DESCRIPTION: Cool-3 (WS‑3) is a high‑purity, synthetic menthyl carboxamide cooling agent designed to deliver a clean, long‑lasting cooling sensation without the odor, volatility, or irritation associated with menthol. It activates cold‑sensing receptors in the skin to produce a smooth, refreshing sensory effect suitable for skincare, lip care, haircare, and personal hygiene formulations.
MECHANISM OF ACTIVITY: Cool‑3 selectively stimulates TRPM8 cold‑receptor ion channels, triggering a cooling sensation independent of temperature change. Unlike menthol, it does not significantly activate nociceptors or TRPA1 receptors, resulting in cooling without burning or irritation. Its low volatility ensures a slow onset and extended duration, while its lipophilic structure enhances deposition on the skin surface for prolonged sensory performance.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
- Provides a clean, long‑lasting cooling effect
- Odorless profile allows fragrance‑neutral formulation
- Produces smooth, non‑irritating cooling without menthol harshness
- Enhances perceived freshness in skincare and hygiene products
- Stable across a wide pH and temperature range
- Compatible with other cooling agents for synergistic effects
- Improves user comfort in after‑sun, post‑shave, and sports formulations
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 |
APPLICATIONS: Cooling gels, lotions, and creams, After‑sun and post‑shave products, Lip balms and glosses, Deodorants and antiperspirants, Scalp and hair‑refreshing treatments, Cleansers and body washes, Sports recovery products, Oral‑care cooling systems (non‑flavor cooling).
FORMULATION GUIDELINES:
- Pre‑dissolved in a suitable co‑solvent for water‑based systems
- Add to oil phase or cool‑down phase for best dispersion.
- Ensure uniform mixing to avoid localized over‑cooling.
- Works synergistically with Cool‑23, Fresh-Feel (Menthyl Lactylate) and menthol.
- Avoid excessive levels in lip products to prevent overpowering cooling.
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
INCI: N‑Ethyl‑p‑menthane‑3‑carboxamide (and) Propanediol
Use rate:0.5–5% (0.5–1.5% for mild cooling. 2.0–5.0% for strong, long‑lasting cooling)
Solubility: Soluble in water and emulsions
pH stability: Stable from pH 4–9. Maintains cooling performance and chemical integrity across typical cosmetic pH ranges.
Temperature Tolerance: Highly thermally stable. Can withstand typical heating phases, but best added below 45–50°C to preserve optimal sensory profile
Appearance: Clear viscous liquid
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.
