System for the production of moldable alginate-based cosmetic pads for eye and face care
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202025101717
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-28
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-24
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-03-31
Abstract
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a system for producing cosmetic pads, which comprises a powder mixture of at least one water-soluble alginate, diatomaceous earth, a calcium salt, a complexing agent for calcium ions and at least one cosmetic active ingredient, as well as a reusable mold and accessories for precise dosing.
[0002] Cosmetic products, with their effects, contribute significantly to increased self-esteem and well-being. Accordingly, a wide variety of cosmetic products are used for the daily cleansing and care of human skin.
[0003] A popular form of facial skin care involves applying pads or masks that can either refresh, cleanse or regenerate the skin.
[0004] Various technologies for pads or masks are known in the prior art, between which the person skilled in the art distinguishes.
[0005] For example, sheet masks are known, consisting of a thin nonwoven fabric soaked in an active ingredient solution. The sheets are individually wrapped and unfolded for application before being applied to the facial skin. The advantage of these products is that the nonwoven fabric prevents, or only partially prevents, the active ingredient solution from being smeared. Furthermore, the provision of cutouts in the nonwoven fabric allows the eyes, nostrils, and mouth to remain uncovered.
[0006] Other cleansing masks are based on clay or charcoal particles, which are applied to the facial skin as a viscous or pasty preparation. These cleansing masks are often also called clay masks. When applied, the ingredients stimulate blood circulation in the facial skin and absorb excess sebum.
[0007] Also known are active ingredient masks, which are applied to the skin as viscous or pasty preparations and removed with a cloth after use. These preparations retain their viscous or pasty properties. These masks are often based on water-based emulsions. The advantage of these active ingredient masks is that active ingredients such as Q10, tea extracts, hyaluronic acid, and plant extracts can be incorporated even in higher concentrations. A disadvantage is that the preparations smear, which can lead to eye contact or even soil clothing.
[0008] Another well-known category of masks are so-called alginate-based peel-off masks. These masks are usually based on an anhydrous powder containing an alginate and a calcium salt.
[0009] Alginate is a polysaccharide consisting of the two uronic acids α-L-guluronic acid (GulUA) and β-D-mannuronic acid (ManUA), which are linked in alternating ratios to form linear chains by 1,4-glycosidic bonds. It forms homopolymeric regions in which mannuronic acid or guluronic acid is present as blocks. These blocks are referred to as GG or MM blocks.
[0010] To apply the mask, water is added to the anhydrous powder to dissolve the alginate and calcium salt. Gelation then occurs in the aqueous solution. This gelation occurs through the incorporation of calcium ions into the zigzag structure of the GG blocks. The zigzag structure of another alginate molecule then deposits itself onto this zone, resulting in the formation of three-dimensional structures. Because this reaction with the calcium occurs suddenly, complexing agents are often added to the anhydrous powder to delay hardening or gelling, allowing the consumer sufficient time to apply the mask before it gels. After gelling and application to the skin, the consumer can peel off the mask as a film.
[0011] Well-known products in the latter category are sold by Sephora, among others, under the trade name Sephora Collection Rubber Mask. The powder is mixed with water, and the resulting mixture is applied to the skin.
[0012] EP 0045493 A2 also describes such products. However, the disadvantage is that these powdered preparations do not contain any skin-care components.
[0013] In summary, the state-of-the-art products have some disadvantages: Commercially available facial pads are often made of hydrogel, cellulose, or carrageenan and are available either individually packaged (high packaging waste) or in reusable silicone molds (risk of contamination). Alginate-based peel-off masks are well-known, but require a liquid application and a long drying time on the skin, which is unsuitable for targeted application to small areas of skin. Medical applications of alginate (e.g., dental impressions) do utilize molding processes, but are optimized for dental, not cosmetic, purposes.
[0014] There is therefore still a significant need to optimize the use of pads or masks in skin care.
[0015] Surprisingly, it was found that the provision of a dry powder formulation with individual active ingredients, a reusable mold, and a standardized mixing process for fast-curing pads represents a cost-effective, advantageous alternative to the problematic prior art pads or masks, which avoids the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art.
[0016] The present invention therefore relates to a system for producing biodegradable facial pads, comprising: a) A powder formulation containing at least one water-soluble alginate, diatomaceous earth, at least one calcium salt and a complexing agent for calcium ions and at least one cosmetic active ingredient, b) A reusable mold with at least one cavity for producing pad-shaped structures, c) Accessories for precise dosing of the powder formulation.
[0017] Accessory c) is preferably a measuring spoon.
[0018] Particularly suitable alginates as components of the system according to the invention are selected from sodium alginate (highly water-soluble, forms stable gels), potassium alginate (soluble in water, forms elastic gels, moisture-retaining), ammonium alginate (good water solubility, forms soft, hydrated gels), propylene glycol alginate (PGA) (modified alginate, improves solubility and stability) and magnesium alginate (water-soluble, mild to the skin, supports moisturizing properties).
[0019] These alginates are suitable for the production of cosmetic facial pads because they are water-soluble, biocompatible and moisturizing.
[0020] Among the alginates mentioned, sodium alginate is particularly preferred.
