Abstract: Composition for permanent waving of human hair comprising an at least partly water-soluble chlorophyll or chlorophyll derivative, especially an alkali magnesium or copper chlorophyllin to improve the waving performance of the composition.

Abstract: Compositions for the treatment of keratinous substances, containing, in an aqueous medium, at least one silicone and at least one latex in soluble in the aqueous medium, and at least one agent for suspending silicone and latex and/or at least one thickening agent selected from guar gum, acacia gum, scleroglucans, polyacrylic acids, crosslinked or not, aqueous dispersions of crosslinked ammonium acrylate/ acrylamide copolymers and an emulsion of the neutralized 2-methylpropane sulphonic acrylamide/ acrylamide copolymer.

Abstract: Perfume is absorbed within organic polymer particles which have a further polymer at their exterior. The further polymer incorporates free hydroxyl groups and serves to promote deposition of the particles from a wash or rinse liquor. The further polymer may be part of an encapsulating shell, but more conveniently is used as a stabiliser during polymerisation of the particles. Highly hydrolysed polyvinyl alcohol is preferred.

Abstract: An eyelash cosmetic composition containing 0.5 to 10% by weight of a water-dispersible or water-soluble sucrose fatty acid ester and 0.5 to 10% by weight of a fatty acid soap and, optionally containing a water-dispersible clay mineral and/or a synthetic resin emulsion.

Abstract: Compositions for hair shaping and/or form retention of hair comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable aqueous medium, at least one film-forming acrylic oligomer, which is soluble or dispersible in the aqueous medium, having a molecular weight, measured by steric exclusion chromatography, of less than or equal to 50,000 and with a glass transition temperature Tg ranging from 0 to 45.degree. C. preferably comprising:a) from 20 to 45% by weight of at least one residue of a monomer (A) selected from tert-butyl methacrylate, tert-butyl acrylate, and isobutyl methacrylate, relative to the total weight of the at least one film-forming acrylic oligomer;b) from 5 to 25% by weight of at least one residue of monomer (B) with ethylenic unsaturation comprising at least one carboxylic acid functional group, relative to the total weight of the at least one film-forming acrylic oligomer; andc) at least one residue of monomer (C) comprising a (C.sub.1 -C.sub.

Abstract: The invention relates to cosmetic compositions of improved rinsability, comprising an oily phase and a citric acid ester corresponding to formula (I): ##STR1## in which R.sub.1, R.sub.2 and R.sub.3, which may be identical or different, represent a hydrogen atom, an alkali metal or alkaline-earth metal, an ammonium cation or a cation of an organic base or a group of formula (II):--(C.sub.n H.sub.2n --O).sub.m --R.sub.4 (II)with n=2, 3 or 4m=5-30and R.sub.4 represents a saturated, linear or branched C.sub.8 -C.sub.24 alkyl group, at least one of R.sub.1, R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 being a group of formula (II). These compositions are used in particular for cleansing and/or removing make-up from the skin.

Abstract: A soap-free, non-lathering shaving preparation that increases surface adherence ability when applied to the skin, a method for shaving using the shaving preparation, and a method for increasing the surface adherence ability of a soap-free, non-lathering shaving preparation. In one aspect, the shaving preparation composition includes ethoxylated fatty ester, in an amount between about 0.01 and about 1 weight percent of the composition, for increasing the surface adherence ability of the shaving preparation; behenylquaternary surfactant, in an amount between about 0.25 and about 7.5 weight percent of the composition; fatty alcohol, in an amount between about 0.75 and about 22.5 weight percent of the composition; and water, in an amount between about 40 and about 90 weight percent of the composition. In another aspect, a method of shaving comprises applying the shaving preparation to a surface to be shaved, and shaving the surface with a razor.

Abstract: An external skin treatment composition containing (I) vitamin A (retinol) and (II) as a stabilizer, a chelating agent/a polysaccharide, an oil, polyethylene (propylene) glycol, a hydroxy carboxylate, a neutral amino acid salt, an oil-soluble antioxidant/EDTA/a benzophenone compound, an oil-soluble antioxidant/an acid/a benzophenone compound, an inclusion compound of cyclodextrin including an antioxidant and/or an ultraviolet absorber, butanediol and/or an oil-soluble antioxidant, a water-soluble benzophenone compound, a basic amino acid and the salt thereof, an acidic amino acid and the salt thereof, a polar oil, a water-swellable clay mineral.

