FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a hair colouring composition/ kit and, in particular, to a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/ lotion and the like involving alkalizers for faster and effective colouring of hair and can be preferably also substantially free of any irritating odour and further economises on both time and cost and favours faster colouring and/ or improved colour retention. Advantageously, the said hair colouring composition/ kit of the invention is adapted for use in cosmetically acceptable forms such as creams/ lotions and the like. Moreover, the said hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream lotion and the like additionally includes other hair benefiting agents.

BACKGROUND ART

In the field of hair coloring, oxidation dye compositions have evinced much interest and gained major importance. With the said oxidation dye compositions, the dyeing develops by way of a reaction of certain developer substances with certain coupler substances in the presence of an oxidant.

Oxidation dye compositions to be used to dye human hair must meet many requirements.

The compositions must be toxicologically and dermatologically harmless to allow for the desired intensity in dye. In addition to the abovesaid, the hair dyes sought must have good light fastness, permanent wave fastness, and resistance to acid and abrasion. Even without the exposure to light, abrasion and chemical agents, the result of the dyeing should hold its color for at least 8-10 hair washes. It is also necessary, that through the use of appropriate developer and coupler components a broad spectrum of different color nuances can be achieved. Most importantly, such hair colouring compositions also demands faster colouring or reduced application time in order to achieve both time economization and shorter skin contact in order to achieve the benefits of greater safety on applying such hair colouring compositions.

A number of prior attempts have been made to reduce the application time required to dye hair as is discussed hereunder.

WO01/28508 discloses hair dyeing and hair bleaching compositions comprising an oxidizing agent, hair colouring agents and ammonium carbonate and or carbomate which provides bleaching and colouring with reduced odour and hair damage without the need for buffering agents, pH modifiers or hair swelling agents. The compositions are applied to the hair for a time period of 1 to 60 minutes wherein the pH of the composition is from about pH 7 to about 9 and wherein the total level of oxidative hair coloring agent is most preferably from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight. This composition comprises alkaline buffering agents with no individual ratios of the primary intermediate to the coupler and also which does not teach faster coloring.

FR1592939 describes a hair dyeing composition comprising oxidative dyes, ammonium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide at pH 7-9 that provides effective dyeing in a fairly short period of time.

EP435012 discloses hair dyeing compositions comprising a carbonate source, a non odour generating alkali hydroxide and a buffer solution that requires a short dyeing time with little damage to hair and with no irritating odour after dyeing. The alkali used for the said hair dyeing composition is sodium hydroxide and an ammonia salt wherein the pH of the final mixture applied to hair ranges from 6.5-7.90. Additionally the composition does not talk about faster colouring achieved by using the said composition.

EP 1106166 is directed to hair dye compositions comprising ammonia, carbonate (other than ammonia salt), transition metal salt and chelating agent that is odourless, have low skin irritation and can change the hair colour into a lighter tone in a short time. The pH of the said composition is maintained from 8.5-12 by the use of alkalisers and does not talk of faster coloring.

WO04/014328 teaches a one step hair colouring composition comprising peroxide oxidizing agents, specific oxidizing agents and atleast one water soluble carbonate releasing salts which more effectively deliver colour wherein the composition comprising alkalisers and has a pH of 9-11 is applied for a period from 2 to 60 minutes.

U.S. Patent 6,669,933 illustrates an aqueous hair colouring composition for colouring hair in levels 1-10 in less than 12 minutes comprising a dye and developer mixture, a free alkalinity concentration of 0.2-0.75 meq/gram and hydrogen peroxide. The said composition comprises of 0.01 %-2.0 % of the total composition of primary intermediates and couplers and contains alkalizing agents in the range of about 1-5 %.

US2004/0078906 describes a process for rapid dyeing and decolouration of keratin wherein a specific direst dye is applied to the fibres for a leave in time of less than 5 minutes. The dyes used in this prior art are direct dyes wherein pH of the composition ranges from 2 to 11.

WO01/76546 teaches a method of colouring hair comprising the steps of applying a hair colour altering composition to hair and leaving it on hair for 0.5-15 minutes, wherein this method is repeated from once a month to about 3 times a day. The said composition talks of progressive hair coloring comprising alkali with pH in the range of 9-11.

US 2004/0098814 is directed to a method of permanent hair colouring whereby the hair is subjected to a number of consecutive short treatments whereby the treatment comprises of using a dye intermediate in a shampoo or conditioner base, a water soluble carbonate releasing salt and a water soluble ammonium salt.

US 2004/0098816 also describes a method for the gradual permanent colouring of hair which includes subjecting the hair to a number of treatments having a set time interval between them, wherein the treatment composition comprise ammonium carbonate in combination with a chelant and hydrogen peroxide.

U.S. Patent 5393305 describes a two part aqueous composition for coloring and providing durable conditioning to human hair which forms a gel on mixing of an alkaline aqueous lotion first part having a pH of from about 7 to about 11 containing from about 0.005% by weight to about 5% by weight of at least one primary intermediate and at least one coupler for the formation of oxidation dyes, from about 0.1% to about 5% of a cationic polymer, from about 0.5% to about 15% by weight of an anionic or amphoteric surfactant or mixture thereof and atleast 70% by weight water, and an aqueous developer second part having a pH from about 2 to about 6 containing from about 0.5% by weight to about 40% by weight of an anionic polymer, the anionic polymer being characterized in that it is insoluble in the developer and dissolves in the gel which forms when the lotion and developer are mixed.

