate, zinc chloride or combinations thereof. More preferably, the compositions comprises zinc glutonate, zinc chloride or combinations thereof. Most preferably, the composition comprises zinc chloride.

[0096] 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 a concentration of from 0.01 % to 0.05% of the total weight of the composition, for example up to 0.03%.

[0097] 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, phenoxyethanol, pentylene glycol 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). 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.

[0098] The haircare composition of the invention may further comprise a penetration enhancer.

[0099] “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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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. 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.

[0102] In some preferred embodiments the penetration enhancer comprises dimethyl isosorbide.

[0103] 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.

[0104] In some embodiments the penetration enhancer comprises ethanol.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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. 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] In some embodiments of the invention, the haircare composition further comprises additional antioxidants. For example, the composition of the present invention may further comprise epigallocatechin gallate and / or epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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%.

[0114] 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. 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first active component comprises:

[0117] (i) taxifolin glucoside; and

[0118] (ii) N-acetyl tyrosine.

[0119] 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.

[0120] The ratio of taxifolin glucoside to taxifolin in the first active component may be as described above for the total hair care composition.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] The first 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] The first active component may be provided e.g. as the commercial material Darkenyl™ available from Givaudan.

[0133] In some embodiments, the second active component comprises:

[0134] (iii) a cysteine precursor compound selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof.

[0135] The cysteine precursor compound is as defined above.

[0136] The haircare 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.

[0137] 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 haircare 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. 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 1g to about 50g of the composition is applied to the hair or scalp.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] The haircare 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.

[0141] Preferably, the composition comprises polyhydric alcohol. Polyhydric alcohols may be selected from group of glycerin, propylyene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, sorbitol, hydroxypropyl sorbitol, hexylene glycol, 1 ,3-butylene glycol, isoprene glycol, ethoxylated glycerol, propoxylated glycerol or a mixture thereof. Most preferred polyhydric alcohol is glycerol known also as glycerin. The amount of polyhydric alcohol may range anywhere from 0.1 to 20%, preferably 0.5 to 15% and more preferably 2 and 10% by weight of the composition.

[0142] Uses and Methods

[0143] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to the non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of the present invention.

[0144] 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, for increasing gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways associated with hair.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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 heath 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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, for increasing gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways associated with hair.

[0149] 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.

[0150] In some embodiment, the present invention relates to haircare composition of the present invention for use in reducing age related functional change in hair pigmentation and for improving the heath 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.

[0151] In some embodiments, the current invention relates to a hair composition for use in reducing oxidative stress in melanocytes. Preferably, melanocytes in the hair follicle and / or scalp.

[0152] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to methods of treatment comprising the hair care composition of the present invention.

[0153] 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 and / or increasing gene and / or protein expression in pigmentation pathways associated with hair; said method comprising applying the hair care composition of the present invention to the hair or scalp.

[0154] 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 hair care composition of the present invention to the hair or scalp.

[0155] 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.

[0156] 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.

[0157] 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. 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.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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%.

[0161] 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.

[0162] Examples

[0163] Example 1 : Hair Care Lotion

[0164] A vessel was filled with deionized water. Separately, carbomer and Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate powder 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 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.

[0165] Table 1

[0166] Example 2: Hair Care Lotion

[0167] A vessel was filled with deionized water. Separately, carbomer and cystine powder 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 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. Table 2

[0168] Example 2 - Dichlorofluorescin Diacetate (DCFDA) Assay

[0169] 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. After 24 hours, cells were further sub-cultured in microtiter plates at a density of ~5x104cells / well and incubated at 37°C in a humidified chamber with 5% CO2 as above for 24 hours. Cells were then 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.

[0170] Test Material Concentrations in Cell medium:

[0171] Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate (LCC) - 0.16%

[0172] Statistical analysis

[0173] 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 treatment. Table 2

[0174] 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. LOG was able to reduce the level of ROS compared to the level of ROS in menadione stressed cells. This indicates that the inclusion of LCC in a formulation improves the antioxidant activity of the melanocytes.

[0175] Example 3 - Catalase Activity Assay

[0176] 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 -5x104 cellsA / vell and incubated at 37°C in a humidified chamber with 5% CChas above for 24 hours. After 24 hours, cells were then 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 catalase activity using the Catalase Colorimetric Activity Kit. The experiment was run in duplicate (n=2) on 3 different donor cells (n=3). The data was represented as % Catalase activity compared to menadione.

[0177] Test Material Concentrations in Cell medium:

[0178] Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate (LCC) - 0.16% Statistical analysis

[0179] 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 a menadione control vs respective treatment.

[0180] Table 3

[0181] 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 catalase activity of treated and untreated stressed cells. An enhancement in catalase activity indicates an increased ability for cells to reduce oxidative stress.

