Pediculicidal and ovicidal agent containing laureth-4 and MIPA-laureth sulfate

A pediculicidal and lenticidal agent using Laureth-4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene Glycol effectively kills lice and nits in a single application, addressing the limitations of current formulations by being environmentally friendly and user-friendly.

WO2025252931A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2025-12-11INVICTUS
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/EP2025/065755
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-06-06
Filing Date
2025-06-05
Publication Date
2025-12-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current anti-lice formulations are not effective, environmentally friendly, and user-friendly, often requiring multiple applications and causing scalp irritation, flammability, and environmental harm due to non-biodegradable ingredients.

Method used

A pediculicidal and lenticidal agent composed of Laureth-4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene Glycol, which dissolves the chitin exoskeleton of lice and nits, allowing for single-application efficacy against both with minimal environmental impact.

Benefits of technology

The agent achieves rapid and complete kill of lice and nits in a single application, is easily rinsed, and does not cause scalp irritation, while being biodegradable and non-flammable.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention aims to combat lice and nits In particular, the invention relates to a novel pediculicidal and ovicidal agent, used alone or as an adjuvant with another pediculicidal and ovicidal agent, said agent according to the present invention advantageously consisting essentially of Laureth-4 and MIPA-Laureth Sulfate.
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Description

Lungicide and pediculicide based on Laureth-4 and MIPA-Laureth sulfate technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of head lice and nit control. In particular, the present invention concerns a new pediculicide and niticide agent, used alone but also usable as an adjuvant in combination with another pediculicide and niticide agent; said agent according to the present invention is essentially composed of Laureth-4, Ml PA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene glycol. State of the art

[0002] Lice are blood-sucking insects that can cause common and contagious parasitic diseases called pediculosis or pityriasis. Three types of lice in particular are responsible for these ectoparasitic infections: - Pediculus humanus corporis, the body louse, lives in the seams and folds of clothing, only coming onto the skin to feed, and is responsible for body lice infestations. - Pthirus pubis, the pubic louse and louse of other areas of the body covered with coarse hair, or crab louse, responsible for pubic lice infestations, and - Pediculus humanus capitis, the head louse, responsible for pediculosis of the scalp and / or head lice.

[0003] Head lice infestation is the most widespread. It is a very common endemic disease affecting all countries and all socioeconomic backgrounds. It mainly affects children between 5 and 11 years old.

[0004] The head louse is a small, grayish insect that feeds on its host's blood three to five times a day. Its oval-shaped eggs, or nits, attach very firmly to the hair thanks to spumaline, a sticky substance secreted by the nits. Each nit is usually glued to a single hair, most often very close to the skin.

[0005] Head lice cannot jump or fly and are primarily transmitted through head-to-head contact. They can remain on the scalp for several months without the host realizing it, hindering the implementation of appropriate preventative measures and facilitating transmission. The infestation is usually asymptomatic for the first three to four weeks, after which itching typically develops, due to the presence of allergens in the parasites' saliva.

[0006] In the treatment of head lice, several approaches can be implemented, for example, mechanical action or the application of an anti-lice treatment.

[0007] Thus, it is possible to comb the hair to remove lice, which die quickly once separated from their host, but this solution often only eliminates some of the lice and therefore cannot be used alone, except for very young children. This method then requires repeating the process many times.

[0008] The most common alternative approach is therefore to apply an insecticide and anticide product to the scalp.

[0009] The first topical treatments developed were insecticide-based products, such as organophosphates like malathion, permethrins, or pyrethrins, combined with a synergistic agent such as piperonyl butoxide. These treatments, particularly those based on malathion, were considered effective. However, they are highly irritating to the scalp, have a strong, unpleasant odor, and are considered toxic and polluting to the environment. Furthermore, their effectiveness diminishes over time due to enzymatic adaptation, leading to the abandonment of this type of product.

[0010] Topical treatments based on siloxanes, particularly dimethicone, such as those described in application WO-01 / 19190, have also been developed. These products work by drowning the lice in an oily substance, causing them to suffocate. However, these products are not sufficiently effective, especially against nits, and require several repeated applications. Furthermore, they make hair greasy and are highly flammable. In addition, the silicones used are not biodegradable, which is harmful to the environment. Finally, these products are classified as endocrine disruptors, making their future ban as components in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors likely. As a result, users are once again abandoning this type of product.

