HK40119768A - Stable skin care compositions containing a retinoid - Google Patents

Description

Stable skincare compositions containing visual pigments

Technical Field

This invention relates generally to stable skincare compositions comprising visual pigments. More specifically, this invention relates to skincare compositions comprising stable visual pigments in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion.

Background Technology

Skincare products can improve the health and/or appearance of a user's skin. Currently, there are various topical skincare products available that address, reduce, or even eliminate wrinkles and other histological changes commonly associated with skin aging and/or environmental damage to human skin. For at least some people, fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration on the skin serve as a reminder of fading youth. Therefore, in today's youth-conscious society, wrinkle and discoloration reduction has become a rapidly growing industry. Treatments range from beauty creams and ointments to various forms of cosmetic surgery.

Many skincare products (including moisturizers and creams) may include vitamins, vitamin derivatives, and/or other active ingredients to improve the appearance of the skin. For example, vitamin A (also known as retinol) is known for its use in topical skincare compositions to provide beneficial effects on skin health and/or appearance. Vitamin A, along with its derivatives, forms a class of compounds commonly referred to as "retinoids." Retinoids were once primarily used to treat acne. More recently, they have also been used to treat photoaging and/or already aging skin.

However, formulating stable skincare products containing retinoids with a three-year shelf life can be challenging because retinoids are undesirably reactive and prone to degradation. Some known sources of degradation include oxidation, exposure (e.g., ultraviolet radiation), heat (e.g., temperatures of 40°C or higher), and interactions with other ingredients in the formulation. As retinoids degrade, their efficacy decreases, and the composition may yellow and develop a noticeable odor reminiscent of yogurt.

Furthermore, there is pressure to reformulate certain retinoid products as some consumers demand cleaner ingredient lists for skincare products, including formulations free of formaldehyde releasers. For example, DMDM hydantoin (commercially available) is a common and effective preservative used in skincare products, including stable retinoid products. However, due to its formaldehyde releaser status, its removal from skincare products is desirable. However, it is difficult to determine a preservative system that is both effective and does not compromise the stability of retinoids.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide a skin care composition containing visual pigments with a preservative system that does not contain formaldehyde releasers, wherein the color and concentration of visual pigments are stable.

Summary of the Invention

A skincare composition comprising: (a) a continuous phase comprising: (i) a preservative system comprising hydroxyacetophenone; (ii) carnosine; (iii) sodium sulfite; (iv) water; and (b) a dispersed phase comprising retinyl propionate; wherein the composition is free from DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxyacetate, and glycine methyl ester.

A skincare composition comprising: (a) a continuous phase comprising: (i) about 0.1% to about 1% of a preservative system comprising one or more cell wall disruptors; (ii) about 0.01% to about 1% of one or more antioxidants; (iii) about 0.02% to about 0.25% of one or more reducing agents; (iv) water; and (b) a dispersed phase comprising about 0.01% to about 2% of one or more visual pigments; wherein the skincare composition is free of formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers.

Attached Figure Description

The patent or application document includes at least one color-drawn image. A copy of this patent or patent application publication with the color image will be provided by the patent office upon request and payment of the necessary fees.

Although this specification concludes by the claims that specifically point out and clearly claim protection for the subject matter of the invention, it is believed that the invention will be more readily understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 shows the percentage of retinyl propionate (RP) remaining relative to time for Examples A to G;

Figure 2A is a photograph of Example 2, which has 54% RP remaining and a b value of 16.32 after storage under accelerated stability conditions;

Figure 2B shows Example 4, which has 63% RP remaining and a b value of 17.04 after storage under accelerated stability conditions;

Figure 3A shows the %RP remaining for Examples 1, 2 and 3.

Figure 3B shows the yellow discoloration measured by the b-values of Examples 1, 2, and 3;

Figure 4A shows the cream example 5 after storage under accelerated stability conditions; and

Figure 4B shows Example 6 of the cream after storage under accelerated stability conditions.

Detailed Implementation

Retinoids are a class of compounds derived from vitamin A, often incorporated into skincare compositions for their anti-wrinkle, anti-acne, and anti-hyperpigmentation benefits. Formulating with retinoids is challenging due to their high tendency to degrade. Retinoids are sensitive to oxidation, hydrolysis, heat, and UV radiation. As retinoids degrade, less active material remains to penetrate the skin, and the skincare product becomes less effective. Furthermore, the formulation may become noticeably yellower (as measured by the b-value in the color testing method described below) and may have an unpleasant odor reminiscent of yogurt.

DMDM hydantoin (commercially available) and DMDM hydantoin and butylcarbamate iodopropynyl ester (commercially available as Plus Liquid) are common preservatives in skincare products and are used as preservatives in stabilizing retinoid formulations. However, DMDM hydantoin is a formaldehyde releaser, and some consumers and regulatory agencies prefer products that do not contain formaldehyde releasers.

However, identifying alternative preservatives that effectively inhibit microbial growth without interacting with retinoids is challenging. Figure 1 shows the % retinyl propionate (RP) residue relative to time for Examples A through G (see Table 2 below), which include coated sheets 1 (see Table 1 below) or coated sheets 2 with various preservative systems. The % RP residue was determined using the HPLC test method described herein. The examples were stored for three years under ambient conditions away from direct light in containers that restrict the free flow of oxygen (e.g., aluminum tubing, laminated tubing, glass jars, HDPE jars, PP jars, HDPE pumps).

Table 1: Garment Pieces 1 and 2

Table 2

Figure 1 illustrates Example D, which has a preservative system comprising DMDM hydantoin and butylcarbamate iodopropynyl ester (Plus Liquid). This preservative system is known to effectively inhibit microorganisms and exhibits minimal retinyl propionate degradation at the end of the three-year cycle compared to other compositions tested. Current retinoid products containing this preservative system can have a shelf life of three years. However, some consumers prefer products without this preservative system because DMDM hydantoin is a formaldehyde releaser.

Figure 1 shows that none of the other preservative systems illustrated in Examples A through C and E through F retained sufficient residual RP (residue per unit volume) after three years to maintain storage stability over that period, which is unsatisfactory. In fact, many of these formulations had less than 20% RP remaining after three years. Since the preservative systems in these examples are free of formaldehyde releasers and are effective antimicrobial agents, further investigation was conducted to determine whether RP could be stabilized by another method. The identification of hydroxyacetophenone (commercially available as H) was a good starting point for further exploration.

Table 3 below shows the % RP residue of the experimental skincare compositions of Example 2 with added antioxidants compared to Example 2 without antioxidants (see Table 5 below for formulations of skincare compositions containing RP and a preservative system containing 0.05% phenoxyethanol and 0.15% hydroxyacetophenone). This test was conducted for 6 months under accelerated stability conditions at 40°C and 75% relative humidity away from direct light, with samples stored in containers restricting free flow of oxygen. RP% can be determined by the HPLC method described below.

