Hair care formulations containing argan oil: development, stability and texture profile

The aim of this study was to develop hair care cosmetic formulations containing argan oil to evaluate the stability and texture profile of these formulations. Shampoos, conditioners and leave-in formulations were developed with or without (vehicle) argan oil in concentrations of 0.1, 2.0 and 2.0% (w/w) respectively. The formulations were stored at room temperature (25°C), 37°C and 45°C for a period of 28 days and submitted to spreadability and texture tests using the Texture Analyser. For this purpose, work of shear and consistency parameters were determined. The results have shown that all formulations were stable and the argan oil-based formulations had a better spreadability when compared with the vehicle. This is a desirable effect, once cosmetic formulations which presents a lower values of work of shear are better accepted by cosmetic sensory panels. In addition, no difference was found between conditioners with or without argan oil in terms of texture profile, and leave-informulation with argan oil showed an increased consistency when compared with the vehicle. Finally, formulations with argan oil showed better the texture profile, therefore, it is a potential ingredient for use in hair care formulations.