[0011] Insecticidal products based on siloxanes and fatty acid esters are also known, such as those described in application EP 1,499,184. These products work by dissolving the chitin that covers the louse's exoskeleton, causing dehydration and then death. They are notably known under the trade name Resultz®, composed of 50% cyclomethicone, which is highly flammable, and 50% isopropyl myristate. However, their effectiveness against adult lice is highly variable, and their efficacy against nits has not been established. Furthermore, these products cannot be applied to children under 4 years of age, and their use is cumbersome, requiring application to dry hair, a leave-in time of at least 8 hours, and several shampoos of the hair and scalp to remove the product and reduce the oily residue. The hair. A new application, or even two additional applications, are necessary to eliminate hatched nits after a 7-day interval. These products also make hair greasy and are flammable.

[0012] Microemulsion-type formulations described in application FR0955753 have also been developed. However, these formulations are only fully effective against lice after a period of one hour, which is long compared to current consumer demands, and their effectiveness against nits is not complete.

[0013] More recently, formulations based on an oily solution, consisting at least of an oily dispersing phase in which benzyl alcohol is dispersed, were described in application WO2019 / 053134. However, these formulations, particularly those based on silica particles, are not very stable in their containers. The interaction of the silica particles with the container, especially glass containers, leads to heterogeneous gelation of the formulation and, consequently, poor product stability. Therefore, the formulation is incompatible with a product that is easy to use for consumers seeking an effective and simple-to-use product.

[0014] Thus, there is still a need for new anti-lice formulations that are easy to use, inexpensive, free of toxic insecticides, non-flammable and highly effective against both head lice and nits. Summary of the invention

[0015] In this context, the inventors surprisingly discovered the pediculicidal and lenticidal efficacy of ingredients described as surfactants or emulsifying agents in the cosmetics field, namely a mixture comprising Laureth-4 and MlPA-Laureth-4 Sulfate. This agent alone is routinely used as a surfactant in cosmetic products such as oils, shampoos, and styling mousses.

[0001] However, the inventors have observed that Laureth-4, Mipa-laureth sulfate and Propylene glycol, marketed under the trade name LUMOROL® by the company Zschimmer & Schwarz and more particularly LUMOROL K5229, also known as INCI Laureth-4 (and) MIPA-Laureth Sulfate (and) Propylene Glycol, exhibits pediculicidal and lenticidal activity never before described.

[0016] Thus, to meet the needs of consumers seeking a new anti-lice formulation that is effective, inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and easily rinsed, the invention proposes a new pediculicidal and lenticidal agent consisting primarily of Laureth 4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene glycol. This agent is preferably known under the trade name Lumorol K5229®.

[0017] Thus, according to a particularly preferred object, the present invention relates to this agent, essentially composed of Laureth-4, MlPA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene Glycol, for its use in preventing and / or controlling head lice and / or nits. Such uses have never been reported in the prior art, the agent being known only as a surfactant in the field of cosmetics, particularly to facilitate the application and rinsing of hair.

[0018] Laureth-4 is the INCI name for the surfactant, which is an ethoxylated derivative of lauryl alcohol. The chemical name of this compound is polyethylene glycol dodecyl ether or polyethylene glycol lauryl ether. Specifically, the CAS number for Laureth-4 is 68439-50-9. It can be obtained from plants or produced entirely synthetically.

[0019] The basic physical and chemical properties that characterize Laureth-4 are as follows: - a clear or slightly cloudy liquid, with a color value on the Hazen scale of no more than 70, - a faint but characteristic odor - low solubility in water (it forms cloudy solutions), - very good solubility in weakly aliphatic alcohols (e.g., methanol, ethanol), as well as acetone, - the pH of an aqueous solution containing it at a concentration of 1% ranging from 5.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to alkaline), - its molar mass is approximately 370g / mol, - the density of the pure substance is 0.91 g / ml (at a temperature of 50°C), - The solidification point is approximately 8°C. - the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) is approximately 9.0, - aqueous solutions containing it are resistant to acids, hard water and partially to alkalis, it is stable at low pH, and it has very good degreasing properties.

[0020] Therefore, Laureth-4 is a surfactant used as an ingredient in many personal care and hygiene products, as a surfactant.

