Patent Description:
A variety of approaches have been developed to condition the hair. A common method of providing conditioning benefit is through the use of conditioning agents such as cationic surfactants and polymers, high melting point fatty compounds, low melting point oils, silicone compounds, and mixtures thereof. Most of these conditioning agents are known to provide various conditioning benefits.

For example, <CIT> from SAN-EI KAGAKU relates to a composition containing an alcohol, the composition being for blending in a hair treatment agent, and hair conditioners prepared from the hair treatment agents. SAN-EI publication discloses a variety of such compositions for blending in hair treatment agents, including compositions containing fatty alcohols and cationic surfactants, for example, in Examples <NUM>-<NUM>. The SAN-EI publication also discloses hair conditioners by using such compositions for blending, for example, in Example <NUM>-<NUM>.

In Examples <NUM>-<NUM> of the SAN-EI publication, the compositions for blending (Examples <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>) are heated up to 80oC or more, then mixed with mainly water to make hair conditioners. The compositions for blending (Examples <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>) used therein contain higher percentages of liquid material (for example, <NUM>% propylene glycol in Example <NUM>, <NUM>% of liquid petrolatum in Example <NUM>, <NUM>% of glycerin and <NUM>% of liquid petrolatum in Example <NUM>, and <NUM>% of glycerin in Example <NUM>) together with fatty alcohols and cationic surfactants.

In Example <NUM> of the SAN-EI publication, a composition for blending (Example <NUM>) is added to an emulsion cooled down below 40oC, wherein the emulsion is of water and an additive composition containing a cationic surfactant and a fatty alcohol, and further mixed with water to make hair conditioner. The composition for blending (Example <NUM>) contains ethanol, cationic surfactant, and more than <NUM>% of water, and no fatty alcohols.

SAN-EI publication also discloses preparation of hair conditioners in Examples <NUM>-<NUM>. In Example <NUM>-<NUM>, compositions for blending (Examples <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>) are heated to above 80oC, and added to water which is also heated to above 80oC, and emulsified and cooled to make hair conditioners. The compositions for blending (Examples <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>) contain cationic surfactants and fatty alcohols, and also <NUM>-<NUM>% of liquid oils (in Examples <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>) or <NUM>-<NUM>% of polyoxyethylene esters (in Examples <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>).

Another example can be <CIT> from P&G relating to a process for preparing cleansing composition comprising (a) combining a fatty alcohol and a surfactant in a premix at a temperature sufficient to allow partitioning of the surfactant into the fatty alcohol, (b) cooling the mixture below the chain melt temperature of the premix to form a gel network, (c) adding the gel network to a detersive surfactant and an aqueous carrier to form a cleansing composition. The P&G publication discloses Examples in paragraphs [<NUM>]-[<NUM>], using such gel network containing fatty alcohol and cationic surfactant.

Also, <CIT> from Kao discloses a composition that is solid at room temperature and wherein the water content is 10wt% or less, and a hair conditioner composition prepared by dispersing the solid composition in water at moderate temperatures. <CIT> from Shiseido discloses a hair conditioner composition with an extremely low water content, and from which a hair conditioner composition can easily be manufactured simply by diluting with water.

<CIT> refers to a hair care composition comprising: a discrete particle comprising an oily component, wherein the oily component comprises one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: (A) metathesized unsaturated polyol esters; (B) sucrose polyesters; (C) fatty esters with a molecular weight greater than or equal to <NUM>; and mixtures thereof, wherein the oily component has a Zero Shear Viscosity at <NUM> of from I <NUM> Pa•s to I 09Pa•s, and has a melting point of from <NUM> to <NUM>; and wherein the discrete particle has an average particle size in the hair care composition of from <NUM>. 5microns to 20microns.

<CIT> is a method of preparing a personal care composition, comprising a step of mixing a hot oil phase and a cold aqueous phase in a high shear field to form an emulsion, wherein the mixing step is conducted by using a homogenizer having a rotating member, wherein the oil phase contains from <NUM> to <NUM>% of the aqueous carrier by weight of the oil phase, and wherein the temperature of the emulsion when formed is from <NUM> to <NUM>.

<CIT> is related to a hair conditioning composition that includes a silicone polymer comprising one or more quaternary groups, at least one silicone block comprising greater than <NUM> siloxane units, at least one polyalkylene oxide structural unit, and at least one terminal ester group.

However, there remains a need for conditioning compositions to provide at least one of the followings:.

None of the existing art provides all of the advantages and benefits of the present invention.

The present invention is directed to a method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of:.

The present invention is also directed to a method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of:.

The methods of the present invention provide a product composition with at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood from a reading of the following description, and appended claims.

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.

Herein, "comprising" means that other steps and other ingredients which do not affect the end result can be added.

All percentages, parts and ratios are based upon the total weight of the compositions of the present invention, unless otherwise specified. 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.

Herein, "mixtures" is meant to include a simple combination of materials and any compounds that may result from their combination.

As used herein, "molecular weight" or "Molecular weight" refers to the weight average molecular weight unless otherwise stated. Molecular weight is measured using industry standard method, gel permeation chromatography ("GPC").

The mixture composition herein comprises a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound. The mixture composition useful herein further contains a benefit agent. These ingredients are explained later in detail. The mixtures composition are contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition, and also in view of providing at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

When the mixture compositions contain benefit agents and such benefit agents are silicones and/or perfumes, the mixture compositions may be contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% <NUM>%.

When the mixture compositions contain benefit agents and such benefit agents are coloring agents and/or mica, the mixture compositions may be contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, and more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%.

The surfactants and the high melting point fatty compounds are present in the mixture composition, with or without other ingredients, at a level by weight of the mixture composition of, preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, further more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition while containing other ingredients such as benefit agents, and also in view of providing at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

Other than the surfactants and high melting point fatty compounds, when the mixture composition contains any liquid such as water-insoluble, water-miscible, and water-soluble liquids and water, it is also preferred to control the level of such liquids, so that the total liquid level in the mixture composition can be up to <NUM>%, up to <NUM>%, more preferably up to <NUM>%, still more preferably up to <NUM>%,even more preferably up to <NUM>% by weight of the mixture composition, in view of having discrete particle of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

When the liquid is water insoluble liquid such as silicones, such water insoluble liquid can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by weight of the mixture composition of preferably up to <NUM>%, up to <NUM>%, more preferably up to <NUM>%, still more preferably up to <NUM>%, even more preferably up to <NUM>%.

