Cosmetic Preserving Agent Solubilization via Hansen Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone is sparingly soluble in water or glycerol and 2-octyldodecanol, making it difficult to formulate in a solubilized form for cosmetic compositions, and it tends to recrystallize during storage, which affects its efficacy as a preserving agent.
Innovation Solution
Combining 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone with specific organic solvents having solubility parameters within the Hansen solubility space (4.5 < δa < 7 and 14 < δd < 22) such as isopropyl N-lauroyl sarcosinate, capric/caprylic acid triglycerides, and 2-phenylethyl benzoate, which maintains solubilization and prevents recrystallization over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone is formulated in water or glycerol, then it can be used as a preserving agent, but it is very sparingly soluble and tends to recrystallize during storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the solvent system from conventional water or glycerol to a specific organic solvent with defined Hansen solubility parameters (δa: 4.5-7.0, δd: 14.0-22.0, δp: 0.0-9.0, δh: 0.0-7.0). This parameter optimization enables complete solubilization of 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone while preventing recrystallization during storage, thereby maintaining both efficacy and compositional stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary organic solvent that acts as a mediator between the preserving agent and the aqueous cosmetic formulation. Solvents such as isopropyl N-lauroyl sarcosinate, capric/caprylic acid triglycerides, and 2-phenylethyl benzoate serve as intermediaries that solubilize the sparingly soluble compound without causing recrystallization, enabling stable formulation
2Stability of the object's composition
If 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone is used in solid form, then it is stable, but it is very sparingly soluble in conventional cosmetic solvents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter by transitioning the compound from solid to solubilized form through selection of organic solvents with specific Hansen solubility parameters. This parameter optimization achieves complete dissolution while maintaining stability, resolving the contradiction between solid-state stability and solubility
3Quantity of substance
If conventional solvents are used to solubilize 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, then some solubility is achieved, but recrystallization occurs during storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the solvent parameters by selecting organic solvents within specific Hansen solubility ranges that not only achieve solubilization but also prevent recrystallization over time. The selected solvents (isopropyl N-lauroyl sarcosinate, capric/caprylic acid triglycerides, 2-phenylethyl benzoate) maintain the compound in solubilized form for at least two months at room temperature
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback by selecting solvents whose Hansen solubility parameters are optimized based on the compound's solubility requirements. The solvent selection process incorporates feedback from solubility testing and storage stability data to ensure long-lasting solubilization without recrystallization
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The combination ensures long-lasting solubilization of 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, maintaining its effectiveness as a preserving agent in cosmetic compositions without recrystallization even after two months at room temperature, enhancing its stability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
the combination of 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone with at least one particular organic solvent enables this compound to be solubilized while avoiding its recrystallization
Implementation Method 2
organic solvent with solubility parameters in the Hansen solubility space such that 4.5 < δa < 7 and 14 < δd < 22
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a composition comprising, in a physiologically acceptable oily medium, 4-(3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone and a solvent with solubility parameters in the Hansen solubility space such that 4.5 a d < 22. Use for caring for, making up and cleansing keratin materials.