[0021] MIPA-Laureth Sulfate is also a surfactant used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is a clear liquid. Its chemical formula is C42H80O8. Specifically, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate is an anionic surfactant. It is produced from palm oil and has a much higher oil content (up to 30%) compared to other surfactants of the same type. MIPA-Laureth Sulfate is the name derived from this system for the monoisopropanolamine salt ethoxylated with ethylene lauryl oxides.

[0022] Chemically, this compound is a vegetable fatty alcohol ether saponified with monoisopropanolamine sulfate. More specifically, it is a monoisopropanolamine salt of lauryl ether sulfate based on a natural C12-C14 fatty alcohol ethoxylate in propylene glycol. It is a mild anionic surfactant. Its CAS number is 1187742-72-8. It is manufactured using a semi-synthetic process with natural raw materials and is biodegradable.

[0023] Thus, the pediculicidal and lenticidal agent consists essentially of a mixture of Laureth-4, Ml PA-Laureth Sulfate and Propylene glycol.

[0024] Propylene glycol, CAS number 57-55-6, is a colorless, slightly viscous, low-volatility, and practically odorless liquid. It is highly hygroscopic, miscible with water and many organic solvents, including ethanol, acetone, and diethyl oxide. It is insoluble in hydrocarbons. Propylene glycol (PG), also known as propane-1,2-diol, 1,2-dihydroxypropane, or methyl glycol, is a diol with the chemical formula CH3-CHOH-CH2OH and has numerous industrial and agropharmaceutical applications.

[0025] When the agent according to the present invention comprises propylene glycol, the latter is present at a level of 1 to 5% by weight of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent according to the present invention.

[0026] Preferably, the agent according to the invention consists essentially of: - Laureth-4, which represents between 25 and 50%, by weight, of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent, - MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, which represents between 25 and 50%, by weight, of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent, and - Propylene Glycol which represents between 1 and 5%, by weight of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent.

[0027] More preferably, the agent according to the invention consists essentially of: - Laureth-4, the quantity of which is greater than 25% and less than or equal to 50%, by weight of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent, - MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, the quantity of which is greater than 25% and less than or equal to 50%, by weight of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent, and - Propylene Glycol, the quantity of which is greater than 1% and less than or equal to 5%, by weight of the total weight of the pediculicidal agent.

[0028] Of course, the person in the trade is able to adjust the quantities according to their general knowledge. Thus, when the agent includes, for example, 5% Propylene Glycol, the amount of Laureth-4 and MIPA-Laureth Sulfate can be 47.5% each.

[0029] According to another aspect of the invention, the inventors have also found that the pediculicidal agent according to the present invention, in combination with other pediculicidal and lenticidal agents, significantly enhances their pediculicidal and lenticidal effects. Thus, the present invention also relates, according to one aspect, to the use of the pediculicidal agent according to the invention as an adjuvant.

[0030] Furthermore, the invention also provides a composition in the form of an oily solution comprising the pediculicidal agent according to the invention and at least one oily phase. This is thus advantageously formulated in combination with at least one oily phase to prevent and / or treat pediculosis.

[0031] Preferably, the composition includes: - Between 5 and 95% of the agent according to the invention, by weight of the total weight of the composition, more preferably between 5 and 30% of the agent according to the invention, by weight of the total weight of the composition, and / or - between 5 and 95% of the oily phase, by weight of the total weight of the composition, more preferably between 70 and 95% of the oily phase, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0032] The oily phase present in the composition according to the invention can be any oil suitable for use on the skin and scalp. However, in the context of the present invention, an oily phase chosen from isopropyl myristate, a mixture of polyethylene glycol ester glycerides, one or more caprylocapric triglycerides, one or more silicones, one or more vegetable or mineral oils, and combinations thereof, is preferred.

[0033] Silicones are certainly suitable, but their use will be greatly limited because they are not biodegradable and are suspected of being endocrine disruptors.

[0034] For example, vegetable oil could be olive oil, mineral oil could be paraffin or isododecane.

[0035] Advantageously, the composition in the form of an oily solution allows the parasites, in particular lice and nits, to drown and suffocate, and thus enhance the pediculicidal efficacy of the agent according to the invention.

