abstract |
The instant invention relates to methods of preparing and stabilizing complex multiphase compositions that include distinct phases of water, gel, liquid crystal or oil and perfluoropolyether dispersed in a continuous phase of a silicone fluid. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of preparing a stable multiphase composition comprising the steps of mixing an aqueous solution of a water-soluble polymeric emulsifier, a silicone-based emulsifier and an oleophobic, hydrophobic silicone fluid in amounts effective to form a stable water-in-silicone emulsion; mixing the water-in-silicone emulsion with a hydrophilic gel comprising a homogeneous mixture of water and a sufficient amount of at least one viscosity-enhancing, water-soluble polymer, the emulsion and gel being combined in amounts effective to form a dispersion in which the gel is dispersed in the emulsion; and adding to the dispersion an oil or a thermotropic liquid crystal and a perfluoropolyether in amounts effective to form a stable, multiphase composition comprising a continuous phase of silicone fluid and independent, polydisperse phases of water, gel, oil or liquid crystal and perfluoropolyether. |