Silicone solution :
Sustainability & processability without compromise
Ella Ceraulo of Cornelius Group shares details on a polydimethylsiloxane-poly ( alkyleneoxide ) copolymer that can revolutionise the manufacture of W / Si emulsions
Figure 1 – W / Si emulsification process
Cornelius Group has 40 years of experience of developing organosilicone ingredients for the medical device and contact lens markets . We carried out a study , assessing many candidate molecules for their benefits in emulsions , to see if we could adapt the chemistry used to create breathable contact lenses for use in cosmetics . The result of this was a new polydimethylsiloxane-poly ( alkyleneoxide ) copolymer , which was developed for the personal care industry as a means to reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint in production , while delivering a premium sensory experience . It is now available from Cornelius under the trade name Cor-Sil Avance ( INCI : PEG-7 Dimethicone Ether ).
Silicones in cosmetics
Silicone chemistry is often overlooked in cosmetics , where products based on plant-derived materials have a greater appeal with consumers . However , dimethicones ( polydimethylsiloxanes ) are sourced from quartz sand and made from silicon and oxygen , the most abundant elements on the planet . Thus , using them does not employ resources that could be used for food crops or contribute to deforestation or loss of wildlife habitat .
Silicones are chemically inert and have a long , safe history of use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals , notably in treatments and barrier creams for compromised skin . Being derived from a mineral source , silicones lend themselves to crueltyfree and vegan formulations . In the environment , siloxanes can be broken down by hydrolysis and photolysis . 1 Water in silicone ( W / Si ) emulsions are excellent delivery systems for cosmetics . Their high spreadability and non-tack finish make them an ideal vehicle for cosmetic and makeup products . Newer , water dropleteffect emulsions can give an instant hydrating effect , while elastomers can be used to create a bouncy
34 SPECIALITY CHEMICALS MAGAZINE ESTABLISHED 1981