Momentive expands its portfolio of silicones

Momentive Performance Materials has added to its portfolio of specialty silicones for personal care products with the launch of three, paraben-free hair care ingredients that are claimed to offer improved hair conditioning effectiveness among other benefits.

The Silsoft AX-E conditioning agent is said to provide enhanced thermal protection, shine, softness and manageability for dry hair.

Improved conditioning properties​

Various tests were carried out in order to establish the effectiveness of the additive. When used in rinse-off conditioner, Silsoft AX-E significantly improved dry or damaged hair, according to Momentive. It also exhibited improved conditioning properties such as wet or dry friction when compared to shampoo formulations that variously did or did not contain amodimethicone and dimethiconol, the company said.

Momentive notes that the Silsoft AX-E conditioning agent was also shown to reduce premature breakage generated by the ironing process used in the test, and to help prevent cuticle lift by forming a protective film. Additionally, it enhanced straightening due to fiber alignment.

The conditioning agent can be used in a variety of hair care products including serums, shampoos, leave-on and rinse-off conditioners and products for color and thermal protection. In addition, it also has applications in body wash products, liquid hand soap and bar soap according to Momentive.

Hair softness and improved volume​

Meanwhile, the Silsoft Q PF cationic silicone terpolymer is claimed to provide outstanding hair softness while enhancing volume.

In tests carried out against a commercial benchmark, the terpolymer exhibited a significant reduction in the force required during wet combing, the company said. The ingredient was also shown to provide dry hair with a very soft, light and natural feel while increasing gloss and alignment of the hair fiber.

Hair care products in which it can be used including shampoo, leave-in and rinse-off conditioners and in treatments applied prior to dyeing hair. The Silsoft Q PF cationic silicone terpolymer can also be used in bath and shower products, the company notes, due to its ability to improve the creaminess of lather and provide a luxurious, post-wash skin feel.

Silicone microemulsion for color protection​ 

The third product added to the Momentive Performance Materials specialty silicones portfolio is the SME253 PF amine functional silicone emulsion. According to the company, it can aid in color protection and provide intense conditioning. Other benefits include transparency, small droplet size and uniform deposition.

Potential applications for the microemulsion include leave-on and rinse-off conditioner, two-in-one formulations and clear hair products, the company says.