Patent Publication Number: US-2022226229-A1

Title: Personal cleansing compositions

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to shampoo compositions for use on hair. 
     BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART 
     US 2012/276210 relates to shampoo compositions containing polyacrylate microcapsules, wherein the polyacrylate microcapsules have increased deposition onto hair. A shampoo composition is disclosed comprising: 
     (a) from about 0.001% to about 10% of an anionic charged polyacrylate microcapsule;
 
(b) from about 0.01% to about 2% of a cationic deposition polymer; and
 
(c) from about 2% to about 25% of a detersive surfactant; and
 
(d) a carrier.
 
     WO 2007/065537 addresses a problem associated with the use of cationic deposition polymers in that it is difficult to obtain a good balance of conditioning benefits at different stages of the shampooing process, and discloses an aqueous shampoo composition comprising: 
     (i) one or more anionic cleansing surfactants;
 
(ii) discrete, dispersed droplets of a water-insoluble conditioning agent with a mean droplet diameter (D3,2) of 4 micrometres or less;
 
(iii) one or more cationic polymers (A) selected from cationically modified acrylamide polymers having a cationic charge density at pH7 of less than 1.0 meq per gram, cationically modified celluloses and mixtures thereof, and
 
(iv) one or more cationic polymers (B) selected from cationically modified acrylamide polymers having a cationic charge density at pH7 of greater than 1.0 meq per gram, cationically modified polygalactomannans, and mixtures thereof, wherein the composition comprises a cationic polymer other than a cationically modified acrylamide polymer.
 
     WO 2013/122861 discloses a conditioning composition additive for providing immediate and prolonged benefit to a keratin surface comprising: 
     a) a hydrophobically modified poly(acrylamido-N-propyltrimethylammonium chloride) (polyAPTAC) and b) water;
 
wherein the hydrophobically modified polyAPTAC is present in an amount of from 0.1 wt % to 20 wt % of the total weight of the conditioning composition additive and has a cationic charge density in the range of about 1 to 8 meq/g.
 
     D1 US20110002868 discloses a cationic polyelectrolyte formulation comprising a cationic synthetic water soluble polyelectrolyte, a surfactant and a solvent for use in personal care and household applications. 
     D2 US2012/0076747 discloses a surfactant-based cleansing composition comprising, a surfactant, cationic water-soluble polyelectrolytes and the use of the composition in personal care and household care cleansing compositions for treating keratinous substrates, textile substance and hard-surface substrates. 
     D3 WO2012110387 Discloses Cleansing Compositions Comprising Two Different Cationic Polymers, Including a Quar Derivative, and a Polysiloxane. 
     D4 WO2018/007332 discloses personal cleansing composition comprising: (i) an aqueous continuous phase including cleansing surfactant; (ii) one or more oily liquid conditioning agents for skin and/or hair wherein the agent is solubilized in wormlike micelles in the aqueous continuous phase via the incorporation of at least one inorganic electrolyte and at least one linker molecule; (iii) one or more cationic deposition polymers which are selected from cationic polygalactomannans having a mean charge density at pH7 from 0.2 to 2 meq per gram; and (iv) a hair substantive cationic conditioning polymer which is a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride. 
     D5 US20120076747 discloses personal cleansing compositions comprising anionic cleansing surfactants, an emulsified silicone, microcapsules containing a benefit agent, and a combination of cationic polymers composition a cationic polygalactomannan and an acrylaminopropyltrimonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer. 
     Many cleansing and conditioning products for use on hair contain silicones. It is desirable to deposit silicone onto hair in order to confer conditioning and sensory benefits. A typical hair wash process involves first washing hair with a shampoo and rinsing, followed by applying a conditioner product and rinsing. 
     Silicone can be deposited onto hair from a shampoo. 
     However, we have found that this silicone is largely deterged when the hair is subsequently washed with a conditioner as part of a typical washing process. A consequence of this is that it is necessary to include silicone in the conditioner in order to provide conditioning benefits that are apparent when the hair has dried. 
     We have now found that a shampoo comprising a conditioning polymer which is an APTAC polymer, preferably selected from a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride and a (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer can enhance the adhesion of the silicone delivered from shampoo and help retain it on hair during and after washing with a conditioner. 
     When the hair is washed with a shampoo containing a conditioning polymer which is an APTAC polymer, preferably selected from a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride and a (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer and then a silicone free conditioner, it has a significantly higher disposition of silicone compared to hair that is washed with a 1% silicone containing shampoo and then a silicone free conditioner. 
     In dry friction data, the hair that is washed with a shampoo containing a conditioning polymer which is an APTAC polymer, preferably selected from a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride and a (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer and then a silicone free conditioner has a significantly lower dry friction compared to the hair that is washed with a 1% silicone containing shampoo and then a silicone free conditioner. 
     Use of such conditioning polymers in a shampoo composition having a combination of anionic and amphoteric surfactants at enriched amphoteric ratios, reduced surfactant concentrations and specific average SLES ethoxylation levels, gives excellent cleaning, deposition of benefit agents and desirable rheological and foaming characteristics, whilst maintaining mildness to skin and hair lipids and leaving hair feeling smooth and soft. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In a first aspect the present invention provides an aqueous shampoo for hair comprising:—
         a. a pre-formed emulsified silicone;   b. a cationic deposition polymer;   c. a hair substantive cationic conditioning polymer which is an APTAC polymer having a molecular weight of less than 1 million Daltons, preferably selected from a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride and a (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer;   d. from 3 to less than 12 wt %, preferably 5 to less than 10 wt %, based on total weight of the composition, of a cleansing surfactant, which has an average degree of ethoxylation of E n , where n is a number that represents the average degree of ethoxylation and ranges from 0 to 3;   e. a co-surfactant which is a betaine surfactant selected from an amido betaine amphoteric surfactant of general formula (II):       