Table 3

Although several antioxidants performed well and improved RP stability, carnosine was ultimately chosen to move forward because, compared to other tested antioxidants, carnosine is a dipeptide and is likely to be the preferred skincare composition for consumers.

It is known that skincare compositions turn yellow when retinoids degrade. This color change is likely easily noticeable to consumers, and many consumers believe that yellowing indicates the retinoids are less effective. Surprisingly, it was found that even when RP is relatively stable with carnosine, the product still yellowed under accelerated stabilization conditions (40°C, 75% RH, 6 months). Figure 2A shows Example 2 (see Table 5 below), which had 54% RP remaining and a b-value of 16.32 under accelerated stabilization conditions (40°C, 75% RH, 6 months). Figure 2B shows an example with Example 2 (see Table 5 below) and 0.1% carnosine. The example in Figure 2B had 63% RP remaining and a b-value of 17.04 under accelerated stabilization conditions (40°C, 75% RH, 6 months). Surprisingly, the formulation with more stable RP had a higher b-value and was more yellow. This yellowing is unacceptable to consumers, who believe that a more yellow product is less effective and/or contains impurities.

Therefore, it was necessary to test the additives to reduce yellowing. Table 4 below compares the b-values of Example 2 (see Table 5 below) with those of the additives used in Example 2. This test was conducted for two weeks under accelerated stability conditions at 60°C away from direct light, with the samples stored in containers restricting free oxygen flow. Under illumination equivalent to at least 100-watt incandescent light at 30 cm, the b-values observed by a human observer with the naked eye (other than standard corrective lenses suitable for correcting myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism) showed significantly less yellowing compared to the control examples. The b-values were determined using the color testing methods described below.

As shown in Table 4, sodium sulfite, as a reducing agent, is the only test component that can significantly reduce the b-value of the composition, and the compositions with 0.05% sodium sulfite and 0.1% sodium sulfite show significantly less yellowing.

Table 4

Figures 3A and 3B illustrate the stability and discoloration of Examples 1, 2, and 3 after two weeks of accelerated stabilization at 60°C, as shown in Table 5 below. Example 1 is similar to currently available retinoid formulations having a preservative system comprising DMDM hydantoin and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (commercially available as PlusLiquid). In Example 2, the DMDM hydantoin and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate preservatives were replaced with a preservative system comprising hydroxyacetophenone and phenoxyethanol. Example 3 has a preservative system (hydroxyacetophenone and phenoxyethanol), 0.1% carnosine, and 0.05% sodium sulfite. Figure 3A shows that the %RP residue of Example 3 is higher than that of Examples 1 and 2. Figure 3B shows that Example 3 has a lower b-value compared to Examples 1 and 2, and therefore less yellowing. Therefore, Example 3 is physically and chemically more stable than formulations such as those of Examples 1 and 2 and may be preferred by consumers.

Figures 4A and 4B show cream formulations containing retinoid pigments after two weeks of accelerated stabilization at 60°C, with the samples stored away from direct light in containers restricting oxygen flow. The creams are considered to perform similarly to moisturizers in terms of the physical and chemical stability of the retinoid pigments. Example 5 (see Table 6) has a preservative system comprising hydroxyacetophenone and phenoxyethanol, and Example 6 has the same preservative system as Example 5 and further comprises 0.1% carnosine and 0.05% sodium sulfite. The composition in Figure 4B, with a b-value of 2.42, is significantly whiter than the cream composition in Figure 4A, which has a b-value of 14.86. Therefore, Example 6 may be a consumer preference.

definition

As used herein, “formulated as free” means that the ingredient was not intentionally added. However, “formulated as free” does not guarantee “100% free”, as trace amounts of contaminants are possible.

As used herein, “skincare” means conditioning and/or improving skin condition. Some non-limiting examples include improving the appearance and/or feel of skin by providing a smoother, more even look and/or feel; increasing the thickness of one or more layers of skin; improving skin elasticity or resilience; improving skin firmness; and reducing the oily, shiny, and/or dull appearance of skin; improving skin hydration or moisture levels; improving the appearance of fine lines and/or wrinkles; improving skin peeling or flaking; plumping the skin; improving skin barrier properties; improving skin tone; reducing the appearance of redness or rashes; and/or improving skin radiance, luminosity, or translucency; preventing skin damage, including damage caused by UV A and UV B, through antioxidant approaches; preventing acne formation; balancing the skin microbiome; or preventing acne.

As used herein, "skincare active ingredient" means a compound or combination of compounds that, when applied to the skin, provides acute and/or chronic beneficial effects to the skin or the cell types typically present therein. Skincare active ingredients can modulate and/or improve the skin or its associated cells (e.g., improve skin elasticity, hydration, skin barrier function, and/or improve cellular metabolism). In some examples, skincare active ingredients contain one or more visual pigments.

As used herein, "skincare composition" means a composition that contains skincare active ingredients and regulates and/or improves skin condition.

Unless otherwise specified, all percentages are by weight of the cosmetic composition. Unless otherwise specified, all ratios are by weight. All ranges are inclusive and combinable. Significant figures indicate neither a limitation on the quantity shown nor a limitation on the accuracy of the measurement. All values should be understood to be modified by the word “about” unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise specified, all measurements are understood to have been performed at approximately 21°C and ambient conditions, where “ambient conditions” means conditions at approximately 1 atmosphere and approximately 50% relative humidity. Unless otherwise specified, all weights related to the listed ingredients are based on active substance levels and do not include carriers or byproducts that may be contained in commercially available materials. All numerical ranges are narrower ranges including the ends; the upper and lower limits of the described ranges are interchangeable to further form ranges not explicitly described.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise, consist of, or be composed of the basic components described herein, as well as optional ingredients. As used herein, "consistently consisting of" means that the composition or component may contain additional ingredients, provided that the additional ingredients do not substantially alter the essential and novel characteristics of the composition or method protected by the claims.

Composition

Skin care compositions can be homogeneous emulsions comprising a continuous phase and a dispersed phase. The continuous phase may include a dermatologically acceptable carrier, which typically includes a system of water, polymeric thickeners, antioxidants, and preservatives. The dispersed phase may include oils, including silicone oils and retinoid pigments.

A dermatologically acceptable carrier enables the delivery of other components (e.g., active substances) to the skin at appropriate concentrations. Therefore, a carrier can act as a diluent, dispersant, solvent, etc., for particulate materials, helping to ensure that it can be applied to the selected target at an appropriate concentration and uniformly distributed on the selected target. The carrier may contain one or more dermatologically acceptable solid, semi-solid, or liquid fillers, diluents, solvents, extenders, etc. The carrier can be solid, semi-solid, or liquid. In some cases, the carrier may be inert or may provide its own beneficial effects to the keratinocytes. The concentration of the carrier can vary depending on the selected carrier and the desired concentration of the composition components.

