| abstract |
Modified ceramides are defined, together with their synthesis and compositions comprising them for topical application to human skin, hair and nails. The modified pseudoceramides have structure (1) and an approximate summary is that R and R1 are aliphatic hydrocarbon, A is CH2, CHOR2, CH=CH or CHOY, and at least one of R2, R3 and R4 is sulphate, phosphate or similar. The presence of phosphate or sulphate facilitates skin absorption, after which the phosphate or sulphate is removed by enzymes present in vivo. |