Abstract: Compositions, preferably in particulate form, comprising a cellular matrix having oil in the cells thereof in which the matrix comprises polysaccharide and polyhydroxy compounds in such proportions that the oil may constitute up to 80% by volume so stably held in the cells that the extractable oil is not substantially in excess of 5%. This is accomplished by proportioning the ingredients to produce a glassy, preferably water soluble, matrix having a plastic or flowable range that prevents or seals oil escape paths in the wall material such as cracks, fissures, pin holes and deep pits. The polysaccharides are primarily not the sweet, readily soluble saccharides like sugar but rather higher polysaccharides of the non-sweet, colloidally soluble types such as natural gums, e.g., gum arabic, starch derivatives, dextrinized and hydrolyzed starches, and the like. The polyhydroxy compounds may be alcohols, plant-type sugars, lactones, monoethers and acetals.

Abstract: A composition and method for using the same which improves curl retention and mechanical properties of human hair. More particularly, hair dressing compositions containing a complex of glyoxal and pentaerythritol and an inert cosmetic carrier are found to enhance the curl retention and mechanical properties of the hair while not causing a substantial color change in bleached or dyed hair.