The type of carrier used in the skincare compositions of this invention depends on the type of product form the composition is intended to be produced. Topical compositions that can be used in this invention can be formulated into a wide variety of product forms, such as those known in the art. These forms include, but are not limited to, lotions, creams, gels, sticks, sprays, ointments, pastes, mousses, and cosmetics (e.g., solid, semi-solid, or liquid cosmetics, including foundations, eye makeup, tinted or colorless lip care products such as lipsticks). These product forms may contain several types of carriers, including but not limited to solutions, aerosols, lotions, gels, solids, and liposomes.

Skincare compositions may be free of or formulated to be free of formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers. Skincare compositions may be free of DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxyl, glycine methyl ester, and combinations thereof. Skincare compositions may also be free of parabens and/or sulfate-based surfactants (including SLS and SLES).

According to the test method described below, the composition may have a b value of less than 25, less than 20, less than 18, less than 14, alternatively less than 13, alternatively less than 12, alternatively less than 11, and alternatively less than or equal to 10.

Continuous phase/aqueous phase

Preservative system

As used herein, a preservative system can be one or more substances and/or chemicals added to a cosmetic composition to prevent decomposition caused by microbial growth and/or undesirable chemical changes. The preservative system may be formaldehyde-free and formaldehyde-releasing. In some examples, the preservative system may contain one or more ingredients that were registered as preservatives by the European Chemicals Agency (hereinafter referred to as ECA) on 27 September 2022. In other examples, the preservative system may contain one or more ingredients that are not registered as preservatives by the ECA. Alternatively, the preservative system may be free of ingredients registered as preservatives by the ECA.

The composition may contain about 0.01% to about 1.5%, alternatively about 0.05% to about 1.25%, alternatively about 0.1% to about 1%, alternatively about 0.2% to about 0.8%, and alternatively about 0.3% to about 0.5% of a preservative system.

The preservative system may include one or more cell wall disruptors that inhibit microbial growth by disrupting the cell walls of microorganisms. Non-limiting examples of cell wall disruptors may include aromatic alcohols, medium-chain glycols, organic acids, hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-hexanediol (and) octyl glycol, ethylhexylglycerol, methylheptylglycerol, or combinations thereof.

Non-limiting examples of aromatic alcohols may include phenoxyethanol, croterol, tyrosol, phenethyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, or combinations thereof.

Non-limiting examples of medium-chain diols may include octyl glycol, pentylene glycol, hexanediol, or combinations thereof.

Non-limiting examples of organic acids may include benzoic acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, and salicylic acid, or combinations thereof.

Chelating agents

Cosmetic compositions may contain about 0.05% to about 0.5%, and alternatively about 0.1% to about 0.3%, of a chelating agent. As used herein, "chelating agent" means an active agent capable of removing metal ions from a system by forming a complex that prevents metal ions from readily participating in or catalyzing a chemical reaction. Furthermore, chelating agents may be used in combination with the preservative systems described herein to enhance the efficacy of the preservatives. Non-limiting examples of chelating agents may include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate), tetrahydroxypropylethylenediamine, hydroxyethyl phosphate, sodium phytate, sodium phytate, oxalic acid and its derivatives, sodium gluconate, ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (trisodium ethylenediaminedisuccinate), or combinations thereof.

antioxidants

The cosmetic composition may contain about 0.001% to about 1%, alternatively about 0.005% to about 0.85%, alternatively about 0.01% to about 0.75%, alternatively about 0.05% to about 0.5%, and alternatively about 0.1% to about 0.3% of an antioxidant.

Antioxidants can be non-vitamin antioxidants. Non-limiting examples of antioxidants may include hydroxycinnamic acid, ferulic acid, psoralen, tea extracts (including tea leaf extract (white tea) and green tea leaf extract), caffeine, rosemary leaf extract, octadecyl di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate, carnosine, ethylene bis(oxyethylene)bis-(3-(5-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-m-tolyl)propionate), pomegranate fruit extract, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), L-ergothionein (available as THIOTANE ^™ ), tetrahydrocurcumin, hexadecylpyridinium chloride, diethylhexyl eugenol malonate (available as OXYNEX ^™ ), hexadecano-8-ene-1,16-dicarboxylic acid (octadecenoic acid; ARLATONE ^™ Dioic DCA from Uniqema), ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10), yeast extract or yeast culture (e.g.), or combinations thereof.

Antioxidants can be vitamin antioxidants. Non-limiting examples of vitamin antioxidants may include vitamin C, vitamin B (including niacinamide), vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, or combinations thereof.

reducing agent

One or more reducing agents may be added to the composition to help reduce yellowing. The composition may contain about 0.01% to about 0.5%, alternatively about 0.02% to about 0.2%, and alternatively about 0.05% to about 0.1% of the reducing agent.

Non-limiting examples of reducing agents may include sulfites, acetylfarethrylcysteine, aminoethane sulfinic acid, butyrolactone thiol, dithionyl diacetate ethanolamine salt, ethyl mercaptoside, formamidinium sulfinic acid, hydrolyzed yeast/lactobacillus/ubiquinone enzyme, sodium glyoxylate, sodium hydroxymethanesulfonate, sodium formaldehyde bisulfite, sodium mercaptoacetate, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, potassium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium thiosulfate, potassium metabisulfite, or combinations thereof.

Non-limiting examples of sulfites include sodium sulfite, potassium sulfite, ammonium bisulfite, ammonium sulfite, potassium metabisulfite, potassium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium dithionite, sodium metabisulfite, or combinations thereof.

Dermatologically acceptable carriers

The compositions described herein include a dermatologically acceptable carrier (which may be referred to as a "carrier"). The phrase "dermatologically acceptable carrier" means that the carrier is suitable for topical application to keratinocytes, has good aesthetic properties, is compatible with the active substance in the composition, and does not cause any unreasonable safety or toxicity issues. In one embodiment, the carrier is present in an amount of about 50% to about 99%, about 60% to about 98%, about 70% to about 98%, or alternatively about 80% to about 95% by weight of the composition.

