DESCRIPTION: Cool–23 (WS-23) is a high‑intensity synthetic cooling agent belonging to the menthyl carboxamide family. It provides a strong, clean, and immediate cooling sensation with minimal odor and no minty character. Compared to menthol, WS‑23 offers a smoother sensory profile with reduced irritation and a faster onset, making it ideal for modern sensorial formulations in skincare, haircare, lip care, and personal hygiene products.
MECHANISM OF ACTIVITY: Cool‑23 (WS-23) activates TRPM8 cold‑sensing ion channels in the skin and mucosa, triggering a rapid cooling sensation independent of actual temperature change. Its molecular structure allows for a fast onset and moderate persistence, producing a refreshing effect without the sharpness or volatility of menthol. Because it does not significantly stimulate pain or irritation receptors, Cool‑23 (WS-23) delivers cooling with excellent sensory comfort.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE COOLING AGENTS WE CARRY
| Parameter | Cool‑3 (WS‑23) | Cool‑23 (WS‑3) | Fresh Feel (Methyl Lactylate) |
| Cooling Profile | Strong, immediate, clean cooling | Smooth, long‑lasting, slower onset | Mild, fresh, lactate‑based cooling |
| Odor | Odorless | Odorless | Slight sweet/lactic odor |
| Onset Speed | Fast | Moderate | Slow to moderate |
| Cooling Duration | Medium | Long | Short to medium |
| Irritation Potential | Low | Very low | Very low |
| Volatility | Low | Very low | Moderate |
| Sensory Character | Sharp, refreshing, modern | Smooth, rounded, comfortable | Soft, mild, natural freshness |
| Best Application Types | Deodorants, after‑sun, gels, cleansers, sports products | Lip care, skincare serums, leave‑ons, haircare | Natural‑leaning formulas, mild cooling products, lotions |
| Synergy | Pairs well with Cool-3, Fresh-Feel | Pairs well with Cool‑23, and Fresh Feel | Enhances mild cooling blends; softens harsh cooling agents |
| Key Strength | Strong immediate cooling without menthol odor | Long‑lasting cooling with excellent comfort | Gentle, natural‑feeling freshness with lactate benefits |
| Key Limitation | Can feel too sharp at high levels | Requires co‑solvent in water systems | Weaker cooling intensity compared to WS agents |
FEATURES & BENEFITS:
- Strong, immediate cooling effect
- Clean sensory profile with no menthol odor
- Low irritation potential compared to menthol
- Enhances perceived freshness in skincare and hygiene products
- Provides a modern, smooth cooling sensation suitable for sensitive skin
- Synergistic with other cooling agents (Cool‑3, Fresh Feel)
- Highly stable across pH and temperature ranges
- Does not interfere with fragrance or flavor systems.
- Maintains cooling performance and chemical integrity across typical cosmetic pH ranges.
APPLICATIONS: Cooling gels, creams, and lotions. After‑sun and post‑shave products. Lip balms and glosses. Deodorants and antiperspirants. Cleansers and body washes. Scalp and hair‑refreshing treatments. Sports and recovery formulations. Oral‑care cooling systems (non‑flavor cooling).
FORMULATION GUIDELINES:
- Pre‑dissolved in a suitable co‑solvent for water‑based systems (propylene glycol, ethanol, PEG‑400, butylene glycol) for easy formulation and storage.
- Ensure uniform mixing to avoid localized over‑cooling.
- Works well in emulsions, gels, sticks, balms, surfactant systems, and hydroalcoholic products.
- Combine with other cooling agents to customize onset, intensity, and longevity.
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
INCI: 2‑Isopropyl‑N,2,3‑trimethylbutanamide (Other name: WS‑23) (and) Propanediol
Use rate: 0.5–5% (0.5–1.5% for mild cooling. 2.0–5.0% for strong, immediate cooling)
Solubility: Soluble water and emulsions.
pH stability: Stable from pH 4–9.
Temperature Tolerance: Highly thermally stable. Can withstand heating phases but best added below 45–50°C to preserve optimal sensory performance.
Appearance: Clear viscous liquid with a mild minty odour
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, airtight container.
This is a cosmetic raw material and is meant for external use only in cosmetic formulations. As with all of our materials, it should not be taken internally. Treasure Actives is not responsible for product compatibility. We advise everyone to test ingredients for performance, compatibility, and safety prior to committing to larger quantities. Keep all products out of reach of children. For more information, please see our terms and conditions page.