     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
         
         
           
             
               
                 where m is 2 or 3; R 1 C(O) is selected from linear or branched, saturated or 
                 unsaturated acyl groups having from 8 to 22 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof; and R 2  and R 3  are each independently selected from alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or carboxyalkyl groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof; 
                 and an alkyl betaine of general formula (III): 
               
             
           
         
       
    
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
         
         
           
             
               
                 wherein R is a coco chain, 
               
             
             and mixtures thereof; and 
             f. a suspending agent
 
in which the weight ratio of (d) to (e) ranges from 1:1 to 4.5:1 and the pH of the composition is from 3 to 6.5.
 
           
         
       
    
     In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method of treating hair comprising the steps of applying to hair the composition of the first aspect and performing a first rinse with water. 
     Silicone is deposited onto the hair from the composition of the invention, during the method of the invention. 
     Preferably, the method comprises a subsequent steps of applying a conditioner composition and then performing a second rinse with water. Following these subsequent steps, the silicone that is deposited on the hair from the composition of the invention remains on the hair. 
     In a third aspect, the present invention provides a use of a hair substantive cationic conditioning polymer which is an APTAC polymer, preferably selected from a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride and a (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer in shampoo to retain silicone on the hair. 
     Some or all of the silicone is retained on the hair following rinse with water, and/or following treatment with a hair conditioner and a second rinse. By “retained” on the hair is meant that the silicone remains on the hair. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The Emulsified Silicone 
     The composition of the invention comprises a pre-formed emulsified silicone. Mixtures of emulsified silicones can be used. 
     Suitable silicones include polydiorganosiloxanes, in particular polydimethylsiloxanes which have the CTFA designation dimethicone. Also suitable for use compositions of the invention are polydimethyl siloxanes having hydroxyl end groups, which have the CTFA designation dimethiconol. Also suitable for use in compositions of the invention are silicone gums having a slight degree of cross-linking, as are described for example in WO 96/31188. 
     The viscosity of the emulsified silicone itself (not the emulsion or the final hair composition) is typically at least 10,000 cst at 25° C. the viscosity of the silicone itself is preferably at least 60,000 cst, most preferably at least 500,000 cst, ideally at least 1,000,000 cst. Preferably the viscosity does not exceed 109 cst for ease of formulation. 
     Emulsified silicones for use in the compositions of the invention will typically have a D90 silicone droplet size in the composition of less than 30, preferably less than 20, more preferably less than 10 micron, ideally from 0.01 to 1 micron. Silicone emulsions having an average silicone droplet size (D50) of 0.15 micron are generally termed microemulsions. 
     Silicone particle size may be measured by means of a laser light scattering technique, for example using a 2600D Particle Sizer from Malvern Instruments. 
     Examples of suitable pre-formed emulsions include Xiameter MEM 1785 and microemulsion DC2-1865 available from Dow Corning. These are emulsions/microemulsions of dimethiconol. Cross-linked silicone gums are also available in a pre-emulsified form, which is advantageous for ease of formulation. 
     A further preferred class of emulsified silicones for inclusion in compositions of the invention are amino functional silicones. By “amino functional silicone” is meant a silicone containing at least one primary, secondary or tertiary amine group, or a quaternary ammonium group. Examples of suitable amino functional silicones include: polysiloxanes having the CTFA designation “amodimethicone”. 
     Specific examples of amino functional silicones suitable for use in the invention are the aminosilicone oils DC2-8220, DC2-8166 and DC2-8566 (all ex Dow Corning). 
     Suitable quaternary silicone polymers are described in EP-A-0 530 974. A preferred quaternary silicone polymer is K3474, ex Goldschmidt. 
     Also suitable are emulsions of amino functional silicone oils with non ionic and/or cationic surfactant. 