When the liquid is water miscible liquid such propylene glycol and glycerin, such water miscible liquid can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by weight of the mixture composition of preferably up to <NUM>%, up to <NUM>%, more preferably up to <NUM>%, still more preferably up to <NUM>%, even more preferably up to <NUM>%.

When the liquid is water soluble liquids such as isopropylalcohol (IPA) and ethanol, such water soluble liquid can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by weight of the mixture composition of preferably up to <NUM>%, more preferably up to <NUM>%, still more preferably up to <NUM>%.

When the mixture composition contains water, it is preferred to control the level of the water so that the mixture composition contains less than <NUM>% of water, more preferably less than <NUM>%, still more preferably less than <NUM>%, even more preferably less than <NUM>%, further preferably less than <NUM>% of water, by weight of the mixture composition, in view of having discrete particle of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

Preferably in the mixture composition, the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound are contained at a level such that the weight ratio of the surfactant to the high melting point fatty compound is in the range of from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, in view of providing rheology and/or conditioning benefit.

The surfactant used for the mixture composition is a cationic surfactant. Such preferred cationic surfactants are further explained below under the title "CATIONIC SURFACTANT".

The high melting point fatty compound used for the mixture composition is explained below under the title "HIGH MELTIONG POINT FATTY COMPOUND".

The mixture composition further comprises a benefit agent in addition to the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, which are different from the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound. This benefit agent is also different from the aqueous carrier and water which may be contained in the mixture composition.

The benefit agent can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by the weight of the mixture composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>% in view of providing benefits from the benefit agents and in view of having discrete particle of the mixture composition in the aqueous composition and in the product composition.

Preferably, such benefit agent is selected from the group consisting of silicone compounds, perfumes, coloring agents to add a different color to the discrete particle from the color of the aqueous base composition, incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the aqueous base composition, and mixtures thereof.

Such silicone compounds are further explained below under the title "SILICONE COMPOUND".

Such perfumes can be anything, for example, perfume per se, and perfume micro capsule (PMC) in which perfume is encapsulated by a polymeric outer layer.

Such coloring agent can be anything, for example, pigments and dyes.

Such incompatible agents are, for example, those selected from the group consisting of: solid minerals or chemical substances that have high ionic strength and/or high surface charge and tend to cause agglomeration and/or crystallization, which are, for example, mica, salicylic acid, and metal pyrithione such as zinc pyrithione with or without ionic polymer coating or dispersion; organic oil material which is highly interactive with gel network component, for example, Hexyl Decanol, Isostearyl Isostearate;
and mixtures thereof.

Depending on the type of the benefit agent, when containing the benefit agent, the product composition may provide at least one of the following:.

The aqueous base composition can be included in the product composition at a level of q. to <NUM>% by weight of the product composition, preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, further more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the product composition, , in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

The aqueous base compositions of the present invention comprise a surfactant. The surfactant can be included in the aqueous base composition at a level of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%by weight of the aqueous base composition, in view of providing conditioning benefits.

The aqueous base compositions of the present invention comprise a high melting point fatty compound. The high melting point fatty compound can be included in the aqueous base composition at a level of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, further more preferably from <NUM>% to ab out <NUM>% by weight of the aqueous base composition, in view of providing conditioning benefits.

The aqueous base compositions of the present invention comprise an aqueous carrier. Generally, the aqueous carrier can be contained in the aqueous base compositions at a level of q. to <NUM>% of the aqueous base composition, preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the aqueous base composition.

Preferably in the aqueous base composition, the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound are contained at a level such that the weight ratio of the surfactant to the high melting point fatty compound is in the range of from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, in view of providing rheology and/or conditioning benefit.

The surfactant used for the aqueous base composition is a cationic surfactant. Such preferred cationic surfactants are further explained below under the title "CATIONIC SURFACTANT".

The aqueous base composition is preferably substantially free of detersive surfactants, which is explained below in detail under the tile "SUBSTANTIALLY FREE OF DETERSIVE SURFACTANT".

The high melting point fatty compound used for the aqueous base composition is explained below under the title "HIGH MELTIONG POINT FATTY COMPOUND".

The aqueous base composition may further comprise a benefit agent in addition to the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, which are different from the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound. This benefit agent is also different from the aqueous carrier and water.

The benefit agent can be contained in the aqueous base composition at a level by the weight of the aqueous base composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, in view of providing benefits from the benefit agents, and in view of not deteriorating the benefit from the aqueous base composition especially the surfactant and high melting point fatty compound.

The benefit agent can be contained in the aqueous base composition, so that the benefit agent can be contained in the product composition at a level by the weight of the product composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%,, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, in view of providing benefits from the benefit agents, and in view of not deteriorating the benefit from the aqueous base composition especially the surfactant and high melting point fatty compound.

Preferably, such benefit agents used in the aqueous base composition are selected from the group consisting of silicone compounds, perfumes, incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the mixture composition and/or in the discrete particle, and mixtures thereof. More preferably, such benefit agents used in the aqueous base composition are incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the mixture composition and/or in the discrete particle.

Such incompatible agents are, for example, those selected from the group consisting of: solid minerals or chemical substances that have high ionic strength and/or high surface charge and tend to cause agglomeration and/or crystallization, which are, for example, mica, and metal pyrithione such as zinc pyrithione with or without ionic polymer coating or dispersion;.

The product composition comprises discrete particles of the mixture composition. The discrete particles herein are those dispersed in the aqueous base composition and can be observed as discrete particle in final product composition visually, for example, by microscope, however, those do not show maltese cross sign when measured by polarized light microscopy. This means that the discrete particles useful herein are not vesicles which are often seen in emulsions such as aqueous base composition comprising surfactants, high melting fatty compounds and aqueous carrier. Generally, surfactants, high melting fatty compounds and aqueous carrier form emulsions, preferably a gel matrix. In such emulsions and gel matrix, these components often form lamellar vesicle and/or lamellar sheet. Such Lamellar vesicle can be observed as discrete particle by microscope, however, shows maltese cross sign when measured by polarized microscope.

