Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is a naturally occurring ingredient derived from soybeans composed mainly of amino acids, peptides and proteins and are used in cosmetic formulations for their conditioning and moisturizing properties.

Industrial Production Process

• Preparation of reagents. The main reagents include soybeans and water. The enzymes or acids required for hydrolysis are prepared according to the technique used.
• Extraction of soy proteins. The soybeans are washed, dehulled, and ground. The resulting soybean flour is then mixed with water and treated to extract the proteins.
• Hydrolysis. The extracted soy proteins undergo enzymatic or acidic hydrolysis. If enzymatic hydrolysis is used, specific enzymes are added to break down the proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. If acidic hydrolysis is used, an acid such as hydrochloric acid is added to achieve the same result.
• Neutralization. In the case of acidic hydrolysis, the mixture is neutralized with a base, such as sodium hydroxide, to bring the pH to a safe level.
• Filtration and removal of impurities. The hydrolyzed mixture is filtered to remove impurities and insoluble residues.
• Concentration. The filtered solution is concentrated to remove excess water and increase the concentration of the hydrolyzed proteins.
• Stabilization. The hydrolyzed proteins are stabilized to ensure their stability during transportation and storage, preventing degradation.
• Quality control. The hydrolyzed proteins undergo rigorous quality testing to ensure they meet standards for purity, efficacy, and safety. These tests include chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and microbiological testing.

What it is used for and where

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is extracted from the soybean and then subjected to a hydrolysis process to make it more readily absorbable by the skin and hair. This ingredient is valued for its ability to improve the texture and elasticity of both skin and hair, providing essential nutrients that help to strengthen and protect. It is commonly used in a variety of products including shampoos, conditioners, skin treatments, and anti-aging products. Hydrolyzed soy protein helps to retain moisture, increase softness, and contributes to reducing breakage and thinning of hair.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions

• Antistatic agent. Static electricity build-up has a direct influence on products and causes electrostatic adsorption. The antistatic ingredient reduces static build-up and surface resistivity on the surface of the skin and hair.
• Hair conditioning agent. A significant number of ingredients with specific and targeted purposes may co-exist in hair shampoo formulations: cleansers, conditioners, thickeners, matting agents, sequestering agents, fragrances, preservatives, special additives. However, the indispensable ingredients are the cleansers and conditioners as they are necessary and sufficient for hair cleansing and manageability. The others act as commercial and non-essential auxiliaries such as: appearance, fragrance, colouring, etc. Hair conditioning agents have the task of increasing shine, manageability and volume, and reducing static electricity, especially after treatments such as colouring, ironing, waving, drying and brushing. They are, in practice, dispersants that may contain cationic surfactants, thickeners, emollients, polymers. The typology of hair conditioning agents includes: intensive conditioners, instant conditioners, thickening conditioners, drying conditioners. They can perform their task generally accompanied by other different ingredients.
• Humectant. Hygroscopic compound used to minimise water loss in the skin and to prevent it from drying out by facilitating faster and greater absorption of water into the stratum corneum of the epidermis.  The epidermis is the most superficial of the three layers that make up human skin (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) and is the layer that maintains hydration in all three layers. In turn, the epidermis is composed of five layers: horny, the most superficial, granular, spinous, shiny, and basal. Humectants have the ability to retain the water they attract from the air in the stratum corneum and have the function of moisturising the skin. They are best used before emollients, which are oil-based.
• Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

CAS    68607-88-5

EC number        271-770-5

Cosmetic Applications

Moisturization. Hydrolyzed Soy Protein helps keep skin and hair hydrated by binding moisture and increasing their water retention capacity.

Repairing Effect. Improves the structure of damaged hair, helping to repair and strengthen hair fibers from physical and chemical stress.

Anti-Aging Benefits for Skin. Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, contributing to improved skin elasticity and reducing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.

Protection. Forms a protective film on skin and hair, shielding them from harmful environmental factors such as pollutants and UV rays.

Versatile Applications. It is used in a wide range of products, including shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, lotions, creams, and serums.

Other Applications

Food Industry. Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is used as a food additive to improve the texture and nutrition of various foods.

Pet Care Products. Employed in pet shampoos and conditioners to enhance the health and shine of pet fur.

Nutritional Supplements. Used in supplements to leverage its protein benefits and support in maintaining muscle mass.