U.S. Patent 5718731 describes an oxidation hair dye composition in the form of an aqueous or aqueous-alcoholic solution, a cream, gel or an emulsion comprising 0.01 to 4.0 percent by weight of a developer substance including atleast one diaminopyrazole and from 0.01 to 4.0% by weight of a coupler substance including at least one m-phenylenediamine selected from the group consisting of N-(3-Dimethylamino) phenyl urea and 3-(N-Methylsulfonyl)amino-N,N-Dimethylaniline.

U.S. Patent 6102974 illustrates a hair dye composition comprising a combination of oxidation dye precursors consisting of (a) one mono-substitution on the benzene ring of p-phenylenediamine (b) a substituted m-phenylenediamine, and (c) a 2-amino-6-chloro-4-nitrophenol compound with a pH value in the range of 3-11 and a total concentration of oxidation dye precursors in the range of 0.1 to 10%.

In the modern day situation, where time is a premium commodity, everything needs to be achieved at a faster rate. Though there are several hair coloring compositions available in the market today comprising alkalizing agents that colours hair quickly, but most of them are believed to have persistent odour.

Thus as apparent from the aforesaid, it has always been desirable to have safe and mild odoured and/or odourless hair coloring products. It is also desirable for the hair colouring product to deliver quick results to make the entire process of hair colouring economical to the consumer both in terms of time and cost. Additionally, it is also desirable for the said hair colouring composition involving alkalizer to have better colour retention in addition to the reduced application time for better consumer acceptance.

It is thus the need of the day to provide for alternatives/superior hair colouring composition/ kit in the form of cream/ lotions and the like that would involve alkalizers and yet be of milder odour and/ or odourless and would also facilitate to attain rapid hair colouration, ease of application, superior conditioning, premium product appearance, good spreading, uniform application and superior retention of colour.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

It is thus a primary object of the invention to provide for a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers for faster and effective colouration of the hair in short time.

Another object of the present invention is to provide for hair colouring composition/ kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers that would be of milder odour and/ or odourless.

It is another object of the invention to provide for a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers for improved retention of hair colour in addition to faster and effective colouration of hair.

A further object of the invention is to provide for a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers with reduced application time of only about 20 minutes or less for effective colouration of hair in a short time.

A further object of the present invention is directed to developing hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers with reduced application time for effective colouration of the hair in short time in addition to improved colour retention by using selective combinations of actives with varying duration of coloring time based on the proportion of the actives involved.

Yet another object of the present invention is directed to a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers that would display a broad spectrum of colour nuances by the use of appropriate developer and coupler combination.

A further object of the present invention is directed to a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers that would display a broad spectrum of colour nuances by the use of developer and coupler within a preferred range of ratios.

Another object of the present invention is directed to hair colouring composition/kit to be made available in physical forms such as creams/ lotions and the like involving alkalizers in selective proportions of actives that may be in separate/distinctly identifiable parts and/or as a possible combination for desired user friendly application and use.

Yet a further object of the present invention is directed to a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers that can be provided in combination with additional hair benefiting agents and/or diffusion agents.

A further object of the present invention is directed to providing for hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers with reduced application time for effective colouration of the hair in short time involving favorable user friendly developer mixture provision which can be provided separately in the form of a kit.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide for a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/ lotion and the like involving alkalizers with reduced application time and/ or improved colour retention which would thus be beneficial for the skin in having a shorter skin contact time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Thus according to the basic aspect of the invention there is provided an oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like suitable for hair coloring in combination with a developer/ oxidant said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4-diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs
or its salts;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3-diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts d. Alkalizer.

According to a preferred aspect of the invention in the said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like said ingredient (a) belongs to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts is preferably p-PDA and its salts; said ingredient (b) belongs to the class of non halogenated phenols suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs or its salts is preferably resorcinol/ m-aminophenol; and said ingredient (c) belongs to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts is preferably 2, 4-diamiophenoxyethanol dihydrochloride said ingredient (d) belongs to the class of alkalizers preferably includes monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia, sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like favouring reduced application time comprising

(i) said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/lotion involving alkalizers comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs
or its salts;

cat least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts

d. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of alkalizers; (ii) developer/ oxidant provided in cosmetically acceptable form suitable for application on hair.

In accordance with a preferred aspect of the invention in the said hair colouring
composition/kit

said ingredient (a) belongs to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or
its salts preferably p-PDA and its salts;

said ingredient (b) belongs to the class of non halogenated phenols suitably
substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs or its salts
preferably resorcinol/ m-aminophenol;

said ingredient (c ) belongs to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts preferably 2, 4-diamiophenoxyethanol dihydrochloride said
ingredient (d) belongs to the class of alkalizers preferably includes
monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia,
sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane.