The discrete particles are contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, in view of providing at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

The discrete particle is preferably swollen in the product composition, more preferably swollen by aqueous carrier, still more preferably by water. The discrete particle can be swollen in the aqueous base composition by the aqueous carrier and/or water from the aqueous base composition. Alternatively or concurrently, the discrete particle can be swollen before mixing it with the aqueous base composition, for example, when or after preparing the discrete particle from the mixture composition, by using an aqueous carrier and/or water as a solvent to disperse discrete particle. Such solvents are considered as components of the aqueous base composition, when calculating the amount of the component.

It is believed that swelling of the discrete particle is saturated in 3days and up to 1week at the longest regardless the particle size and regardless of benefit agents inside if included. And, it is believed that, if it happens, diffusion and/or collapsing of discrete particle will happens within 1week and complete within <NUM> weeks at the longest. It is also believed that physical properties and benefits of the discrete particle may be changed during swelling, diffusion and/or collapsing, but will be stabilized and will not change after 3weeks. Thus, the discrete particles useful herein exist in the composition preferably for <NUM> month or longer, more preferably <NUM> months or longer, still more preferably 6months or longer, further more preferably for 12month or longer, even more preferably for 24month or longer.

The swollen discrete particle preferably has a particle size of from 1micrometer to 2000mictometers, more preferably from <NUM> micrometers to <NUM> micrometer, still more preferably from 50micrometers to <NUM> micrometers. Such swollen discrete particles also can be observed as discrete particles by microscope, however, do not show maltese cross sign when measured by polarized light microscopy.

The discrete particles and the swollen discrete particles herein can be in any shape, for example, spherical shape, rectangular shape, or diamond shape.

Before swelling, preferably, the discrete particle is solid.

Before swelling, the discrete particle preferably comprises <NUM>% of the mixture composition, i.e., consisting of the mixture composition. When the discrete particles contain water before swelling, it is preferred to control the level of the water before swelling, so that the discrete particle before swelling contains less than <NUM>% of water, more preferably less than <NUM>%, still more preferably less than <NUM>%, even more preferably less than <NUM>%, further preferably less than <NUM>% of water, by weight of the discrete particle.

Before swelling, the surfactants and the high melting point fatty compounds are present in the discrete particle, with or without other ingredients, at a level by weight of the discrete particle of, preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, still more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, further more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

Before and after swelling, the discrete particle is preferably not an oil-in-water emulsion or water-in-oil-in-water emulsion, more preferably, not any emulsion including water-in-oil emulsion and oil-in-water-in-oil emulsion.

The discrete particle herein is different from particles coated or encapsulated by, for example, polymers.

The discrete particle useful herein is different from swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer. Preferably, the discrete particle and the mixture composition are substantially free of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer. In the present invention, "the discrete particle and the mixture composition being substantially free of swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer" means that: the discrete particle and the mixture composition are free of swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer; or, if the discrete particle and the mixture composition contains swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer, the level of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer is very low. In the present invention, a total level of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer, if included, preferably <NUM>% or less, more preferably <NUM>% or less, still more preferably <NUM>% or less by weight of the discrete particle or by the weight of the mixture composition. Most preferably, the total level of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer is <NUM>% by weight of the discrete particle or by the weight of the mixture composition.

The product composition of the present invention may comprise <NUM>nd discrete particle, in addition to the above discrete particle of the present invention which comprises the mixture comprising the surfactant, high melting point fatty alcohol, and benefit agent. The <NUM>nd discrete particle useful herein comprises the mixture excluding the benefit agent, i.e., a mixture comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound. The components and the properties of the <NUM>nd discrete particles are same as those described for the above discrete particle of the present invention, except for the inclusion of benefit agents.

The product composition comprises the discrete particles and the aqueous base composition, preferably consisting of the discrete particles and the aqueous base composition. The product composition of the present invention can be anything, and is preferably selected from the group consisting of a hair care product composition, a body care product composition, a facial skin care product composition, and mixtures thereof, more preferably a hair care product composition. Among the hair care compositions, still more preferred are hair conditioning compositions wherein the surfactants contained in the discrete particle and the aqueous composition are cationic surfactants.

The product compositions of the present invention can be in the form of rinse-off products or leave-on products, and can be formulated in a wide variety of product forms, including but not limited to creams, gels, emulsions, mousses and sprays. The product composition of the present invention is especially suitable for hair conditioners especially rinse-off hair conditioners.

When used as a rinse-off conditioner, the product composition is preferably used by the following steps:.

Effective amount herein is, for example, from <NUM> to <NUM> per <NUM> of hair, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> per <NUM> of hair.

Cationic surfactant useful herein can be one cationic surfactant or a mixture of two or more cationic surfactants. The cationic surfactant is selected from: mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt; a combination of mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt and di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt; mono-long alkyl amine; a combination of mono-long alkyl amine and di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt.

The mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having one long alkyl chain which has from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, more preferably C18-<NUM> alkyl group. The remaining groups attached to nitrogen are independently selected from an alkyl group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms or an alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to <NUM> carbon atoms.

Mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having the formula (I):
<CHM>
wherein one of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> is selected from an alkyl group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to <NUM> carbon atoms; the remainder of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> are independently selected from an alkyl group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms or an alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to <NUM> carbon atoms; and X- is a salt-forming anion such as those selected from halogen, (e.g. chloride, bromide), acetate, citrate, lactate, glycolate, phosphate, nitrate, sulfonate, sulfate, alkylsulfate, and alkyl sulfonate radicals. The alkyl groups can contain, in addition to carbon and hydrogen atoms, ether and/or ester linkages, and other groups such as amino groups. The longer chain alkyl groups, e.g., those of <NUM> carbons, or higher, can be saturated or unsaturated. Preferably, one of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> is selected from an alkyl group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, even more preferably <NUM> carbon atoms; the remainder of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> are independently selected from CH<NUM>, C<NUM>H<NUM>, C<NUM>H<NUM>OH, and mixtures thereof; and X is selected from the group consisting of Cl, Br, CH<NUM>OSO<NUM>, C<NUM>H<NUM>OSO<NUM>, and mixtures thereof.