[0036] Indeed, the surfactant properties of Laureth-4 and MIPA-Laureth Sulfate allow the chitin of the parasites' exoskeleton to dissolve, as well as lowering the surface tension of the composition, which facilitates and improves its penetration into the parasites (lice and nits). thus contributing to strengthening and optimizing the effectiveness of the present composition according to the invention. Finally, the intrinsic properties of the agent according to the invention facilitate the rinsability and foaming of the composition according to the invention, thereby facilitating the use of the product by the consumer.

[0037] The composition according to the invention is therefore rinseable, which facilitates the rinsing step and thus avoids tedious and multiple rinsing steps after application. The rinseable nature of the composition according to the invention also facilitates its use, particularly on the scalp or the coat of animals, as the treatment can be carried out in a single step without the need to apply additional shampoo, which is especially advantageous when the product is primarily intended for children.

[0038] According to another object of the invention, the composition may also include at least one additional ingredient selected from an antioxidant agent, a pediculicidal agent distinct from the agent according to the present invention, a repellent agent, a preservative agent, a gelling agent and combinations thereof.

[0039] When the composition according to the invention includes at least one antioxidant agent, this is preferably chosen from butylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole or ascorbyl palmitate.

[0040] When the composition according to the invention comprises at least one pediculicidal compound, this may be chosen from malathion, permethrins, pediculicidal plant essences, and substances described as inhibitors of nit growth such as Farnesol and Nerolidol.

[0041] When the composition according to the invention comprises at least one repellent compound, this may be chosen from essences, including anise essence, myrtle essence, lavender essence, neem oil, citronella, ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (IR 3535), DET (Diethyltoluamide), tea tree oil, lemon essential oil, rose geranium essential oil, rosemary cineole essential oil, tea tree essential oil, and celery essential oil.

[0042] When the composition according to the invention includes at least one antioxidant agent, this preferably represents at most 1%, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0043] When the composition according to the invention includes at least one repellent agent, this preferably represents at most 2%, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0044] When the composition according to the invention includes at least one pediculicidal agent, this preferably represents at most 5%, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0045] Advantageously, the composition in the form of an oily solution according to the invention presents total pediculicidal and lenticidal efficacy in a single application lasting no more than 5 minutes, preferably less than or equal to 2 minutes.

[0046] In addition, the low viscosity of the preparations allows them to be offered in the form of fluid foaming lotions or easy-to-apply sprays.

[0047] The invention therefore relates specifically to a composition in the form of a rinse-off oily solution comprising preferably from 5 to 95% of the agent consisting essentially of Laureth-4, Ml PA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene Glycol, for topical application to the scalp and hair, for use in the prevention or treatment of head lice in humans, or for application to animal fur for the prevention or treatment of animal lice. This composition may advantageously comprise one or more acceptable excipients.

[0048] Thus, the invention also relates to a composition comprising the agent according to the invention, applied to the hair, for its use in preventing and / or controlling head lice and / or nits.

[0049] Other features and advantages will become apparent from the detailed description of the invention, the examples and figures that follow. Detailed description of the invention

[0050] Definition

[0051] For the purposes of the invention, "Laureth 4 and MIPA Laureth sulfate and Propylene Glycol" means a mixture of a non-ionic surfactant (Laureth 4), and an anionic surfactant with strong foaming and detergent properties, MIPA Laureth Sulfate and Propylene Glycol, marketed under the trade name LUMOROL K5229®.

[0052] For the purposes of this invention, "rinsable" means the action of rinsing the agent or composition according to the invention present on the hair or skin with tap water without having to add an additional soap or shampoo in addition to the agent or composition.

[0053] For the purposes of this invention, "oily solution" means an oily liquid formulation obtained under moderate agitation at room temperature with the other ingredients comprising the composition such as an antioxidant, an insecticidal substance, a repellent, a hair detangling agent, or an oily phase.

[0054] The present invention relates to a pediculicide and lenticide agent comprising a mixture of Laureth-4 and MIPA-Laureth Sulfate. Preferably, said agent also contains propylene glycol. Thus, the agent preferably consists essentially of Laureth-4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, and propylene glycol.

[0055] This can be used alone or possibly in association with another pediculicidal agent, the agent according to the present invention is then considered as an adjuvant, preferably the other pediculicidal agent is distinct from that of the present invention.

