HK1162350A - Hair care compositions, methods, and articles of commerce that can increase the appearance of thicker and fuller hair - Google Patents

Description

Hair care compositions, methods and articles of commerce that can enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair

Technical Field

The present invention relates to hair care compositions, methods and articles of commerce that can enhance the appearance of thicker and/or fuller hair. The invention also relates to methods of marketing such compositions.

Background

There are many attributes that contribute to the appearance of hair that is considered attractive. For example, hair with a voluminous and thick appearance is highly desirable, whether it be located in the scalp, beard, or mustache region. In contrast, hair with thin appearance is not as attractive and may even result in the feeling that a person with thin hair is older than he is chronological. Furthermore, thin hair can be more difficult to style and often cannot be shaped as many hairstyles, frustrating and having a blonded appearance. Due to the above-mentioned problems associated with thin hair, many people with thin hair spend a lot of effort and time combing, yet still do not achieve their desired hairstyle and appearance. This can lead to frustration and/or lack of confidence in his or her appearance. Both female and male consumers may experience these problems.

Accordingly, there is a need to provide consumers with a way to enhance the appearance of voluminous and thick hair, thereby achieving a younger looking, more attractive hair appearance.

Summary of The Invention

The present invention relates to hair care compositions, methods and articles of commerce that can help to enhance the appearance of fuller and/or thicker hair by increasing the diameter of the hair shaft and follicle, resulting in younger looking hair. The invention also relates to a marketing method.

In one aspect, the hair care composition comprises a synergistic mixture of an indole compound, a vitamin B3 compound, and a panthenol compound. In a particular embodiment, the synergistic mixture comprises indole-3-acetic acid, nicotinamide and panthenol. In one embodiment, the composition comprises from about 0.01% to about 10% indole compound (e.g., indole-3-acetic acid), in another embodiment from about 0.05% to about 5% indole compound, and in another embodiment from about 0.1% to about 2% indole compound. In some embodiments, the composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 25% of a vitamin B3 compound (e.g., niacinamide), in another embodiment from about 0.25% to about 15% of a vitamin B3 compound, and in another embodiment from about 1% to about 10% of a vitamin B3 compound. In some embodiments, the composition comprises from about 0.01% to about 3% of a panthenol compound (e.g., panthenol), in another embodiment from about 0.02% to about 2% of a panthenol compound, and in another embodiment from about 0.1% to about 1% of a panthenol compound. The composition may optionally comprise any other suitable ingredient as desired. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises a thickening agent that helps retain the active agent on the scalp, providing an affinity for the composition such that it does not undesirably drip onto unintended body areas, clothing, or furniture.

A wide variety of other additional components may be formulated into the compositions of the present invention. These include: hair growth agents such as minoxidil; anti-dandruff agents such as zinc 1-oxo-2-mercaptopyridine and selenium sulfide; conditioning agents such as hydrolyzed collagen, vitamins, hydrolyzed keratin, proteins, plant extracts, xanthines (e.g., caffeine), and nutrients.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a reading of the present disclosure.

Brief description of the drawings

FIG. 1A is a graphical representation of the data from Table 1A of example 13. The figure demonstrates the synergistic effect of a combination of indole-3-acetic acid ("IAA"), nicotinamide and panthenol on dermal papilla ("DP") cell survival.

FIG. 1B is a graphical representation of the data from Table 1B of example 13. The figure demonstrates the synergistic effect of a combination of indole-3-acetic acid ("IAA"), nicotinamide and panthenol on dermal papilla ("DP") cell survival.

Figure 2A is a graphical representation of the data from table 2A of example 13. The figure demonstrates the synergistic effect of a combination of indole-3-carbinol ("I3C"), nicotinamide and panthenol on dermal papilla ("DP") cell survival.

Figure 2B is a graphical representation of the data from table 2B of example 13. The figure demonstrates the synergistic effect of a combination of indole-3-carbinol ("I3C"), nicotinamide and panthenol on dermal papilla ("DP") cell survival.

Figure 3 is a graphical representation of the data from table 3 of example 13. The figure demonstrates the synergistic effect of a combination of tryptophol ("HI"), nicotinamide and panthenol on dermal papilla ("DP") cell survival.

Detailed Description

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description.

