Monohydric alcohol-free composition for topical use comprising solubilized ethylcellulose

Abstract: A monohydric alcohol-free composition for topical use on human lips and skin. Said composition comprising a commercially acceptable carrier and solubilized ethylcellulose. The ethylcellulose being substantially solubilized in at least one solvent which may be a natural oil, triglyceride, propylene glycol ester, neopentyl glycol ester, fatty alcohol or mixtures thereof. The invention is advantageous in that the use of the above-described solvents in combination with ethylcellulose in a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition enables effective amounts of ethylcellulose to more easily be solubilized into the cosmetic or pharmaceutical in the absence of alcoholic solvents, thereby forming improved formulations having enhanced durability and adhesion efficacies and that are more tolerable by the skin or lips, while advantageously avoiding the use of monohydric alcoholic solvents.

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention is directed to a monohydric alcohol-free composition comprising solubilized ethylcellulose. Particularly, this invention is directed to a monohydric alcohol-free composition for topical use on human lips and skin comprising a commercially acceptable carrier and solubilized ethylcellulose. The ethylcellulose is substantially solubilized in certain solubilizing agents or mixtures thereof. The solubilized ethylcellulose is generally present in a quantity sufficient to enhance the composition's adhesiveness and durability on the lips or skin to which the composition is applied. The solubilizing agent is preferably a compound having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ wherein δa = δp 2 + δh 2 . The composition of the present invention may comprise more than one solvent to form a mixture of solvents. Said mixture of solvents preferably has a solubility parameter δa and δd within the above-described range. The invention is advantageous in that the use of the above-described solvent or solvents in combination with ethylcellulose in a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition enables effective amounts of ethylcellulose to more easily be solubilized into the composition in the absence of monohydric alcoholic solvents, thereby forming improved formulations that are more tolerable by human skin or lips. The present invention is also directed to a process for preparing cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions comprising said monohydric alcohol-free composition comprising solubilized ethylcellulose. Ethylcellulose is an ethyl ether of cellulose, and comprises a long-chain polymer consisting of anhydroglucose units joined together by acetal linkages. It has been observed that solubilized ethylcellulose functions as a hydrophobic film forming agent and a water-insoluble polymer component of cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions. It has also been observed that inclusion of solubilized ethylcellulose in cosmetic or dermatological compositions enhances the adhesion, durability, viscosity and hydrophobicity efficacy of these compositions. For instance, the inclusion of solubilized ethylcellulose in cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions for lips and skin has been found to enhance the adhesion efficacy of such compositions, and hence minimize or alleviate undesirable migration beyond the areas to which these compositions were applied. The extent to which cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions adhere to its intended surface is an important feature to consumers, particularly in lipstick, lip gloss, and other lip and skin care products. Further, solubilized ethylcellulose has also been found to enhance the durability efficacy of cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions applied to lips or skin, and hence improve the wearability of those compositions and may lessen or minimize undesirable transfer to items which may come into contact with the area of the skin or lip on which these compositions were applied. Additionally, solubilized ethylcellulose has also been found to minimize undesirable migration of cosmetics beyond those areas to which the cosmetic was applied, such as lips or a specific area of the skin. Because many compositions for lips and skin contain color and other stain causing agents, the minimization or elimination of undesirable transfer of these compositions is a significant feature to consumers. Solubilized ethylcellulose has further been observed to enhance water resistance, increase film formation on the skin and increase Skin Protection Factor (SPF) activity for sun screens. However, ethylcellulose has very limited solubility in most solvents found in cosmetic and dermatological compositions. Typically, monohydric alcohols having about 2-8 carbon atoms, such as ethanol, butanol, methanol or isopropanol, are used to more easily solubilize effective amounts of ethylcellulose in a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition. However, the drawback in using monohydric alcoholic solvents is that they are irritants and volatile, and consequently may be harmful to the skin after repeated use. There is, therefore, a need for a composition, more specifically a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition, free of monohydric alcohols and having effective amounts of solubilized ethylcellulose contained therein. Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide a C 1 -C 8 monohydric alcohol-free composition adapted for topical use on human tissue which comprises from 0.05 to 20% by weight ethylcellulose and at least 10% by weight of at least one solvent in which the ethylcellulose is substantially solubilised, said solvent being selected from the group consisting of: 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monoisostearate and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof. The ethylcellulose is preferably solubilized using a solvent, or mixture of solvents having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ wherein δa= δp 2 +δh 2 . It is a feature of this invention that such compositions are useful in cosmetic applications, such as compositions suitable for human lips or skin. Specifically, the lip cosmetic compositions of the present invention are long lasting and exhibit minimal undesirable migration above and below the lip line. It is another feature of this invention that the compositions of the present invention are useful in pharmaceutical applications, including, but not limited to dermatological applications or compositions which may be used to deliver pharmaceutically effective ingredients via topical administration in humans or animals. It is another object of this invention to provide a process for preparing such a monohydric alcohol-free composition. This process is accomplished by admixing ethylcellulose and the above-described solvent or solvents so that substantially all of the ethylcellulose is solubilized, while again advantageously avoiding the use of monohydric alcohols to achieve such solubilization. It is another feature of this invention that the process is useful in the preparation of cosmetic compositions. It is yet another feature of this invention that the process is useful in the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions. It is yet another feature of this invention to provide a process that is useful in the preparation of compositions with improved adhesion and durability efficacies. It is yet another object of this invention to provide a method of enhancing the adhesion and durability of a composition on the lips or skin. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a composition for topical use on human tissue, preferably selected from the group consisting of lips and skin, which comprises from 0.05 to 20% by weight ethylcellulose and at least 10% by weight of at lest one solvent in which the ethylcellulose is substantially solubilized, said solvent being selected from the group consisting of: 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monosiostearate, and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof. The ethylcellulose is preferably substantially solubilized in at least one solved having a solubilization force sufficient to solubilise the ethylcellulose at a temperature of 80°C to 100°C. The ethylcellulose is generally present in a quantity sufficient to contribute to the composition's adhesiveness and durability on the skin or lips to which the composition is applied. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises: (a) from about 0.05% to about 20% by weight solubilized ethylcellulose; and (b) at least 10%, and preferably up to 98%, by weight of at least one solvent component as hereinbefore defined, preferably having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ , wherein δa = δ p 2 + δh 2 , or mixtures thereof. The composition of the present invention may also comprise more than one solvent, wherein the solubility parameter of said solvents together is within the range cited above for δa and δd. The composition is particularly useful as a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition or component thereof. The present invention is also directed to a process for preparing such a monohydric alcohol-free composition, comprising the steps of: (a) providing at least 10%, and preferrrably up to about 98% by weight of at least one solvent component as hereinbefore defined, preferably having solubility parameters within the afore-cited range, and mixtures thereof; and (b) admixing the solvent with about 0.05-20% by weight of ethylcellulose. The process is particularly useful in preparing cosmetic compositions and pharmaceutical compositions, including but not limited to, pharmaceutical compositions effective in treating or preventing disease or other damage to the skin or body. The compositions of the present invention exhibit improved adhesion and durability efficacy in comparison to those compositions that contain no ethylcellulose. From these comparisons, it has been observed that solubilized ethylcellulose is an essential ingredient in improving adherence of cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions on lips or skin, particularly in reducing undesirable migration beyond those areas to which the compositions were applied. Further, it has also been observed that solubilized ethylcellulose is an essential ingredient in improving durability of a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition on lips or skin. It has also been observed that solubilized ethylcellulose reduces or minimizes undesirable migration of such compositions beyond the area to which they were applied. This feature is particularly useful in lip cosmetic compositions and compositions topically applied to the skin. In addition, the compositions of the present invention are free of monohydric alcohols, rendering such compositions more tolerable and less abrasive to the skin or lips after repeated use. Accordingly, the present invention is also directed to a process of enhancing the adhesion and durability efficacy of a composition comprising the steps of: (a) providing at least 10%, and preferably up to about 98% by weight of at least one solvent component as hereinbefore defined, preferably having solubility parameters within the afore-cited range, and mixtures thereof; and (b) admixing the solvent with about 0.05 - 20% by weight of ethylcellulose in the absence of a monohydric alcohol. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It has been discovered that highly effective, non-irritating compositions comprising up to 20% solubilized ethylcellulose in the absence of monohydric alcoholic solvents are prepared by mixing ethylcellulose with a solvent selected from the group consisting of: 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monoisostearate, and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof. The solvent preferably comprises a compound having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 )½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ wherein δa = δp 2 + δh 2 . For the purpose of this invention, and as used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "monohydric alcohol" is defined as an alcohol having 1 to 8 carbon atoms and one hydroxyl functional group, such as ethanol, butanol, methanol or isopropanol. Accordingly, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "monohydric alcohol-free" refers to a composition which does not contain and specifically excludes the use of monohydric alcohols. Ethylcellulose is a cellulose ether comprising a chain of beta anhydroglucose ether comprising a chain of beta anhydroglucose units joined together by acetal linkages. Each anhydroglucose unit has three replaceable hydroxyl groups, all or part of which may react as indicated by the following reaction: RON a +C 2 H 5 Cl → ROC 2 H 5 +NACl Complete substitution of all three hydroxyl groups would give each anhydroglucose unit a substitution value of 3 or ethoxyl content of 54.88%. The polymers of ethylcellulose which may be used in the present invention are preferably those polymers having a substitution value between 2.5 and 2.60 per anhydroglucose unit, or 44 to 50% ethoxy content. The present invention may contain from about 0.05% to about 20% by weight of ethylcellulose, based upon the total weight of the composition, in the absence of monohydric alcohols. The preferred amount of ethylcellulose is from about 0.05 to about 10% by weight of the total composition. Examples of ethylcellulose polymers suitable for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, those manufactured by Dow Chemical Corporation (Midland, Michigan) and sold under the "ETHOCEL" trade name, including "ETHOCEL Standard 7 FP Premium" and "ETHOCEL Standard 100 FP Premium" (hereinafter "ETHOCEL 7 FP" and ETHOCEL 100 FP" respectively). The physical properties of these ethylcellulose polymers are set forth in Table I. Other commercially available ethylcellulose products suitable for use in this invention include those manufactured and sold by Hercules, Inc. (Wilmington, Del.) and referred to as "K-type", "N-type", and "T-type". Description ETHOCEL 7 FP ETHOCEL 100 FP Viscosity at 25° with 5% (weight) of polymer in mixture of 20% ethanol and 80% toluene. The measure is effected using an ubhelodyde viscosimeter. 6.0 - 8.0 cp 90.0 - 110.0 cp Ethoxyl Content 48.0 - 49.5% 48.0 - 49.5% Particle Size, max. 140 µm. 150 µm. Particle Size, mean 5 - 15 µm. 30 - 60 µm. The present invention also comprises a solvent capable of forming a homogenous system with ethylcellulose. The term "homogenous system" is defined herein to mean a system (e.g. liquid, solid, gel or gas) comprising ethylcellulose and the solvent, wherein the ethylcellulose is substantially or completely solubilized in the solvent. The solvent of the present invention preferably has a solubilizing force sufficient to solubilize the ethylcellulose at a temperature of 80°C to 100°C. For the purpose of this invention, and as used in this specification and appended claims, the term "solubilization force" is defined as the solvent's ability to substantially solubilize ethylcellulose while said solvent is at a specified temperature. Preferred solvents for use in this invention are compounds having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ wherein δa = δp 2 + δh 2 . The compositions of the present invention generally contain from about 10% to about 98% by weight of such solvents individually or any combination thereof, based upon the total weight of the composition. The preferred total amount of solvent is about 60-95%, again based upon the total weight of the composition. Compounds having a solubility parameter (δa and δd) within the following range:- 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ wherein δa = δp 2 + δh 2 , are preferred solvents of the present invention. Solubility parameters for compounds used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry are listed in the Cosmetic Bench Reference ; Carol Stream IL, Allured Publishers (1992) and The Handbook of Solubility Parameters and Other Cohesion Parameters , 2nd Ed., Boca Raton, CRC Press (1992). The solubility parameter δa and δd of a compound may be determined by those having ordinary skill in the art. Compounds falling within the above described range which may be used in the solvent component of the present invention are as follows: Compound δd(J/cm 3 ) ½ δa(J/cm 3 ) ½ Propylene glycol monoisostearate 16.36 8.74 Isostearyl lactate 16.36 8.74 In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition is a cosmetic composition. In another embodiment, the composition of this invention is a pharmaceutical composition. Sun screens may be incorporated into the composition of this invention to at least partially block ultraviolet radiation from harming human skin. Organic sun screens for use in the cosmetic composition of this invention include any organic