Silsoft AX is a conditioning agent targeted for use in hair care products, and Tospearl AQ is a silicone microsphere-based ingredient aimed at the skincare market.
“These new products continue Momentive’s tradition of providing powerful new solutions for personal care formulators as they develop the higher-performance products that consumers are demanding,” said Momentive’s marketing director Beatriz Blanco.
Conditioning agent enhances hair feel and shine
Adding the Silsoft AX ingredient to hair care products allows manufacturers to create formulations that offer enhanced sleekness, shine and manageability, according to the company.
The ingredient is an alkyl modified amino fluid. According to Momentive, it is the combination of both pendant amino and terminal alkyl groups on the silicone structure that helps to enhance hair smoothness and softness.
The conditioning agent is effective when used on both damaged and undamaged hair and does not lead to stickiness, greasiness or loss of color, the company claims.
Silsoft AX can be used in a variety of hair care applications in addition to shampoos and conditioners, including serums, shine spray and products designed for ethnic hair. Beyond hair care, it is suitable for use in body washes, liquid hand soap and bar soaps.
Silicone microspheres provide enhanced sensory experience
The second addition to the company’s personal care portfolio is Tospearl AQ; silicone microspheres coated with a cationic polymer.
According to the company, the two materials together offer a hybrid performance. Typically, the cationic polymer aids water dispersibility, contributing to the improved sensory experience and the silicone particles can help enhance the blurring of fine lines and wrinkles.
The stability of Tospearl AQ at low pH levels also makes it easier to rub-in water-based formulations such as anti-aging products, sunscreens and moisturizers. It can also be incorporated into the water phase of oil-in-water emulsions due to the cationic polymer coating, the company says.
In addition to its potential applications in skin care formulations, Tospearl AQ can also be used in face masks, hair care products and water-based color cosmetics.