Caprylic/Capric Glycerides is a chemical compound obtained from glycerin and capric and caprylic acids.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Caprylic/Capric indicate that the glycerides are derived from caprylic and capric fatty acids, typically extracted from coconut oil or palm kernel oil.
• Glycerides indicates that these fatty acids are esterified with glycerol, forming a triglyceride that is useful as an emollient and stabilizer in many beauty products.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Preparation of reagents. The main reagents include glycerin and caprylic and capric fatty acids.
• Esterification. Glycerin is reacted with caprylic and capric fatty acids in the presence of an acid catalyst such as sulfuric acid. The esterification reaction forms monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides of the fatty acids.
• Transesterification reaction. The resulting mixture may be further treated via transesterification to optimize the ratio of monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides.
• Purification. The glyceride mixture is purified to remove impurities and catalyst residues using techniques such as fractional distillation or filtration.
• Stabilization. The purified glycerides are stabilized to ensure stability during transportation and storage, preventing oxidation and degradation.
• Quality control. The purified glycerides undergo rigorous quality testing to ensure they meet standards for purity, efficacy, and safety. These tests include chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and microbiological testing.

What it is used for and where

Caprylic/Capric Glycerides are known for their ability to provide a smooth, silky feel to the skin without leaving an oily residue. They are ideal for improving the texture of formulations, making them lighter and more easily absorbed. These ingredients are used in a wide range of products, including skin creams, lotions, lip balms, and foundations, where they act as solvents for insoluble ingredients and enhance the skin barrier. They are also valued for their compatibility with other ingredients and their stability in formulations.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions

• Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss.  Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

CAS    85409-09-2

EC number    287-075-5

Cosmetic Applications

Emollient Properties. Caprylic/Capric Glycerides soften and smooth the skin, making them ideal for creams, lotions, and conditioners.

Solubilizing Ingredients. They act as solubilizers for oils and fragrances, enhancing the stability and uniformity of cosmetic products.

Light and Non-Greasy Effect. They provide hydration without leaving a greasy residue, particularly valued in skincare products and makeup cosmetics.

Skin Compatibility. They are generally well tolerated by the skin and non-comedogenic, making them suitable also for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Versatile Applications. They can be used in a variety of products, from skincare to makeup, including foundations and moisturizing products.

Other Applications

Food Industry. Used as emulsifiers and consistency agents in various food products, improving texture and stability.

Pharmaceutical. Employed as excipients in pharmaceutical formulations for their ability to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of active ingredients.

Cleaning Products. Used in cleaning product formulations for their emulsifying properties and ability to solubilize fats and oils.

Piroctone Olamine is a chemical compound used as an antifungal and antimycotic agent in cosmetic formulations, especially in hair care products.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Piroctone indicates the presence of piroctone, an organic compound known for its antifungal properties.
• Olamine indicates that the piroctone is stabilized with olamine, an organic base that enhances the solubility and effectiveness of the compound.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Preparation of reagents. The main reagents include amine derivatives, alcohols, and aromatic acids necessary for the synthesis of piroctone olamine.
• Synthesis of intermediate. The synthesis begins with the preparation of an intermediate by reacting an amino alcohol with an aromatic acid in a controlled environment. This intermediate is essential for subsequent synthesis steps.
• Condensation reaction. The intermediate is then subjected to a condensation reaction with another specific chemical compound to form the basic structure of piroctone olamine.
• Cyclization. The basic structure undergoes cyclization to form the characteristic pyridinic core of piroctone olamine.
• Purification. After the cyclization reaction, the crude product is purified using techniques such as crystallization, filtration, and chromatography to remove impurities and byproducts of the reaction.
• Stabilization. Piroctone olamine is stabilized to ensure its stability during transportation and storage, maintaining its efficacy in product formulations.
• Quality control. The purified piroctone olamine undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure it meets the required standards for purity, efficacy, and safety. These tests include chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and microbiological testing.

What it is used for and where

Piroctone Olamine is valued for its effectiveness in treating dandruff and other scalp conditions associated with pathogenic fungi and yeasts. It inhibits the growth of microorganisms that cause irritation and flaking, making it an ideal active ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos and scalp treatments. In addition to promoting a healthy scalp, Piroctone Olamine helps to reduce itching and improve the appearance of the hair. It is also used in some skin care products, such as creams and lotions, for its antimicrobial properties.