While not wishing to be bound by theory, applicants believe that topical application of the synergistic compositions of the present invention stimulates aquaporin 3 ("AQP 3") up-regulation factors, which in turn results in thicker hair shafts and hair follicles. This increase in hair shaft and follicle diameter results in a thicker and fuller hair appearance, thereby achieving a fuller and/or thicker hair appearance. Furthermore, because hair diameter is known to decrease with increasing chronological age of a person, it results in a younger looking hair appearance (Olsen, e.a. et al, "Evaluation and treatment of mass and mass pattern hair loss", j.am.acad.dermotol. vol. 52, 2 nd 2005, page 305); (Birch, M.P. et al, "hairpin, hairpin diameter and the prediction of great pattern loss", British journal of Dermatology, 2001; 144: 297-; (Courtois, M. et al, "agening and haircycles", British Journal of Dermatology, 1995; 132: 86-93); (Laccarrubba, F., et al, "video diagnostics capabilities in the form of a machine", am. J. Clin. Dermatol., 2004; 5 (3): 205-; (De Lacharri re, O. et al, "Hair Diameter Diversity", Arch. dematol., 2001; 137: 641-646): (Hoffman, R., "Trichoscan: combining approach micro surgery with digital image analysis for the measurement of hair growth i

Aquaporins ("AQPs") are a class of aquaporins found in the plasma membrane. Currently, 13 AQPs in humans have been identified and classified into two categories: aquaporins and aquaglyceroporins. Most of the identified aquaporins belong to the class of aquaporins, which are selective primarily for water channels. AQP3, 7, 9 and 10 belong to the aquaglyceroporins, which facilitate the movement of water, glycerol and various other solutes.

By immunocytochemistry, applicants have found that AQP3 is strongly expressed in proliferating hair follicle keratinocytes. In addition, applicants have also found that AQP3 immunostaining can be detected in hair shafts. Applicants believe that AQP3 up-regulating factors enhance the thickness of hair fibers and hair follicles by stimulating AQP3 expression, which allows more water and water-binding molecules to be transported into cells, thereby improving cell metabolism and increasing cell size. This results in an increased hydration of the hair cuticle layer, swelling the cuticle, making it denser. Thus, the hair fiber diameter and hair follicle diameter are increased, resulting in a thicker, fuller hair appearance.

Because consumers are unfamiliar with the use of the synergistic compositions described herein for the purpose of enhancing the appearance of thicker and fuller hair, the present invention also provides marketing methods that can be advantageously used to help potential consumers appreciate the benefits they can obtain from such products and/or their methods of use. Further, a method of marketing a first composition by comparing the first composition to a second composition is also provided. This approach helps consumers identify products that can potentially provide similar benefits.

All percentages, parts and ratios are based on the total weight of the hair care composition of the present invention and all tests are performed at 25 ℃, unless otherwise indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, all such weights as they pertain to listed ingredients are based on the active level and, therefore, do not include carriers or by-products that may be included in commercially available materials.

As used herein, the term "hair care composition" is a composition applied to hair and/or to the skin beneath the hair, including compositions for treating or caring for hair. Products contemplated by the phrase "hair care composition" include, but are not limited to, liquids, creams, wipes, hair conditioners (rinse-off and leave-on), hair tonics, shampoos, hair colorants, mousses, push lotions, shave gels, after-shave tonics and lotions, temporary hair dyes, and the like.

By "enhancing the appearance of fuller and thicker hair" is meant that the diameter of the hair follicles and/or hair shafts in a subject area of hair (e.g., scalp, beard) is increased to a statistically significant degree when an effective amount of the composition of the present invention is topically applied to the desired area for a productive period of time.

As used herein, "mammalian hair" includes hair on any body part of a mammal, and may include, but is not limited to, facial hair, head hair, or body hair. For example, it may include hair on the scalp, head, neck, , moustache, eyebrows, and sideburns.

The term "topical application" as used herein means the application or spreading of the composition of the present invention on the surface of the keratinous tissue where the hair to be affected is growing.

As used herein, the term "dermatologically acceptable" means that the composition or components thereof are suitable for use in contact with mammalian keratinous tissue without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like.

As used herein, the term "effective amount" refers to an amount of a compound or composition sufficient to increase the diameter of the hair shaft in a subject area of hair to a statistically significant degree.

As used herein, the term "period of success" refers to a period of time sufficient to increase the diameter of the hair shaft in the subject area of hair to a statistically significant degree.

As used herein, the term "safe and effective amount" refers to an amount of a compound or composition that, when used for a period of time that is efficacious, is sufficient to increase the diameter of the hair shaft in the subject area of hair to a statistically significant degree, but is low enough to avoid serious side effects, i.e., to provide a reasonable benefit to risk ratio, within the scope of sound judgment of the skilled artisan.