Nonlimiting examples of such mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt cationic surfactants include: behenyl trimethyl ammonium salt; stearyl trimethyl ammonium salt; cetyl trimethyl ammonium salt; and hydrogenated tallow alkyl trimethyl ammonium salt.

When used, di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts are preferably combined with a mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt or mono-long alkyl amine salt, at the weight ratio of from <NUM>: <NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, more preferably from <NUM>: <NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM>: <NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, in view of stability in rheology and conditioning benefits.

Di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having two long alkyl chains of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms. Such di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having the formula (I):
<CHM>
wherein two of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> are selected from an aliphatic group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to <NUM> carbon atoms; the remainder of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> are independently selected from an aliphatic group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to <NUM> carbon atoms; and X- is a salt-forming anion selected from the group consisting of halides such as chloride and bromide, C1-C4 alkyl sulfate such as methosulfate and ethosulfate, and mixtures thereof. The aliphatic groups can contain, in addition to carbon and hydrogen atoms, ether linkages, and other groups such as amino groups. The longer chain aliphatic groups, e.g., those of <NUM> carbons, or higher, can be saturated or unsaturated. Preferably, two of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> are selected from an alkyl group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms; and the remainder of R<NUM>, R<NUM>, R<NUM> and R<NUM> are independently selected from CH<NUM>, C<NUM>H<NUM>, C<NUM>H<NUM>OH, CH<NUM>C<NUM>H<NUM>, and mixtures thereof.

Such preferred di-long alkyl cationic surfactants include, for example, dialkyl (<NUM>-<NUM>) dimethyl ammonium chloride, ditallow alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, dihydrogenated tallow alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, distearyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, and dicetyl dimethyl ammonium chloride.

Mono-long alkyl amine useful herein are those having one long alkyl chain of preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> alkyl group. Mono-long alkyl amines useful herein also include mono-long alkyl amidoamines. Primary, secondary, and tertiary fatty amines are useful.

Particularly useful are tertiary amido amines having an alkyl group of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbons. Exemplary tertiary amido amines include: stearamidopropyldimethylamine, stearamidopropyldiethylamine, stearamidoethyldiethylamine, stearamidoethyldimethylamine, palmitamidopropyldimethylamine, palmitamidopropyldiethylamine, palmitamidoethyldiethylamine, palmitamidoethyldimethylamine, behenamidopropyldimethylamine, behenamidopropyldiethylamine, behenamidoethyldiethylamine, behenamidoethyldimethylamine, arachidamidopropyldimethylamine, arachidamidopropyldiethyl amine, arachidamidoethyldiethylamine, arachidamidoethyldimethylamine, diethylaminoethylstearamide. Useful amines in the present invention are disclosed in <CIT>, Nachtigal, et al.

These amines are used in combination with acids such as f-glutamic acid, lactic acid, hydrochloric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, acetic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, f-glutamic hydrochloride, maleic acid, and mixtures thereof; more preferably f-glutamic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, at a molar ratio of the amine to the acid of from <NUM> : <NUM> to <NUM> : <NUM>, more preferably from <NUM> : <NUM> to <NUM> : <NUM>.

The compositions of the present invention comprise the high melting point fatty compound. By the use of high melting point fatty compound, the composition of the present invention provides improved conditioning benefits such as friction reduction during conditioner application, ease of spreading, and/or ease of detangling, compared to compositions containing no high melting point fatty compounds and/or compared to compositions containing low melting point fatty compounds instead of high melting point fatty compounds. By the use of high melting point fatty compound, the composition of the present invention may provide improved stability of the composition such as reduced the risk of phase separation, compared to compositions containing no high melting point fatty compounds and/or compared to compositions containing low melting point fatty compounds instead of high melting point fatty compounds.

The high melting point fatty compound useful herein have a melting point of <NUM> or higher, preferably <NUM> or higher, more preferably <NUM> or higher, still more preferably <NUM> or higher, in view of stability of the emulsion especially the gel matrix. Preferably, such melting point is up to <NUM>, more preferably up to <NUM>, still more preferably up to <NUM>, even more preferably up to <NUM>, in view of easier manufacturing and easier emulsification. In the present invention, the high melting point fatty compound can be used as a single compound or as a blend or mixture of at least two high melting point fatty compounds. When used as such blend or mixture, the above melting point means the melting point of the blend or mixture.

The high melting point fatty compound useful herein is selected from the group consisting of fatty alcohols, fatty acids, and mixtures thereof. It is understood by the artisan that the compounds disclosed in this section of the specification can in some instances fall into more than one classification, e.g., some fatty alcohol derivatives can also be classified as fatty acid derivatives. However, a given classification is not intended to be a limitation on that particular compound, but is done so for convenience of classification and nomenclature. Further, it is understood by the artisan that, depending on the number and position of double bonds, and length and position of the branches, certain compounds having certain required carbon atoms may have a melting point of less than the above preferred in the present invention. Such compounds of low melting point are not intended to be included in this section. Nonlimiting examples of the high melting point compounds are found in <NPL>.

Among a variety of high melting point fatty compounds, fatty alcohols are preferably used in the composition of the present invention. The fatty alcohols useful herein are those having from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms. These fatty alcohols are saturated and can be straight or branched chain alcohols.

Preferred fatty alcohols include, for example, cetyl alcohol (having a melting point of <NUM>), stearyl alcohol (having a melting point of <NUM>-<NUM>), behenyl alcohol (having a melting point of <NUM>), and mixtures thereof. These compounds are known to have the above melting point. However, they often have lower melting points when supplied, since such supplied products are often mixtures of fatty alcohols having alkyl chain length distribution in which the main alkyl chain is cetyl, stearyl or behenyl group.

In the present invention, more preferred fatty alcohol is a mixture of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol.

Generally, in the mixture, the weight ratio of cetyl alcohol to stearyl alcohol is preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>.

The level and species of the aqueous carrier are selected according to the compatibility with other components, and other desired characteristic of the product.

The carrier useful in the present invention includes water and water solutions of lower alkyl alcohols. The lower alkyl alcohols useful herein are monohydric alcohols having <NUM> to <NUM> carbons, more preferably ethanol and isopropanol.

