Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of stimulating beta-defensins in skin cells which comprises applying to the skin cells an effective amount of a Lactobacillus extract or active fraction thereof.

Abstract: A cosmetic composition comprising a UV-protective amount of at least one rosavin, preferably present in an extract of Rhodiola rosea in a cosmetically acceptable vehicle, and methods of use thereof, including preventing or reducing the signs of photoaging.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for cleaning residual powder and other contaminants from external surfaces of pressed powder cosmetic pans before the pans are adhered into the compact. A feed chute feeds pans into a feed path in the apparatus one after another in an upright orientation. The feed path includes two cleaning stations, each provided with brushes for scrubbing the pan. One cleaning station has cylindrical or drum brushes to scrub the bottom of each pan. The other cleaning station has a belt-type brush to scrub the sides of each pan. Dust collection systems are suspended above and below the apparatus at appropriate locations along the feed path to collect the residual powder and contaminants removed from the pans. Belts may be provided within the feed path to move the pans through the cleaning stations.

Abstract: The invention relates to a topical composition for application to the lips comprising a reaction product of a silica dioxide, or a derivative thereof, with a dimethylsiloxy resin having a viscosity of about 1000 to about 200,000 cs, in combination with a volatile carrier.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a topical composition comprising a malodor-reducing effective amount of a rosemary extract, or active fraction thereof, in combination with a self-tanning effective amount of DHA. The invention also provides a method of reducing the potential for malodor generation of a DHA composition comprising adding to the composition an effective amount of rosemary extract or active fraction thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to topical compositions useful in enhancing lipid synthesis in skin comprising an effective amount of cafestol or kahweol, or derivative thereof, in combination with a pharmaceutically or cosmetically acceptable carrier. Such compositions are useful in treatment or prevention of dry skin and conditions in which the skin's lipid barrier is defective or damaged.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wax-based composition comprising at least about 0.5-30% water in a water-in-oil emulsion, wherein water is encapsulated in a lamellar lipid vesicle capable of withstanding wax melting point temperatures. The composition is useful in delivering water soluble actives in an anhydrous base, and is particularly well-adapted for uses in lipsticks and lip-care products.

Abstract: A mascara brush having three sections of differing bristle configuration is disclosed. The brush portion has a larger diameter middle section comprised of a combination of soft and stiff bristles in random configuration, and two end sections, each of which is comprised of at least one bristle type which preferably become progressively shorter towards the ends of the brush portion. The end sections exhibit less bristle density than the middle section. This improved brush configuration allows for optimal one-stroke mascara application.