     Pre-formed emulsions of amino functional silicone are also available from suppliers of silicone oils such as Dow Corning and General Electric. Specific examples include DC939 Cationic Emulsion and the non-ionic emulsions DC2-7224, DC2-8467, DC2-8177 and DC2-8154 (all ex Dow Corning). 
     Preferably, the silicone is selected from the group consisting of dimethicone, dimethiconol, amodimethicone and mixtures thereof. Also preferred are blends of amino-functionalised silicones with dimethicones. 
     The total amount of silicone, at 100% activity, is preferably from 0.01 wt % to 10% wt of the total composition more preferably from 0.1 wt % to 5 wt %, most preferably 0.5 wt % to 3 wt % is a suitable level, 
     The Deposition Polymer 
     The composition of the invention includes a cationic deposition polymer which may be selected from cationic polygalactomannans having a mean charge density at pH7 from 0.2 to 2 meq per gram. Such polymers may serve to enhance the delivery of conditioning agents from the composition to the skin and/or hair surface during consumer use, thereby improving the conditioning benefits obtained. Mixtures of cationic deposition polymers may be employed. 
     The term “charge density” in the context of this invention refers to the ratio of the number of positive charges on a monomeric unit of which a polymer is comprised to the molecular weight of the monomeric unit. The charge density multiplied by the polymer molecular weight determines the number of positively charged sites on a given polymer chain. 
     The polygalactomannans are polysaccharides composed principally of galactose and mannose units and are usually found in the endosperm of leguminous seeds, such as guar, locust bean, honey locust, flame tree, and the like. Guar flour is composed mostly of a galactomannan which is essentially a straight chain mannan with single membered galactose branches. The mannose units are linked in a 1-4-β-glycosidic linkage and the galactose branching takes place by means of a 1-6 linkage on alternate mannose units. The ratio of galactose to mannose in the guar polymer is therefore one to two. 
     Suitable cationic polygalactomannans for use in the invention include polygalactomannans, such as guars, and polygalactomannan derivatives, such as hydroxyalkyl guars (for example hydroxyethyl guars or hydroxypropyl guars), that have been cationically modified by chemical reaction with one or more derivatizing agents. 
     Derivatizing agents typically contain a reactive functional group, such as an epoxy group, a halide group, an ester group, an anhydride group or an ethylenically unsaturated group, and at least one cationic group such as a cationic nitrogen group, more typically a quaternary ammonium group. The derivatization reaction typically introduces lateral cationic groups on the polygalactomannan backbone, generally linked via ether bonds in which the oxygen atom corresponds to hydroxyl groups on the polygalactomannan backbone which have reacted. 
     Preferred cationic polygalactomannans for use in the invention include guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chlorides. 
     Guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chlorides for use in the invention are generally comprised of a nonionic guar gum backbone that is functionalized with ether-linked 2-hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride groups, and are typically prepared by the reaction of guar gum with N-(3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride. 
     Cationic polygalactomannans for use in the invention (preferably guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chlorides) generally have an average molecular weight (weight average molecular mass (Mw) determined by size exclusion chromatography) in the range 500,000 to 3 million g/mol, more preferably 800,000 to 2.5 million g/mol. 
     Cationic polygalactomannans for use in the invention generally have a charge density ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 meq/g. 
     Preferably the cationic polygalactomannans are selected from guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chlorides having a charge density ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 meq/g (and mixtures thereof). 
     The cationic charge density of the polymer is suitably determined via the Kjeldahl method as described in the US Pharmacopoeia under chemical tests for nitrogen determination. 
     Specific examples of preferred cationic polygalactomannans are guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chlorides having a cationic charge density from 0.5 to 1.1 meq/g. 
     Also suitable are mixtures of cationic polygalactomannans in which one has a cationic charge density from 0.5 to 1.1 meq/g, and one has a cationic charge density from 1.1 to 1.8 meq per gram. 
     Specific examples of preferred mixtures of cationic polygalactomannans are mixtures of guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chlorides in which one has a cationic charge density from 0.5 to 1.1 meq/g, and one has a cationic charge density from 1.1 to 1.8 meq per gram. 