[0056] The inventors then discovered, surprisingly, that this agent exhibited quite remarkable pediculicidal and lenticidal properties, given its routine use as a surfactant in cosmetics. Thus, according to one aspect, the invention relates to an agent according to the present invention, for its use in preventing and / or controlling head lice and / or nits.

[0057] The invention also relates to a composition in the form of a rinseable oily solution comprising a pediculicidal and lenticidal agent consisting essentially of a mixture of a nonionic surfactant (Laureth-4) and an anionic surfactant with strong foaming and detergent properties (MIPA Laureth Sulfate and Propylene Glycol). This mixture advantageously represents at least 5% by weight of the total composition, preferably between 5% and 95% by weight. The composition may further contain one or more acceptable excipients.

[0058] The agent according to the invention, consisting essentially of Laureth-4, MIPA (Laureth Sulfate), and Propylene Glycol, is a lipophilic dispersing phase and thus forms the basis of the oily solution of the composition according to the invention. Therefore, when the composition includes other ingredients, these are all dissolved under moderate stirring at room temperature or at a moderate temperature below 60°C in this oily phase. Preferably, the oily solution does not contain water.

[0059] Preferably, when the agent according to the invention is incorporated into a composition, it represents at least 5% by weight of the total weight of the composition, even more preferably between 5 and 95% by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0060] When it comprises between 5 and 95% of the agent according to the invention, by weight of the total weight of the composition, the composition further comprises another oily phase, preferably this representing between 5 and 95%, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0061] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises: - Between 5 and 30% of the agent according to the invention, by weight of the total weight of the composition, and - between 70 and 95% of an oily phase, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

[0062] The exoskeleton of lice is composed of chitin covered by a protective wax, thus complicating the fight against lice. Due to the mechanism of action of the agent constituted Essentially, it contains Laureth-4, Ml PA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene Glycol, which surprisingly dissolves this wax. The wax then fails to perform its protective function, causing dehydration that leads to the death of the lice and, remarkably, the nits. Indeed, the wax layer retains water and is essential for the survival of both the lice and the nits. Thus, the agent according to the invention kills lice by dehydration.

[0063] Advantageously, a composition comprising between 5 and 30% of the agent according to the invention, by weight of the total weight of the composition, makes it possible to obtain very good efficacy on lice and nits, from 2 minutes after application of the composition according to the invention.

[0064] Thus, the composition advantageously comprises an oily phase in addition to the agent according to the invention. The addition of this extra oily phase makes it possible to improve the organoleptic characteristics of the preparations by influencing their fragrance and viscosity.

[0065] Preferably, the oily phase that can be incorporated into the composition according to the invention is chosen from isopropyl myristate (MIP), a mixture of polyethylene glycol ester glycerides, one or more caprylocapric triglycerides, one or more silicones, one or more vegetable oils, and combinations thereof. Most preferably, isopropyl myristate is chosen as the oily phase.

[0066] As an example, natural vegetable oils can be chosen from olive oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, oils from seeds such as sesame oil, linseed oil and hemp oil; oils from nuts such as walnut oil and hazelnut oil; oils from seeds such as grapeseed oil and pumpkin seed oil; sweet almond oil, coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, black cumin oil, rosehip oil, camellia oil, and combinations thereof.

[0067] According to another aspect, the composition according to the invention may also comprise other ingredients dispersed in the oily solution. Thus, the composition also comprises at least one additional ingredient selected from an antioxidant agent, a pediculicidal agent distinct from the agent according to the invention, a repellent agent, a gelling agent, a preservative agent, and combinations thereof.

[0068] This may include, in particular: an antioxidant agent, such as butylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole, or ascorbyl palmitate, which prevents the oxidation of the oil phase and thus its rancidity, and / or a pediculicidal substance, which improves the effectiveness of the composition, such as malathion, permethrins, plant essences, or... natural pediculicidal oils such as anise oil, tea tree oil, myrtle oil, lavender oil, neem oil and nit growth inhibitors such as Farnesol and Nerolidol, and / or a lice repellent substance, such as myrtle oil, citronella, ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (IR 3535), DET (Diethyltoluamide), essential oils, in particular chosen from lemon, lavender, rose geranium, cineole rosemary, celery and tea tree, and / or possibly a gelling agent, which may in particular be chosen from siloxane and polyamide copolymers (such as Oléocraft LP20), and / or possibly a preservative, such as benzoic acid.