Preferably, the aqueous carrier is substantially water. Deionized water is preferably used. Water from natural sources including mineral cations can also be used, depending on the desired characteristic of the product.

Preferably, in the present invention, the cationic surfactant contained in the aqueous base composition, the high melting point fatty compound contained in the aqueous base composition, and an aqueous carrier contained in the aqueous base composition, together form a gel matrix in the aqueous base composition. The gel matrix is suitable for providing various conditioning benefits, such as slippery feel during the application to wet hair and softness and moisturized feel on dry hair.

Preferably, when the gel matrix is formed, the cationic surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound are contained at a level such that the weight ratio of the cationic surfactant to the high melting point fatty compound is in the range of, preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>, in view of providing improved wet conditioning benefits.

The aqueous base composition of the present invention is substantially free of detersive surfactants. The detersive surfactants herein are those selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof.

In the present invention, "the composition being substantially free of detersive surfactants" means that: the aqueous base composition is free of detersive surfactants; or, if the aqueous base composition contains detersive surfactants, the level of such detersive surfactants is very low. In the present invention, a total level of such detersive surfactants, if included, preferably <NUM>% or less, more preferably <NUM>% or less, still more preferably <NUM>% or less by weight of the aqueous base composition. Most preferably, the total level of such detersive surfactants is <NUM>% by weight of the aqueous base composition.

The product composition (comprising the discrete particles of the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition) may also be substantially free of detersive surfactant.

Preferably, when contained in the aqueous base composition, the silicone compounds have an average particle size of from <NUM> to 100micron, more preferably from <NUM>. 1microns to <NUM> microns, still more preferably from 1microns to <NUM> microns, in the aqueous base composition.

The silicone compounds useful herein, as a single compound, as a blend or mixture of at least two silicone compounds, or as a blend or mixture of at least one silicone compound and at least one solvent, have a viscosity of preferably from <NUM>,<NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>,000mPa·s at <NUM>.

The viscosity can be measured by means of a glass capillary viscometer as set forth in Dow Corning Corporate Test Method CTM0004, July <NUM>, <NUM>. Suitable silicone fluids include polyalkyl siloxanes, polyaryl siloxanes, polyalkylaryl siloxanes, polyether siloxane copolymers, amino substituted silicones, quaternized silicones, and mixtures thereof. Other nonvolatile silicone compounds having conditioning properties can also be used.

In some embodiments, amino substituted silicones are preferably used. Preferred aminosilicones include, for example, those which conform to the general formula (I):.

(R<NUM>)aG<NUM>-a-Si-(-OSiG<NUM>)n-(-OSiGb(R<NUM>)<NUM>-b)m-O-SiG<NUM>-a(R<NUM>)a.

wherein G is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, or C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkyl, preferably methyl; a is <NUM> or an integer having a value from <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably <NUM>; b is <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, preferably <NUM>; n is a number from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>; m is an integer from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>; the sum of n and m is a number from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM>; a and m are not both <NUM>; R<NUM> is a monovalent radical conforming to the general formula CqH2qL, wherein q is an integer having a value from <NUM> to <NUM> and L is selected from the following groups: -N(R<NUM>)CH<NUM>-CH<NUM>-N(R<NUM>)<NUM>; -N(R<NUM>)<NUM>; -N(R<NUM>)<NUM>A ; -N(R<NUM>)CH<NUM>-CH<NUM>-NR<NUM>H<NUM>A ; wherein R<NUM> is hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, or a saturated hydrocarbon radical, preferably an alkyl radical from C<NUM> to C<NUM>; A is a halide ion.

Highly preferred amino silicones are those corresponding to formula (I) wherein m=<NUM>, a=<NUM>, q=<NUM>, G=methyl, n is preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably <NUM>; and L is -N(CH<NUM>)<NUM> or - NH<NUM>, more preferably -NH<NUM>. Another highly preferred amino silicones are those corresponding to formula (I) wherein m=<NUM>, a=<NUM>, q=<NUM>, G=methyl, n is preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably <NUM>; and L is -N(CH<NUM>)<NUM> or -NH<NUM>, more preferably -NH<NUM>. Such highly preferred amino silicones can be called as terminal aminosilicones, as one or both ends of the silicone chain are terminated by nitrogen containing group.

The above aminosilicones, when incorporated into the composition, can be mixed with solvent having a lower viscosity. Such solvents include, for example, polar or non-polar, volatile or non-volatile oils. Such oils include, for example, silicone oils, hydrocarbons, and esters. Among such a variety of solvents, preferred are those selected from the group consisting of non-polar, volatile hydrocarbons, volatile cyclic silicones, non-volatile linear silicones, and mixtures thereof. The non-volatile linear silicones useful herein are those having a viscosity of from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> centistokes, preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> centistokes at <NUM>. Among the preferred solvents, highly preferred are non-polar, volatile hydrocarbons, especially non-polar, volatile isoparaffins, in view of reducing the viscosity of the aminosilicones and providing improved hair conditioning benefits such as reduced friction on dry hair. Such mixtures have a viscosity of preferably from <NUM>,000mPa·s to <NUM>,000mPa·s, more preferably from <NUM>,000mPa·s to <NUM>,000mPa·s.

Other suitable alkylamino substituted silicone compounds include those having alkylamino substitutions as pendant groups of a silicone backbone. Highly preferred are those known as "amodimethicone". Commercially available amodimethicones useful herein include, for example, BY16-<NUM> available from Dow Corning.

Silicone compounds useful herein include, for example, a Silicone Polymer Containing Quaternary Groups comprising terminal ester groups, having a viscosity up to <NUM>,<NUM> mPa·s and a D block length of greater than <NUM> D units. Without being bound by theory, this low viscosity silicone polymer provides improved conditioning benefits such as smooth feel, reduced friction, and prevention of hair damage, while eliminating the need for a silicone blend.

Structurally, the silicone polymer is a polyorganosiloxane compound comprising one or more quaternary ammonium groups, at least one silicone block comprising greater than <NUM> siloxane units, at least one polyalkylene oxide structural unit, and at least one terminal ester group. In one or more embodiments, the silicone block may comprise between <NUM> to <NUM> siloxane units.

The silicone polymer is present in an amount of from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, and even more preferably from <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the composition.