     Cationic polygalactomannans for use in the invention are commercially available from Rhodia as JAGUAR® C13S, JAGUAR® C14 and JAGUAR® C17. 
     In a typical composition according to the invention the level of cationic polygalactomannans will generally range from 0.05 to 2%, preferably from 0.1 to 0.5, most preferably from 0.15 to 0.2% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. 
     In a preferred composition according to the invention the cationic polygalactomannans are selected from guar hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chlorides having a charge density ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 meq/g (and mixtures thereof), at a level ranging from 0.15 to 0.2% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. 
     The Hair Substantive Cationic Conditioning Polymer 
     The composition of the invention includes a hair substantive cationic conditioning polymer which is an APTAC polymer having a molecular weight of less than 1 million Daltons, preferably selected from a homopolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride and a (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer. 
     WO2013/122861 describes the synthesis of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride (APTAC) homopolymers of varying molecular weights, using a radical polymerisation reaction. According to the described method, APTAC monomer is polymerised in an aqueous medium by a discontinuous adiabatic process using an azo or persulfate radical initiator. The APTAC homopolymers so obtained have molecular weights ranging from about 100,000 g/mol to about 1,000,000 g/mol. The molecular weight can be determined by using standard analytical measurements, such as size exclusion chromatography (SEC). 
     A polymer suitable for use in the invention is commercially available from Ashland, Inc. as N-DurHance™ A-1000 Conditioning Polymer (supplied as a 20% a.i. aqueous solution of the polymer). A suitable copolymer of (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride/acrylamide copolymer is available from Ashland as N-DurHance AA2000. 
     The APTAC polymer for use in the invention, preferably has a charge density at pH 7 of greater than 3, most preferably from 4 to 6. 
     The APTAC polymer for use in the invention has a molecular weight of less than 1 million Daltons, more preferably 100,000 to 950,000 Daltons, most preferably from 200,000 to 900,000 Daltons. 
     In a preferred embodiment the APTAC polymer has a charge density at pH 7 of from 4 to 6. and a molecular weight of 100,000 to 950,000 Daltons. 
     Suitable methods of measuring charge density and molecular weight are as given above. 
     In a typical composition according to the invention the level of polymer (per se as active ingredient) generally ranges from 0.05 to 5%, more preferably from 0.1 to 2%, most preferably from 0.15 to 1% (by weight based on the total weight of the composition). 
     The Cleansing Surfactant 
     The composition of the invention comprises from 3 to less than 12 wt %, preferably 5 to less than 10 wt %, based on total weight of the composition, of a cleansing surfactant, which has an average degree of ethoxylation of E n , where n is a number that represents the average degree of ethoxylation and ranges from 0 to 3. 
     The cleansing surfactant may suitably be selected from one or more anionic surfactants. 
     Typical anionic surfactants for use as cleansing surfactants in the invention include those surface active agents which contain an organic hydrophobic group with from 8 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 14 carbon atoms in their molecular structure; and at least one water-solubilising group which is preferably selected from sulphate, sulphonate, sarcosinate and isethionate. 
     Specific examples of such anionic surfactants include ammonium lauryl sulphate, ammonium laureth sulphate, trimethylamine lauryl sulphate, trimethylamine laureth sulphate, triethanolamine lauryl sulphate, trimethylethanolamine laureth sulphate, monoethanolamine lauryl sulphate, monoethanolamine laureth sulphate, diethanolamine lauryl sulphate, diethanolamine laureth sulphate, lauric monoglyceride sodium sulphate, sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, potassium lauryl sulphate, potassium laureth sulphate, sodium lauryl sarcosinate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, lauryl sarcosine, ammonium cocoyl sulphate, ammonium lauroyl sulphate, sodium cocoyl sulphate, sodium lauryl sulphate, potassium cocoyl sulphate, potassium lauryl sulphate, monoethanolamine cocoyl sulphate, monoethanolamine lauryl sulphate, sodium tridecyl benzene sulphonate, sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate, sodium cocoyl isethionate and mixtures thereof. 
     Mixtures of any of the above described materials may also be used. 
     Preferably the cleansing surfactant is (i) one or more alkyl ether sulfate anionic surfactants of general formula (I) 
       R—O—(CH 2 CH 2 —O) n —SO 3   − M +   (1)
 