As used herein, the term "same color" refers to a HunterLab color space Δ E (Δ L + Δ a + Δ b) of 1 or less. The Hunter L, a, b colorimetric scale is widely accepted in the art and is described by Hunter lab (Hunter Associates Laboratory, inc., Reston, Virginia, u.s.a.) in the application note "Insight on Color" volume 8, phase 9 (2008).

In all embodiments of the invention, all percentages are by weight of the total composition, unless otherwise specifically indicated. All ratios are weight ratios unless otherwise specifically noted. All ranges are inclusive and combinable. The number of significant figures does not represent a limitation on the indicated amount nor on the accuracy of the measurement. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, all numerical quantities are understood to be modified by the word "about". All measurements are understood to be made at 25 ℃ and at ambient conditions, where "ambient conditions" refers to conditions at about one atmosphere of pressure and at about 50% relative humidity.

A. Hair care composition

In one aspect, the present invention provides hair care compositions that can be used to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair. In one embodiment, the hair care composition comprises a synergistic composition comprising an indole compound, a vitamin B3 compound, and a panthenol compound. Preferably, the indole compound, vitamin B3 compound, and panthenol compound are present in safe and effective amounts. The hair care composition may optionally comprise a dermatologically acceptable carrier, and/or any suitable optional ingredients as desired.

Specific materials are described in more detail below.

1. Indole compounds

The compositions of the present invention may comprise an indole compound. As used herein, "indole compound" refers to one or more indoles, derivatives thereof, mixtures thereof, or salts thereof. The indole compounds are represented by the following structure:

X＝H，OH，OMe

Y＝O，H₂

n is 1 or 0

Indole compounds useful herein include, but are not limited to, indole-3-acetic acid and indole-3-carbinol. In certain embodiments, the indole compound comprises an indole derivatized at the 3-and/or 5-position of the indole ring. In some embodiments, the indole compound comprises one or more of the following: indole-3-acetic acid (CAS # 87-51-4), indole-3-methanol (CAS # 700-06-1), 3-methoxymethyl indole (CAS # 78440-76-3), 5-methoxy tryptol (CAS # 712-09-4), 5-hydroxy tryptol (CAS #154-02-9), tryptol (CAS # 526-55-6), 5-methoxy-1H-indole-3-methanol (CAS #77419-78-4), 5-methyl-1H-indole-3-methanol (CAS # 215997-77-6), 5-fluoro-1H-indole-3-methanol (CAS # 773869-43-5), 5-hydroxyindol-3-yl acetic acid (CAS # 54-16-0), and 5-hydroxy-1H-indole-3-propionic acid (CAS # 103986-23-8).

In one embodiment, the composition comprises from about 0.01% to about 10% indole compound, in another embodiment from about 0.05% to about 5% indole compound, and in another embodiment from about 0.1% to about 2% indole compound.

2. Vitamin B ₃ Compound (I)

The compositions of the present invention may comprise a vitamin B3 compound. Vitamin B3 compounds are particularly useful for regulating skin conditions, as described in U.S. Pat. No.5,939,082. In some embodiments, the composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 25% of the vitamin B3 compound, in another embodiment from about 0.25% to about 15% of the vitamin B3 compound, and in another embodiment from about 1% to about 10% of the vitamin B3 compound.

As used herein, "vitamin B3 compound" refers to one or more compounds having the formula:

wherein R is-CONH₂(i.e., nicotinamide), -COOH (i.e., nicotinic acid), or-CH 2OH (i.e., nicotinyl alcohol); derivatives thereof; mixtures thereof; and renSalts of the above.

Exemplary derivatives of the above vitamin B3 compounds include nicotinic acid esters (including non-vasodilating nicotinic acid esters, such as tocopheryl nicotinate, myristyl nicotinate), nicotinyl amino acids, nicotinyl alcohol esters of carboxylic acids, nicotinic acid N-oxide, and nicotinamide N-oxide.

Suitable nicotinic acid esters include C₁-C₂₂Preferably C₁-C₁₆More preferably C₁-C₆Nicotinate esters of alcohols. The alcohols are suitably linear or branched, cyclic or acyclic, saturated or unsaturated (including aromatic), and substituted or unsubstituted. The ester is preferably non-vasodilating. As used herein, "non-vasodilating" means that the ester will not generally undergo a visible flushing response after application to the skin in the form of a composition of the present invention (the majority of the general population will not experience a visible flushing response, however such compounds may cause vasodilation not visible to the naked eye, i.e., the ester is non-rubefacient). Non-vasodilating nicotinic acid esters include tocopherol nicotinate and inositol hexanicotinate; preferably tocopherol nicotinate.

