Abstract: A method of removing hair from skin, preferably facial skin, is provided, comprising the steps of: (a) applying a hydrophobic protective composition to an area of skin, preferably facial skin, on which unwanted hair is growing, the hydrophobic protective composition being capable of reducing the penetration of thioglycolic acid by at least 45%, as measured using the Franz Cell Method; (b) applying a depilatory composition to the area of skin to which the hydrophobic protective composition has been applied, the depilatory composition comprising a keratin reducing agent.

Abstract: Use of Confocal Raman Spectroscopy (CRS) for dermatological studies, including a method for determining the thickness of the Stratum Corneum (SC) on a test area of the skin, and to a method for quantifying the effectiveness of a skin care composition. The methods can be carried in vitro (either artificial skin or a sample of skin) or in vivo (directly on the human skin of a person).

Abstract: Use of Confocal Raman Spectroscopy (CRS) for dermatological studies, including a method for determining the thickness of the Stratum Corneum (SC) on a test area of the skin, and to a method for quantifying the effectiveness of a skin care composition. The methods of the invention can be carried in vitro (either artificial skin or a sample of skin) or in vivo (directly on the human skin of a person).

Abstract: The present invention relates to method of using a rinsable personal care composition containing shiny particles and a skin compatible oil phase. Preferably, the shiny particles are hydrophobically modified interference pigments. The inventors have found that hydrophobically modifying the particles significantly improves the deposition of the particles on skin from rinsable compositions.

Abstract: Topical compositions comprising gold particulates and silver particulates that impart unique colour and reflectance changes to the skin when applied are provided.

Abstract: Skin care compositions comprising greater than 7% glycerine, a vitamin B3 compound and a natural moisturising factor are provided. The skin care compositions of the present invention provide improved acute skin hydration in combination with increased skin barrier function repair that result in improved chronic skin hydration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a topical, liquid, cosmetic composition for effecting immediate improvements in the appearance and feel of skin, in particular for providing a more even skin tone. The composition comprises: a) from 0.3% to 1.5% of an optically neutral phyllosilicate; and b) a green pigment in an amount effective to give the composition a &Dgr;a colour shift value of from −1 to −5 and a &Dgr;b colour shift value of from −2 to −5, when applied to the skin or a skin substitute at a coverage of 2.4 mg/cm−2., wherein the total level of inorganic particles in the composition is less than 5%. In a second aspect of the invention, the composition comprises: a) from 0.3% to 1.5% of an optically neutral phyllosilicate; and b) a green platelet-type interference pigment, having a TiO2 layer thickness of from 120 nm to 160 nm or a whole number multiple thereof, in an amount of from 0.1% to 0.