     in which R is selected from linear or branched alkyl groups having from 10 to 14 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof; n is a number that represents the average degree of ethoxylation and ranges from 0 to 3, preferably 1 to 3, most preferably 1.5 to 2.5; and M is a solubilizing cation. 
     Preferably R in general formula (I) is a C 10  or C 12  linear alkyl group. 
     Preferably M in general formula (I) is selected from alkali metal cations (such as sodium or potassium), ammonium cations and substituted ammonium cations (such as alkylammonium, alkanolammonium or glucammonium). 
     Commercially produced alkyl ether sulfate anionic surfactants of general formula (I) may be made by sulfating fatty alcohol ethoxylates formed by reaction of ethylene oxide with fatty alcohol of formula R—OH (where R is as defined above). The reaction of the fatty alcohol with ethylene oxide typically yields mixtures of homologues which are alcohol polyethylene glycol ethers. Unreacted fatty alcohol may also be present in the mixture. 
     The distribution curve of the homologue mixture normally shows a maximum in the range from n−3 to n+3, where n denotes the average degree of ethoxylation in general formula (I). The value of n in general formula may be an integer or fraction, and may governed by factors such as the starting molar ratio of ethylene oxide to fatty alcohol in the reaction mixture, and the temperature, time and catalytic conditions under which the reaction takes place. Average n ranges from 0 to 3, preferably from 1 to 3, most preferably from 1.5 to 2.5. Blends of materials having different ethoxylation levels can be used to achieve an average degree of ethoxylation within the range. 
     Particularly preferred is SLES with an average of 2EO (i.e. sodium lauryl ether sulfate in which the average degree of ethoxylation n is 2.0). A suitable example of such a material is TEXAPON® N 70 (ex BASF). A further example is sodium pareth ether sulphate, preferably with an average of 2EO. 
     All amounts referred to herein are based on 100% activity unless otherwise stated. 
     All amounts referred to herein are based on 100% activity (or “active”) unless otherwise stated. By 100% activity (or “active”) is meant that the material is not diluted and is at 100% v/v or wt/wt. Many materials used in personal care formulations are commercially available at different active concentrations, for example at 70% active or 60% active. For example, 100 ml of 70% active surfactant provides the same amount of active material as 70 ml of 100% active surfactant. Therefore, in order to provide for variations in activities of materials, all amounts are based on 100% active materials. 
     The Co-Surfactant 
     The composition of the invention comprises a co-surfactant. 
     Preferably the co-surfactant is selected from an amphoteric surfactant and a zwitterionic surfactant, most preferably an amphoteric surfactant. 
     Preferably, the co-surfactant is a betaine surfactant selected from an amido betaine amphoteric surfactant of general formula (II): 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     where m is 2 or 3; R 1 C(O) is selected from linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated acyl groups having from 8 to 22 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof; and R 2  and R 3  are each independently selected from alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or carboxyalkyl groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof;
 