Medical

Piroctone Olamine is used in creams, lotions, and skin solutions to treat dermatological conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis (1), psoriasis, and tinea versicolor.

Cosmetics

t is a restricted cosmetic ingredient as III/61 and V/35  a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported:

•  Monoalkylamines, monoalkanolamines and their salts. Maximum concentration in ready for use preparation    Maximum secondary amine content: 0.5%. Other - Do not use with nitrosating systems - Minimum purity: 99% - Maximum secondary amine content: 0.5% (applies to raw materials) - Maximum nitrosamine content: 50 microgram/kg - Keep in nitrite-free containers.
• 1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2 pyridon and its monoethanolamine salt. Product Type, body parts  a) Rinse-off products b) Other products. Maximum concentration in ready for use preparation  a) 1.0% b) 0.5%

Cosmetics - INCI Functions

Anti-sebum.  Controls and reduces emissions from the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for greasy, enlarged pores in the skin, where it occurs, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, nose and hair. Adjuvant in the treatment of acne.

Preservative. Any product containing organic, inorganic compounds, water, needs to be preserved from microbial contamination. Preservatives act against the development of harmful microorganisms and against oxidation of the product.

Cosmetic Applications.

Anti-dandruff treatment. Piroctone Olamine is a key ingredient in many anti-dandruff shampoos (2) because of its ability to fight the fungi that cause dandruff, reducing itching and flaking.

Antimicrobial properties. It helps reduce the presence of bacteria and fungi on the scalp and skin, preventing infection and improving overall skin health (3).

Soothing effects. Soothes irritated scalp, providing relief from itching and irritation.

Versatility . In addition to shampoos, it is used in conditioners, lotions, and skin treatments for its antimicrobial and soothing properties.

Other Applications

Pharmaceutical Products. It is used in creams, lotions, and topical solutions to treat dermatological conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and tinea versicolor.

Intimate Hygiene Products. Employed in intimate cleansers for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, ensuring gentle and effective protection.

Molecular Formula  C₁₆H₃₀N₂O₃

Molecular Weight    298.42 g/mol

CAS    68890-66-4

UNII    A4V5C6R9FB

EC Number  272-574-2

Synonyms:

octopirox

Kopirox

Bibliografia_____________________________________________________________________

(1) Piquero-Casals J, Hexsel D, Mir-Bonafé JF, Rozas-Muñoz E. Topical Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2019 Sep;9(3):469-477. doi: 10.1007/s13555-019-00319-0. 

Abstract. Facial seborrheic dermatitis (FSD) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin disorder occurring in areas of the face rich in sebaceous glands. It clinically manifests as erythematous scaly macules or plaques, often associated with pruritus. Although the pathogenesis of seborrheic dermatitis is not yet fully understood, Malassezia yeast, hormones, sebum levels, and immune response are known to play important roles. Additional factors including drugs, cold temperatures, and stress may exacerbate the condition. Currently, the available treatments do not cure the disease but relieve symptoms. Various pharmacological treatments are available, including antifungal agents, keratolytics, topical low-potency steroids, and calcineurin inhibitors. All of them provide several benefits, but they also have potential side effects. Seborrheic dermatitis tends to have a chronic, recurrent course. To avoid the long-term use of drugs, topical non-pharmacological products such as cosmetics or medical devices may improve clinical outcomes. Products with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as zinc, piroctone olamine, dihydroavenanthramide, biosaccharide gum-2, and stearyl glycyrrhetinate may speed FSD recovery and avoid flare-ups. Finally, the use of specific cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens formulated as light creams or gel/creams should be strongly recommended to all FSD patients. We provide a brief review of the most used non-pharmacological cleansers, topical gel/creams, and specific sunscreens in the management of FSD.

(2) Lodén M, Wessman C. The antidandruff efficacy of a shampoo containing piroctone olamine and salicylic acid in comparison to that of a zinc pyrithione shampoo. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2000 Aug;22(4):285-9. doi: 10.1046/j.1467-2494.2000.00024.x. PMID: 18503415.