Vitamin B₃Other derivatives of the compounds are nicotinamide derivatives resulting from substitution reactions of one or more amido hydrogens. Non-limiting examples of nicotinamide derivatives useful herein include nicotinyl amino acids derived from, for example, the reaction of an activated nicotinic acid compound (e.g., azidonicotinoyl or nicotinoyl chloride) with an amino acid, and nicotinyl alcohol esters of organic carboxylic acids (e.g., C1-C18). Specific examples of such derivatives include nicotinuric acid (C8H8N2O3) and nicotinyl hydroxamic acid (C6H6N2O2) having the following chemical structure:

tobacco uric acid:

nicotinyl hydroxamic acid:

exemplary nicotinyl alcohol esters include nicotinyl alcohol esters of carboxylic acids such as salicylic acid, acetic acid, glycolic acid, palmitic acid, and the like. Other non-limiting examples of vitamin B3 compounds useful herein are 2-chloronicotinamide, 6-aminonicotinamide, 6-methylnicotinamide, N-diethylnicotinamide, N- (hydroxymethyl) -nicotinamide, quinolinic acid imide, nicotinanilide, N-benzylnicotinamide, N-ethylnicotinamide, nifenazone, nicotinaldehyde, isonicotinic acid, methylisonicotinamide, thionicotinamide, niacinamide, 1- (3-pyridylmethyl) urea, 2-mercaptonicotinic acid, nicormor, and nipramazine.

Examples of the above vitamin B3 compounds are well known in the art and are commercially available from a number of sources, such as Sigma Chemical Company (st. louis, MO); ICN Biomedicals, Inc. (Irvin, CA) and Aldrich Chemical Company (Milwaukee, Wis.).

One or more vitamin B3 compounds may be used herein. Preferred vitamin B3 compounds are niacinamide and tocopherol nicotinate. More preferably nicotinamide.

When used, nicotinamide salts, derivatives and salt derivatives are preferably those having substantially the same efficacy as nicotinamide.

Salts of the vitamin B3 compound may also be used herein. Non-limiting examples of salts of vitamin B3 compounds useful herein include organic or inorganic salts, such as inorganic salts with anionic inorganic species (e.g., chloride, bromide, iodide, carbonate, preferably chloride), and organic carboxylates (including mono-, di-and tri-C1-C18 carboxylates, e.g., acetate, salicylate, glycolate, lactate, malate, citrate, preferably mono-carboxylates such as acetate). These and other salts of the vitamin B3 compound are readily prepared by the skilled artisan, for example, as described in W.Wenner "the reaction of L-Ascorbic and D-iosarcobic Acid with Nicotinic Acid and ItsAmide" (J.organic Chemistry, Vol.14, p.22-26, 1949). Wenner describes the synthesis of nicotinamide ascorbate.

In a preferred embodiment, the ring nitrogen of the vitamin B3 compound is substantially chemically free (e.g., unbound and/or unhindered), or becomes substantially chemically free after delivery to the skin (alternatively, "chemically free" is hereinafter referred to as "uncomplexed"). More preferably, the vitamin B3 compound is substantially uncomplexed. Thus, if the composition comprises a salt or other complexed form of the vitamin B3 compound, this complexation is preferably substantially reversible, more preferably substantially reversible, after delivery of the composition to the skin. For example, the formulation should be substantially reversible at a pH of about 5.0 to about 6.0. This reversibility can be readily determined by one of ordinary skill in the art.

More preferably, the vitamin B3 compound is substantially uncomplexed in the composition prior to delivery to keratinous tissue. Exemplary methods of minimizing or preventing undesired complex formation include excluding materials that form substantially irreversible complexes or other complexes with vitamin B3 compounds, pH adjustment, ionic strength adjustment, use of surfactants, and formulation, wherein the vitamin compounds and materials with which they complex are in different phases. Such methods are well within the level of ordinary skill in the art.

Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the vitamin B3 compound comprises a limited amount of salt form, and more preferably substantially no salt of the vitamin B3 compound. The vitamin B3 compound preferably comprises less than about 50% of such salts, and more preferably is substantially free of the salt form. The vitamin B3 compound in the compositions herein having a pH of from about 4 to about 7 typically comprises less than about 50% of the salt form.

The vitamin B3 compound can be included as a substantially pure substance or as an extract obtained from a natural (e.g., plant) source by suitable physical and/or chemical separation methods. The vitamin B3 compound is preferably substantially pure, more preferably substantially pure.