an alkyl betaine of general formula (III):
 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
         
         
           
             wherein R is a cocoyl group,
 
and mixtures thereof.
 
           
         
       
    
     Preferably, R 1 C(O) in general formula (II) is selected from linear acyl groups having from C 8  to C 18  carbon atoms and 0, 1, 2 or 3 double bonds and mixtures thereof. 
     More preferably, R 1 C(O) in general formula (II) is selected from lauroyl, myristoyl, palmitoyl, stearoyl, oleoyl and cocoyl groups and mixtures thereof. Most preferably R 1 C(O) in general formula (II) is a cocoyl group. 
     Preferably R 2  and R 3  in general formula (II) are both methyl. 
     Mixtures of any of the above described materials may also be used. 
     The amount of amido betaine amphoteric surfactants of general formula (II) and (Ill) preferably ranges from 1 to 3.5 wt %, more preferably from 1 to 3 wt %, most preferably from 1.5 to 2.5 wt % (based on the total weight of the composition). 
     In a preferred composition according to the invention the amido betaine amphoteric surfactant of general formula (II) is cocamidopropylbetaine, in an amount ranging from 1 to 3% (by weight based on the total weight of the composition). 
     R in general formula (III) is a cocoyl group. This is preferably a blend of carbon chains resulting in an average carbon chain length of 12. 
     The combined amount of (i) and (ii) ranges from 5 to 10 wt %, preferably from 5 to 9 wt % (based on the total weight of the composition). 
     Preferably the weight ratio of the alkyl ether sulfate anionic surfactant (i) to the amido betaine amphoteric surfactant (ii) ranges from 1:1 to 4:1 [4.5:1?], more preferably from 1.5:1 to 3.75:1 and most preferably 2:1 to 3.5:1. 
     An especially preferred composition according to the invention comprises (d) SLES 2EO in an amount ranging from 3 to less than 7 wt % (by weight based on the total weight of the composition and 100% active material); and (e) cocamidopropylbetaine in an amount ranging from 1 to 3 wt % (by weight based on the total weight of the composition and 100% active material). 
     The Suspending Agent 
     The composition of the invention includes one or more suspending agents. Suitable suspending agents are selected from polyacrylic acids, cross-linked polymers of acrylic acid, copolymers of acrylic acid with a hydrophobic monomer, copolymers of carboxylic acid-containing monomers and acrylic esters, cross-linked copolymers of acrylic acid and acrylate esters, heteropolysaccharide gums and long chain acyl derivatives. The long chain acyl derivative is desirably selected from ethylene glycol stearate, alkanolamides of fatty acids having from 16 to 22 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof. Ethylene glycol distearate and polyethylene glycol 3 distearate are preferred long chain acyl derivatives, since these impart pearlescence to the composition. Polyacrylic acid is available commercially as Carbopol 420, Carbopol 488 or Carbopol 493. Polymers of acrylic acid cross-linked with a polyfunctional agent may also be used; they are available commercially as Carbopol 910, Carbopol 934, Carbopol 941 and Carbopol 980. An example of a suitable copolymer of a carboxylic acid containing monomer and acrylic acid esters is Carbopol 1342. All Carbopol (trademark) materials are available from Goodrich. 
     Suitable cross-linked polymers of acrylic acid and acrylate esters are Pemulen TR1 or Pemulen TR2. A suitable heteropolysaccharide gum is xanthan gum, for example that available as Kelzan mu. 
     Mixtures of any of the above suspending agents may be used. Preferred is a mixture of cross-linked polymer of acrylic acid and long chain acyl derivative. 
     The suspending agent will generally be present in a shampoo composition for use in the invention at levels of from 0.1 to 10%, preferably from 0.15 to 6%, more preferably from 0.2 to 4% by total weight of suspending agent based on the total weight of the composition 
     The aqueous composition of the invention suitably comprises from about 50 to about 90%, preferably from about 55 to about 85%, more preferably from about 60 to about 85%, most preferably from about 65 to about 83% water (by weight based on the total weight of the composition). 
     A preferred component of the composition is an inorganic electrolyte. Suitable inorganic electrolytes for use in the invention include metal chlorides (such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, zinc chloride, ferric chloride and aluminium chloride) and metal sulphates (such as sodium sulphate and magnesium sulphate). The inorganic electrolyte is used to assist in the solubilisation of oily components and to provide viscosity to the composition. 
     Examples of preferred inorganic electrolytes for use in the invention include sodium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium sulphate and mixtures thereof. 
     Mixtures of any of the above described materials may also be suitable. 
     When included, the level of inorganic electrolyte in compositions of the invention generally ranges from about 1 to about 25%, preferably from about 1.5 to about 20% (by total weight inorganic electrolyte based on the total weight of the composition). 
     The composition of the invention may suitably have a viscosity ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 mPa·s, preferably from 4,000 to 9,000 mPa·s when measured using a Brookfield V2 viscometer (spindle RTV5, 1 minute, 20 rpm) at 30° C. 
     A composition according to the invention may contain further optional ingredients to enhance performance and/or consumer acceptability. Examples of such ingredients include fragrance, dyes and pigments and pH adjusting agents. Each of these ingredients will be present in an amount effective to accomplish its purpose. Generally, these optional ingredients are included individually at a level of up to 5% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. 
     The pH of the composition of the invention suitably ranges from 3.0 to 7.0, and preferably ranges from 3.0 to 6.5, more preferably from 4 to 5.1. 
     The composition of the invention is primarily intended for topical application to the hair and scalp. 
     Most preferably the composition of the invention is topically applied to the hair and then massaged into the hair and scalp. The composition is then rinsed off the hair and scalp with water prior to drying the hair. 
     The invention will be further illustrated by the following, non-limiting Examples. 
     EXAMPLES 
     Example 1: Compositions 1-2, in Accordance with the Invention and Comparative Compositions A-B 
     Hair cleansing shampoo formulations were prepared, having ingredients as shown in Table 1. Compositions 1-2 are in accordance with the invention; Compositions A-B are comparative examples. All weight percentages (wt %) quoted are by weight based on total weight unless otherwise stated. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Compositions (wt %) of Compositions 1-2, in accordance 
               
