Global speciality chemical company Croda has used its experience in proteins to develop two new biopolymers derived from 'superfoods'.
Hydroastivum P and Crodasone P are both derived from Pisum sativum (the pea), which is popular for its high protein content, assortment of phyto-nutrients and antioxidant properties.
In personal care applications, Pisum sativum provides a rich source of amino acids and Hydroastivum P and Crodasone P both contain high levels of glutamic acid, aspartic acid, argenine and lysine – all of which have vital properties for hair and skin care, the company says.
Hydrosativum P is a moisture-retentive biopolymer that exhibits powerful moisturisation properties in hair and skin care formulations, immersing the skin with moisture to improve firmness and elasticity and promote younger-looking skin. As well as these benefits, it also has anti-irritancy properties suitable for skin and scalp care.
Crodasone P is said to defend cuticles from heat and styling damage. Due to its complex polymeric structure, the product cross-links on drying to form a conditioning and protective network that benefits all types of hair care products.
The company says studies have shown that Crodasone P can reduce thermal cracking by 49% in an aqueous spritz and 38% in a conditioner system. The product is therefore suitable for leave-on styling products or conditioners, claiming heat defence, but it is also effective in rinse-off applications such as shampoos, conditioners and hair treatments to defend the cuticles from damage caused during styling.
Croda has developed a range of formulations containing superfoods to meet market needs: ‘Super Satin Cooling Lotion’ is a skin moisturiser that contains Hydrosativum P and blueberry extract; ‘Scoopable Hair Souffle’ is a nourishing hair mask with a novel texture that contains Crodasone P and Hydrosativum P as well as superfoods pomegranate, apple and blueberry; and ‘Blow-Dry Defender Spritz’ is a thermally activated heat defence spray with extracts of pea and goji berry. Finally, the ‘DD Hair Rescue Shield’ offers a range of benefits, including anti-breakage, anti-ageing, blow-dry defence, targeted repair, long-lasting conditioning, environmental protection, moisturisation, gloss, smoothing and detangling.