Abstract: The 2,5,6-trimethyl-2-heptanol described is a compound having an odor of the floral-freesia type, with a slightly fruity character. It is adapted to be used in practically all fields of modem perfumery. Thanks to its typical floral and woody taste, it is also a prized flavoring ingredient.

Abstract: A dispersion, in an aqueous medium, of dehydration-resistant vesicles containing a lipid phase and an encapsulated aqueous phase. The dispersion additionally contains, either in the aqueous medium or in the encapsulated aqueous phase or in both, at least one polymer, in the form of particles, which has a glass transition temperature Tg, in the presence or absence of a plasticizing agent, of lower than 70.degree. C. at 0% relative humidity. The dispersion can be used in the cosmetic or pharmaceutical fields for topical application for the care and/or makeup of the skin and for care of the scalp and/or hair.

Abstract: Topically applicable pharmaceutical/dermatological/cosmetic compositions well suited for the therapeutic treatment or care of sensitive human skin, hair, mucous membranes, nails and/or the scalp, in particular for reducing or avoiding the skin-irritant side effects of a variety of bioactive agents, for example the .alpha.-hydroxy acids, comprise a therapeutically/cosmetically effective amount of at least one calcitonin gene related peptide ("CGRP") antagonist, e.g., CGRP 8-37 or an anti-CGRP antibody.

Abstract: The use of liposomogenic UV absorbers for protecting human hair from the damaging effect of UV radiation is described. The liposomogenic UV absorbers comprise a hydrophilic head group (=Z), a spacer (=W), a UV chromophore (Q) having an absorption in the range from 285 to 400 nm and at least one hydrophobic tail group (=A). They have the formula ##STR1## in which A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 independently of one another are a hydrophobic radical;Q is a UV chromophore;W is an organic radical;Z.sub.1 and Z.sub.2 independently of one another are a hydrophilic radical; n.sub.1 and n.sub.2 independently of one another are a number from 0 to 4, where n.sub.1 =n.sub.2 = is not included;p is 1 or 2;q is a number from 0 to 3;r.sub.1 is 1 or 2;r.sub.2 is 0 or 1; ands.sub.1 is a number from 1 to 3.The liposomogenic UV absorbers are capable of self-organization into bimolecular layers, and can as a result penetrate into the stratum corneum to a high degree and are extremely resistant to washing out there.

Abstract: The hair treatment composition includes (A) at least one polydimethylsiloxane with hydroxy end groups, advantageously .alpha.-hydroxy-.omega.-hydroxy-poly[oxy(dimethylsilylene)]; (B) at least one volatile, linear or cyclic polydimethylsiloxane, advantageously octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane, and (C) at least one isoparaffin, advantageously an isomeric mixture of isododecanes. Also the composition is advantageously free of water or contains no more than 5 % water and is free of cross-linking agents. The composition forms a smooth protective film on hair which is treated with it, with brilliant luster, without loading the hair.

Abstract: The present invention relates to non-spherical and/or non-platelet pyrithione particles. Also disclosed is a method for producing non-spherical and/or non-platelet particles of pyrithione salts, comprising reacting pyrithione or a water-soluble salt of pyrithione and a water-soluble polyvalent metal salt in the presence of a dispersant at a temperature from about 20.degree. C. to about 60.degree. C. to produce non-spherical and/or non-platelet particles of pyrithione salts. The present invention further relates to particles made by the above methods and products, such as shampoos, soaps, and skin-care medicaments made using these particles.

Abstract: Described is the use of vitamin E in topically applied compositions for the purpose of enhancing the penetration of therapeutically effective (cosmetically or pharmaceutically-active) drug or cosmetic ingredients. The topical compositions containing the penetration-enhancing concentration of vitamin E may be provided in a variety of forms including semi-solid (gel, paste, cream, lotion, ointment, etc.), liquid, suspension, film or laminate.

