170036Parker FiltrationClosedLegacy RDA Collaborative R&DInnovate UKOils are essential in a wide range of deodorant formulations, as structuring ingredients e.g. as oil-in-water emulsions and as benefit agents. From the perspective of skin protection and ingredients delivery, 'natural oils' could provide performance advantage over the synthetic oils that are typically in current use. Moreover, their incorporation would also create opportunity for sustainable raw material sourcing. The primary objective of this £2,2m project is to identify superior natural oil compositions for deodorant applications. This requires in-depth research on how oils wet and penetrate the outer layers of skin and how natural oils can meet product performance of synthetic oils. Natural oils- by mimicking the natural coating of sebum - could also improve the lipid-rich skin barrier, through specific interaction with skin proteins, which would enhance their protective and caring technological advantages in personal care formulations. There is a clear market potential for products like deodorants that provide more natural care. The industry has not yet succeeded to find an appropriate answer here. Unilever will build on the successful track record of collaboration with local Universities and forge new links. Unilever -having a major presence in the Yorkshire Region with its world-scale deodorant factory in Leeds -will transfer into the region the specialty knowledge generated by its global R&D team, create 5 new and secure 40+ jobs.