The carrier can take many forms. In some cases, the solubility or dispersibility of the components (e.g., extracts, sunscreen active ingredients, additives) determines the form and characteristics of the carrier. Non-limiting examples include simple solutions (e.g., aqueous or anhydrous), dispersions, emulsions, and solid forms (e.g., gels, sticks, flowable solids, or amorphous materials). In some cases, dermatologically acceptable carriers are in the form of emulsions having a continuous aqueous phase (e.g., oil-in-water or water-in-oil-in-water emulsions) or a continuous oil phase (e.g., water-in-oil or water-in-oil-in-oil emulsions). The oil phase of the emulsion may contain silicone oils, non-silicone oils (such as hydrocarbon oils, esters, ethers), and mixtures thereof. The aqueous phase may contain water and water-soluble ingredients (e.g., water-soluble moisturizers, conditioning agents, antimicrobial agents, humectants, and/or other skin-care active ingredients). In some cases, the aqueous phase may contain components that are not water, including but not limited to water-soluble moisturizers, conditioning agents, antimicrobial agents, humectants, and/or other water-soluble skin-care active ingredients. In some cases, the non-aqueous component of the composition includes a wetting agent, such as glycerin and/or other polyols. The composition may contain about 1% to about 15%, alternatively about 3% to about 10%, alternatively about 4% to about 9%, and alternatively about 5% to about 8% of a wetting agent.

In some cases, the compositions described herein are in the form of oil-in-water (“O/W”) emulsions that provide a mild and non-greasy sensory experience. Suitable O/W emulsions may comprise a continuous aqueous phase of more than 50% by weight of the composition, with the remainder being a dispersed oil phase. The aqueous phase may comprise 1% to 99% water by weight, along with any water-soluble and/or water-miscible components. In these cases, the dispersed oil phase will typically be present at less than 40% by weight of the composition (e.g., 1% to 35%, 2% to 30%, 3% to 25%, 4% to 20%, or even 5% to 18%) to help avoid some undesirable sensory effects of oily compositions. The oil phase may include one or more volatile and/or non-volatile oils (e.g., vegetable oils, silicone oils, and/or hydrocarbon oils). Some non-limiting examples of oils suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,446,265 and U.S. Publication No. 2015/0196464.

The carrier may contain one or more dermatologically acceptable diluents. As used herein, “dilution” means a material in which the skincare active ingredient described herein can be dispersed, dissolved, or otherwise incorporated. Some non-limiting examples of hydrophilic diluents include water, organic hydrophilic diluents such as lower monovalent alcohols (e.g., _C1 - _C4 ) and low molecular weight diols and polyols, including propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (e.g., molecular weight from 200 g/mol to 600 g/mol), polypropylene glycol (e.g., Mw from 425 g/mol to 2025 g/mol), glycerin, butylene glycol, 1,2,4-butanetriol, sorbitan esters, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, ethanol, isopropanol, sorbitan esters, butylene glycol, ether propanol, ethoxylated ethers, propoxylated ethers, and combinations thereof.

Thickener

The composition may contain one or more thickeners, and alternatively at least two thickeners. In some examples, the composition is a moisturizing cream and may contain about 0.5% to about 6%, alternatively about 0.75% to about 5%, and alternatively about 1% to about 4% of a thickener. In other examples, the composition is a cream and may contain about 0.1% to about 4%, alternatively about 0.25% to about 3%, and alternatively about 0.5% to about 2% of a thickener. Suitable classes of thickeners include, but are not limited to, carboxylic acid polymers, polyacrylamide polymers, sulfonated polymers, copolymers thereof, hydrophobically modified derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

The composition may contain a carboxylic acid polymer thickener, such as carbomer. The composition may contain about 0.1% to about 1%, alternatively about 0.2% to about 0.8%, alternatively about 0.25% to about 0.7%, alternatively about 0.3% to about 0.6%, and alternatively about 0.4% to about 0.5% of the carboxylic acid polymer thickener.

The composition may comprise a polyacrylamide polymer and a copolymer thickener. The composition may comprise about 0.8% to about 3%, alternatively about 0.9% to about 2.5%, alternatively about 1% to about 2.2%, alternatively about 1.1% to about 2.1%, alternatively about 1.2% to about 1.9%, or alternatively about 1.3% to about 1.8% of the polyacrylamide polymer and copolymer thickener.

Suitable thickeners include carboxylic acid polymers, such as carbomer (e.g., the 900 series, such as 954), and Ultraz 10 and Ultraz 30. Other suitable carboxylic acid polymerizers include copolymers of _C10-30 alkyl acrylates with one or more monomers, wherein the monomer is a short-chain ester of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, or their short-chain (i.e., _C1-4 alcohol) esters, wherein the crosslinking agent is an allyl ether of sucrose or pentaerythritol. These copolymers are called acrylate/ _C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosslinkers and are commercially available from Noveon as 1342, 1382, Ultraz 20, Ultraz 21, PEMULEN TR-1, and PEMULEN TR-2.

Other suitable thickeners include polyacrylamide polymers and copolymers. Exemplary polyacrylamide polymers have the CTFA designation "polyacrylamide, isoparaffin, and lauryl polyoxyethylene ether-7" and are commercially available under the trade name SEPIGEL 305 from the company (Fairfield, N.J.). Other polyacrylamide polymers that may be used herein include multiblock copolymers of acrylamide and substituted acrylamide with acrylic acid and substituted acrylic acid. Examples of commercially available multiblock copolymers include HYPAN SR1 50H, SS500V, SS500 W, and SSSA100H from Lipo Chemicals (Patterson, N.J.).

Other suitable thickeners that may be used in this article are sulfonated polymers, such as sodium polyacrylamide dimethyl taurate (CTFA), which is available from the company under the trade name Simulgel 800 and from Lamberti SpA (Gallarate, Italy) under the trade name 100P. Another commercially available material containing a sulfonated polymer is Sepiplus ^™ 400, available from the company.

In addition, suitable thickeners may include superabsorbent polymers. These superabsorbent polymers can be selected from: cross-linked sodium polyacrylate, such as those sold under the names Octacare X100, X110, and RM100, those sold by SNF ^™ under the names Flocare GB300 and Flosorb 500, those sold under the names Luquasorb 1003, Luquasorb 1010, Luquasorb 1280, and Luquasorb 1100, those sold by Grain under the names Water Lock G400 and G430 (INCI name: acrylamide/sodium acrylate copolymer), or Aqua10SH NF, Aqua10 SH NFC, and sodium acrylate cross-linked polymer-2 supplied by Sumitomo Seika; acrylic polymers (homopolymers or copolymers), especially starch grafted with sodium polyacrylate, such as those sold by Sanyo Chemical under the names Sanfresh ST-100C, ST100MC, and IM-300MC, and Makimousse supplied by Kobo Products. Makimousse 12 and Makimouse 25 (INCI name: sodium polyacrylate starch); hydrolyzed starch grafted onto acrylic polymers (homopolymers or copolymers), particularly acrylamide/sodium acrylate copolymers, such as those sold by Grain under the names Water Lock A-240, A-180, B-204, D-223, A-100, C-200, and D-223 (INCI name: starch/acrylamide/sodium acrylate copolymer). Preferred superabsorbent polymers may include Makimousse 12 and Makimousse 25.

