Cooling agent WS-23: the "invisible guardian" of the cool world

1. Four core features of WS-23
The disruptor of “odorless cooling”
Traditional cooling agents (such as menthol) have a cooling feeling, but they will leave a strong mint or bitter taste, which may affect the flavor of the product. The molecular structure of WS-23 has been specially designed to be almost odorless and colorless, and can simply provide a cooling feeling, which is perfectly suitable for occasions that require “invisible” cooling, such as fruity beverages, dairy products and cosmetics.
Long-lasting and mild cooling experience
WS-23 directly triggers nerve signals by activating TRPM8 cold receptors in human skin and mouth (similar to the target of menthol), producing the illusion of “cooling down”. Its effect is more lasting than menthol, and it is less irritating. Even if used for a long time, it will not cause burning or numbness.
High stability and safety
WS-23 is stable to light, heat and acid-base environments, and is not easy to decompose. It can be widely used in high-temperature processed foods or products that need to be stored for a long time. It has been evaluated by international authoritative organizations (such as FEMA and FDA) and is safe for the human body at prescribed doses and is non-addictive.
Flexible synergistic effect
It is often used in combination with other cooling agents (such as WS-3 and menthol) to enhance the effect through “cooling superposition”. For example, in e-cigarette liquid, WS-23 can enhance the cooling impact of mint while reducing the sweetness.
2. Five major application areas of WS-23
1. Food and beverage: the “cooling code” in the sugar-free era
Chewing gum and candy: replace menthol in sugar-free products to avoid bitterness interfering with the taste of sweeteners (such as sucralose) and create “pure coolness”.
Beverages and ice products: used in sports drinks, sparkling water, and ice cream to provide instant coolness without affecting the fruit or milk flavor.
Special foods: balance the burning sensation in spicy snacks to create a stimulating experience of “ice and fire”.
2. Daily chemical products: “invisible cool hands” for cleaning and care
Toothpaste and mouthwash: mild and cool without spicy taste, especially suitable for children and sensitive people; it can also inhibit the growth of oral bacteria.
Skin care products: Add to facial masks and sunscreen to relieve the burning sensation of the skin after sun exposure and improve the comfort of use.
Shampoo and shower gel: Give the washing and care products the unique selling point of “cooling the scalp” or “cooling down after bathing”.
3. Electronic cigarettes: “Polar Storm” in the smoke
WS-23 is the star ingredient of electronic cigarette liquid, which can be perfectly integrated with nicotine salt and fruit flavors:
Enhance the cool throat hit feeling and simulate the experience of “bursting beads” cigarettes;
Neutralize the sweetness of the smoke oil to create a refreshing aftertaste;
Paired with mint, watermelon, lemon and other flavors, create the “Glacier Fruit” series of popular flavors.
4. Medical field: Mild auxiliary therapeutic agent
Used in throat lozenges and cough syrups to relieve sore throat;
Added to ointments to relieve muscle soreness or the burning sensation of mosquito bites;
Assist physical cooling in antipyretic patches to improve patient comfort.
5. Industry and agriculture: unexpected uses
WS-23 is added to some lubricants or metalworking fluids to remind workers to avoid direct contact through the cooling sensation on the skin;
It is used in anti-itch spray in pet care products to help animals calm their skin.
3. Why choose WS-23?
Compared with natural cooling ingredients (such as peppermint oil and borneol), the advantages of WS-23 are:
Precise control: industrial production ensures purity and batch stability;
Cost controllable: the synthesis process is mature and the price is lower than some plant extracts;
Environmentally friendly: there is no need to plant crops such as mint on a large scale, reducing land resource consumption.
Conclusion: The future of cooling technology
The birth of WS-23 demonstrates the ability of synthetic chemistry to precisely control human sensory experience. As consumers’ demand for “pure formula” and “no additives” grows, the application of this type of “invisible functional molecules” will become more extensive. In the future, we may see it in more fields-from smart temperature control materials to sensory simulation in virtual reality, cooling technology is quietly changing our life experience.