Here’s good news for hair product manufacturers looking to satisfy the growing number of consumers who want their hair to be stylish but also remain healthy. Two AkzoNobel film-forming polymers well known for delivering excellent hair styling benefits—DynamX® polymer and Amphomer® polymer—have been shown to provide a second major benefit: protection from the damaging effects of heat styling. Tests conducted as part of AkzoNobel’s Science of Thermal Protection program have demonstrated both polymers’ ability to provide a level of protection far superior to that of competitive polymers claiming thermal protection.

DynamX® polymer (INCI: Polyurethane-14 (and) AMP-Acrylates Copolymer) is a urethane film-forming polymer developed to provide flexible, durable hold with memory performance from a variety of styling aids. On hair, this polymer provides high gloss, curl definition and anti-frizz properties. It supports hairstyles that can maintain a flexible look with natural feel and motion throughout an active day.

AMPHOMER® polymer (INCI: Octylacrylamide/Acrylates/Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer) is an exceptionally hard-holding acrylate copolymer and excellent film former that provides outstanding stiffness and high-humidity style and curl retention. Compatible with different propellants, it can be used in both anhydrous and alcohol-free spray systems.

Tests involving DynamX® polymer, AMPHOMER® polymer and a leading available urethane polymer and acrylates copolymer were conducted by AkzoNobel to determine each polymer’s response to heat when sprayed on human hair. Heat was applied to hair tresses treated with the appropriate polymer formulation via a standard flat iron set at the highest setting (410°F). Subsequent wetting force analysis of individual hair fibers from each tress, corroborated by SEM image analysis, demonstrated that AMPHOMER® polymer provides optimal protection of hair cuticles from flat ironing and DynamX® polymer provides superior thermal protection where polyurethane technology is beneficial, e.g., in more flexible hold systems.

Both AkzoNobel polymers work in a wide variety of styling aids, including hairsprays (both aerosol and non-aerosol), gels, mousses, lotions, and pomades.

For more information on the thermal protection capabilities provided by AkzoNobel polymers, please contact Maria Tolchinsky, Global Marketing Manager, Polymers, at maria.tolchinsky@akzonobel.com. Or visit www.akzonobel.com/personalcare.

AMPHOMER® and DynamX® are trademarks registered in the U.S.P.T.O. and owned by AkzoNobel.