Types and Characteristics of Moisturizer for Cosmetics: Application of a Amphiphilic Polyether and Phospholipid Polymer

Abstract

A moisturizer that maintains or increases the water content of the stratum corneum is an important cosmetic ingredient in order to prevent skin trouble. There are various types of moisturizer for cosmetics, from low-molecular-weight moisturizers such as NMF or polyols to bio-derived polymers such as hyaluronic acid. In general, a low-molecular-type moisturizer has high moisture absorption ability; however, it is possible for the texture to deteriorate when the content of moisturizer is high to enhance moisturizing efficacy. We designed polyoxybutylene（3）polyoxyethylene（ 8）polyoxypropylene（5）glyceryl ether as a water-soluble moisturizing oil which has high spreadability but no stickiness. We have found that it has a penetration control effect for active components. In addition, we have focused on a phospholipid polymer bearing phosphorylcholine groups in the polymer side chain as a material that improves both the water-retention effect and water-transpiration-suppressing effect. We also have found that it could protect skin from various environmental stresses such as air pollutants, irritants, fungi, and ultraviolet rays.