In a preferred embodiment, the polyorganosiloxane compounds have the general formulas (Ia) and (Ib):.

M-Y-[-(N+R<NUM>-T-N+R<NUM>)-Y-]m-[-(NR<NUM>-A-E-A'-NR<NUM>)-Y-]k-M     (Ia).

M-Y-[-(N+R<NUM>-T-N+R<NUM>)-Y-]m-[-(N+R<NUM><NUM>-A-E-A'-N+R<NUM><NUM>)-y-]k-M     (Ib).

The residues K may be identical or different from each other. In the -K-S-K- moiety, the residue K is bound to the silicon atom of the residue S via a C-Si-bond.

Due to the possible presence of amine groups (-(NR<NUM>-A-E-A'-NR<NUM>)-) in the polyorganosiloxane compounds, they may have protonated ammonium groups, resulting from the protonation of such amine groups with organic or inorganic acids. Such compounds are sometimes referred to as acid addition salts of the polyorganosiloxane compounds.

In a preferred embodiment the molar ratio of the quaternary ammonium groups b) and the terminal ester groups c) is less than <NUM> : <NUM>, even more preferred is less than <NUM> : <NUM> and is most preferred less than <NUM> : <NUM>. The ratio can be determined by <NUM>C-NMR.

In a further embodiment, the polyorganosiloxane composition may comprise:.

In the definition of component A) it can be referred to the description of the polyorganosiloxane compounds of the invention. The polyorganosiloxane compound B) differs from the polyorganosiloxane compound A) preferably in that it does not comprise quaternary ammonium groups. Preferred polyorganosiloxane compounds B) result from the reaction of monofunctional organic acids, in particular carboxylic acids, and polyorganosiloxane containing bisepoxides.

In the polyorganosiloxane compositions the weight ratio of compound A) to compound B) is preferably less than <NUM> : <NUM>. Or in other words, the content of component B) is at least <NUM> weight percent. In a further preferred embodiment of the polyorganosiloxane compositions in compound A) the molar ratio of the quaternary ammonium groups b) and the terminal ester groups c) is less than <NUM> : <NUM>, even more preferred is less than <NUM> : <NUM> and is most preferred less than <NUM> : <NUM>.

The silicone polymer has a viscosity at <NUM> and a shear rate of <NUM>-<NUM> (plate-plate system, plate diameter <NUM>, gap width <NUM>) of less than <NUM>,<NUM> mPa•s (<NUM> Pa•s). In further embodiments, the viscosities of the neat silicone polymers may range from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> mPa•s, or preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> mPa•s, or more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> mPa•s, or even more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> mPa•s. In further embodiments, the viscosities of the neat polymers may range from <NUM> to <NUM>,<NUM> mPa•s, or preferably <NUM> to <NUM> mPa•s determined at <NUM> and a shear rate of <NUM>-<NUM>.

In addition to the above listed silicone polymers, the following preferred compositions are provided below. For example, in the polyalkylene oxide group E of the general formula:.

-[CH<NUM>CH<NUM>O]q-[CH<NUM>CH(CH<NUM>)O]r-[CH<NUM>CH(C<NUM>H<NUM>)O]s-.

wherein the q, r, and s indices may be defined as follows:.

For polyorganosiloxane structural units with the general formula S:
<CHM>
R<NUM>=C<NUM>-C<NUM>-alkyl, C<NUM>-C<NUM>-fluoralkyl or aryl; n= from <NUM> to <NUM>, or preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, K (in the group -K-S-K-) is preferably a bivalent or trivalent straight chain, cyclical or branched C<NUM>-C<NUM> hydrocarbon residue which is optionally interrupted by-O-,-NH-, trivalent N,-NR<NUM>-,-C(O)-,-C(S)-, and optionally substituted with-OH.

In specific embodiments, R<NUM> is C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkyl, C<NUM>-C<NUM> fluoroalkyl and aryl. Furthermore, R<NUM> is preferably C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkyl, C<NUM>-C<NUM> fluoroalkyl and aryl. Furthermore, R<NUM> is more preferably C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkyl, C<NUM>-C<NUM> fluoroalkyl, even more preferably C<NUM>-C<NUM> fluoroalkyl, and phenyl. Most preferably, R<NUM> is methyl, ethyl, trifluoropropyl and phenyl.

As used herein, the term "C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkyl" means that the aliphatic hydrocarbon groups possess from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms which can be straight chain or branched. Methyl, ethyl, propyl, n-butyl, pentyl, hexyl, heptyl, nonyl, decyl, undecyl, isopropyl, neopentyl and <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>-trimethyl hexyl moieties serve as examples.

Further as used herein, the term "C<NUM>-C<NUM> fluoroalkyl" means aliphatic hydrocarbon compounds with <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms which can be straight chain or branched and are substituted with at least one fluorine atom. Monofluoromethyl, monofluoroethyl, <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>-trifluorethyl, perfluoroethyl, <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>-trifluoropropyl, <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>-trifluorobutyl are suitable examples.

Moreover, the term "aryl" means unsubstituted or phenyl substituted once or several times with OH, F, Cl, CF<NUM>, C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkyl, C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkoxy, C<NUM>-C<NUM> cycloalkyl, C<NUM>-C<NUM> alkenyl or phenyl. Aryl may also mean naphthyl.

For the embodiments of the polyorganosiloxanes, the positive charges resulting from the ammonium group(s), are neutralized with inorganic anions such as chloride, bromide, hydrogen sulfate, sulfate, or organic anions, like carboxylates deriving from C<NUM>-C<NUM> carboxylic acids, for example acetate, propionate, octanoate, especially from C<NUM>-C<NUM> carboxylic acids, for example decanoate, dodecanoate, tetradecanoate, hexadecanoate, octadecanoate and oleate, alkylpolyethercarboxylate, alkyl sulphonate, aryl sulphonate, alkylaryl sulphonate, alkylsulphate, alkylpolyethersulphate, phosphates derived from phosphoric acid mono alkyl/aryl ester and phosphoric acid dialkyl/aryl ester. The properties of the polyorganosiloxane compounds can be, inter alia, modified based upon the selection of acids used.

The quaternary ammonium groups are usually generated by reacting the di-tertiary amines with an alkylating agents, selected from in particular di-epoxides (sometimes referred to also as bis-epoxides) in the presence of mono carboxylic acids and difunctional dihalogen alkyl compounds.