3. Panthenol compounds

The compositions of the present invention may comprise a panthenol compound. As used herein, the term "panthenol compound" is broad enough to include panthenol, one or more pantothenic acid derivatives, salts thereof, and mixtures thereof. Panthenol and its derivatives may include D-panthenol ([ R ] -2, 4-dihydroxy-N- [ 3-hydroxypropyl) ] -3, 3-dimethylbutanamide), DL-panthenol, pantothenic acid and their salts (preferably calcium salt), panthenyl triacetate, royal jelly, pantethine, pantetheine, pantethine, panthenol lactose, vitamin B complex, or mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment, the composition comprises from about 0.01% to about 3%, in another embodiment from about 0.02% to about 2%, and in another embodiment from about 0.1% to about 1% panthenol.

Also suitable for use herein are compositions comprising pantothenic acid derivatives which are more stable in acidic compositions or compositions comprising acid-forming substances, such as aluminium-containing active substances, than panthenol and other similar substances. The selected pantothenic acid derivatives are most often in liquid form and are dispersed or dissolved throughout the liquid carrier component of the composition.

As used herein, the term "pantothenic acid derivatives" refers to those materials corresponding to the formula:

wherein R is₁、R₂And R₃Is hydrogen, a C2-C20 hydrocarbon, a C2-C20 carboxylic ester, or a combination thereof, provided that R1, C20,No more than two of R2 and R3 are hydrogen. In one embodiment, R₁、R₂And R₃Independently selected from hydrogen, C2-C8 hydrocarbons, C2-C8 carboxylic acid esters, or combinations thereof; in another embodiment, R₁And R₂Is hydrogen, and R₃Is a C2-C8 hydrocarbon, a C2-C8 carboxylic acid ester, or a combination thereof; in another embodiment, R₁And R₂Is hydrogen, and R₃Is ethyl. The selected pantothenic acid derivatives can be derived or obtained from any known source, which can include pantothenic acid or substances other than pantothenic acid, provided that the resulting substance has the formula defined above.

Specific non-limiting examples of selected pantothenic acid derivatives that can be used herein include panthenol ethyl, panthenol triacetate, and combinations thereof. In particular embodiments, pantothenic acid derivatives include the d-isomeric forms of such derivatives, such as d-ethyl panthenol.

4. Optional ingredients

The composition of the present invention may additionally comprise any suitable optional ingredients as desired. For example, the composition may optionally comprise other active or inactive ingredients.

A variety of additional components may be formulated into the compositions of the present invention. These include: hair growth agents such as minoxidil; anti-dandruff agents such as zinc 1-oxo-2-mercaptopyridine and selenium sulfide; conditioning agents such as hydrolyzed collagen, vitamins, hydrolyzed keratin, proteins, plant extracts, xanthines (e.g., caffeine), and nutrients.

For example, the present invention may comprise additional skin care actives selected from the group consisting of: sugar amines, retinoids, peptides, dialkanoyl hydroxyproline, hexamidine, salicylic acid, phytosterols, sunscreen actives, water soluble vitamins, oil soluble vitamins, derivatives thereof, precursors thereof, and combinations thereof. In addition, the composition may contain suitable ingredients conventionally used in the type of product specified. CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Handbook, tenth edition (published by Cosmetic, Toiletry, and france Association, inc., Washington, d.c.) (2004) (hereinafter "CTFA") describes a wide variety of non-limiting substances that can be added to the compositions herein. Examples of such ingredient classes include, but are not limited to: abrasives, absorbents, aesthetic components (such as fragrances, pigments, coloring agents/colorants, essential oils, skin sensates, astringents, and the like, e.g., clove oil, menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, eugenol, menthyl lactate, witch hazel distillate), anti-acne agents, anti-caking agents, anti-foaming agents, antimicrobial agents (such as iodopropyl butylcarbamate), antioxidants, binders, biological additives, buffering agents, bulking agents, chelating agents, chemical additives, colorants, cosmetic astringents, cosmetic biocides, denaturants, medicinal astringents, external analgesics, film formers or forming materials (e.g., polymers that contribute to the film-forming properties and substantivity of the composition, such as copolymers of eicosene and vinyl pyrrolidone), opacifiers, pH adjusters, propellants, reducing agents, sequestering agents, skin lightening agents, and skin lightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone, for example, Kojic acid, ascorbic acid, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl glucoside, pyridoxine), skin conditioning agents (e.g., humectants and occlusive agents), skin care agents (e.g., vitamin D compounds, monoterpenes, diterpenoids and triterpenoids, β -ionol, cedrol), thickeners, hair conditioning agents, and surfactants.