Thickeners suitable for use herein include gums. "Gum" is a term as broadly defined in the art. Gum includes gum arabic, agar, alginate, alginic acid, ammonium alginate, amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine, carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride, lithium montmorillonite, hyaluronic acid, silica hydrate, hydroxypropyl deacetylated chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar gum, black privet gum, seaweed, black locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan, propylene glycol alginate, sclerotinia gum, sodium carboxymethyl dextran, sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, their derivatives, and mixtures thereof.

Natural gums are polysaccharides of natural origin that can cause a significant increase in viscosity in solution, even at low concentrations. They can be used as thickeners, gelling agents, emulsifiers, and stabilizers. These gums are most commonly found in the lignin of plants or in seed coatings. Natural gums can be classified according to their origin. They can be classified as non-charged polymers or ionic polymers (polyelectrolytes), examples of which include the following: Natural gums obtained from seaweed, such as: agar; alginic acid; sodium alginate; and carrageenan. Natural gums obtained from non-marine plant resources include: gum arabic, from the sap of the acacia tree; solanum, from the sap of the elm tree; tragacanth gum, from the sap of the astragalus shrub; and ebony gum, from the sap of the sterculia tree. Examples of uncharged gums include: guar gum, from guar beans; locust bean gum, from carob seeds; beta-glucan, from oat or barley bran; gum arabic, an older base for chewing gum obtained from the gum tree; dammargum, from the sap of trees in the Dipterocarpaceae family; glucomannan, from the konjac plant; mastic gum, a chewing gum from the mastic tree originating in ancient Greece; plantain seed husk, from the plant Plantago; spruce gum, a chewing gum from the spruce tree originating in Indiana, USA; and tara gum, from the seeds of the tara tree. Natural gums produced by bacterial fermentation include gellan gum and xanthan gum.

Dispersed phase/oil phase

Visual pigments

The skincare compositions described herein contain safe and effective amounts of retinoid pigments. As used herein, “retinoid pigments” include all natural and/or synthetic vitamin A or retinol analogs or retinol-like compounds having the biological activity of vitamin A in the skin, as well as geometric and stereoisomers of these compounds. For example, retinoid pigments may be retinol esters (e.g., _C2 - _C22 alkyl esters of retinol, including retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, and retinyl propionate), retinaldehyde, retinal, β-carotene, and/or retinoic acid (including all-trans retinoic acid and/or 13-cis retinoic acid). A particularly suitable example of a retinoid pigment used in the compositions of the present invention is retinyl propionate (“RP”). These compounds are well known in the art and are commercially available from a variety of sources, such as Sigma Chemical Company (St. Louis, MO), Boerhinger Mannheim (Indianapolis, IN), BASF (Mt. Olive, NJ), and Roche (Basel, Switzerland). Other suitable retinoid pigments are tocopheryl retinoate (tocopheryl esters of retinoic acid (trans- or cis-), adapalene {6-[3-(1-adamantyl)-4-methoxyphenyl]-2-naphthoic acid}, and tazolotin (6-[2-(4,4-dimethyldihydrobenzothiaran-6-yl)ethynyl]-nicotinate ethyl ester). Retinoid pigments may be included as pure or substantially pure material or as extracts obtained from natural (e.g., plant) sources by suitable physical and/or chemical separation methods.

The compositions of the present invention may contain 0.0001% to 2% (e.g., 0.005% to 2%, 0.01% to 1%, 0.01% to 0.5%, 0.1% to 0.4%, 0.15% to 0.3%) of a visual pigment. In some cases, a mixture of more than one visual pigment may be used.

The retinoid pigments present in the skincare compositions described herein are stable. To ensure that the skincare compositions provide the desired health or aesthetic benefits, it is important to provide an appropriate amount of the retinoid pigment active substance.

The composition may have ≥70% RP remaining, alternatively ≥65% RP remaining, alternatively ≥60% RP remaining, alternatively ≥55% RP remaining, or alternatively ≥50% RP remaining at any time during the product's shelf life. The % RP remaining is determined using the HPLC test method described below. Initial RP is the RP concentration at the time of manufacture, which may be the RP percentage required on the product packaging or other materials (e.g., website, etc.).

silicone oil

The composition may contain silicone oil selected from volatile silicone oil, non-volatile silicone oil, and combinations thereof. The silicone oil may be in a dispersed phase. The composition may contain about 1% to about 35% silicone oil, alternatively about 5% to about 30% silicone oil, and alternatively about 10% to about 28% silicone oil.

Volatile silicone oil

Suitable volatile silicones can include cyclic and linear volatile silicones. A description of various volatile silicones can be found in Todd et al., "Volatile Silicone Fluids for Cosmetics", 91 Cosmetics and Toiletries.

27-32 (1976). Suitable cyclic volatile silicones include cyclic dimethylsiloxane chains comprising an average of about 3 to about 5 silicon atoms, preferably about 4 to about 5 silicon atoms. Exemplary cyclic volatile silicones of different viscosities include Dow Corning DC 244, DC 245, DC 344 and DC 345; GE Silicones-OSi Specialties Volatile Silicone 7207 and Volatile Silicone 7158; and GE Silicones SF1 202. Suitable volatile linear silicones include polydimethylsiloxanes comprising an average of about 2 to about 8 silicon atoms. Exemplary linear volatile silicones include the Dow Corning DC 200 series with viscosities of 0.65 cst, 1.0 cst and 2.0 cst. In some embodiments, linear volatile silicones typically have a viscosity of less than or equal to about 4 centipoise at 25°C, and cyclic materials typically have a viscosity of less than about 6 centipoise at 25°C.

Non-volatile silicone oil

Suitable non-volatile silicone oils include polysiloxanes. Non-volatile polysiloxanes can have a viscosity of about 10 centistokes to about 1,000,000 centistokes at 25°C. Such polysiloxanes can be represented by the following general chemical formula:

_{R₃SiO [ R₂SiO} ] _₆SiR₃

Each R is independently selected from hydrogen or C1-30 straight-chain or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl, phenyl or aryl, trialkylsiloxy; and x is an integer from 0 to about 10,000. In some embodiments, R is methyl or ethyl. Commercially available polysiloxanes include polydimethylsiloxanes, also known as polydimethylsiloxanes, examples of which include the DM-Fluid series from Shin-Etsu, the series sold by Momentive Performance Materials, and the Dow200 series sold by DowCorning. Specific examples of suitable polydimethylsiloxanes include Dow200 Fluid (also sold as PMX-200Silicone Fluids). Suitable polydimethylsiloxanes include those represented by the following chemical formulas:

R ₃ SiO[R ₂ SiO] _x [RR'SiO] _y SiR ₃

R and R’ are each independently hydrogen or C1-30 straight-chain or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl, aryl or trialkylsiloxy; and x and y are each integers from 1 to 1,000,000. Examples include alkyl polydimethylsiloxanes, wherein at least R’ is an aliphatic alkyl group (e.g., C12-22). A suitable alkyl polydimethylsiloxane is cetyl polydimethylsiloxane, wherein R’ is a C16 straight-chain and R is methyl, and is commercially available from Dow Corning as 2502Cosmetic Fluid.

