Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone/Ipdi Copolymer is an inorganic chemical compound, a Dimeticone by-product.
The name defines the structure of the molecule:
- Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone is a type of silicone that has been modified to contain amino groups. The prefix "bis" indicates that there are two amino propyl groups attached to the silicone molecule that can interact with the hair shaft, providing conditioning and improving combing.
- IPDI is Isophorone Diisocyanate, a type of chemical compound known as isocyanate. Isocyanates are reactive molecules that can form bonds with a variety of other compounds.
- Copolymer indicates that the polymer consists of two different types of monomers, in this case, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone and IPDI. Copolymers may have properties other than those of individual monomers.
The synthesis process takes place in several stages:
- Preparation of the prepolymer bis-isocyanate: Involves the reaction of 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, a polyether glycol and dimethylpropionic acid. A prepolymer is formed with functional isocyanate groups (-NCO).
- Extension of prepolymer: The prepolymer isocyanate is reacted with 1,3-bis(3-aminopropyl)tetramethylsiloxane. This extends the prepolymer, incorporating the units of dimethicone and IPDI (isophoone diisocyanate) into the polymer chain.
- Copolymer formation: The reaction of bis-aminopropyl dimethicone with IPDI leads to copolymer formation. This involves the reaction of the amino groups (-NH2) of dimethicone with the isocyanic groups of the IPDI.
What it is used for and where
Cosmetics
Film-forming agent. It produces a continuous ultra-thin film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on the skin or hair to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.
Hair fixative. This ingredient has the ability to create, with its protective film, stiffness and hold in the hair, and also has the ability to form, with its hydrophilic and elastic properties, bonds between the hair fibres, to keep the hair in a particular shape for a certain time.
Nail Conditioning agent. It is an agent that creates protection against harmful or chemical substances by strengthening the nail structure against external elements and can repair any chipping, cracking or brittle nails. It helps keep the nail's outer layer and keratin protein in good condition. It can also prevent cracking and peeling of the nail.
Commercial applications
Hair Products. This copolymer is often found in conditioners, hair treatments, and styling products to enhance combability, provide shine, and reduce frizz.
Hair Protection. It can form a protective film on hair, shielding it from thermal, environmental, and mechanical damage.
Cosmetics. It can be used in some cosmetic products to enhance texture and feel on the skin.
Safety
Dimeticone (polydimethylsiloxane) is a chemical compound, a high molecular weight polymer derived from silicone, a chemically inert mixture of linear methylated siloxane polymers. The term 'dimeth' denotes two methyl groups bonded to the silicone molecule that provide the formation of dimethicone. It possesses a pronounced viscoelasticity characteristic and is hydrophobic, thus adding shine and slipperiness when applied to hair or skin. It forms a kind of barrier that prevents exogenous substances from entering the stratum corneum and at the same time prevents water loss. It is also UV-resistant, non-greasy and cost-effective. At low concentrations it is considered by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to be a skin protector with a good degree of safety.
It is therefore considered safe when formulated to be non-irritating in cosmetic products as, given its high molecular weight, it is poorly absorbed by the skin or scalp.