In one embodiment, the composition includes a thickening agent to increase the substantivity of the composition so that it does not undesirably drip onto other areas of the body, onto clothing, or onto furniture. Any suitable thickener can be used, for example, a cellulose-based thickener such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. In some embodiments, the composition comprises alcohol and/or water. In particular embodiments, the composition comprises 10-90% alcohol, or 15-75% alcohol, or 25-50% alcohol. Any suitable alcohol can be used, such as ethanol.

In one embodiment, the composition can comprise at least one nitrone derivative. Nitrones are capable of irreversibly trapping electrons and/or free radicals, thereby reducing the relative amount of oxidation potential in the microenvironment. Since the ability to detect free radicals via spectroscopic means involves detecting the spin resonance of the free radicals, these substances are referred to as "spin traps". By irreversibly binding free radicals, the spectroscopic signal is attenuated by the capture of free radicals by nitrones such as phenylbutylnitrone ("PBN"). These may include α -phenylbutylnitrone, PBN nitroxide free radical cyclohexane, 5-dimethylpyrroline N-oxide ("DMPO"), α - (4-pyridyl-1-oxide) -N-tert-butylnitrone ("POBN"), 2, 6, 6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxide, 4-hydroxytetramethylpiperidine-1-oxide, and N- (1-oxo-2, 2, 6, 6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) -N, N-dimethyl-N-hydroxyethylammonium salt, 3, 5-dibromo-4-nitrosobenzenesulfonic acid, 2-methyl-2-nitrosopropane, nitrosodisulfonic acid, α - (4-pyridyl-1-oxide) -N-tert-butylnitrone Ketones, 3, 5, 5-tetramethylpyrroline N-oxide, and 2, 4, 6-tri-tert-butylnitrosobenzene, or spin-trapping derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. In particular embodiments, the spin trap agent is PBN.

C. Method for enhancing the appearance of thicker and fuller hair

The present invention also provides methods of increasing hair shaft and hair follicle diameter, resulting in a thicker and/or fuller hair appearance. In one aspect, the method comprises applying a hair care composition comprising the synergistic composition of the present invention to the surface of the skin on which topical styling hair is growing. For example, the hair care composition can be applied to the scalp and/or face (e.g., or areas of mustache). In another embodiment, the method comprises topically applying a hair care composition comprising an effective amount of the synergistic composition to an area of mammalian skin seeking to enhance the appearance of thicker and/or fuller hair.

The hair region may be located on any body part. For example, it may grow from a skin surface located on at least a portion of the scalp or face.

In another embodiment, the method comprises administering the composition according to a regimen, wherein the regimen comprises:

(a) cleaning the scalp and/or face to form a clean scalp and/or face;

(b) topically applying said composition to said clean scalp and/or clean face.

D. Article of commerce and method of marketing

In another aspect, the present invention provides articles of commerce and methods of marketing hair care compositions that can be used to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair. In one embodiment, the article of commerce comprises:

(1) a container;

(2) a hair care composition contained in the container, wherein the hair care composition comprises an indole compound, a vitamin B3 compound, and a panthenol compound; and

(3) information, wherein the information indicates that the use of the hair care composition can enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of marketing a hair care composition that can be used to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair. In one embodiment, the method comprises:

(a) offering for sale a hair care composition comprising an indole compound, a vitamin B3 compound, and a panthenol compound;

(b) indicating that the composition can be used to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a marketing method that employs comparing a first hair care composition to a second hair care composition to market the first hair care composition. In one embodiment, the method includes offering for sale a first article of commerce, wherein the first article of commerce includes:

(a) a first hair care composition; and

(b) information, wherein the information compares the first hair care composition to a second hair care composition, wherein the second hair care composition is comprised in a second article of commerce, wherein the second article of commerce comprises:

(1) the second hair care composition comprising an indole compound, a vitamin B3 compound, and a panthenol compound; and

(2) second information, wherein the second information indicates that the second hair care composition can be used to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a marketing method that includes at least one visual cue to communicate that a first hair care composition is similar to or the same as a second hair care composition to market the first hair care composition. In one embodiment, the visual cue comprises a message. In particular embodiments, the message may include words such as "compare," "like," "similar," "attempt to replace," and the like. In another embodiment, the visual cue may comprise graphics the same as or similar to those included on or near the package of the second hair care composition. The visual cue may be located at or on any suitable location. For example, the visual cue may be located on or near the product package, or on or near the shelf.