Preferred non-volatile oils include polydimethylsiloxane (PDS), preferably with a viscosity between 10 cst and 1000 cst, more preferably between 15 cst and 400 cst, and most preferably between 20 cst and 200 cst. These preferred PDS materials have an average chain length of about 12 to about 375 dimethylsiloxane units, more preferably about 20 to about 200 dimethylsiloxane units, and most preferably an average chain length of about 27 to about 125 dimethylsiloxane units. In one embodiment, the second composition will comprise at least one non-volatile silicone oil. In one such embodiment, at least about 70% by weight of the non-volatile oil is non-volatile silicone oil. In another embodiment, at least about 80% by weight of the non-volatile oil is non-volatile silicone. In yet another embodiment, at least about 90% by weight of the non-volatile oil is non-volatile silicone oil.

Other optional ingredients

The compositions of the present invention may optionally contain one or more additives commonly used in cosmetic compositions (e.g., colorants, skin-care active substances, anti-inflammatory agents, sunscreens, emulsifiers, buffers, rheology modifiers, combinations thereof, etc.), provided that the additive does not adversely alter the beneficial effects on skin health or appearance provided by the compositions of the present invention. When incorporated into a composition, the additive should be suitable for contact with human skin tissue without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, etc. Other optional ingredients may be present in the continuous phase and/or dispersed phase. Some non-limiting examples of additional active ingredients include vitamins, minerals, peptides and peptide derivatives, glycosamines, sunscreens, oil-controlling agents, particles, flavonoids, hair growth regulators, antioxidants and/or antioxidant precursors, preservatives, protease inhibitors, tyrosinase inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, moisturizers, exfoliating agents, skin brighteners, sun-free tanning agents, lubricants, anti-acne active ingredients, anti-cellulite active ingredients, chelating agents, anti-wrinkle active ingredients, anti-atrophy active ingredients, phytosterols and/or phytohormones, N-acyl amino acid compounds, antimicrobial agents, and antifungal agents. In some examples, the composition may contain fragrances (especially natural fragrances) or colorants (especially natural colorants). Other non-limiting examples of adjunct ingredients and/or skincare active substances applicable herein are described in U.S. Patent Publications 2002/0022040, 2003/0049212, 2004/0175347, 2006/0275237, 2007/0196344, 2008/0181956, 2008/0206373, 2010/00092408, 2008/0206373, 2010/0239510, and 2010/0189669. US Patent Nos. 2010/0272667, 2011/0262025, 2011/0097286, 2012/0197016, 2012/0128683, 2012/0148515, 2012/0156146 and 2013/0022557, and US Patent Nos. 5,939,082, 5,872,112, 6,492,326, 6,696,049, 6,524,598, 5,972,359 and 6,174,533.

When optional ingredients are included in the compositions herein, it may be desirable to select ingredients that do not form complexes or otherwise undesirably interact with other ingredients in the composition, particularly pH-sensitive ingredients such as nicotinamide, salicylates, and peptides. When present, optional ingredients may be included in amounts from 0.0001% to 50%; 0.001% to 20%; or even 0.01% to 10% (e.g., 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.1%) based on the weight of the composition.

How to use

The skincare composition may be applied to the face, neck, and/or parts or combinations thereof at least once daily, twice daily, or more frequently daily during a treatment cycle. When applied twice daily, the first application should be at least 1 to 12 hours apart from the second. Typically, the composition is applied in the morning and/or at bedtime. The treatment cycle described herein is ideally the time during which the retinoid pigments and/or other skincare active substances are sufficient to improve the appearance of the skin. The treatment period may last at least one week (e.g., about 2, 4, 8, or even 12 weeks). In some cases, the treatment period may be extended to several months (i.e., 3 to 12 months). In some cases, the composition may be applied for most of the week (e.g., at least 4, 5, or 6 days per week), at least once daily or even twice daily during a treatment period of at least 2, 4, 8, or 12 weeks.

This skincare composition visibly improves fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, radiance, firmness, dark spots, and pores. It leaves skin feeling hydrated and revitalized. Apply this skincare composition at night. It evens out skin texture and minimizes the appearance of pores.

Test methods

Color testing methods

For the purposes of this invention, colors are defined according to values on the CIELAB color system, which is based on the XYZ color system defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE system), to provide an objective way of representing perceived colors and color differences. X, Y, and Z can be represented in various ways or "scales," one of which is the Hunter scale. The Hunter scale has three variables, L, a, and b, which are mathematically related to X, Y, and Z, and are described by Robertson, A.R. in "The CIE 1976 Color Difference Formulas," *Color Research and Applications*, Vol. 2, pp. 7-11 (1977).

To measure the color of the compositions of the present invention, approximately 8 mL of the product to be tested was transferred to a covered petri dish (35 mm × 10 mm disposable covered petri dish) using a syringe. The covered petri dish was then placed on the black half of a standard opacity chart (Leneta (Manwah, NJ) N2A table or equivalent, with the upper half black and the lower half white). The color (L value, a value, and b value) of the product in the covered petri dish was then measured using an integrating sphere spectrophotometer, with a setting excluding specular reflection selected. The "a" value is correlated with the value along the red-green (horizontal) axis, and the "b" value is correlated with the value along the blue-yellow (vertical) axis. For example, a yellow sample will have a positive b-value, while a green sample will have a negative a-value. Larger positive or negative values indicate a stronger color. The "L" value is an indicator of lightness and/or darkness and is correlated with the value along the z-axis, which measures both the horizontal and vertical axes.

HPLC testing method

This method provides a suitable approach for determining the amount of RP loss in a composition.

Place a sufficient quantity of the test composition in a controlled environment chamber/room at the desired temperature and humidity for the desired duration. When accelerated aging is complete, remove the sample from the controlled environment, equilibrate to room temperature (21°C ± 2°C) for 24 hours, and then measure it shortly thereafter for chemical analysis. Note that visual pigments are photosensitive and should not be exposed to direct light. Thoroughly mix all test compositions before sampling.

The amount of RP loss based on % wt/g is determined by HPLC (isocratic elution) as follows. Condition one or more HPLC columns according to standard operating procedures.

Chromatographic conditions

1. Chromatographic column: C18 (5 μm), 250 mm × 4.6 mm

2. Mobile phase (eluent): Methanol/2-propanol (70/30 v/v)

3. Column temperature: approximately 25℃ (ambient temperature)

4. UV wavelength: 280nm

5. Injection volume: 20 μL

6. Flow rate: 1.0 ml/min

7. Running time: Approximately 22.0 minutes

8. RP retention time: 6 minutes

mobile phase preparation

A 1 L mobile phase (elution buffer) was prepared by combining 700 mL of methanol with 300 mL of 2-propanol.