In another preferred aspect of the present invention there is provided the said hair colouring composition/kit wherein the said developer/ oxidizer is an integral part of the said hair colouring composition in a ready to use form for ready application on the hair or provided separately in powder form that is dissolved /dispersed/emulsified prior to use alongwith said cream/lotion and the like form of oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of a kit or provided separately in solution form alongwith said cream/lotion and the like form of oxidation hair dye formulation in the kit.

In accordance with yet another preferred aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit wherein the ratios of the said (a) at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts, : (b) at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs or its salts preferably resorcinol/ m-aminophenol, : (c) at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts is in the range of from 1:0.01:0.005 to 1:1:1 , more preferably between 1:0.04:0.01 to 1:1:1 respectively and wherein preferably the total concentration of primary intermediate and couplers in the final ready to use form of the composition is from 0.1 to 10.00%.

Advantageously, the said hair colouring composition/kit favouring reduced application time comprising varying ratios of the primary intermediates and the couplers within the said preferred range based on the desired time for effective hair colouration of less than 20 minutes.

In accordance with yet another preferred aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit wherein the said developer/oxidant ratio with respect to the said oxidation hair dye precursors varies from 1:0.2 to 1:3, preferably between 1:1 to 1:2 and provided such as to be mixed prior to use for incorporation in composition in proportions of between 0.1% to about 12 % by weight, most preferably between 0.5% to 8% and comprises water soluble per-oxygen oxidizing agents as an oxidizer and preferably involves inorganic per-oxygen materials capable of yielding peroxide in cream/lotion that preferably includes hydrogen peroxide, adducts of hydrogen peroxide, inorganic alkali metal peroxides including Barium peroxide, Sodium peroxide and inorganic perhydrate salts including the alkali metal salts of perborates, percarbonates, persulphates and combinations thereof and more preferably includes hydrogen peroxide, persulphates and combinations thereof.

Preferably, in the said hair colouring composition/kit the said ingredient (a) belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts are preferably chosen from p-phenylenediamine, N-ethyl-N- (2-hydroxyethyl)-para-phenylenediamine, the sulphate and hydrochloride,N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-paraphenylenediamine and its salts, N-ethyl-N-(2-piperidinoethyl)-para-phenylenediamine and its trihydrochloride, N-ethyl-N- (carbamylmethyl)para-phenylenediamine, N-ethyl-N-[2-(mesylamino)ethyl]-paraphenylenediamine and its sulphates, and 2-methyl-N,N-dimethyl-para-phenylenediamine and its salts such as the dihydrochloride are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 and 20% by weight, more preferably between 0.05 to 15% by weight and most preferably between 0.1% to 10% by weight; said ingredient (b) belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols are preferably chosen from Resorcinol and m-aminophenol and are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 and 10 % by weight , more preferably between 0.05% and 8% and most preferably between 0.1-5% by weight;
said ingredient (c) belonging to the class of 1, 3-disubstituted benzenes or its analogs or its salts, preferably are chosen in particular from 2-(2',4'- diaminophenoxy)ethanol,l,3-bis-(2'4'-diaminophenoxy)propane, bis-(2',4'- diaminophenoxy)methane, 2-amino-4-(2'-hydroxyethyl)amino)anisole, l-(2'- aminoethoxy)-2,4-diaminobenzene, 2-(2'hydroxyethoxy)-5- (methylamino)aniline,2,4-diamino-l,5-(2'-hydroxyethoxy)benzene, and l-(2'3'-dihydroxypropoxy)-2,4-diaminobenzene are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 %-10% by weight, more preferably between 0.05% and 8% and most preferably between 0.1-5% by weight.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit comprising diffusion aids including phosphate esters more preferably oleth-5-phosphate and dioleyl phosphate preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 %-8% by weight, more preferably between 0.05% and 5% and most preferably between 0.1-2% by weight.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit adapted for darkening/ coloring of keratinic fibre preferably hair is of pH between 1.5 and 11, and preferably between 7 and 11 wherein the pH is adjusted using organic and inorganic salts preferably phosphoric acid, ascorbic acid and lactic acid, or alkalis such as monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia, sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, depending on the pH value.

In another preferred aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit comprising of effective amounts of the said hair colouring ingredients in association with other hair grooming agents and adjunct ingredients adapted for effective colouring and conditioning of the hair whether it is live as on the head, or dead as in a swatch, wig or hairpiece.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring kit
comprising

(i) said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like
involving alkalizers comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its
analogs or its salts;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts and

d. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of alkalizer;

(ii) said developer/oxidant;

(iii) Optionally, suitable hair grooming /benefiting agent;

(iv) instructions providing for directions for use for achieving effective colouration involving said (i) oxidation hair dye formulation involving alkalizers and (ii) said developer, in the time duration of 20 minutes or lesser.

In yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of colouring the hair involving hair colouring composition/kit comprising the steps of: applying the said cream/ lotion and the like form of hair colouring composition involving alkalizers integrated with developer/ oxidizer in a ready to use form for ready application on the hair for colouring it in time duration of 20 minutes or less.