In a preferred embodiment the polyorganosiloxane compounds are of the general formulas (Ia) and (Ib):.

wherein each group is as defined above; however, the repeating units are in a statistical arrangement (i.e., not a block-wise arrangement).

In a further preferred embodiment the polyorganosiloxane compounds may be also of the general formulas (IIa) or (IIb):.

M-Y-[-N+R<NUM>-Y-]m-[-(NR<NUM>-A-E-A'-NR<NUM>)-Y-]k-M     (IIa).

M-Y-[-N+R<NUM>-Y-]m-[-(N+R<NUM><NUM>-A-E-A'-N+R<NUM><NUM>)-Y-]k-M     (IIb).

wherein each group is as defined above. Also in such formula the repeating units are usually in a statistical arrangement (i.e. not a block-wise arrangement).

In a further embodiment, the molar ratio of the polyorganosiloxane-containing repeating group -K-S-K-and the polyalkylene repeating group -A-E-A'- or -A'-E-A- is between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, or preferably between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, or more preferably between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>.

In the group -(N+R<NUM>-T-N+R<NUM>)-, R may represent a monovalent straight chain, cyclic or branched C<NUM>-C<NUM> hydrocarbon radical, which can be interrupted by one or more -O- ,-C(O)- and can be substituted by-OH, T may represent a divalent straight-chain, cyclic, or branched C<NUM>-C<NUM> hydrocarbon radical, which can be interrupted by -O- , -C(O)- and can be substituted by hydroxyl.

The above described polyorganosiloxane compounds comprising quaternary ammonium functions and ester functions may also contain: <NUM>) individual molecules which contain quaternary ammonium functions and no ester functions; <NUM>) molecules which contain quaternary ammonium functions and ester functions; and <NUM>) molecules which contain ester functions and no quaternary ammonium functions. While not limited to structure, the above described polyorganosiloxane compounds comprising quaternary ammonium functions and ester functions are to be understood as mixtures of molecules comprising a certain averaged amount and ratio of both moieties.

Various monofunctional organic acids may be utilized to yield the esters. Exemplary embodiments include C<NUM>-C<NUM> carboxylic acids, for example C<NUM>, C<NUM>, C<NUM> acids, C<NUM>-C<NUM> carboxylic acids, for example C<NUM>, C<NUM>, C<NUM> acids, saturated, unsaturated and hydroxyl functionalized Cis acids, alkylpolyethercarboxylic acids, alkylsulphonic acids, arylsulphonic acids, alkylarylsulphonic acids, alkylsulphuric acids, alkylpolyethersulphuric acids, phosphoric acid mono alkyl/aryl esters and phosphoric acid dialkyl/aryl esters.

The aqueous base composition of the present invention may include other additional components, which may be selected by the artisan according to the desired characteristics of the final product and which are suitable for rendering the composition more cosmetically or aesthetically acceptable or to provide them with additional usage benefits. Such other additional components generally are used individually at levels of from <NUM>% to <NUM>%, preferably up to <NUM>% by weight of the composition.

A wide variety of other additional components can be formulated into the present compositions. These include: other conditioning agents such as hydrolysed collagen with tradename Peptein <NUM> available from Hormel, vitamin E with tradename Emix-d available from Eisai, panthenol available from Roche, panthenyl ethyl ether available from Roche, hydrolysed keratin, proteins, plant extracts, and nutrients; preservatives such as benzyl alcohol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben and imidazolidinyl urea; pH adjusting agents, such as citric acid, sodium citrate, succinic acid, phosphoric acid, sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate; coloring agents, such as any of the FD&C or D&C dyes; perfumes; ultraviolet and infrared screening and absorbing agents such as benzophenones; and antidandruff agents such as zinc pyrithione.

The product composition of the present invention is prepared by below METHOD A or.

The product composition of the present invention is prepared by the following method (hereinafter METHOD A) comprising the steps of:.

Preferably, when mixed, the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

Preferably, when mixed, the mixture composition has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, and the mixture composition has such temperature during and after mixing with the aqueous base composition. Also preferably, the aqueous base composition also has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition when mixed with the mixture composition, and has such temperature during and after mixing with the mixture composition.

Thus, when mixed, the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of preferably at least <NUM> lower, more preferably at least <NUM> lower, still more preferably at least <NUM> lower, even more preferably at least <NUM> lower than the above melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

It is also preferred that, when mixed, the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of from <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>.

Alternatively, the product composition of the present invention is prepared by the following method (hereinafter METHOD B) comprising the steps of:.

In this METHOD B, the discrete particle may be preferably solid.

In METHOD B, a solvent or carrier may be used to prepare discrete particle of the mixture composition. Such solvents and carriers are considered as components of the aqueous base composition when calculating the amount of components.

Preferably, when mixed, the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

Preferably, when mixed, the discrete particle has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the discrete particle, and the discrete particle has such temperature during and after mixing with the aqueous base composition. Also preferably, the aqueous base composition also has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the discrete particle when mixed with the discrete particle, and has such temperature during and after mixing with the discrete particle.

Thus, when mixed, the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of preferably at least <NUM> lower, more preferably at least <NUM> lower, still more preferably at least <NUM> lower, even more preferably at least <NUM> lower than the above melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

It is also preferred that, when mixed, the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of from <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>.

Both in METHOD A and B, preferably, the mixture composition is prepared by steps of:.

Preferably, the temperature of the melting mixture composition is at least <NUM>, still more preferably at least <NUM>, even more preferably at least <NUM> higher than the above melting point of the high melting point fatty compound. It is also preferred that the temperature of the melting mixture composition is from <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, even more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>, further more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>.

Preferably, the melting mixture composition is cooled to a temperature which is lower than a melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, more preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>, still more preferably at least <NUM> lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition. It is also preferred that the melting mixture composition is cooled to a temperature of from -<NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably from -<NUM> to <NUM>, still more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>.

When the mixture composition further comprises the benefit agents, the mixture composition can be prepared by steps of:.

When the mixture composition comprises a benefit agent, the benefit agent can be homogeneously mixed with the mixture composition, and homogeneous discrete particles can be formed in the compositions.