sun screen which absorbs, blocks or otherwise mitigates ultraviolet radiation. Without wishing to limit the invention in any way, such sun screen compositions include, but are not limited to, p-aminobenzoic acid, 2-ethoxyethyl-p-methoxy cinnamate, diethanolamine-p-methoxy cinnamate, digalloyl trioleate, 2,2-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, ethyl-4-bis-(hydroxypropyl) aminobenzoate, 2-ethylhexyl-2-cyano-3, 3-diphenyl acrylate, ethylhexyl-p-methoxy cinnamate, 2-ethylhexyl salicylate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, 3,3, 5-trimethylcyclohexyl salicylate, lawson with dihydroxyacetone, menthyl anthranilate, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzophenone, amyl-p-dimethylamino benzoate, 2-ethylhexyl-p-dimethylamine benzoate, 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulphonic acid, red petrolatum, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone-5-sulphonic acid, triethanolamine salicylate, and the like. In addition, suitable sun screens for use in the sun screen composition are set forth in Sunscreens Monogram, Federal Register, Vol. 58, No. 90, Proposed Rules, p. 28295 (May 12, 1993) Part B. Preferred sun screens for use in the invention are those manufactured under the PARSOL trade name such as PARSOL MCX, an octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), and PARSOL 1789, both available from Givaudan Roure. The present invention may comprise from about 2% to about 15% by weight of these sun screen agents or a mixture thereof. The preferred total amount of the sun screen agent is dependent on the SPF value desired to be obtained. Such amount may be ascertained by those skilled in the art. The present invention may also comprise a silicone component such as a volatile cyclic silicone or a volatile short chain linear silicone, linear nonvolatile silicone or mixtures of silicone fluids and ethylene oxide/propylene oxide silicone copolymers. An ethylene oxide/propylene oxide silicone copolymer component may be incorporated into the present invention to form oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions, to the extent there is water in the composition. The ethylene oxide/propylene oxide silicone copolymer is a surfactant. Examples of silicone components which may be used in the present invention include, but are not limited to, cyclomethicone, dimethicone, dimethicon silicone copolymers such as dimethicone copolyol and stearoxy dimethicone. The present invention may further comprise from about 1% to about 45% by weight of these silicone components or a mixture thereof. The preferred total amount of silicone component is dependent on the product to be obtained and may be determined by those of ordinary skill in the art. The present invention may further comprise one or more commercially acceptable carriers typically employed in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations, as is well known to those skilled in the art. Such carriers may include emollients, surfactants, humectants and water. The total amount of such carrier may range from about 0.1% to 90% of the total weight of the composition. The type of carrier to be used is dependent on the product to be obtained and may be determined by those of ordinary skill in the art. The cosmetic composition of this invention may also comprise other ingredients typically employed in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations, as is well known to those skilled in the art. For example, volatile components such as cyclomethicone or isododecane may be used in cosmetic compositions of the present invention, such as hair glosses, lip glosses, lipsticks, blusher and eye-shadow compositions. Such ingredients may also be employed in cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions of the invention in dermatological gel vehicles. Such ingredients typically accelerate drying, reduce surface oiliness, and provide improved film formation. The present invention may contain from about 2% to 45% by weight of such volatile components. The composition of the present invention above may be prepared by a method comprising: (a) providing from about 10 - 98%, for example 10 - 95% by weight of at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monoisostearate, and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof. The solvent preferably comprises a compound having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ wherein δa = δp 2 + δh 2 , and mixtures thereof; and (b) admixing the solvent with about 0.05-20% by weight of ethylcellulose, wherein the temperature is at about 80°C up to about 100°C. The method of this invention may also employ more than one solvent, wherein the solubility parameter of said solvents together is wherein the above-specified range for δa and δd. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method of this invention, the solvent is at a temperature of about 80-100°C prior to admixture with the ethylcellulose. In another preferred embodiment, the solvent-ethylcellulose mixture is heated to maintain the temperature of the admixture at about 80-100°C. Admixture may be continued via mechanical or other means until substantially all of the ethylcellulose is solubilized. Admixture may also be continued with or without nitrogen pressure and may further be continued in an open or closed container. The above method may be employed to prepare a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition. The above process may also be employed to enhance the adhesion and durability efficacy of a composition, specifically cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions such as those described herein. The types of cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions falling within the scope of the present invention may include, but are not limited to, lipsticks, lip glosses, hydrophobic pressed powder binders, hair glosses, hair conditioning agents, hydrophobic skin protectants, blushers, eye-shadows, sun screens, as well as pharmaceutical topical applications such as dermatological gel vehicles and the like. The present invention also comprises a method of enhancing the adhesion and durability efficacy of a composition on human tissue, specifically lips or skin. Said method comprising applying to said tissue compositions which include as an ingredient thereof 10-98% by weight of any solvent described herein, and mixtures thereof, and 0.05 to 20% by weight of the ethylcellulose described herein, or mixtures thereof. Such compositions to be used in such a method include cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions, including but not limited to those compositions described herein. The following formulation examples are given to further illustrate the present invention. EXAMPLE 1 ETHOCEL 7 FP Premium was solubilized at a mass rate of 5% by dispensing it in one or more of the following solvent components at 100° C with agitation: Triheptanoin Neopentyl glycol diheptanoate Propylene glycol dipelargonate Propylene glycol diethylhexanoate Neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate Propylene glycol monoisostearate Isostearyl lactate C 8 -C 10 propylene glycol diesters Capric triglyceride and caprylic triglyceride After the ETHOCEL 7 FP solubilized, the mixture was allowed to cool to room temperature. A partially translucent or transparent mixture was obtained, and remained stable at room temperature. EXAMPLE 2 A monohydric alcohol-free lip gloss composition according to the present invention was formulated as follows: COMPONENT WEIGHT % ETHOCEL 100 FP 4.00 Phase A Diisostearyl malate 39.00 Propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate 39.00 Phase B Cyclomethicone 10.00 Phase C Pigments 8.00 100.00 The ETHOCEL 100 FP is mixed with the constituents of Phase A at 95°C. The pigments are then added and crushed. Lastly, Phase B is added at 80°C and the mixture is poured into a suitable tight receptacle. The product may be applied to the lips with an applicator or a brush. EXAMPLE 3 A monohydric alcohol-free water resistant sun screen gel according to the present invention was prepared as follows: Wt. % ETHOCEL 100 FP 4.00 Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate 33.00 Dioctyl Malate (Ceraphyl 45-Van Dyk) 45.00 Octocrylene 10.00 PARSOL 1789 3.00 Octyl Methyoxycinnamate (OMC) 5.00 100.00 A clear, water resistant gel vehicle was obtained. The gel exhibited improved adhesion and durability efficacy. EXAMPLE 4 A protective, moisturizing skin treatment gel according to the present invention was prepared as follows: Wt. % ETHOCEL 100 FP 5.00 Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate 30.00 Dioctyl Malate 30.00 Cyclomethicone 35.00 100.00 A clear gel composition was obtained which formed a soft film on the skin after evaporation of the cyclomethicone. This gel may be used as a dermatological gel vehicle. Specifically, such a gel may be used to deliver pharmaceutically active agents to the skin or below the skins surface. EXAMPLE 5 A high viscosity gel composition according to the present invention was prepared as follows: Wt. % ETHOCEL 100 FP 18.50 Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate 40.75 Dioctyl Malate 40.75 100.00 After dissolution of the ETHOCEL in the solvents and cooling to room temperature, a rigid, clear gel was formed. EXAMPLE 6 A dermatological vehicle composition according to the present invention was prepared as follows: Wt. % ETHOCEL 100 FP 4.50 Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate 30.50 Dioctyl Malate 15.00 Isopropyl Hydroxy Stearate 15.00 Soy Sterol (Generol 122-Henkel) 2.00 Propylene Glycol 2.00 Cyclomethicone 31.00 100.00 A pharmaceutically active agent may also be employed in conjunction with this composition. EXAMPLE 7 A film forming hydrophobic skin protectant and skin gloss composition according to the present invention was prepared as follows: Wt % ETHOCEL 7 FP 12.0 Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate 26.5 Dioctyl Malate 26.5 Cyclomethicone 35.0 100.00

Claims: A composition adapted for topical use on human tissue which comprises from 0.05 to 20% by weight ethylcellulose and at least 10% by weight of at least one solvent in which the ethylcellulose is substantially solubilised, said solvent being selected from the group consisting of: 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monoisostearate, and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof. The composition according to claim 1, wherein at least one solvent has a solubilization force sufficient to substantially solubilize the ethylcellulose. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the at least one solvent comprises lanolin oil. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the at least one solvent comprises a triglyceride selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the at least one solvent comprises a propylene glycol ester selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate and mixtures thereof. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the at least one solvent comprises a neopentyl glycol ester selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the at least one solvent comprises isostearyl lactate. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the at least one solvent comprises a compound having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ . wherein δa = δ p 2 + δh 2 . The composition according to claim 2, wherein said composition comprises more than one solvent, said solvents having a combined solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ , wherein δa = δ p 2 + δh 2 . The composition according to claim 2, wherein the composition is a pharmaceutical composition. The composition according to claim 10, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is selected from the group consisting of sunscreen formulations, topical formulations, dermatological gel vehicles, hydrophobic skin protectants, water resistant gel vehicles or moisturizing skin treatment formulations. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the composition is a cosmetic composition. The cosmetic composition according to claim 12, wherein the cosmetic composition is selected from the group consisting of lipstick, lip gloss, lip rouge, hydrophobic pressed powder binder, hair gloss, hair conditioning agent, blusher and eye shadow. A method of preparing a monohydric alcohol-free composition adapted for topical use on human tissue selected from the group consisting of skin or lips, said method comprising the steps of: (a) providing from about 10-98% by weight of at least one solvent component, said at least one solvent component selected from the group consisting of: 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monoisostearate, and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof; and (b) admixing the solvent with about 0.05-20% by weight of ethylcellulose. The method according to claim 14, wherein said method is employed to enhance the adhesion efficacy of the composition. The method according to claim 14, wherein said method is employed to enhance the durability efficacy of the composition. The method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the solvent is at a temperature of about 80-100°C prior to admixture with the ethylcellulose. The method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the solvent-ethylcellulose admixture is heated to maintain the temperature of the admixture at about 80-100°C. The method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein admixing the solvent and ethylcellulose continues until substantially all of the ethylcellulose is solubilized. The method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the method is employed to prepare a cosmetic composition. A method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the method is employed to prepare a pharmaceutical composition. A method according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the at least one solvent is a compound having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ , wherein δa = δ p 2 + δh 2 . A method of enhancing the adhesion efficacy of a monohydric alcohol-free composition on human tissue selected from the group consisting of lips and skin; said method comprising applying to said tissue the composition which includes as an ingredient thereof: (a) from about 0.05-20% by weight ethylcellulose; the ethylcellulose being substantially solubilized in at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of: 1) lanolin oil; 2) triglycerides selected from the group consisting of C 8 to C 10 triglycerides, triheptanoin, capric triglyceride, caprylic triglyceride and mixtures thereof; 3) propylene glycol esters selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol diethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol monoisostearate, and mixtures thereof; 4) neopentyl glycol esters selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate and mixtures thereof; 5) isostearyl lactate; and 6) mixtures thereof; and (b) said solvent comprising 10-98 weight percent of the total weight of the composition. The method according to claim 23, wherein said method is employed to enhance the durability efficacy of a monohydric alcohol-free composition on said human tissue selected from the group consisting of human skin and lips. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the at least one solvent is a compound having a solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ , wherein δa = δ p 2 + δh 2 . The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein said method employs more than one solvent, said solvents having a combined solubility parameter δa and δd within the following range: 15.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δd ≤ 18.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ 8.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ ≤ δa ≤ 10.00 (J/cm 3 ) ½ , wherein δa = δ p 2 + δh 2 . The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the composition is a cosmetic composition. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the composition is a pharmaceutical composition. The method according to claim 27, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is selected from the group consisting of sunscreen formulations, topical formulations, dermatological gel vehicles, hydrophobic skin protectants, water resistant gel vehicles or moisturizing skin treatment formulations. The method according to claim 27 wherein the cosmetic composition is selected from the group consisting of lipstick, lip gloss, lip rouge, hydrophobic pressed powder, hair gloss and hair conditioning agent, blusher and eye shadow. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein said at least one solvent is selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol monoisostearate and mixtures thereof.

Inventors: ARNAUD PASCAL, THAU PAUL, ARNAUD, PASCAL, THAU, PAUL
Applicants: OREAL, L'OREAL S.A.
Application year: 1998
Main classification: A61K7
IPC codes: A61K8, A61Q19, A61Q1, A61Q17, A61K47