Abstract: The present invention concerns hydrofluorocarbon compound with formula (I):R.sub.F --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --X--[C.sub.3 H.sub.5 (OH)]--(Y).sub.x --R.sub.H(I)whereC.sub.3 H.sub.5 (OH) represents the structures: ##STR1## R.sub.F represents a perfluorinated, linear or branched C.sub.4 -C.sub.20 alkyl radical or a mixture of perfluorinated, linear or branched C.sub.4 -C.sub.20 alkyl radicals;R.sub.H represents a linear or branched C.sub.23 -C.sub.36 alkyl radical or a mixture of linear or branched C.sub.23 -C.sub.36 alkyl radicals; ##STR2## It also concerns their use in cosmetic compositions and cosmetic compositions containing these compounds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hair treatment composition which provides an excellent finishing effect and superior protection against environmental, chemical, and grooming-associated damage. The compositions of the present invention comprise hydrolyzed protein having an abundance of anionic amino acids and in particular, sulphur-containing amino acids, as well as divalent cationic compounds, such that the anionic components of the hydrolyzed protein may effectively bind to the hair by means of cationic bridges. While bound to the hair, the sulphur containing amino acids in the hydrolyzed protein may serve as "decoys" for the effects of a variety of damaging agents. Compositions of the present invention may further comprise a vitamin compound which enhances these protective benefits.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions for relaxing and conditioning keratinous fibers, particularly human hair. The compositions of the present invention have a high pH, i.e., a pH greater than 10, preferably, in the range of about 11 to about 14, more preferably about 12 to about 13.5, and include as a conditioning additive a cationic guar. Surprisingly, the cationic guar maintains stability, viscosity and activity over time in the highly alkaline pH of the inventive hair relaxer and conditioning compositions of the present invention. The relaxer compositions of the present invention afford beneficial effects to the user, such as softness and ease of wet combing, and cause less damage to hair following application and use. In addition, the conditioning relaxer compositions of the present invention remain on the hair and provide lasting conditioning and relaxing effects after one or more shampoos.

Abstract: A hair treatment composition for topical application comprising a hair treatment agent, and an amidopolyether functional silicone of general formula (I); ##STR1## wherein R1=(CH.sub.2).sub.3 --(NH--(CH.sub.2).sub.2).sub.z --NH.sub.2, and R2=(CH.sub.2).sub.3 --(NH--(CH.sub.2).sub.2).sub.z --NH--CO--CH.sub.2 --O--EO.sub.x --(CH.sub.2).sub.y --CH.sub.3wherein 1 is in the region 100-1500, m is in the region 0-10, n is in the region 2-50, x is in the region 1-40, y is in the region 0-21, and z is in the region 0-1.

Abstract: There are disclosed cosmetics which comprise N-acylamino acids containing acyl groups having specifically numbered carbon atoms, or derivatives thereof and which are well suited for hair growth, skin care and the like; N-acylamino acid compositions which are favorably usable for detergents, dispersants, emulsifying agents, antimicrobial drugs, antiseptics, ultraviolet absorbers and the like. The invention provides cosmetics which comprise N-acylamino acids containing acyl groups having odd-numbered carbon atoms, salts thereof or esters thereof; N-acylamino acid compositions; and further N-acylamino acids containing acyl groups having carbon atoms in an odd number in the range of 13 to 17 along with salts and esters thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of aminoalcohol derivatives containing a urea functional group corresponding to the following formula: ##STR1## in which: R.sub.1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl radical having from 8 to 22 carbon atoms; R.sub.2 represents a hydrogen atom or a linear or branched, saturated alkyl radical having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; R.sub.3 represents a linear or branched, monohydroxylated or polyhydroxylated, saturated alkyl group having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, in and for the preparation of cosmetic or dermatological compositions. These compounds are used in particular as moisturizing agents in care products for the skin or as conditioning agents in hair products.

Abstract: Disclosed are aqueous hair conditioning shampoo compositions comprising a specific surfactant component comprising an ethoxylated alkyl sulfate surfactant having from about 1 to about 8 moles of ethoxylation and an amphoteric surfactant in a shampoo with insoluble, dispersed conditioning agent, select esters and a select soluble cellulosic cationic organic polymer hair conditioning agent.

