Sebum-Control Composition Using Quinic Acid Derivatives

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cosmetic solutions fail to effectively reduce the excessive production of sebum on human skin and scalp, leading to unsightly conditions such as shiny, greasy appearance, and the development of acne, which is often exacerbated by hormonal imbalances and bacterial imbalances in the skin microbiota.

Innovation Solution

A composition comprising poly-substituted quinic acid derivatives, particularly from Arctium lappa extract, is formulated using an aeroponic cultivation process to inhibit sebum production by regulating the expression of ABH antigens and reducing lipase activity, while maintaining a balanced skin microbiota.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional cosmetic solutions are used to reduce sebum production, then the shiny and greasy appearance is addressed, but the effectiveness is insufficient and does not provide lasting results

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffectiveness of sebum reductionVSAvoidsebum production rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the chemical parameters by using poly-substituted quinic acid derivatives with specific molecular structures (formula I) that have different chemical properties compared to conventional cosmetics. These derivatives are designed to interact specifically with sebaceous glands and skin microbiota, achieving more reliable and lasting sebum reduction effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses composite active ingredients combining multiple poly-substituted quinic acid derivatives (including di-, tri-, and tetra-substituted types) within a single composition. This composite approach synergistically enhances the sebum control effect while maintaining balance in skin microbiota, overcoming the insufficiency of single-component conventional solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If strong active ingredients are used to control sebum production, then sebum reduction is achieved, but skin microbiota balance is disrupted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesebum production controlVSAvoidmicrobiota imbalance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by designing quinic acid derivatives with specific substitution patterns that target sebaceous glands and sebum production pathways while being selective and non-disruptive to commensal skin bacteria. The molecular structure (formula I) is optimized to interact locally with sebaceous cells without affecting the broader microbiota ecosystem.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The invention converts the potential harm of strong anti-sebum ingredients into a benefit by using naturally derived quinic acid derivatives from Arctium lappa that inherently possess selective activity. These derivatives inhibit sebum production while simultaneously maintaining microbiota balance, turning what would normally be a harmful trade-off into a synergistic effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Duration of action of moving object

If existing cosmetic formulations are applied, then temporary sebum control may be achieved, but the results are not sustained over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveduration of sebum controlVSAvoidconsistency of effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent ensures continuity of useful action by using quinic acid derivatives that provide sustained inhibition of sebum production over time. The molecular structure and formulation enable prolonged activity, maintaining effective sebum control throughout the treatment period without requiring frequent reapplication or showing diminishing returns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention incorporates feedback mechanisms through the design of quinic acid derivatives that continuously monitor and regulate sebum production. The compounds interact with sebaceous glands to provide adaptive control, adjusting their activity based on the skin's sebum output and maintaining consistent effectiveness throughout the treatment course.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3773930B1Use of a novel composition for preventing or slowing down the appearance of unsightly signs relating to the presence of excess sebum
Publication Date: 2026.03.11 SOC DEXPLOITATION DE PROD POUR LES IND CHEM SEPPIC
  • EP3773930B1 patent drawing
  • EP3773930B1 patent drawing
  • EP3773930B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to the use of a composition (C) for preventing or slowing down the appearance of unsightly signs relating to the presence of excess sebum on the skin and/or the scalp, with the composition (C1) comprising, for 100% of its weight: a) between 60.0 wt.% and 75.0 wt.% of an organic solvent (SO) selected from 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 1,8-octanediol, or a mixture of said 10 compounds; b) between 0.1 wt.% and 2.0 wt.% of a composition (ES) comprising a quantity by weight x, expressed as equivalent by weight, of 1-O-(2-caffeoyl)maloyl-3,5-O-dicaffeoyl quinic acid, which is higher than or equal to 200 mg/g of at least one compound of general formula (I): formula (I), in which Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4 and Q5 are, independently from each other, the hydroxyl radical or one of the salts thereof or a radical selected from the radicals caffeoyl, maloyl, caffeoyl maloyl and maloyl caffeoyl, with the understanding that at least one of said radicals Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4 and Q5 is neither the radical -OH, nor one of the salts thereof; and c) between 20.0 wt.% and 35.0 wt.% of water.