Abstract. Dandruff (pityriasis capitis) is a chronic scalp condition characterized by scaling and sometimes itching and redness. Shampoos containing antifungal agents are used to control the scaling condition. In the present study, two shampoos with different actives are compared in a double-blind, randomised and bilateral study on 19 subjects. One shampoo contained piroctone olamine (0.75%) combined with salicylic acid (2%) and the other contained zinc pyrithione (1%) as active ingredient. The subjects were treated twice weekly with the shampoos for almost 4 weeks. Before each treatment the degree of dandruff was evaluated. Both shampoos were highly effective in reducing the dandruff. The combination of piroctone olamine and salicylic acid appeared to be slightly more effective than zinc pyrithione in reducing the severity and area affected by the scaling.

(3) Zelenkova, H. Final report on the pilot trial to verify the effects of Activated Piroctone Olamine (label 100ml) in the management of psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis in patients aged 15 to 60 years.

Abstract. Actived Piroctone Olamine has a proven antiseptic, antimicrobial, antifungal and keratolytic effect. The effect is selective, only acting on the morbidly altered cells. A randomized, simple controlled trial type - III, with post-registration monitoring and continuous inclusion of male and female patients according to criteria was conducted to verify the efficacy and tolerability of Activated Piroctone Olamine (label 100 ml) applied in the management of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis in patients with significant manifestations of the disease in varying areas of the body (scalp, torso, extremities) of varying extent and to assess differences in individual tolerability and the final effect in a group of selected patients. A total of 42 patients were included. There were 4 males and 10 females with seborrhoeic dermatitis, and 9 males and 19 females with psoriasis affecting various areas. The effects and satisfaction with the therapy in the group of patients with seborrhoeic dermatitis was evaluated as excellent in about 71% and very good in about 29%. From the patient's point of view, excellent satisfaction was reported by 57% and satisfaction by 49% of the patients included. No undesired effects were reported. No patient was excluded from the study, and follow-up examinations were performed within the specified timeframes, with a maximum deviation of 3 days. The effects and satisfaction with the therapy in the group of patients with psoriasis was evaluated as excellent in about 54% and very good in 46%. From the patient's point of view, excellent satisfaction was reported by 64% and satisfaction by 32% of the included patients. Only one patient, and in one case the investigator, rated the treatment as insufficient or unsatisfactory for the designated area. No undesired effects were reported. No patient was excluded from the study.

Climbazole is a chemical compound used as an antifungal agent in cosmetic formulations and hair care products.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Preparation of Reagents: The main reagents include imidazole derivatives and halogenated chemicals needed for the synthesis of Cimbazole.
• Synthesis of Intermediate: The synthesis of Cimbazole begins with the reaction of an imidazole derivative with a halogenating agent. This step creates a reactive intermediate necessary for subsequent synthesis steps.
• Reaction Cycle: The reactive intermediate is further processed in a series of chemical reactions that may include alkylation, acylation, and cyclization reactions. These steps gradually build the complex structure of Cimbazole.
• Purification: After synthesis, the crude product is purified to remove impurities and byproducts of the reaction. Purification techniques may include crystallization, chromatography, and vacuum distillation.
• Stabilization: Cimbazole is stabilized to ensure its stability during transportation and storage, maintaining its efficacy in product formulations.
• Quality Control: The purified Cimbazole undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure it meets the required standards for purity, efficacy, and safety. These tests include chemical structure analysis, spectroscopy, and microbiological testing.

What it is used for and where

Climbazole is known for its effectiveness in eliminating dandruff and treating fungal infections of the scalp. It works by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic fungi and yeasts that can cause dandruff and other scalp conditions. It is a common ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments, providing relief and improving the overall health of the scalp. Climbazole helps maintain the balance of microbial flora, preventing the recurrence of dandruff and associated itching.

Cimbazole is an antifungal agent commonly used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations to treat dandruff and other fungal infections of the skin.

Medical

• Antifungal Properties. Climbazole is effective in fighting fungi that cause skin infections such as ringworm and athlete's foot.
• Prevention of Infections. Used in cosmetic products such as creams and lotions to help prevent the reoccurrence of fungal infections, keeping skin clean and healthy.
• Scalp Treatment. Included in shampoos and scalp treatments to treat and prevent dandruff (1) and other fungal scalp conditions.
• Versatility of application. Can be incorporated into various skin and scalp care products, providing long-lasting benefits in combating fungus.
• Pharmaceuticals. Climbazole is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations to treat more severe and persistent fungal infections.
• Veterinary. Also used in veterinary products to treat fungal infections in animals (3).