[0069] Preferably, the antioxidant agent, when present in the composition according to the invention, represents at most 1% by weight of the composition.

[0070] Preferably, the pediculicidal substance present in the composition represents at most 2% by weight of the composition in order to avoid undesirable effects, including toxicity and irritation.

[0071] Preferably, the repellent substance present in the composition represents at most 5% by weight of the composition.

[0072] Preferably, the gelling agent, when present in the composition according to the invention, represents at most 30% by weight of the composition, even more preferably between 1 and 15%.

[0073] Preferably, the preservative agent, when present in the composition according to the invention, represents at most 3% by weight of the composition, preferably between 0.1 and 3%.

[0074] The composition according to the invention most preferably has one or more of these characteristics, preferably all of them: stable, transparent, water-rinsable and very little or no irritation, non-toxic, very little or no flammability, biodegradable and free from endocrine-disrupting effects.

[0075] The composition is intended for use as a product for the prevention and / or control of head lice and / or nits, particularly suitable for application on hair and / or scalp or on the coat of animals, for example horses.

[0076] The composition according to the invention is preferably applied to dry or slightly damp hair.

[0077] Thus, the invention also relates to a composition according to the invention, applied to the hair, for its use to prevent and / or combat head lice and / or nits.

[0078] Thus, the composition according to the invention can be used in particular in the form of a shampoo, in the form of a foaming lotion or in the form of a spray, these three forms being particularly easy to use for applications on the hair and scalp.

[0079] According to a specific application method, dry hair is impregnated with the composition according to the invention, and then rinsed with water between two minutes and one hour after application. Advantageously, it is not necessary to repeat the application after seven days, given the remarkable effectiveness of the composition according to the invention on nits.

[0080] Furthermore, and particularly advantageously, the composition according to the invention leaves hair silky, combable and aesthetically perfect, unlike prior art products which leave hair greasy, sticky, rough and require additional shampooing to remove the product after application.

[0081] Furthermore, the composition according to the invention exhibits significant dissolving power, particularly with regard to spumaline, a strong natural glue secreted by nits that makes them difficult to remove. Thus, the present composition according to the invention is also intended for the control of nits.

[0082] Finally, the composition according to the invention can be obtained by any suitable process. This may, in particular, be a process consisting of carrying out the following successive steps at room temperature: - Mix Laureth-4, Ml PA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene Glycol; optionally, add an additional oil phase. - possibly adding an antioxidant to the oil phase, - possibly adding a preservative to the oil phase.

[0083] The invention is now illustrated by examples of compositions according to the invention and by tests of pediculicidal and lenticidal efficacy, in particular comparative tests against different commercial products. Examples

[0084] Example 1 - Agent according to the invention

[0085] A first example of an agent according to the invention is described in Table 1 below. This consists of a mixture of Laureth-4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene glycol, also known under the trade name Lumorol K5229®.

[0086] [Table 1] 0087] The pediculicidal agent according to example 1 can be obtained by mixing at room temperature the following ingredients, namely Laureth-4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene glycol.

[0088] Example 2 - Composition according to the invention

[0089] The characteristics of the composition according to example 2 are presented in Table 2 below.

[0090] [Table 2]

[0091] The composition is then presented in the form of a clear foaming lotion, easy to apply to the hair and rinseable and is prepared by mixing at room temperature the Pouxit XF product and the agent according to example 1, previously prepared.

[0092] Example 3 - Composition according to the invention

[0093] The characteristics of the composition according to example 3 are presented in Table 3 below.

[0094] [Table 3]

[0095] The formulation is presented as a translucent foaming lotion that is easy to apply to the hair or as a spray and rinseable; it is prepared by mixing the Pouxit Flash product and the agent according to Example 1, previously prepared, at room temperature.

[0096] Example 4 - Composition according to the invention

[0097] The characteristics of the composition according to example 4 are presented in Table 4 below.

[0098] [Table 4]

[0099] The formulation is then in the form of a gelled solution and is prepared by mixing at room temperature the Apaisyl Xpert product and the agent according to example 1, previously prepared.