In particular embodiments, the first hair care composition is sold in a container having at least two colors that are the same as the container in which the second hair care composition is sold. In one embodiment, the method comprises a method of marketing a first hair care composition, wherein the method comprises:

(a) offering for sale a first article of commerce, wherein the first article of commerce comprises:

(1) a first container;

(2) a first hair care composition contained in the container;

(3) a first set of graphics on the first container, wherein the first set of graphics comprises at least two colors;

(b) placing the first article of commerce within a field of view of a second article of commerce, wherein the second article of commerce comprises:

(1) a second container;

(2) a second hair care composition contained in the second container,

(3) a second set of graphics located on the second container, wherein the second set of graphics comprises:

(i) at least two colors identical to those contained in said first set of graphics; and

(ii) information wherein the information indicates that the second hair care composition can be used to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair.

As used herein, the term "consumer" or "potential consumer" refers to an actual or potential purchaser, and/or an actual or potential user, of an article of commerce and/or a hair care composition.

Any container in which a hair care composition may be stored and/or contained may be used herein. Suitable containers may include, but are not limited to, bottles, tottles (i.e., bottles supported by their dispensing ends), hoses, bags, boxes, drums, and cans. Further, the container may comprise a primary container comprising the hair care composition itself, or a secondary container comprising at least one primary container comprising the composition.

As used herein, "set of graphics" or "graphics" relates to text and/or an imagery located on the container. As used herein, "on" means integral with and/or on the container, and may include, but is not limited to, being directly on (e.g., directly printed on the container), being indirectly on (e.g., printed on a sticker that is affixed to the exterior of the container), and/or being applied to the container via any other suitable means (e.g., spraying, pasting, painting, printing, or molding).

As used herein, "information" refers to a message and may include, but is not limited to, a printed message (e.g., printed material directly or indirectly adhered to a container), an electronic message, or a broadcast message.

Optionally, the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce are capable of being located within a field of view of each other. In particular embodiments, the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce may be located adjacent to one another on a shelf or other retail display.

As used herein, "in view of each other" means that the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce are placed adjacent to each other such that a person (e.g., a potential consumer) with 20/20 naked eye vision can see the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce simultaneously. In a particular embodiment, the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce are located within 2 meters of each other. In another embodiment, the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce are located within 1 meter of each other. In a particular embodiment, the first article of commerce and the second article of commerce are located within 0.5 meters of each other.

As used herein, "similar" means providing one or more of the same consumer benefits (e.g., thicker hair) or comprising one or more of the same ingredients.

Examples

The following are non-limiting examples of the invention. The examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the present invention, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

In the examples, all concentrations are listed in weight percent and do not include materials such as diluents, fillers, and the like, unless otherwise indicated. Thus, the listed formulations comprise the listed components at the recited concentrations and do not comprise any minor materials associated with such components. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the selection of these minor components will vary depending on the physical and chemical characteristics of the particular ingredients selected to make the invention described herein.

Examples 1 to 4: shampoo examples

Examples 5 to 7: conditioner examples

Component definition

1 polydimethylsiloxane/Cyclomethicone (Cyclomethicone): blend of polydimethylsiloxane and cyclopentasiloxane having a viscosity of 18,000,000mPas, from GE Toshiba

2 polydimethylsiloxane blend: blend of polydimethylsiloxane having a viscosity of 18,000,000mPas with polydimethylsiloxane having a viscosity of 200mPas, available from GE Toshiba

3 is obtained from GE, has a viscosity of 10,000mPas, and has the following structure of formula (I):

(R₁)_aG_3-a-Si-(-OSiG₂)_n-(-OSiG_b(R₁)_2-b)_m-O-SiG_3-a(R₁)_a (I)

wherein G is methyl; a is an integer of 1; b is 0, 1 or 2, preferably 1; n is a number from 400 to about 600; m is an integer of 0; r₁To conform to the general formula CqH_2qA monovalent group of the structure L, wherein q is an integer of 3 and L is-N (CH)₃)₂

6 docosyltrimethylammonium chloride/isopropanol: genamin KDMP from Clariant

7 stearamidopropyl dimethylamine: lexamine S-13 from Inolex

8, glutamic acid: from Ajinomoto

9 cetyl alcohol: konol series, available from Shin Nihon Rika.

10 stearyl alcohol: konol series, available from Shin Nihon Rika.

11 polysorbate-20: glycosperse L-20K, available from Lonza Inc.

12 PPG-34: new Pol PP-2000 from Sanyo Kasei.

13 polyalpha-olefins: PureSyn 100 available from ExxonMobil Chemical Company

14 methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone: kathon CG from Rohm & Haas

15 panthenol: obtained from Roche.

16 panthenyl ethyl ether: obtained from Roche.

17 hydrolysis of collagen: peptein 2000, from Hormel.

18 vitamin E: emix-d, from Eisai.

19 decyl glucoside: plantare 2000UP, available from Cognis Japan Ltd.

