Development of Poly (Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol Methacrylate) as a Novel Polymer-Humectant

Abstract

Humectants, such as polyols (glycerol, etc.) and natural moisturizing factor (NMF) , are usually used in cosmetics. Polymer-humectants are also used to improve the moisture-retaining properties of skin. However, most of the polymer-humectants have polarity as hyaluronic acid ; therefore sometimes there are restrictions on their formulation in cosmetics. In this study, we developed a novel nonionic polymer-humectant, poly (methoxy polyethylene glycol methacrylate) (PMMP-9) , which represents excellent skin moisture-retaining properties. The waterholding capacity and water-transpiration suppressibility of PMMP-9 were comparable to those of hyaluronic acid. Furthermore, peel force measurement using a digital force gauge and sensory evaluation suggested that PMMP-9 had a low stickiness compared with general polymers. Evaluation of the softening effect using a Reviscometer™ also suggested that PMMP-9 had an excellent softening effect compared with general polymers. Since it was difficult to provide high moisture retention, low stickiness and softness with one formulation previously, PMMP-9 will prove to be a useful humectant.