[0100] Example 5 - Composition according to the invention

[0101] The characteristics of the composition according to example 5 are presented in Table 5 below.

[0102] [Table 5]

[0103] The formulation is presented as a translucent solution that is easy to apply as a foaming lotion or spray to the hair and is rinse-off. It is prepared by mixing the Resultz product and the agent according to Example 1, previously prepared, at room temperature.

[0104] Example 6 - Composition according to the invention

[0105] The characteristics of the composition according to example 6 are presented in Table 6 below.

[0106] [Table 6]

[0107] The formulation is in the form of a foaming lotion or a spray and is prepared by mixing at room temperature the Pouxit XF product and the agent according to Example 1, previously prepared.

[0108] Example 7 - Composition according to the invention

[0109] The characteristics of the composition according to example 7 are presented in Table 7 below.

[0110] [Table 7] YES] The formulation is presented as a translucent solution that is easy to apply as a foaming lotion or spray on the hair and is rinseable and is prepared by mixing at room temperature the Pouxit Flash product and the agent according to example 1, previously prepared.

[0112] Example 8 - Efficacy tests of the agent according to the invention

[0113] Pediculicidal and niticidal efficacy tests of the agent according to example 1 were carried out. Mortality in lice and nits was observed after 1 minute, 5 minutes, 15 minutes, and 60 minutes of application of the agent to the scalp.

[0114] The pediculicidal and ovicidal activities of these compositions were tested in the laboratory on human body lice according to the following procedure.

[0115] Head lice (Pediculus humanus humanus) were reared in the laboratory according to the method described by Cole (1966). For each test, 50 lice (10 males, 10 females, and 30 nymphs) were placed on a 7 cm disc of white filter paper and exposed to 1 g of the test preparation. The lice remained in contact with the substance for 5 minutes. They were then removed from the filter paper and washed under tap water for 1 minute. After treatment, the lice were transferred to a fresh filter paper disc and incubated overnight at optimal temperature and humidity. Mortality was determined after 24 hours.

[0116] Lice were placed on human hair every two days for five days and left for 24–48 hours to allow for egg-laying. Fifty eggs, aged two to six days, were treated in the same way as the lice. The number of hatched and unhatched eggs was counted after ten days.

[0117] As a control, lice treated with 40% ethyl alcohol were used. Each exposure time was tested in three copies.

[0118] The results are expressed as a percentage of dead lice and are presented in Table 8 below.

[0119] [Table 8]

[0120] The inventors have thus observed that the agent according to the invention, namely a mixture of Laureth-4, Ml PA-Laureth Sulfate, and Propylene glycol (Lumorol K 5229), applied alone, without excipients and any other oily phase, carries a remarkable and astonishing pediculicidal and lenticidal activity which is total from the first minute of contact with both lice and nits.

[0121] Example 9 - Efficacy tests of the composition according to the invention

[0122] Pediculicidal and niticidal efficacy tests of the composition according to the invention, namely a mixture of the agent according to Example 1 and an oily phase, namely isopropyl myristate, were also carried out. Mortality in lice and nits was observed after 5 minutes of application of the composition according to the invention to the scalp and compared to the effect of the oily phase alone.

[0123] The pediculicidal and ovicidal activities of these compositions were tested in the laboratory on human body lice according to the procedure described in example 8.

[0124] The results are presented in Table 9 below.

[0125] [Table 9] Agent according to example 1: 5%

[0126] The inventors have found that the agent according to example 1 associated with an oily phase, namely isopropyl myristate, between 60 and 95% by weight of the total weight of the composition makes it possible to improve the lenticidal and pediculicidal performance very significantly.

[0127] Example 10 - Comparative effectiveness trials

[0128] The inventors then compared the effectiveness of the composition according to the invention with several commercially available pediculicide products, namely the following products.

[0129] The Pouxit XF product, marketed by Cooper laboratories, claims to kill lice in 15 minutes. Its composition includes the following ingredients: Dimethicone (4%); 1,6,10-Dodecatrien-3-ol,3,7,1l-trimethyl; PEG / PPG Dimethicone co-polymer; Silica Silylate.

[0130] The Pouxit Flash product claims to act in 5 minutes and its composition is as follows: Dimethicone (80% w / v), diisopropyl adipate, diisopropyl sebacate, lauryl alcohol, tocopheryl acetate.