               
                 with the invention, Comparative Compositions A-B 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 COMPO- 
                 COMPO- 
                 COMPO- 
                 COMPO- 
               
               
                   
                 SITION A 
                 SITION 1 
                 SITION B 
                 SITION 2 
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 INGREDIENT 
                 wt % 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Sodium laureth sulphate 
                 6.8 
                 6.8 
                 6 
                 6 
               
               
                 (1EO) 
               
               
                 Cocamidopropyl betaine 
                 3.2 
                 3.2 
                 2 
                 2 
               
               
                 (CAPB) 
               
               
                 Guar hydroxypropyl 
                 0.2 
                 0.2 
                 0.2 
                 0.2 
               
               
                 trimonium chloride 
               
               
                 Dimethiconol* 
                 3   
                 3 
                 3 
                 3 
               
               
                 Carbomer 
                 0.4 
                 0.4 
                 0.4 
                 0.4 
               
               
                 Cationic conditioning 
                 — 
                 1 
                 — 
                 1 
               
               
                 polymer ** 
               
               
                 Sodium chloride 
                 0.2 
                 0.2 
                 0.2 
                 0.2 
               
               
                 Water, and minors 
                 to 100% 
                 to 100% 
                 to 100% 
                 to 100% 
               
               
                 (perfume, preservatives, 
               
               
                 pH adjusters) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 *Emulsion of dimethiconol with anionic emulsifier, average particle size &lt;1 micron (ex Dow) 
               
               
                 ** N-DurHance ™ A-1000 conditioning polymer (ex Ashland Inc.); 20% active 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The shampoos Compositions 1-2 and Comparative Compositions A-B were prepared by the following method:
     1. The cationic conditioning polymer was thoroughly dispersed in water.   2. The CAPB was then added.   3. The cleansing surfactant was added to the aqueous mixture and fully dispersed.   4. The suspending agent (carbomer) was added.   5. The guar polymer was dispersed in water and added to the mixture.   6. The silicone was then added with stirring and   7. The remaining minor ingredients were added.   8. Finally, the pH and viscosity of the shampoo were adjusted using pH adjuster (for example, citric acid) and sodium chloride respectively.   