[0182] Surprisingly, the catalase activity of cells treated with LCC showed a statistically significant increase in catalase activity compared to untreated stressed cells.

[0183] Example 4 - DPPH Assay

[0184] 1mM 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) reagent was prepared in a suitable solvent. 20pl of the test material or control, 160pl of solvent and 20pl of prepared DPPH were added to each well of a microtiter plate and incubated at room temperature for 30 minutes. Following incubation, absorbance was measured in a plate reader at 517nm. The experiment was run in duplicate (n=2) and repeated 3 times by independent experts (n=3). The antioxidant activity of test materials was represented as %DPPH levels compared to assay control.

[0185] Test Material Concentrations:

[0186] Darkenyl™ containing taxifolin glucoside / acetyl tyrosine (available from Givaudan) - 0.5% Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate (LCC) - 0.27% and 0.135% Statistical analysis

[0187] For every test, data was shown as a percent difference from a control using an average of two replicates across three distinct experiments. T-test statistical significance was performed for comparisons against a menadione control vs respective treatment.

[0188] For identification of synergistic combinations, a T-test statistical significance was performed by comparing combination data against individual data using JMP. For a combination to be termed synergistic, the combination should exhibit statistical significance over all individuals.

[0189] Table 4

[0190] The DPPH assay is used to evaluate the antioxidant activity of compounds. When an antioxidant is present, it donates an electron or hydrogen atom to the DPPH radical, reducing it to a non-radical form. This causes the solution to change colour from violet to yellow. The decrease in absorbance at 517 nm is measured using a spectrophotometer. The extent of the decrease is proportional to the antioxidant capacity of the sample. The antioxidant activity of a test material was assessed by looking at the level of DPPH radical remaining after incubation.

[0191] Surprisingly, the DPPH of a sample including taxifolin glucoside, N-acetyl tyrosine and LCC showed a statistically significant synergistic decrease in DPPH levels compared to a control. The experiments indicate that compositions comprising the combination of the actives taxifolin glucoside, N-acetyl tyrosine and LCC are effective at reducing oxidative stress of the hair follicle associated with unwanted greying of hair and age associated hair changes.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A hair care composition comprising:(i) taxifolin glucoside;(ii) N-acetyl tyrosine; and(iii) at least one cysteine precursor selected from cystine, a carboxymethyl cysteine compound or combinations thereof.

2. A hair care composition according to claim 1 wherein the cysteine precursor is a carboxymethyl cysteine compound.

3. A hair care composition according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is selected from carboxymethyl cysteine, salt of carboxymethyl cysteine, ester of carboxymethyl cysteine, amide of carboxymethyl cysteine or a mixture thereof, preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises carboxymethyl cysteine, ester of carboxymethyl cysteine, and / or salt of carboxymethyl cysteine, more preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises carboxymethyl cysteine, and / or salt of carboxymethyl cysteine, more preferably, carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises salt of carboxymethyl cysteine, more preferably the carboxymethyl cysteine compound comprises lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate and most preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate.

4. A hair care composition according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is lysine carboxymethyl cysteinate.

5. A hair care composition according to claims 2 to 4 wherein the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is present in amount of 0.0001 % to 5% of the total weight of the composition, more preferably at least 0.001%, even more preferably at least 0.01%, still even more preferably at least 0.1%, and most preferably at least 0.2% by weight of the composition, preferably, the carboxymethyl cysteine compound is present in amount of no greater than 3%, even more preferably no greater than 2%, still even more preferably no greater than1 .4%, and most preferably no greater than 1 % by weight of the composition.

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

7. 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.

8. 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, more preferably 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.

9. 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.

10. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the weight ratio of cysteine precursor to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.001 to 1 :5, more preferably the weight ratio of cysteine precursor to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1 :0.01 to 1 : 1 , more preferably from1 :0.1 to 1 :0.5, most preferably, the weight ratio of cysteine precursor to N-acetyl tyrosine is from 1:0.1 to 1 :0.3.

11. A hair care composition according to any of the preceding claims wherein the weight ratio of cysteine precursor to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.00001 to 1:1, more preferably, the weight ratio of cysteine precursor to taxifolin glucoside is from 1 :0.0001 to 1 :0.1 , more preferably from 1 :0.001 to 1 :0.01 , most preferably the weight ratio of cysteine precursor to taxifolin glucoside is from 1:0.001 to 1 :0.005.

12. Non-therapeutic use of the hair care composition of any of the preceding claims for reducing the occurrence of grey or white hairs of an individual, for reducing age-relatedfunctional changes in hair pigmentation, for reducing oxidative stress on the scalp or 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 the occurrence of grey or white hairs of an individual, reducing age- related functional changes in hair pigmentation, oxidative stress on the scalp or 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.

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