Penetration Enhancers for Water-Based, Alcohol-Free Hair Spray

Based on your requirements for a water-based hair spray that absorbs and dries quickly without alcohol, here's an analysis of the penetration enhancers you listed:

• Suitable Options for Water-Based, Quick Drying:

  • Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI): This is an excellent choice. DMI is a versatile solvent and carrier that significantly enhances the penetration of active ingredients. It is water-soluble and known for improving the feel of formulations, making them less tacky and contributing to faster drying, which aligns well with your need for a quick-drying spray.
  • Ethoxydiglycol and 1,2-Hexanediol: Both are effective solvents and carriers that can improve the solubility and penetration of ingredients in water-based systems. They can also help with the drying speed compared to using water alone.
  • Laurocapram (Water-Soluble): This is a known penetration enhancer and is water-soluble, making it suitable for a water-based formula. However, solvents like DMI, Ethoxydiglycol, and 1,2-Hexanediol might offer better performance in terms of achieving a quick-drying, non-tacky spray finish.

• Less Suitable Options for Your Application:

  • Laurocapram (Oil-Soluble): This is designed for oil-based systems, not a water-based spray.
  • Phospholipid: While useful in some formulations, phospholipids are generally less suited for a simple, quick-drying water spray compared to the solvent-based options.
  • Reservoir-Tech: This appears to be more focused on sustained release or delivery under the skin, which is not the primary goal for a quick-absorbing hair spray.

For a water-based hair spray that needs to absorb and dry quickly without alcohol, Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) is likely the most suitable option from your list due to its combined properties of penetration enhancement, solubility improvement, and positive impact on drying time and feel. Ethoxydiglycol and 1,2-Hexanediol are also good alternatives.