Abstract: Cosmetic skin care compositions containing succinate compounds and cosmetic method of improving the appearance of wrinkled, lined, dry, flaky, aged or photodamaged skin and improving skin thickness, elasticity, flexibility, radiance, glow and plumpness.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use in perfumery of compounds of the general formulae ##STR1## in which R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are identical or different and represent each a methyl or ethyl group, R.sup.3 represents hydrogen or an alkyl group from C.sub.1 to C.sub.4, linear or branched, and R.sup.4 represents hydrogen, an alkyl group from C.sub.1 to C.sub.4, linear or branched, or an acyl group of formula R.sup.5 C(O)--, R.sup.5 being hydrogen or an alkyl group from C.sub.1 to C.sub.4, linear or branched. The novel odoriferous character of these compounds is the combination of woody with fruity notes. Also described is a synthesis for the preparation of the compounds of formula (I) starting from the compounds of formula (II).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for the treatment of keratinous material, in particular human hair, comprising, in a cosmetically or dermatologically acceptable medium, at least one grafted silicone polymer, containing a polysiloxane skeleton grafted with non-silicone organic monomers and at least one hydrocarbon which is liquid at room temperature, the hydrocarbon chain of which has from 11 to 26 linear or branched, cyclic or acyclic carbon atoms, as well as its applications.The compositions according to the invention are used in particular as rinse-out products or as leave-in products, in particular for the washing, care and conditioning of the hair, for maintaining the hairstyle or for shaping the hairstyle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to moisture absorbing body powder compositions. Through careful formulation of the powder carrier, the present invention also provides moisture absorbing body powders with surprisingly good skin feel characteristics. The powder carrier which provides the good skin feel characteristics comprises skin feel components selected from the group consisting of: starch, metallic stearates, fatty acid derivatives, nylon, polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, and platelet-shaped powders.

Abstract: Disclosed are aqueous conditioning shampoo compositions containing a surfactant component in a shampoo with a particulate insoluble, dispersed, non-volatile conditioning agent having a particle size range of less than about 0.15 microns, crystalline agent and a deposition polymer.

Abstract: Use in cosmetics of lipophilic derivatives of amino deoxyalditols, cosmetic compositions containing them, and novel alkyl carbamates.The invention is characterized by the use in cosmetic compositions of one or more lipophilic derivatives of amino deoxyalditols corresponding to the general formula: ##STR1## in which: R.sup.1 is a saturated linear C.sub.14 -C.sub.40 aliphatic radical;R.sup.2 is a hydrogen atom or a linear C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl radical;X is an oxygen atom or a methylene radical; andn is an integer from 1 to 5;with the proviso that when X is a methylene radical R.sup.1 contains from 19 to 39 carbon atoms.Application to the preparation of cosmetic compositions for the treatment of keratinous substances and for buccodental hygiene.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a polymer which forms a film in aqueous solution or in aqueous dispersion and of an aqueous suspension of microfibrils of natural origin in the form of elongate rigid particles, as a composite coating agent for the hair, the eyelashes, the eyebrows or the nails, in, and for the preparation of, a cosmetic or dermatological composition.

Abstract: Disclosed are topical compositions which provide good coverage of skin imperfections, e.g., pores and uneven skin tone, while retaining a natural skin appearance. The compositions contain a charged particulate material dispersed throughout a thickened, hydrophilic carrier. The charged particulate material allows the compositions to have a Coverage Efficiency Ratio of greater than about 20.

Abstract: A dermatitis-curing agent, characterized by comprising (A) a zinc compound and (B) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of multivalent unsaturated fatty acids and their esters as effective components is very effective for enteropathic acrodermatitis syndrome, and seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris, bullous dermatitis and puritus cutaneus, which show similar skin symptoms, or for symtoms due to zinc deficiency caused by injuries, burn injuries and frostbites.

Abstract: The invention concerns amphiphilic compounds of general formula (I) ##STR1## with at least two hydrophilic and at least two hydrophobic groups based on diacarboxylic acid diamides. The amphiphilic compounds according to the invention are mostly surface-active and are suitable for use as emulsifiers, demulsifiers, detergents, dispergents and hydrotropic agents in industry and households, for example, in the treatment of metals, ore processing, surface finishing, washing, cleaning, cosmetics, medicine and food processing and preparation.