Examples 8 to 10: examples of tonics

Example 11: common bases for dyeing examples

Examples 12 to 14: common bases for mousses

Example 11:marketing method

The shampoo package of example 1 was placed into a blue-white container and offered for sale to consumers at a retail store. The label on the container indicates that it will help to enhance the appearance of thicker and fuller hair when the shampoo is used to wash hair.

Example 12: marketing method

The shampoo contained in the blue-white bottle (referred to herein as the "subject shampoo") was located on the shelf, immediately adjacent to the shampoo of example 11. A label adhered to the subject shampoo bottle instructing the consumer to compare the subject shampoo to the shampoo of example 11.

Example 13: synergistic embodiment

An in vitro model consisting of primary human dermal papilla cells ("DP") in culture demonstrated a surprising synergistic increase in metabolically stressed dermal papilla cell survival. Primary human dermal papilla cells were metabolically stressed in reduced standard tissue culture medium for 48 hours. During this stress, the cells were treated with the following mixture delivered using DMSO vehicle. After 48 hours, Cell TiterGlo was used^TMKit (Promega) for measuring the metabolic activity of cells from the amount of ATP.

While the individual components provide little or no beneficial effect in improving stressed dermal papilla cell survival, the mixture of the three components produces a synergistic effect, achieving a statistically significant improvement in DP cell survival, not only above the calculated average, but also above the expected additive effect of the individual components. Thus, the investigators demonstrated that the combination provided a significantly greater improvement in cell viability than would be expected from the efficacy of the individual components alone or in addition to each other. The dermal papilla in normal human hair is the control center for hair diameter. Increasing dermal papilla cell survival in situ results in increased hair diameter. Thus, an increase in dermal papilla cell survival is associated with an increase in hair diameter.

Tables 1A and 1B below and their corresponding schematic representations fig. 1A and 1B demonstrate the synergistic effect between indole-3-acetic acid ("IAA"), nicotinamide and panthenol.

TABLE 1A

	Survival rate	SE	P
				Carrier	0	0.07
Nicotinamide	-0.02	0.05
				Panthenol	-0.17	0.05
IAA	-0.17	0.06
				Sum of the calculations	-0.36
Actual response	0.37	0.11	0.0069

TABLE 1B

	Survival rate	SE	P
				Carrier	0	0.07
Nicotinamide	-0.02	0.05
				Panthenol	-0.17	0.05
IAA	-0.18	0.02
				Sum of the calculations	-0.37
Actual response	0.39	0.17	0.014

Tables 2A and 2B below and their corresponding graphical representations fig. 2A and 2B demonstrate the synergistic effect between indole-3-carbinol ("I3C"), nicotinamide and panthenol.

TABLE 2A

TABLE 2B

Table 3 and corresponding graphical representation fig. 3 demonstrates the synergistic effect between tryptophol ("HI"), niacinamide and panthenol.

TABLE 3

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

Each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious 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. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims (6)

1. A hair care composition that increases hair shaft diameter to provide the appearance of thicker and fuller hair, wherein the composition comprises a safe and effective amount of:

a. an indole compound;

b. a vitamin B3 compound; and

c. a panthenol compound.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein said indole compound comprises indole-3-acetic acid, said vitamin B3 compound comprises niacinamide, and said panthenol compound comprises panthenol.

3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the composition comprises:

0.01% to 10% indole-3-acetic acid;

b.0.1% to 25% niacinamide; and

c.0.01% to 3% panthenol.

4. A method of increasing hair shaft diameter to provide the appearance of thicker and fuller hair, wherein the method comprises:

topically applying to an area where thicker or fuller hair is desired a hair care composition comprising a safe and effective amount of:

a. an indole compound;

b. a vitamin B3 compound; and

c. a panthenol compound.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the indole compound is selected from the group consisting of: indole-3-acetic acid, indole-3-methanol, 3-methoxymethyl indole, 5-methoxytryptophol, 5-hydroxytryptol, tryptophol, 5-methoxy-1H-indole-3-methanol, 5-methyl-1H-indole-3-methanol, 5-fluoro-1H-indole-3-methanol, 5-hydroxyindol-3-ylacetic acid, 5-hydroxy-1H-indole-3-propionic acid, and mixtures thereof.

6. A method of increasing hair shaft diameter to provide the appearance of thicker and fuller hair, wherein the method comprises:

topically applying to an area where thicker or fuller hair is desired a hair care composition comprising a safe and effective amount of:

0.01% to 10% indole-3-acetic acid;

b.0.1% to 25% niacinamide; and

c.0.01% to 3% panthenol.