In still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of colouring the hair involving hair colouring composition/kit comprising the steps of:

a. providing said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the
like involving alkalizers;

b. intimately mixing the said oxidation hair dye formulation with the
developer/oxidant solution when the developer/oxidant is provided separately in the
kit to provide for a ready to use oxidative hair colouring composition mix; and

c. applying the said mix on hair for colouring it in time duration of 20 minutes or
less.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As discussed hereinbefore the present invention provides for an oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like suitable for hair coloring in combination with a developer/ oxidant said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4-diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its
analogs or its salts;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3-diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts; and

d. alkalizer

The present invention provides for a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers for faster colouration and/or improved retention time comprising effective amounts of (i) oxidation dye precursors in the hair colour formulation comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts preferably p-PDA and its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its
analogs or its salts preferably resorcinol/m-aminophenol;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts 2,4-diaminophenoxyethanol
dihydrochloride; and

d. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of alkalizers;

(ii) developer/ oxidant
provided in cosmetically acceptable form suitable for application in hair.

The invention also provides for a hair colouring kit comprising

(i) said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like
involving alkalizers comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its
analogs or its salts;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino
benzene or its analogs and

d. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of alkalizer;

(ii) said developer/oxidant;

(iii) optionally, suitable hair grooming /benefiting agent;

(iv) instructions providing for directions for use for achieving effective colouration involving said (i) oxidation hair dye formulation involving alkalizers and (ii) said developer, in the time duration of 20 minutes or lesser.

Suitable alkalizers comprising the said hair colouring composition/ kit includes monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia, sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane etc.

In accordance with a preferred aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion including alkalizers directed to facilitate the synergistic combination of the oxidation hair dye precursors and alkalizer in providing for faster hair colouration and /or superior hair colour retention and yet be substantially free of irritating odour or even odourless.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers for faster colouration and improved colour retention whereby the proportions involved in combining the actives of the said hair colouring composition/kit of the invention with regard to the primary intermediates and couplers may vary within a preferred range of abovesaid ratios to achieve different hair colouring times preferably 20 minutes or less for effective hair colouration.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers that has a milder odour and/ or odourless.

Either the developer/oxidant in the hair colouring composition in the form of cream lotion and the like involving alkalizer is integrated with the oxidation dye precursors to provide for a ready to use form of the said hair colouring composition for ready application on the hair or provided separately in powder form that is dissolved /dispersed/emulsified prior to use along with said cream/lotion and the like form of oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of a kit or provided separately in solution form alongwith said cream/lotion and the like form of oxidation hair dye formulation in the kit.

The developer used in the above hair dye composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers preferably comprises of a developer mixture which may contain an oxidizer such as hydrogen peroxide and wherein the said developer mixture comprising oxidizing agent is preferably selected from per-oxygen materials capable of yielding hydrogen peroxide in cream/lotion and the like base materials.

Preferably, such per-oxygen oxidizing agents include hydrogen peroxide, adducts of hydrogen peroxide, inorganic alkali metal peroxides such as Barium peroxide, Sodium peroxide and inorganic perhydrate salts such as the alkali metal salts of perborates, percarbonates and persulphates.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers comprising of the effective amounts of the said hair colouring ingredients in association with optional hair benefiting ingredients preferably hair conditioning agent.

According to yet further aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers comprising primary intermediates and couplers in physical forms such as creams, lotions and the like as a vehicle of the said hair colour formulation.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers in combination with hair grooming or hair benefiting agents whereby the hair, whether it is live as on the head, or dead as in a swatch, wig or hairpiece, is effectively colored and groomed or conditioned.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers comprising of primary intermediates, couplers and oxidizers provided in selective proportions of actives that may be in separate/distinctly identifiable parts and/or as a possible combination.

The said hair dye composition/kit in the said physical forms cream/ lotion and the like involving alkalizer for faster colouration and improved colour retention of the present invention comprises selective combination of primary intermediates and couplers adapted for colouring hair/ keratinous fibres in a short time.

In one aspect of the invention, the developer mixture of the said hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like of the invention is provided separately in the form of a kit.

In another aspect of the invention the said hair colouring composition/ kit in the form of cream/ lotion and the like involves an alkalizer wherein the pH of the hair colouring composition/kit is in between 1.5 and 11, and preferably between 7 and 11 and wherein the pH of the dye composition is adjusted using organic and inorganic salts such as phosphoric acid, ascorbic acid and lactic acid, or alkalis such as monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia, sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, depending on the pH value.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hair colouring composition/ kit is made available in cosmetically acceptable forms such as cream/ lotion and the like in combination with other hair grooming products and adjunct ingredients, suitable for darkening or colouring of the hair.

The said adjunct ingredients involved in the said hair colouring composition/kit involve well known agents such as plasticizing agents, antioxidant agents, thickening agents, complexing agents, conditioning agents such as cationic polymers and cationic surfactant agents; that may also contain anionic, nonionic or amphoteric surfactant agents as well as silicones, in particular volatile silicones and others.

The above said thickening agent may include higher fatty alcohols, sodium alginate, gum arabic, guar of carob gum, xanthum gum, cellulose derivatives such as methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose and various polymers having thickening functions such as acrylic acid derivatives. It is also possible to use in organic thickeners such as bentonite. The said thickening agents are preferably present in proportions between 0.1 and 30% by weight, more preferably between 0.5% and 20%.