Alternatively, in the discrete particle, the benefit agent can form an inner core covered by an outer shell formed by the mixture composition.

When the aqueous base composition comprises a benefit agent, the benefit agent can be homogeneously mixed with the aqueous base composition.

When the aqueous base composition comprises a benefit agent, the benefit agent can be added to the aqueous base composition anytime, for example, before adding the mixture composition and/or the discrete particle, after adding the mixture composition and/or the discrete particle, and/or concurrently with the discrete particle.

The following examples further describe and demonstrate embodiments within the scope of the present invention. The examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the present invention. Where applicable, ingredients are identified by chemical or CTFA name, or otherwise defined below.

*<NUM> BTMS/IPA: <NUM>% of Behenyl Trimethyl Ammonium Methosulfate and <NUM>% of Isopropyl alcohol
*<NUM> Aminosilicone: Available from Momentive having a viscosity <NUM>,000mPa·s, and having following formula (I):.

(R<NUM>)aG<NUM>-a-Si-(-OSiG<NUM>)n-(-OSiGb(R<NUM>)<NUM>-b)m-O-SiG<NUM>-a(R<NUM>)a     (I).

wherein G is methyl; a is an integer of <NUM>; b is <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, preferably <NUM>; n is a number from <NUM> to <NUM>; m is an integer of <NUM>; R<NUM> is a monovalent radical conforming to the general formula CqH2qL, wherein q is an integer of <NUM> and L is -NH<NUM>
*<NUM> Quaternized aminosilicone: Available from Momentive having the following formula:.

M-Y-[-(N+R<NUM>-T-N+R<NUM>)-Y-]m-[-(N+R<NUM><NUM>-A-E-A'-N+R<NUM><NUM>)-y-]k-M.

The embodiments disclosed and represented by "Ex. " are hair conditioning product compositions made by the method of the present invention, and were prepared by Method B explained above, and the following in more detail:.

Discrete particles are swollen in the product composition.

The hair conditioner product compositions disclosed and represented by "CEx. " are comparative examples, and were prepared by either the above METHOD B when the compositions contain discrete particles or a conventional method when the compositions do not contain discrete particles.

For some of the above compositions, properties and conditioning benefits are evaluated by the following methods. Results of the evaluation are also shown above.

The embodiments disclosed and represented by "Ex. " are hair conditioning product compositions made by the method of the present invention which are particularly useful for rinse-off use, and have many advantages. For example, the product composition made by the method of the present invention provides at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance. Some of such benefits can be understood by the comparison with comparative examples "CEx.

For example, the product compositions of the present invention "Ex. S-<NUM>" and "Ex. S-<NUM>" provide improved deposition of silicones, especially improved evenness compared to the comparative examples "CEx. S-i" and "CEx.

For example, the product composition of the present invention "Ex. M-<NUM>" provides improved stability and thus provide reduced agglomerations and residues, compared to the comparative example "CEx.

For example, the product compositions of the present invention "Ex. P-<NUM>" and "Ex. P-<NUM>" and "Ex. C-<NUM>" provide improved aesthetics by colored dispersions.

For example, the product compositions of the present invention "Ex. SA-<NUM>" and "Ex. SA-<NUM>" improved stability and thus provide reduced crystallization in the aqueous base composition, compared to the comparative example "CEx.

Silicone deposition evenness value is a comparison between a silicone deposition amount at damaged hair switch (representing hair tips) and a silicone deposition amount at the undamaged hair switch (representing hair roots). Generally, hair tips are more damaged compared to hair roots then may need more silicone deposition. However, silicones tend to deposit more on hair roots than hair tips and it has been difficult to obtain balanced silicone deposition at roots and tips of hairs, i.e., silicone deposition evenly on hair roots and tips.

Silicone deposition evenness value herein are measured by the following steps:
Silicone deposition amounts herein are measured by a method consisting of: (i) a preparation of hair switch; and (ii) silicone deposition measurement, and (iii) evaluation.

Undamaged hair switches are made by non-permed and non-colored/bleached hair.

Damaged hair switches are prepared by (<NUM>) bleaching the undamaged hair switches in oxidation agent (chemical damage), (<NUM>) wash off the chemicals completely and (<NUM>) combing the hair switches to get mechanical damages.

For the silicone deposition measurement, <NUM> gram hair switches (damaged and undamaged) with a length of <NUM> inches are used. The hair switches are prepared by following steps:.

The hair switch is ready for the measurement of its silicone deposition amount, and evaluation.

The deposited silicone on the hair switch is extracted in an appropriate solvent. The extracts are then introduced into an atomic absorption/emission detector instrument and measured at the appropriate wavelength. The absorbance/emission value returned by the instrument is then converted to actual concentration (microgram) of silicone compound deposited on the hair through an external calibration curve obtained with known weights of a well characterized standard of the silicone compound under study. Microgram (µ g) per gram on hair is calculated.

Claim 1:
A method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of:
Preparing a mixture composition comprising a surfactant wherein the surfactant comprises a cationic surfactant, and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent other than the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound;
Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising a cationic surfactant, a high melting point fatty compound, and an aqueous carrier, wherein the aqueous base composition comprises a total level of a detersive surfactant from <NUM>% or less, by weight of the aqueous base composition, wherein the detersive surfactant is selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof;
Mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition, to form a discrete particle of the mixture composition dispersed in the aqueous base composition, wherein the surfactant contained in the discrete particle is a cationic surfactant;
wherein the discrete particle is dispersed in the aqueous base composition, wherein the discrete particle can be observed as discrete particle in the product composition visually, by microscope, however, the discrete particle does not show maltese cross sign when measured by polarized light microscopy;
wherein the cationic surfactant is selected from mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt; a combination of mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt and di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt; mono-long alkyl amine; or a combination of mono-long alkyl amine and di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt, wherein the mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt has one long alkyl chain which has from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, wherein the di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt has two long alkyl chains of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms, wherein the mono-long alkyl amine has one long alkyl chain of from <NUM> to <NUM> carbon atoms; and
wherein the high melting point fatty compound has a melting point of <NUM> or higher, wherein the high melting point fatty compound is selected from the group consisting of fatty alcohols, fatty acids, and mixtures thereof.