Rhodia’s multi-functional polymer targets sensory and cleansing properties

Rheomer can be used to create different textures and visual attributes such as creamy, pearlescent or clear for applications like shower gels, body and facial washes and shampoos, according to the company.

“Rheomer also enhances the sensory properties of the formulations it is used in by exhibiting rinsability and rich and stable foam​”, a company spokesperson told CosmeticsDesign.com USA.

“The polymer is a hydrophobically-modified alkali-swellable emulsion (HASE) polymer that can create different viscosity and foam whilst reducing the surfactant content​.”

Multiple variants from single polymer​

The polymer exhibits different properties such as high clarity, high foam richness and stability under different conditions.

In addition it facilitates the suspension of beads and particles.

Due to these properties, varied formulations are possible such as crystal-clear shower gels with suspended capsules, pearlescent shampoos and body washes, moisturizing shower creams with high oil content, facial scrubs with exfoliating beads and mild baby bath gels and shampoos.

Value-added products​

Rhodia has tapped in to the growing trend for multi-functional value-added products with the launch of its polymer.

According to a company spokesperson, in a demanding personal care market, consumers not only expect products with ‘excellent’ cleansing but also sensory and visual properties.

“It opens the door to effective product development at low surfactant levels, providing suspending power and enhancement of sensorial properties such as product texture, foam and skin after-feel​”, commented Stewart Warburton, global marketing director for home and personal care, Rhodia.