The composition/kit also comprises diffusion aids including phosphate esters more preferably oleth-5-phosphate and dioleyl phosphate are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 %-8% by weight, more preferably between 0.05% and 5% and most preferably between 0.1-2% by weight.
In view of the sensitivity of the hair colouring composition/kit of the present invention to oxidation, the composition is preferably prepared, packaged and stored under anaerobic condition. When packaged as an aerosol under pressure, the hydrocarbon or halohydrocarbon propellants such as butane, propane, LPG, CFC free freons, Liquid Nitrogen, Liquid Carbon di-oxide therein effectively provide for such anaerobic conditions. For non aerosol packagings, premature oxidation of the said composition may be further reduced or eliminated by including antioxidant agents or nitrogen gas or inert gas. Antioxidant agents in sufficient proportions preferably between 0.01% and 5% by weight may be used for protection against oxidation. They are chosen in particular, from sulphites, hydrosulphites, ascorbic acid and Butylated hydroxy toluene.

The said hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like involving alkalizers may contain other hair benefiting agents such as UV protection, hair conditioning agents, colour protection, color diffusion agents and the like. Examples of some hair/ colour protection agents such as OMC, Escalol 610HP, Bisquat, dosyquat, Crodafos HCE, Crodafos UV283, Parsol SLX etc are used in sufficient proportions preferably between 0.01 % and 10 % by weight.

The optional ingredient involving colour diffusion agent includes phosphate esters.
The hair colouring composition/kit of the present invention in the form of cream, lotion and the like involving alkalizers may also be provided in combination with hair grooming or hair conditioning agents whereby the hair, whether it is live as on the head, or dead as in a swatch, wig or hairpiece, is simultaneously colored and groomed or conditioned.

The details of the invention are given in the following exemplary illustrations and therefore should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention.

The composition of the present invention is generally prepared by the process described below.

Cetostearyl, phosphate ester and lauryl alcohol are heated to a temperature of 75 deg C.
Sodium lauryl ether, cocoamidopropyl betaine and water are added to the mixture at 75 deg C and agitated for 5 minutes, Block copolymer surfactant and Sodium sulphite are added to it. The dye intermediates p-PDA, Meta-aminophenol/Resorcinol, 2, 4-diaminophenoxy ethanol dihydrochloride are dissolved in the alkali and added subsequently to the mixture. This mixture is then agitated for 5 minutes. It is Cooled to 55 deg C, the cationic polymer Polyquaternium 10 is added and agitated for a further period of 5 minutes. It is then cooled to 30 deg C. Example 1:

Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g

Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
2, 4-Diaminophenoxy ethanol 1.0g
dihydrochloride
Resorcinol 4.0g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.1g
Phosphate ester 0.2g
Alkalizer Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

Example 2:
Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
2, 4-Diaminophenoxy ethanol 1.0g
dihydrochloride
meta aminophenol 4.0g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.1g
Phosphate ester 0.2g
Alkalizer Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

For comparative purposes compositions as shown in Examples 3, 4 & 5 with only one of the two ingredients of the Example 1 is prepared.

Example 3:
Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
Resorcinol 5.0g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.1g

Alkaliser Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

The above composition is prepared as follows:

Cetostearyl and lauryl alcohol are heated to a temperature of 75 deg C. Sodium lauryl ether, cocoamidopropyl betaine and water are added to the mixture at 75 deg C and agitated for 5 minutes, Block copolymer surfactant and Sodium sulphite are added to it. The dye intermediates p-PDA, Resorcinol, are dissolved in the alkali and added subsequently to the mixture. This mixture is then agitated for 5 minutes. It is Cooled to 55 deg C, the cationic polymer Polyquaternium 10 is added and agitated for a further period of 5 minutes. It is then cooled to 30 deg C.

Example 4:
Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
meta aminophenol 5.0g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.lg

Alkaliser Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

The above composition is prepared as follows:
Cetostearyl and lauryl alcohol are heated to a temperature of 75 deg C.
Sodium lauryl ether, cocoamidopropyl betaine and water are added to the mixture at 75 deg C and agitated for 5 minutes, Block copolymer surfactant and Sodium sulphite are added to it. The dye intermediates p-PDA, Meta-aminophenol, are dissolved in the alkali and added subsequently to the mixture. This mixture is then agitated for 5 minutes. It is Cooled to 55 deg C, the cationic polymer Polyquaternium 10 is added and agitated for a further period of 5 minutes. It is then cooled to 30 deg C.

Example 5:
Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
meta aminophenol 2.50g
Resorcinol 2.50g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.1g
Alkalizer Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

The above composition is prepared as follows:

Cetostearyl and lauryl alcohol are heated to a temperature of 75 deg C. Sodium lauryl ether, cocoamidopropyl betaine and water are added to the mixture at 75 deg C and agitated for 5 minutes, Block copolymer surfactant and Sodium sulphite are added to it. The dye intermediates p-PDA, Resorcinol and Meta-aminophenol, are dissolved in the alkali and added subsequently to the mixture. This mixture is then agitated for 5 minutes. It is Cooled to 55 deg C, the cationic polymer Polyquaternium 10 is added and agitated for a further period of 5 minutes. It is then cooled to 30 deg C.