[0131] The APAISYL XPERT product marketed by P&G laboratories, is presented in the form of an effective microemulsion after one hour of application, and described in patent EP2470006. It includes in particular the following ingredients: Labrasol® (Caprylocaproyl macrogol-8 glycerides), Lauroglycol® (Propylene glycol monolaurate) Labrafil® (Oleoyl macrogol-6 glycerides) Isopropyl myristate, PEG 200.

[0132] Takeda's Resultz Foaming Lotion claims to work within 8 hours. Its formula is based on a combination of 50% isopropyl myristate and 50% cyclomethicone.

[0133] The inventors then compared the pediculicidal performance of these products with the composition according to the invention.

[0134] Pediculicidal and lenticidal efficacy tests of a composition according to examples 2 to 7 were carried out in comparison with the products marketed under the name Pouxit XF, Pouxit Flash, Apaisyl Xpert, and Resultz.

[0135] The pediculicidal and ovicidal activities of these compositions were tested in the laboratory on human body lice according to the procedure described in example 8.

[0136] The results are expressed as a percentage of dead lice and are presented in the tables below.

[0137] [Table 10]

[0138] It is thus observed that adding quantities between 10 and 20% of the agent according to example 1 to the pediculicidal composition marketed under the name Pouxit XF makes it possible to improve the lenticidal and pediculicidal performances very significantly.

[0139] [Table 11]

[0140] We can thus observe that the addition of quantities between 10 and 20% of the agent, according to the example 1. The pediculicidal composition marketed under the name Pouxit Flash allows for a very significant improvement in lenticidal and pediculicidal performance.

[0141] [Table 12]

[0142] It is thus observed that the addition of quantities between 10 and 20% of the agent according to example 1 to the pediculicidal composition marketed under the name Apaisyl Xpert makes it possible to improve the lenticidal and pediculicidal performances very significantly.

[0143] [Table 13]

[0144] We thus observe that the addition of quantities between 10 and 20% of the agent, according to the example 1. The pediculicidal composition marketed under the name Resultz allows for a very significant improvement in lenticicidal and pediculicidal performance.

Claims

Demands

1. Pediculicide and lenticide agent consisting essentially of Laureth 4, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate and Propylene glycol.

2. Agent according to the preceding claim, for its use in preventing and / or controlling head lice and / or nits.

3. Pediculicidal and lenticidal composition in the form of an oily solution, comprising an agent according to one of claims 1 or 2 and at least one oily phase.

4. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the composition comprises: between 5 and 95% of the agent according to either of claims 1 or 2, by weight of the total weight of the composition, and between 5 and 95% of the oily phase, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

5. Composition according to any one of claims 3 or 4, characterized in that the oily phase is selected from isopropyl myristate, a mixture of polyethylene glycol ester glycerides, one or more caprylocapric triglyceride(s), one or more silicone(s), one or more vegetable oil(s), and combinations thereof.

6. Composition according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the composition comprises: Between 5 and 30% of the agent according to one of claims 1 or 2, by weight of the total weight of the composition, and between 70 and 95% of the oily phase, by weight of the total weight of the composition.

7. Composition according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the composition also comprises at least one additional ingredient selected from an antioxidant agent, a pediculicide agent distinct from the agent according to any one of claims 1 or 2, a repellent agent, a gelling agent, a preservative agent, and combinations thereof.

8. Composition according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the antioxidant agent represents at most 1%, by weight of the total weight of the composition, said antioxidant agent being selected from butylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole, ascorbyl palmitate, and combinations thereof.

9. Composition according to any one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the pediculicidal agent represents at most 5%, by weight of the total weight of the composition, said pediculicidal agent being selected from malathion, permethrins, Farnesol, Nerolidol and pediculicidal plant essences.

10. Composition according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the repellent agent represents at most 2%, by weight of the total weight of the composition, said repellent agent being selected from myrtle essence, citronella, ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (IR 3535), DET (Diethyltoluamide), and essential oils of lemon, lavender, rose geranium, cineole rosemary, celery and tea tree.

11. Composition according to any one of claims 3 to 10, adapted for application to hair, for use in preventing and / or controlling head lice and / or nits.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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