Cosmetics

It is a restricted cosmetic ingredient as  V/32 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported: 1-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-1-(imidazol-1-yl)-3,3-dimethylbutan-2-one

Product Type, body parts:  (a) Hair lotions (b) Face creams (c) Foot care products (d) Rinse-off shampoo

Maximum concentration in ready for use preparation: (a) 0,2 % (b) 0,2 % (c) 0,2 % (d) 0,5 %

Cosmetics - INCI Functions

• Anti-sebum.  Controls and reduces emissions from the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for greasy, enlarged pores in the skin, where it occurs, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, nose and hair. Adjuvant in the treatment of acne.
• Antimicrobial agent. This ingredient is able to suppress or inhibit the growth and replication of a broad spectrum of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses by making the stratum corneum temporarily bactericidal and fungicidal.
• Preservative. Any product containing organic, inorganic compounds, water, needs to be preserved from microbial contamination. Preservatives act against the development of harmful microorganisms and against oxidation of the product.

Molecular Formula  C₁₅H₁₇ClN₂O₂

Molecular Weight   292.76 g/mol

CAS  38083-17-9

UNII    9N42CW7I54

EC Number  253-775-4

DTXSID6046555

Synonyms:

Climbazol

Baysan

Baypival

Crinipan AD

Bibliografia_____________________________________________________________________

(1) Pople JE, Moore AE, Talbot DC, Barrett KE, Jones DA, Lim FL. Climbazole increases expression of cornified envelope proteins in primary keratinocytes. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2014 Oct;36(5):419-26. doi: 10.1111/ics.12137. 

(2) Filatov, V. A., Kulyak, O. Y., & Kalenikova, E. I. (2023). Chemical composition and antimicrobial potential of a plant-based substance for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. Pharmaceuticals, 16(3), 328.

Abstract. Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is the most prevalent dermatological disease, occurring in up to 50% of newborns, children, and adults around the world. The antibacterial and antifungal resistance contributed to the search for new natural substances and the development of a novel substance based on Melaleuca alternifolia (M. alternifolia) leaf oil (TTO), 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), and α-(-)-bisabolol. Thus, this work aimed to determine the chemical composition of the novel plant-based substance and to evaluate its antimicrobial activity against standard microorganisms involved in the pathogenesis of SD. Moreover, the chemical composition of the substance was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Micrococcus luteus (M. luteus), and Candida albicans (C. albicans) were used for antimicrobial and antifungal assays by means of the broth microdilution method to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). Finally, the substance’s ability to inhibit Malassezia furfur (M. furfur) was evaluated. Eighteen compounds from different chemical groups were identified by GC/MS. The major biologically active compounds of the substance were terpinen-4-ol (20.88%), 1,8-cineole (22.28%), (-)-α-bisabolol (25.73%), and o-cymene (8.16%). The results showed that the substance has a synergistic antimicrobial and antifungal activity, while S. epidermidis and C. albicans strains were the most susceptible. Furthermore, the substance inhibited M. furfur, which is a main pathogen involved in the pathogenesis of SD and clinical manifestations. It can be concluded that the novel plant-based substance has a promising potential against M. furfur and scalp commensal bacteria and may be helpful for the development of new drugs for treatment of dandruff and SD.

(3) Moriello KA. In vitro efficacy of shampoos containing miconazole, ketoconazole, climbazole or accelerated hydrogen peroxide against Microsporum canis and Trichophyton species. J Feline Med Surg. 2017 Apr;19(4):370-374. doi: 10.1177/1098612X15626197.