     Example 2: Treatment of Hair with Compositions 1-2 and Comparative Compositions A-B 
     The hair used was dark brown European hair, in switches of 2.5 g weight and 6 inch length. 
     This is referred to in these examples as Virgin hair. 
     Bleached hair was prepared as follows: 
     Hair was bleached once for 30 min with Platine Precision White Compact Lightening Powder (L&#39;Oreal Professionnel Paris, Paris, France) mixed with 9% cream peroxide, 30 ‘vol’ (Excel GS Ltd, UK) (60 g of powder mixed with 120 g cream peroxide). Hair was then rinsed with water for 2 minutes. 
     The formulations described in Table 1 were used to treat the hair during a typical washing protocol. The treated hair was then assessed for the level of silicone deposited onto the surface as well as the level of friction when the hair was dry. 
     Hair was treated with shampoo Compositions 1-2 and Comparative Compositions A-B using the following method:— 
     The hair fibres were held under running water for 30 seconds, shampoo applied at a dose of 0.1 ml of shampoo per 1 g of hair and rubbed into the hair for 30 seconds. Excess lather was removed by holding under running water for 30 seconds and the shampoo stage repeated. The hair was rinsed under running water for 1 minute. 
     Hair was then treated with a silicone free conditioner where 0.2 ml conditioner per gram hair was applied and rubbed in for 1 min, then rinsed for 1 min under running water. 
     Example 3: Silicone Deposition onto Hair Treated with Compositions 1-2 and Comparative Compositions A-B 
     Treated hair switches were rinsed and dried before the level of silicone deposited on the hair surface was quantified using x-ray fluorescence (XRF). 
     Five replicas were produced for each test formulation. The average amount of silicone deposited onto hair is shown in Table 2. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Deposition on silicone (ppm) onto bleached hair 
               
               
                 treated with Compositions 1-2, in accordance with 
               
               
                 the invention, Comparative Compositions A-B 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Composition 
                 Hair type 
                 Silicone Deposition (ppm) 
                 s.d. 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Composition A 
                 bleached 
                 406 
                 124.85 
               
               
                 Composition 1 
                 bleached 
                 888 
                 97.24 
               
               
                 Composition B 
                 bleached 
                 978 
                 131.94 
               
               
                 Composition 2 
                 bleached 
                 1469 
                 126.35 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     It will be seen that the level of silicone deposited onto hair is dramatically higher for Compositions 1 and 2, in accordance with the invention, than for the comparative Compositions A and B, which did not comprise the polymer. 
     Example 4: Friction of Hair Treated with Compositions 1-2 and Comparative Compositions A-B 
     In a further series of tests, formulations described in Table 1 were assessed for the level of friction following a typical hair washing protocol on switches of virgin or once-bleached dark brown European (DBE) hair. Five replicas were produced for each test formulation. The average of measured friction is shown in Table 3. 
     Hair was first washed with shampoo and conditioner as in Example 2 above. 
     The friction of the dry hair was assessed using a Texture Analyser fitted with a 500 g weight on top of the probe. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Friction of bleached hair treated with Compositions 1-2, in accordance 
               
               
                 with the invention and Comparative Compositions A-B 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Formulation 
                 Dry Friction (mm · g) 
                 s.d. 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Composition A 
                 32217 
                 4956.84 
               
               
                   
                 Composition 1 
                 23516 
                 911.85 
               
               
                   
                 Composition B 
                 25395 
                 2868.56 
               
               
                   
                 Composition 2 
                 20883 
                 769.75 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     It can be seen that hair treated with Compositions in accordance with the invention produces less friction than hair treated with Comparative Compositions A and B.