External standard preparation (prepared on the day of use)

In a 25 mL amber flask, dissolve 25 mg of retinyl propionate in 10 mL of mobile phase. Avoid exposing RP to light. Dilute to volume with mobile phase. Transfer 5.0 mL aliquots to a 50 mL amber flask and dilute to volume with mobile phase. Mix thoroughly. Filter approximately 1 mL of external standard into an amber HPLC vial through a suitable 0.45 μm filter (e.g., Whatman GD/X).

HPLC Sample Preparation

Using a 1cc tuberculin syringe, weigh 500 mg of the sample composition and transfer it to a 25 mL amber volumetric flask. Add 10 mL of mobile phase and vortex at high speed for 2 minutes or until the product is completely dispersed. Dilute to volume with the mobile phase and mix thoroughly. Filter approximately 1 mL into an autosampler vial using a syringe filter (e.g., a Whatman GD/X filter unit). Perform 20 injections using the conditions described.

(A)/(B)×(B)/(W)×(DF)×100＝Retinyl Propionate, % by weight/weight where,

A = Peak area of retinyl propionate in the sample

B = Peak area of retinyl propionate used for calibration

C = Standard weight of retinyl propionate, in mg

W = Sample weight, mg

DF = Dilution factor (e.g., 0.1)

Example

The following data and examples are provided to help illustrate the skincare compositions described herein. The example compositions are given for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure, as many variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, all parts, percentages, and ratios herein are by weight.

Tables 5 and 6 illustrate examples of skincare compositions prepared as follows: Add the aqueous phase component to a suitable mixing container and mix until homogeneous. Add the oil phase component to a separate container and mix until homogeneous. Add the oil phase to the aqueous phase and grind the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes at 9000 to 11000 RPM using a TK-25 grinder or equivalent. Using a propeller mixer instead of a grinder, add the remaining materials (e.g., pH adjusters, sensory/appearance modifiers such as starch and _TiO2 ) and/or phases (if present) one at a time to the composition and continue mixing until homogeneous. Transfer the batch to a final container.

Table 5: Examples 1 to 4

¹ H, from

² Plus Liquid, from

⁴ GLW75 PFAP-PE, from Products Company

⁵ HTP, from

Table 6: Cream Examples 5 and 6

Example 5 (wt%) Example 6 (wt%) <![CDATA[<u>Water phase</u>]]> USP water Appropriate amount Appropriate amount Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate 0.050 0.050 wetting agent 3.0 3.0 Phenoxyethanol 0.050 0.050 <![CDATA[hydroxyacetophenone¹]]> 0.15 0.15 <![CDATA[Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6³]]> 0.90 0.90 Carnosine 0.10 Sodium sulfite 0.050 <![CDATA[<u>Oil Phase</u>]]> silicone oil 14 14 Retinyl propionate 0.30 0.30 PEG-11 methyl ether polydimethylsiloxane 2 0.30 0.30

¹ H, from

² KF-6011 from Shin-Etsu

³ Sepimax Zen, from

The examples in Table 7 can be prepared according to the methods described herein.

Table 7: Examples 7 to 13

^1. Octadecanol di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate, from

^2,1,2 -Hexanediol and octyl glycol, from

^3- Butylcarbamate iodopropynyl ester, PEG-4 laurate, PEG-4 dilaurate, and polyethylene glycol, from

^4. Undecenoyl phenylalanine, from the company

^5. Water and hydrolyzed carob (Ceratopsia siliqua) seed extract, from

^6. Water, glycerol, decyl glucoside, lactic acid, benzyl alcohol, and palmitoyl dipeptide-7, from

^7. PEG-7 Sodium Olive Oil Carboxylate, from B&T Sr1.

^8. Water, Glycerin, PEG-100 Stearate, Benzyl Alcohol, and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, from Sederma

^9. Polyacrylamide, C13-14 isoparaffins, and lauryl polyoxyethylene ether-7, from the company

¹⁰ Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer (and) isohexadecane (and) polysorbate 60, from the company

¹¹ Sodium polyacrylate starch, from Products Company

¹² carbomers, from

¹³ acrylate C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, from

¹⁴ Polydimethylsiloxane (and) polydimethylsiloxane crosspolymers, from Dow

¹⁵ -Retinol (and) Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, from

¹⁶ Polydimethylsiloxane (and) polydimethylsiloxane alcohol, from Dow

combination :

A. A skincare composition, said skincare composition comprising:

a. A continuous phase, said continuous phase comprising:

i. a preservative system of about 0.01% to about 1.5%, preferably comprising about 0.1% to about 1% of a preservative system, and more preferably about 0.15% to about 0.5% of a preservative system, wherein the preservative system comprises one or more cell wall disruptors;

ii. About 0.01% to about 1% of one or more antioxidants, preferably about 0.05% to about 0.75% of one or more antioxidants, and more preferably about 0.1% to about 0.3% of one or more antioxidants;

iii. One or more reducing agents, about 0.01% to about 0.5%, preferably about 0.02% to about 0.2%, and more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.1%;

iv. Water;

b. A dispersed phase comprising about 0.01% to about 1%, preferably about 0.01% to about 0.5%, more preferably about 0.1% to about 0.4% of one or more visual pigments; wherein the composition is free from DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxyl and glycine methyl ester.

B. The skincare composition according to paragraph A, wherein the one or more visual pigments include retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinyl propionate, or combinations thereof.

C. The skin care composition according to paragraphs A to B, wherein the cell wall disruptor is selected from aromatic alcohols, medium-chain glycols, organic acids, hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-hexanediol (and) caprylyl glycol, ethylhexylglycerin, methylheptylglycerin, or combinations thereof.

D. The skin care composition according to paragraphs A to C, wherein the cell wall disruptor comprises hydroxyacetophenone and an aromatic alcohol selected from the group consisting of phenoxyethanol, croterol, tyrosol, phenethyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, or combinations thereof.

E. The skincare composition according to paragraph D, wherein the aromatic alcohol includes phenoxyethanol.

F. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A through E, wherein the antioxidant comprises a non-vitamin antioxidant, which includes hydroxycinnamic acid, ferulic acid, bakuchiol, tea extract, caffeine, rosemary leaf extract, octadecyl di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate, carnosine, ethylene bis(oxyethylene)bis-(3-(5-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-m-tolyl)propionate, pomegranate fruit extract, butylated hydroxytoluene, L-ergothioneine, tetrahydrocurcumin, hexadecylpyridinium chloride, diethylhexyl eugenol malonate, hexadecane-8-ene-1,16-dicarboxylic acid, ubiquinone, yeast extract, yeast culture, or combinations thereof.

G. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A through F, wherein the antioxidant includes carnosine.

H. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A to G, wherein the reducing agent comprises sulfites, acetyl farnesylcysteine, aminoethane sulfinic acid, butyrolactone thiol, dithionyl diacetate ethanolamine salt, ethyl mercaptoside, formamidinium sulfinic acid, hydrolyzed yeast/lactobacter/ubiquinone enzyme, sodium glyoxylate, sodium hydroxymethanesulfonate, sodium formaldehyde bisulfite, sodium mercaptoacetate, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, potassium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium thiosulfate, potassium metabisulfite, or combinations thereof.

I. The skin care composition according to paragraphs A to H, wherein the reducing agent comprises a sulfite, the sulfite comprising sodium sulfite, potassium sulfite, ammonium bisulfite, ammonium sulfite, potassium metabisulfite, potassium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium dithionite, sodium metabisulfite, or combinations thereof.

J. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A to I, the skincare composition further comprising one or more chelating agents, the one or more chelating agents including disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, hydroxyethyl phosphate, sodium phytate, phytic acid, oxalic acid and its derivatives, sodium gluconate, trisodium ethylenediaminedisuccinate or combinations thereof.

K. The skin care composition according to paragraphs A to J, wherein the chelating agent comprises disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate.

L is the skincare composition according to paragraphs A to K, wherein, according to a color testing method, the b value of the composition is less than 25, preferably less than 20, and more preferably less than 15.

M. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A to L, wherein the composition comprises retinyl propionate, and according to an HPLC test method, the skincare composition comprises greater than or equal to 50% of residual retinyl propionate, preferably greater than or equal to 65% of residual retinyl propionate, and more preferably greater than or equal to 70% of residual retinyl propionate, compared to the amount of retinyl propionate at the time of manufacture.

N. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A to M, wherein the skincare composition is free of formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers.

O. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A to N, wherein the skincare composition is free of parabens and sulfate-based surfactants.

P. The skincare composition according to paragraphs A to O, wherein the dispersed phase further comprises silicone.

Q. The skincare composition according to A to P, wherein the dispersed phase further comprises about 1% to about 35% silicone oil, preferably about 5% to about 30% silicone oil, and more preferably about 10% to about 28% silicone oil.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values cited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and the range around which it is functionally equivalent. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to represent "approximately 40 mm".

Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, every reference cited herein, including any cross-references or related patents or patent applications, and any patent application or patent claiming priority to or benefiting from it, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Reference to any reference is not an endorsement of it as prior art to any disclosed or protected art herein, nor is it an endorsement of any such invention, either on its own or in combination with any one or more references. Furthermore, where any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in referenced documents, the meaning or definition given to that term in this invention shall prevail.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described by way of example, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims (15)

1. A skincare composition comprising: a. A continuous phase, said continuous phase comprising: i. a preservative system of about 0.01% to about 1.5%, preferably comprising about 0.1% to about 1% of a preservative system, and more preferably about 0.15% to about 0.5% of a preservative system, wherein the preservative system comprises one or more cell wall disruptors; ii. About 0.01% to about 1% of one or more antioxidants, preferably about 0.05% to about 0.75% of one or more antioxidants, and more preferably about 0.1% to about 0.3% of one or more antioxidants; iii. One or more reducing agents, about 0.01% to about 0.5%, preferably about 0.02% to about 0.2%, and more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.1%; iv. Water; b. A dispersed phase comprising about 0.01% to about 1%, preferably about 0.01% to about 0.5%, more preferably about 0.1% to about 0.4% of one or more visual pigments; The composition is free of DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxyl, and glycine methyl ester. 2. The skin care composition according to claim 1, wherein the one or more retinoid pigments are selected from retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinyl propionate, or mixtures thereof. 3. The skin care composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cell wall disruptor is selected from aromatic alcohols, medium-chain glycols, organic acids, hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-hexanediol (and) caprylyl glycol, ethylhexylglycerin, methylheptylglycerin, or mixtures thereof. 4. The skincare composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the antioxidant comprises a non-vitamin antioxidant selected from: hydroxycinnamic acid, ferulic acid, bakuchiol, tea extract, caffeine, rosemary leaf extract, octadecyl di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate, carnosine, ethylene bis(oxyethylene)bis-(3-(5-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-m-tolyl)propionate, pomegranate fruit extract, butylated hydroxytoluene, L-ergothioneine, tetrahydrocurcumin, hexadecylpyridinium chloride, diethylhexyl eugenol malonate, hexadecane-8-ene-1,16-dicarboxylic acid, ubiquinone, yeast extract, yeast culture, or mixtures thereof. 5. The skincare composition according to claim 4, wherein the antioxidant comprises carnosine. 6. The skin care composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reducing agent is selected from sulfites, acetyl farnesylcysteine, aminoethane sulfinic acid, butyrolactone thiol, dithionyl diacetate ethanolamine salt, ethyl mercaptoside, formamidinium sulfinic acid, hydrolyzed yeast/lactobacter/ubiquinone enzyme, sodium glyoxylate, sodium hydroxymethanesulfonate, sodium formaldehyde bisulfite, sodium mercaptoacetate, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, potassium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium thiosulfate, potassium metabisulfite, or combinations thereof. 7. The skin care composition according to claim 6, wherein the reducing agent comprises a sulfite selected from the group consisting of sodium sulfite, potassium sulfite, ammonium bisulfite, ammonium sulfite, potassium metabisulfite, potassium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium dithionite, sodium metabisulfite, or mixtures thereof. 8. The skincare composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the skincare composition further comprises one or more chelating agents, the one or more chelating agents including disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, hydroxyethyl phosphate, sodium phytate, phytic acid, oxalic acid and its derivatives, sodium gluconate, trisodium ethylenediaminedisuccinate, or combinations thereof. 9. The skin care composition according to claim 8, wherein the chelating agent comprises disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate. 10. The skin care composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to a color testing method, the b value of the composition is less than 25, preferably less than 20, and more preferably less than 15. 11. The skincare composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the skincare composition is free of formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers. 12. The skincare composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the skincare composition is free of parabens and sulfate-based surfactants. 13. The skin care composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the dispersed phase further comprises about 1% to about 35% silicone oil, preferably about 5% to about 30% silicone oil, and more preferably about 10% to about 28% silicone oil. 14. The skincare composition according to any of the preceding claims, The cell wall disruptor mentioned therein includes hydroxyacetophenone, and the preservative system further comprises an aromatic alcohol selected from the following: phenoxyethanol, croterol, tyrosol, phenethyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof; The one or more antioxidants mentioned above include carnosine; The one or more reducing agents mentioned above include sodium sulfite. 15. The skin care composition according to claim 14, wherein the aromatic alcohol comprises phenoxyethanol.