Abstract. Objectives The objective was to evaluate the antifungal efficacy of shampoo formulations of ketoconazole, miconazole or climbazole and accelerated hydrogen peroxide wash/rinse against Microsporum canis and Trichophyton species spores. Methods Lime sulfur (1:16)-treated control, enilconazole (1:100)-treated control, accelerated hydrogen peroxide (AHP 7%) 1:20 and a 1:10 dilution of shampoo formulations of miconazole 2%, miconazole 2%/chlorhexidine gluconate 2-2.3%, ketoconazole 1%/chlorhexidine 2%, climbazole 0.5%/chlorhexidine 3% and sterile water-untreated control were tested in three experiments. In the first, a suspension of infective spores and hair/scale fragments was incubated with a 1:10, 1:5 and 1:1 dilution of spores to test solutions for 10 mins. In the second, toothbrushes containing infected cat hair in the bristles were soaked and agitated in test solutions for 10 mins, rinsed, dried and then fungal cultured (n = 12×). In the third, a 3 min contact time combined with an AHP rinse was tested (n = 10×). Good efficacy was defined as no growth. Results Water controls grew >300 colony-forming units/plate and all toothbrushes were culture-positive prior to testing. For the suspension tests, all test products showed good efficacy. Miconazole 2%, ketoconazole 1% and AHP showed good efficacy after a 10 min contact time. Good efficacy was achieved with a shorter contact time (3 mins) only if combined with an AHP rinse. Conclusions and relevance Lime sulfur and enilconazole continued to show good efficacy. In countries or situations where these products cannot be used, shampoos containing ketoconazole, miconazole or climbazole are alternative haircoat disinfectants, with a 10 min contact time or 3 mins if combined with an AHP rinse.

Levomenthol is an organic compound derived from menthol, primarily used for its cooling and analgesic properties.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Levo indicates that the compound is the levorotatory (i.e., rotating polarized light to the left) form of menthol.
• menthol is a natural alcohol found in peppermint oil.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Synthesis of Menthone: Menthone, a natural compound extracted from mint oil, is the primary precursor in the synthesis of levomenthol. Menthone can be isolated or synthesized from other natural raw materials.
• Hydrogenation of Menthone: The key process in the production of levomenthol is the hydrogenation of menthone. This chemical reaction reduces menthone to levomenthol, using a hydrogenation catalyst such as nickel or palladium.
• Purification: After the hydrogenation reaction, the product is purified to remove impurities and byproducts of the reaction. This can be done through fractional distillation, crystallization, or chromatography.
• Quality Control: The purified levomenthol undergoes various quality tests to confirm its purity, chemical structure, and physical properties. These tests may include IR spectroscopy, NMR, and gas chromatography.
• Stabilization: To ensure the stability of levomenthol during transportation and storage, stabilizers may be added. This step is crucial to maintaining the effectiveness of levomenthol in various product formulations.

Form and Color

 Commonly appears in a solid crystalline form, colorless or white.

What it is used for and where

It artificially imparts the taste and scent of mint and is produced as an oil, alcohol or extract.

Much used in cigarettes, baked goods, pharmaceuticals, beverages, chewing gum, toothpastes, mouthwashes.

Cosmetics

It is a restricted ingredient as III/338 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported:     Menthol; dl-menthol; l-menthol; d-menthol. The presence of the substance shall be indicated in the list of ingredients referred to in Article 19(1), point (g), when its concentration exceeds: — 0,001 % in leave-on products — 0,01 % in rinse-off products.

• Denaturant. It makes cosmetics unpalatable. It is sometimes added to cosmetics containing ethyl alcohol to make it unsuitable for ingestion. The ionic or polar molecules of this ingredient included in formulations that interact with protein groups, modulate the properties of the solution to suit specific needs.
• Fragrance. It plays a decisive and important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product. 
• Refreshing. This ingredient is included in cosmetic products to provide a refreshing or toning sensation to the skin and can also help relieve irritation or redness.
• Soothing. Ingredient with the task of restoring moisture to the skin, helping in the healing process of irritation, inflammation and skin disorders.

Commercial applications:

Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industry: Menthol is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products such as creams, ointments, lip balms, toothpaste, and fresh breath products.

Oral Care Products: Contributes to the fresh feeling in toothpaste and mouthwashes.

Aromatherapy: Menthol is also used in aromatherapy for its relaxing and calming properties.

Menthol studies

• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₂₀O
• Molecular Weight: 156.269 g/mol
• CAS: 89-78-1  491-01-0  1490-04-6  15356-70-4
• EC Number: 201-939-0  216-074-4  239-388-3  207-723-2
• FEMA Number: 2665
• PubChem Substance ID 57651951
• MDL number: MFCD00001484
• Beilstein Registry Number: 3194263

Synonyms:

• Menthol, (1alpha,2beta,5alpha)-Isomer
• dl-Menthol
• Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-
• 2-Isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol
• Racementhol
• (+/-)-Menthol
• 5-Methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)cyclohexanol
• 3-p-Menthol
• 2-Isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexan-1-ol
• 1-methyl-4-isopropyl-3-hydroxycyclohexane
• 4-Isopropyl-1-methylcyclohexan-3-ol
• 3-Hydroxy-p-menthane
• (1S, 2S, 5R)-(+)-Neomenthol
• Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-, [1S-(1.alpha.,2.alpha.,5.beta.)]-
• 5-methyl-2-(propan-2-yl)cyclohexanol
• Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-, (1R,2S,5R)-rel-
• 5-methyl-2-propan-2-ylcyclohexan-1-ol
• Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-, (1.alpha.,2.beta.,5.alp

Cherry flavoring typically involves combining various chemical compounds that mimic the natural flavors found in cherries. These compounds include benzaldehyde (which provides the dominant note), along with other esters, alcohols, and acids to create a complex, fruit-like flavor profile.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Identification of Flavor Components.Analysis of the  flavor profile of cherries to identify key components that contribute to their distinctive taste and aroma.
• Synthesis of Flavor Compounds. Chemically synthesis of individual flavor components such as benzaldehyde for the almond-like note, along with isoamyl acetate and other esters for fruity nuances.
• Blending. The synthesized compounds are combined in specific ratios to replicate the full spectrum of cherry flavor. This might also involve the addition of sweetness enhancers or sour notes to mimic the flavor of different cherry varieties.
• Dilution and Stabilization. The concentrated flavor blend is diluted in an appropriate carrier (such as propylene glycol) and stabilizers are added to maintain the integrity of the flavor over time.
• Quality Control. Ssensory evaluation and chemical analysis to ensure the flavor meets desired specifications and is consistent batch to batch.

Natural Production of Cherry Flavor

Natural cherry flavor is extracted directly from cherry fruits or derived from other natural sources that share flavor components with cherries. This method captures the authentic flavors of the fruit.

• Sourcing of Raw Materials. High-quality cherries that have a strong and desirable flavor profile are selected.
• Extraction. Methods such as steam distillation, solvent extraction or pressing are used to extract volatile compounds from cherries.
• Concentration. Extract is concentrated to increase flavor strength and remove any unwanted solvents or impurities.
• Blending. If necessary, blend extracts from different cherry varieties or with other fruit extracts to achieve a well-rounded and complex flavor profile.
• Quality Control. Tests are conducted to ensure the natural extract meets all regulatory requirements for natural flavor labeling and has the desired sensory attributes.

As we have seen, the difference between a chemical aroma and a natural aroma is substantial.

Cherry flavor typically involves combining various chemical compounds that mimic the natural flavors found in cherries. These compounds include benzaldehyde (which provides the dominant note), along with other esters, alcohols, and acids to create a complex, fruit-like flavor profile.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Identification of Flavor Components.Analysis of the  flavor profile of cherries to identify key components that contribute to their distinctive taste and aroma.
• Synthesis of Flavor Compounds. Chemically synthesis of individual flavor components such as benzaldehyde for the almond-like note, along with isoamyl acetate and other esters for fruity nuances.
• Blending. The synthesized compounds are combined in specific ratios to replicate the full spectrum of cherry flavor. This might also involve the addition of sweetness enhancers or sour notes to mimic the flavor of different cherry varieties.
• Dilution and Stabilization. The concentrated flavor blend is diluted in an appropriate carrier (such as propylene glycol) and stabilizers are added to maintain the integrity of the flavor over time.
• Quality Control. Ssensory evaluation and chemical analysis to ensure the flavor meets desired specifications and is consistent batch to batch.

Natural Production of Cherry Flavor

Natural cherry flavor is extracted directly from cherry fruits or derived from other natural sources that share flavor components with cherries. This method captures the authentic flavors of the fruit.

• Sourcing of Raw Materials. High-quality cherries that have a strong and desirable flavor profile are selected.
• Extraction. Methods such as steam distillation, solvent extraction or pressing are used to extract volatile compounds from cherries.
• Concentration. Extract is concentrated to increase flavor strength and remove any unwanted solvents or impurities.
• Blending. If necessary, blend extracts from different cherry varieties or with other fruit extracts to achieve a well-rounded and complex flavor profile.
• Quality Control. Tests are conducted to ensure the natural extract meets all regulatory requirements for natural flavor labeling and has the desired sensory attributes.

As we have seen, the difference between a chemical aroma and a natural aroma is substantial.