Performance and comparisons of the composition of the present invention illustrated in
Examples 1 to 2 with the composition illustrated in Examples 3, 4 & 5 were done using paired comparison salon tests for coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes. Monadic evaluations were performed by a trained, licensed cosmetologist.

Following use of the compositions, the consumers were asked to assess their hair for the above said attributes. The findings are given hereunder:

Composition of the present invention illustrated in Example 1 and the composition illustrated in Example 3 were assessed by a panel of volunteers in salon by half head method which is known to the person skilled in the art. Following use, the consumers were asked to assess on their own for coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasantness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes.

Compositon of the present invention - illustrated in Example 1, was found to lead to significant better scores at 95% level of confidence or greater on coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasentness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes compared to the composition described in Example 3.

Composition of the present invention illustrated in Example 2 and the known composition illustrated in Example 3 were assessed by a panel of volunteers in salon by half head method. Following use the consumers were asked to assess their own hair against a variety of attributes. Composition illustrated in Example 2 was found to lead to significant better scores at 95% level of confidence or greater on coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasantness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes compared to the composition described in Example 3.

Composition of the present invention illustrated in Example 1 and the known composition illustrated in Example 4 were assessed by a panel of volunteers in salon by half head method. Following use the consumers were asked to assess their own hair against a variety of attributes. Composition illustrated in Example 1 was found to lead to significant better scores at 95% level of confidence or greater on coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasantness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes compared to the composition described in Example 4.

Composition of the present invention illustrated in Example 2 and the known composition illustrated in Example 4 were assessed by a panel of volunteers in salon by half head method. Following use the consumers were asked to assess their own hair against a variety of attributes. Composition illustrated in Example 2 was found to lead to significant better scores at 95% level of confidence or greater on coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasantness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes compared to the composition described in Example 4.

Composition of the present invention illustrated in Example 1 and the known composition illustrated in Example 5 were assessed by a panel of volunteers in salon by half head method. Following use the consumers were asked to assess their own hair against a variety of attributes. Composition illustrated in Example 1 was found to lead to significant better scores at 95% level of confidence or greater on coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasantness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes compared to the composition described in Example 5.

Composition of the present invention illustrated in Example 2 and the known composition illustrated in Example 5 were assessed by a panel of volunteers in salon by half head method. Following use the consumers were asked to assess their own hair against a variety of attributes. Composition illustrated in Example 2 was found to lead to significant better scores at 95% level of confidence or greater on coverage of colour on non black hair, colour intensity and shade, Non-staining of hands/scalp/forehead, Pleasantness of odour, making hair soft and shiny and colour retention after 8 shampoo washes compared to the composition described in Example 5.

The following examples are intended to explain the invention in further detail in terms of different ratios of dye intermediates, without limiting it to these examples. The composition of the present invention is generally prepared by the process described below.

Example 6: Cream hair dye

Cetostearyl, phosphate ester and lauryl alcohol are heated to a temperature of 75 deg C.
Sodium lauryl ether, cocoamidopropyl betaine and water are added to the mixture at 75 deg C and agitated for 5 minutes, Block copolymer surfactant and Sodium sulphite are added to it. The dye intermediates p-PDA, Meta-aminophenol/Resorcinol, 2, 4-diaminophenoxy ethanol dihydrochloride are dissolved in the alkali and added subsequently to the mixture. This mixture is then agitated for 5 minutes. It is Cooled to 55 deg C, the cationic polymer Polyquaternium 10 is added and agitated for a further period of 5 minutes. It is then cooled to 30 deg C.

Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
2,4-Diaminophenoxy ethanol 1.0g
dihydrochloride
meta amino phenol 0.50g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.1g
Phosphate ester 0.2g

Alkaliser Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

Prior to use, 5g hair colouring cream is mixed with 7.5g hydrogen peroxide solution. The resulting ready to use oxidative hair colouring agent is applied to non black hair swatch. After a reaction time of less than 20 minutes, at 40°C.The hair is rinsed, shampooed and dried. The hair has received an even Natural black tone.

Example 7: Cream hair dye
Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 3.0g
2, 4-Diaminophenoxy ethanol 1.0g
dihydrochloride
Resorcinol .0g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Block copolymer surfactant 0.lg
Phosphate ester 0.2g

Alkaliser Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

Prior to use, 5g hair colouring cream is mixed with 7.5 g hydrogen peroxide solution. The resulting ready to use oxidative hair colouring agent is applied to non black hair swatch. After a reaction time of less than 20 minutes, at 40°C.The hair is rinsed, shampooed and dried. The hair has received an even Natural black tone.

Example 8: Hair dye lotion

The below said composition is prepared as follows:

Cetostearyl, phosphate ester and lauryl alcohol are heated to a temperature of 75
deg C. Sodium lauryl ether, cocoamidopropyl betaine and water are added to the
mixture and agitated for 5 minutes. Cooled to 55 deg C, add the cationic polymer
Polyquaternium 10 and agitated for a further period of 5 minutes. Cooled to 45 deg
C, added Sodium sulphite to it and agitated again for 5 minutes. The dye
intermediates p-PDA, Meta-aminophenol/Resorcinol and 2,4-diaminophenoxy ethanol
dihydrochloride dissolved in propylene glycol and alkalizer, are then added and
agitated for 10 minutes and cooled to 30 deg C .

Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 1.0g
2, 4-Diaminophenoxy ethanol 0.50g
dihydrochloride
Resorcinol 0.50g

Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.1g
Propylene glycol 5.0g
Phosphate ester 0.2g
Alkalizer Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

Prior to use, 5g hair colouring lotion is mixed with 7.5g hydrogen peroxide solution. The resulting ready to use oxidative hair colouring agent is applied to non black hair swatch. After a reaction time of less than 20 minutes, at 40°C. The hair is rinsed, shampooed and dried. The hair has received an even Natural bluish black tone. Example 9: Hair dye lotion

Cetostearyl alcohol 7.0g
Lauryl alcohol 1.5g
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate 5.0g
Cocoamidopropyl betaine 3.0g
p-PDA 5.0g
2,4-Diaminophenoxy ethanol 0.5g
dihydrochloride
meta aminophenol 4.0g
Sodium sulphite 0.3g
Polyquaternium 10 0.lg
Propylene glycol 5.0g
Phosphate ester 0.2g

Alkalizer Sufficient quantity added to bring the pH
between 7.0-11.0
Water qs 100.0g

Prior to use, 5g hair colouring lotion is mixed with 7.5g hydrogen peroxide solution. The resulting ready to use oxidative hair colouring agent is applied to non black hair swatch. After a reaction time of less than 20 minutes, at 40°C. The hair is rinsed, shampooed and dried. The hair has received an even Natural dark brown black tone.

Thus the present invention provides for the desired oxidation hair dye formulation involving alkalizers and a hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/ lotion and the like involving alkalizers for faster hair colouration and/or improved colour retention which is also beneficial to the skin by way of having shorter skin contact time. More specifically, the present invention is directed to serve the much desired need for faster hair colouration in the presence of alkalizers and by using a selective combination of the primary intermediates and couplers in a preferred range which is

thus efficacious, has milder and less irritating odour and/ or odourless and are thus safe to apply, economical with regard to the time and cost involved in the hair colouring process with better consumer acceptance. Importantly, the present invention thus favours in obtaining a hair colouring composition in the form of cream/ lotion and the like adapted for use in the said cosmetically acceptable forms in combination with a cosmetically/ acceptable vehicle containing other hair benefiting agents. Advantageously also, the hair colouring composition of the present invention delivers excellent dye deposition, delivers color uniformly which is maintained over consumers wash cycle and importantly has less irritating odour and/ or odourless, even in the presence of alkalizers.

We Claim:

1. An oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like suitable for hair coloring in combination with a developer/ oxidant said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4-diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its
analogs or its salts;
c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3-diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts; and

d. Alkalizer.

2. An oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like as
claimed in claim 1 wherein said ingredient (a) belongs to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts is preferably p-PDA and its salts;

said ingredient (b) belongs to the class of non halogenated phenols suitably
substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs or its salts is
preferably resorcinol/ m-aminophenol; and

said ingredient (c) belongs to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts is preferably 2, 4-diamiophenoxyethanol dihydrochloride ; and
said ingredient (d) belongs to the class of alkalizers preferably includes
monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia,
sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane.

3. A hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like favouring reduced application time comprising

(i) said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/lotion involving alkalizers comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs
or its salts;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts s; and

d. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of alkalizers; (ii) developer/ oxidant provided in cosmetically acceptable form suitable for application on hair.

4. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claim 3 wherein said ingredient (a) belongs to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts preferably p-PDA and its salts;

said ingredient (b) belongs to the class of non halogenated phenols suitably
substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs or its salts
preferably resorcinol/ m-aminophenol;

said ingredient (c ) belongs to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino benzene or its
analogs or its salts preferably 2, 4-diamiophenoxyethanol dihydrochloride; and

said ingredient (d) belongs to the class of alkalizers preferably includes
monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia,
sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane.

5. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3 and 4 wherein the said developer/ oxidizer is an integral part of the said hair colouring composition in a ready to use form for ready application on the hair or provided separately in powder form that is dissolved /dispersed/emulsified prior to use alongwith said cream/lotion and the like form of oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of a kit or provided separately in solution form alongwith said cream/lotion and the like form of oxidation hair dye formulation in the kit.

6. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-5 wherein the ratios of the said (a) at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts, : (b) at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its analogs or its salts preferably resorcinol/ m-aminophenol, : (c ) at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts is in the range of from 1:0.01:0.005 to 1:1:1 , more preferably between 1:0.04:0.01 to 1:1:1 respectively and wherein preferably the total concentration of primary intermediate and couplers in the final ready to use form of the composition is from 0.1 to 10.00%.

7. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-6 favouring reduced application time comprising varying ratios of the primary intermediates and the couplers within the said preferred range based on the desired time for effective hair colouration of less than 20 minutes.

8. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-7 wherein the said developer/oxidant ratio with respect to the said oxidation hair dye precursors varies from 1:0.2 to 1:3, preferably between 1:1 to 1:2 and provided such as to be mixed prior to use for incorporation in composition in proportions of between 0.1% to about 12 % by weight, most preferably between 0.5% to 8% and comprises water soluble per-oxygen oxidizing agents as an oxidizer and preferably involves inorganic per-oxygen materials capable of yielding peroxide in cream/lotion that preferably includes hydrogen peroxide, adducts of hydrogen peroxide, inorganic alkali metal peroxides including Barium peroxide, Sodium peroxide and inorganic perhydrate salts including the alkali metal salts of perborates, percarbonates, persulphates and combinations thereof and more preferably includes hydrogen peroxide, persulphates and combinations thereof.

9. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-8 wherein said ingredient
(a) belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts are
preferably chosen from p-phenylenediamine, N-ethyl-N- (2-hydroxyethyl)-para-
phenylenediamine, the sulphate and hydrochloride, N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-
paraphenylenediamine and its salts, N-ethyl-N-(2-piperidinoethyl)-para-
phenylenediamine and its trihydrochloride, N-ethyl-N- (carbamylmethyl)para-
phenylenediamine, N-ethyl-N-[2-(mesylamino)ethyl]-paraphenylenediamine and its
sulphates, and 2-methyl-N,N-dimethyl-para-phenylenediamine and its salts such as
the dihydrochloride are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in
proportions of between 0.005 and 20% by weight, more preferably between 0.05 to
15% by weight and most preferably between 0.1% to 10% by weight;
said ingredient (b) belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols are preferably chosen from Resorcinol and m-aminophenol and are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 and 10 % by weight , more preferably between 0.05% and 8% and most preferably between 0.1-5% by weight; said ingredient (c) belonging to the class of 1, 3-disubstituted benzenes or its
analogs or its salts, preferably are chosen in particular from 2-(2',4'-
diaminophenoxy)ethanol,l,3-bis-(2'4'-diaminophenoxy)propane, bis-(2',4'-
diaminophenoxy)methane, 2-amino-4-(2'-hydroxyethyl)amino)anisole, l-(2'-
aminoethoxy)-2,4-diaminobenzene, 2-(2'hydroxyethoxy)-5-
(methylamino)aniline,2,4-diamino-l,5-(2'-hydroxyethoxy)benzene, and l-(2'3'-dihydroxypropoxy)-2,4-diaminobenzene are preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 %-10% by weight, more preferably between 0.05% and 8% and most preferably between 0.1-5% by weight.

10. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-9 comprises diffusion aids including phosphate esters more preferably oleth-5-phosphate and dioleyl phosphate preferably used in the composition ready for use on hair in proportions of between 0.005 %-8% by weight, more preferably between 0.05% and 5% and most preferably between 0.1-2% by weight.

11. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-10 adapted for darkening/ coloring of keratinic fibre preferably hair is of pH between 1.5 and 11, and preferably between 7 and 11 wherein the pH is adjusted using organic and inorganic salts preferably phosphoric acid, ascorbic acid and lactic acid, or alkalis such as monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methyl-l-propanol, ammonia, sodalye, potash lye, or tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, depending on the pH value.

12. A hair colouring composition/kit as claimed in claims 3-11 comprising of effective amounts of the said hair colouring ingredients in association with other hair grooming agents and adjunct ingredients adapted for effective colouring and conditioning of the hair whether it is live as on the head, or dead as in a swatch, wig or hairpiece.

13. A hair colouring kit as claimed in any of the preceding claims comprising
(i) said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like involving alkalizers comprising of:

a. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of 1, 4 - diamino benzene or its analogs or its salts;

b. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of non halogenated phenols
suitably substituted with additional phenolic or amino functionality or its
analogs or its salts;

c. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of substituted 1, 3 - diamino
benzene or its analogs or its salts; and

d. at least one ingredient belonging to the class of alkalizer;

(ii) said developer/oxidant;

(iii) optionally, suitable hair grooming /benefiting agent;

(iv) instructions providing for directions for use for achieving effective colouration involving said (i) oxidation hair dye formulation involving alkalizers and (ii) said developer, in the time duration of 20 minutes or lesser.

14. A method of colouring the hair involving hair colouring composition/kit as
claimed in anyone of the preceding claims comprising the step of:
applying the said cream/ lotion and the like form of hair colouring composition involving alkalizers integrated with developer/ oxidizer in a ready to use form for ready application on the hair for colouring it in time duration of 20 minutes or less.

15. A method of colouring the hair involving hair colouring composition/kit as
claimed in anyone of the preceding claims comprising the steps of:

a. providing said oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the
like involving alkalizers;

b. intimately mixing the said oxidation hair dye formulation with the
developer/oxidant solution when the developer/oxidant is provided separately in the
kit to provide for a ready to use oxidative hair colouring composition mix; and

c. applying the said mix on hair for colouring it in time duration of 20 minutes or
less.

16. An oxidation hair dye formulation in the form of cream/ lotion and the like, a
hair colouring composition/kit in the form of cream/lotion and the like favouring
reduced application time comprising said oxidation hair dye formulation involving
alkalizers in the said cream/ lotion and the like form and its process of manufacture
and method of colouring the hair involving the said hair colouring composition/ kit
substantially as herein described and illustrated with reference to the accompanying
examples.