Abstract: Relatively low VOC hair styling compositions which provide good style retention without unacceptable stickiness or stiffness are disclosed. The compositions comprise from about 0.01% to about 20%, by weight of the composition, of a hair styling polymer; and a carrier comprising at least about 0.5% to about 99.9%, by weight of the composition, of a first solvent selected from the group consisting of water; water soluble organic solvents; organic solvents which are strongly to moderately strong in hydrogen bonding parameter; and mixtures thereof; wherein the first solvent is other than C1-C3 monohydric alcohol, C1-C3 ketone, and C1-C3 ether; and from about 0% to about 55%, by weight of the composition, of a second solvent selected from the group consisting of C1-C3 monohydric alcohols, C1-C3 ketones, C1-C3 ethers, and mixtures thereof; wherein the composition is characterized by having a Stiffness Value (SV) and a Curl Retention Index (CRI), wherein SV.gtoreq.[(0.703.times.CRI)-0.425)].

Abstract: The present invention relates to hair conditioning compositions comprising from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of a monohydric, fatty alcohol having a melting point of 30.degree. C. or lower; from about 0.1% to about 10%, by weight of a polymer of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, and mixtures thereof, having the general formula: ##STR1## wherein R is selected from the group consisting of H, methyl, and mixtures thereof; and n has an average value of from about 2,000 to about 14,000; from 0% to about 20%, by weight, of a conditioning agent selected from the group consisting of cationic surfactants, cationic polymers, nonvolatile silicones, nonvolatile hydrocarbons, saturated C.sub.14 to C.sub.22 straight chain fatty alcohols, nonvolatile hydrocarbon esters, and mixtures thereof; and water.

Abstract: Entirely anhydrous topical preparations comprising (I) propylene carbonate, (II) one or more short carbon-chain alcohols and/or glycols including ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, hexylene glycol, methoxypolyethylene glycol, and (III) either or both of glycerol and one or more therapeutically or cosmetically active ingredients.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dyeing composition for keratinous fibers and in particular for human keratinous fibers such as hair, comprising, in a suitable medium for dyeing, at least one oxidation dye precursor chosen from 3-methyl-para-aminophenol, 2-methyl-para-aminophenol and 2-hydroxymethyl-para-aminophenol, and their addition salts with an acid; at least one coupling agent chosen from the 2-methyl-5-aminophenols of formula (I): ##STR1## in which R denotes hydrogen, methyl or ethyl or a .beta.-hydroxyethyl or .gamma.-hydroxypropyl group, and their addition salts with an acid; and as oxidation dye precursor, a para-aminophenol which is 2-substituted by a substituent which is different from methyl or hydroxymethyl, or one of its addition salts with an acid.

Abstract: A composition for application to solid, keratinous surfaces comprising 0.01-80% of a thio-free keratinous protein cross-linking agent, 1-75% of a solvent, and 0.01-35% of a film former, and a method for strenghthening keratinous surfaces by applying the composition of the invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a histamine antagonist, an interleukin-1-antagonist and/or a TNF antagonist in a cosmetic, pharmaceutical or dermatological composition for treating sensitive skins. It relates especially to the use of a histamine antagonist, an interleukin-1 antagonist and/or a TNF alpha antagonist for preventing and/or combating skin irritations and/or sores and/or erythema and/or dysaesthetic sensations and/or sensations of inflammation and/or pruritus and/or prickling and/or tingling and/or discomfort and/or tightness of the skin and/or mucosae. It also relates to a composition containing a histamine antagonist, an interleukin-1 antagonist and/or a TNF alpha antagonist which limits or eliminates the irritant side-effects of certain products, and in particular of certain cosmetic, dermatological or pharmaceutical active agents.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for preparing a hair shampoo, conditioner, and styling composition, wherein each system is composed of separate components that can be combined as desired by the user to provide customized hair care formulations. The systems include a water-thin base composition, a thickening composition, and optional enhancing additives, wherein each composition is separately packaged. The viscosity of the end-product shampoo, conditioner, or styling composition can be varied, from a thick, pourable liquid to a thicker, pasty material depending on the amount of thickener that is added to the base.

Abstract: An aroma releasing composition has an effervescent agent, an exothermic agent and a volatile agent, the effervescent agent and exothermic agent provided in a ratio sufficient to promote release of the volatile agent, when the composition is placed in water. Such a composition has use, alone, in promoting release of fragrance agents, or in combination with a product, such as a body lotion, shampoo or liquid soap.

Abstract: An oil-in-water emulsion comprising an aqueous phase, a fatty phase, at least one silicone surfactant comprising at least one anionic group and at least one acidic compound other than the silicone surfactant, and a composition comprising such an emulsion. The invention also relates to the use of a silicone surfactant comprising at least one anionic group for the preparation of a stable emulsion comprising at least one acidic compound other than the silicone surfactant.

Abstract: A hair treatment composition comprising a mixture of polyvinylpyrrolidone and a member selected from the group consisting of an ethoxylated triglyceride, a quaternary ammonium chloride, phenyl trimethicone, an acrylate containing polymer and dimethicone copolyol ester and mixtures thereof, provided that the weight ratio of the polyvinylpyrrolidone to the ethoxylated triglyceride is greater than about 7:1 and the weight ratio of the polyvinylpyrrolidone to the acrylate containing polymer is greater than about 7:1 is described herein.

Abstract: A hair conditioner composition comprising, by weight of the total composition:0.1-20% of a cationic conditioning agent,0.1-20% of esters of alpha or beta hydroxy acids,0.1-30% of a fatty alcohol,0.001-10% of a nonionic surfactant, and5-95% water.

Abstract: Colorant precursors, which are present in the cells of plants belonging to the genus Medicago, such as alfalfa, can react with quinones so as to yield colorants which can be used in dyeing compositions for textiles or hair.

Abstract: A composition comprising at least one film forming polymer and at least one oligomer chosen from homopolymers or copolymers of monomers containing ethylenic unsaturation and polycondensates, having an average molecular weight, measured at the peak height by steric exclusion chromatography, ranging from 400 to 10,000 and having a glass transition temperature ranging from -80 to 10.degree. C., the composition containing no film-forming polymer of the nitrocellulose type is disclosed.Topical formulations formulated from this composition, in particular hair compositions for styling, holding and/or fixing the hair, and make-up compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of improving the photochromism of a photochromic compound by including the photochromic compound in a composition with at least one component capable of scavenging at least one vacant state of an energy band, corresponding to an electron vacancy, of the photochromic compound. In particular, the component may be selected from components having at least one hydroxyl group, preferably a plurality of hydroxyl groups.

Abstract: A single-dose solid composition useful for cleaning or treating human or animal hair and having a high disintegration rate in water is disclosed. The composition includes at least one surface active agent selected from the group consisting of an anionic surface active agent and a nonionic surface active agent, an amphoteric product and at least one disintegrating agent. The composition has a disintegration time in an aqueous medium selected from the group consisting of water and aqueous solutions of less than about 5 minutes. The disintegrating agent consists essentially of polyvinylpyrrolidone. A method for making said composition is also disclosed.

Abstract: An anhydrous, water-resistant cosmetic composition comprising silicone-containing materials, fillers and pigments. This composition may be used as a make-up product or as a hair product.

Abstract: The aqueous permanent shaping composition has a pH of 6.5 to 9.5 and contains water, from 3 to 28 percent by weight of one or more mercaptoethylamines of the formula IHS--CH.sub.2 --CH.sub.2 --NR.sub.1 R.sub.2 (I),wherein R.sub.1 represents hydrogen, a straight or branched chain alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or polyhydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms; R.sub.2 represents a cyclohexyl group, a furfuryl group, a straight or branched chain hydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms or a polyhydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms; or wherein R.sub.1 and R.sub.

Abstract: Topically applicable dermocosmetic compositions for improving or maintaining the appearance of human skin or the scalp, comprise a minor antioxidant effective amount of melatonin or analog thereof, formulated into a topically applicable, cosmetically/dermatologically acceptable vehicle, diluent or carrier therefor, such minor antioxidant effective amount being less than 10.sup.-4 % by weight relative to the total weight thereof, e.g., no greater than 0.5.times.10.sup.-4 % or ranging from 10.sup.-12 % to 10.sup.-15 % by weight thereof.