[0021] Preferably, the total proportion of the at least one water-soluble alginate is from 5 to 50 wt.%, preferably from 10 to 45 wt.% and particularly preferably from 20 to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0022] It is particularly advantageous if sodium alginate is included as water-soluble alginate and the total proportion of sodium alginate is from 5 to 50 wt.%, preferably from 10 to 45 wt.% and particularly preferably from 20 to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0023] The powder formulation further comprises at least one calcium salt. The total proportion of calcium salts is advantageously from 5 to 20 wt.%, preferably from 8 to 17 wt.%, and particularly preferably from 10 to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0024] Particularly suitable calcium salts as components of the system according to the invention are selected from calcium sulfate and calcium sulfate dihydrate, with calcium sulfate being particularly preferred.
[0025] Particularly suitable complexing agents for calcium ions as components of the system according to the invention are selected from pyrophosphates such as di-, tri-, or tetrasodium pyrophosphates, as well as EDTA, polylactic acid, iminodisuccinates, and sodium citrates. Tetrasodium pyrophosphate (sodium diphosphate) is particularly preferred.
[0026] The proportion of complexing agents for calcium ions, in particular the proportion of sodium diphosphate, is advantageously from 0.2 to 5 wt.%, preferably from 0.8 to 4 wt.% and particularly preferably from 1.5 to 3.5 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0027] The proportion of diatomaceous earth is advantageously in the range of 20 to 50 wt.%, preferably 20 to 40 wt.% and particularly preferably 20 to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0028] Particularly suitable cosmetic active ingredients as components of the system according to the invention are phycocyanin (blue pigment extract from spirulina) (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, regenerating), allantoin (soothing, soothing, moisturizing, skin renewing), dipotassium glycyrrhizate (licorice root derivative) (anti-inflammatory, soothing, moisturizing, brightening), ectoin (protective anti-stress agent, intensively moisturizing, soothing, regenerating) as individual components or preferably in combination with each other.
[0029] These active ingredients are ideal for a soothing, moisturizing formulation and are well compatible with the alginate pads.
[0030] Other suitable soothing and anti-inflammatory active ingredients include bisabolol (reduces redness and irritation, the main active ingredient in chamomile), azeloglycine (a mild derivative of azelaic acid, anti-inflammatory, hydrating), beta-glucan (supports skin regeneration, strengthens the skin barrier), and centella asiatica (tiger grass extract) (promotes wound healing, reduces skin redness).
[0031] Other suitable moisturizing ingredients are sodium PCA (natural component of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), binds water in the skin), Tremella Fuciformis (silver ear mushroom extract) (plant-based alternative to hyaluronic acid, high water-binding capacity), glycerin (proven moisture binder, strengthens the skin barrier) and sodium lactate (intensively moisturizes, supports the skin's pH value).
[0032] Other suitable antioxidant protective substances are resveratrol (plant polyphenol with antioxidant effects against environmental stress), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (neutralizes free radicals, protects the skin from oxidative stress), vitamin E (tocopherol) (strengthens the skin's protective barrier, reduces oxidative damage).
[0033] These active ingredients are water-soluble and compatible with the alginate matrix. They can be used as a supplement to the existing formulation to further optimize the soothing and moisturizing effects of the pads.
[0034] Also particularly suitable cosmetic active ingredients as components of the system according to the invention are Beta Vulgaris Root Extract (beetroot extract) (moisturizing, antioxidant, soothing, skin barrier strengthening), Caffeine (circulation-promoting, decongestant, antioxidant, sebum-regulating, skin-refining), Salicylic Acid (salicylic acid, BHA) (pore-refining, exfoliating, antibacterial, sebum-regulating), Niacinamide (vitamin B3) (skin-refining, sebum-regulating, brightening, soothing, anti-inflammatory) as individual components or preferably in combination with one another.
[0035] These active ingredients are ideal for a skin-refining formula and are well compatible with the alginate pads.
[0036] Other suitable exfoliating and clarifying ingredients are gluconolactone (PHA) (mild exfoliator, ideal for sensitive skin, helps with blemishes), mandelic acid (AHA) (gentle fruit acid, refines pores, improves the complexion), lactic acid (AHA) (promotes skin renewal, moisturizes at the same time) and zinc PCA (reduces sebum production, has an antibacterial effect).
[0037] Other suitable skin-renewing and pore-refining active ingredients are Bakuchiol (plant-based alternative to retinol, improves skin texture, reduces impurities), Retinyl Palmitate (mild retinol derivative) (supports cell renewal, low irritation) and N-Acetylglucosamine (NAG) (promotes collagen production, improves skin appearance).
[0038] Other suitable skin-soothing and balancing ingredients are azelaic acid (reduces redness, antibacterial, refines skin texture), allantoin (soothes irritation, promotes skin regeneration) and green tea extract (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory).
[0039] Other suitable circulation-promoting and detoxifying ingredients are ginseng extract (promotes microcirculation, revitalizes the skin) and resveratrol (powerful antioxidant, protects against environmental damage, reduces fine lines).
[0040] These active ingredients can help refine the skin's appearance, clear pores, and gently support skin renewal.
[0041] Other suitable cosmetic active ingredients as components of the system according to the invention are selected from 4-butylresorcinol (brightening, pigment-balancing), arctiin (firming, regenerating, antioxidant), carnitine (energy-activating, skin-smoothing, sebum-regulating), carnosine (protects against skin aging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory), coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) (antioxidant, cell-protecting, energy-boosting for skin cells), folic acid (vitamin B9) (cell-regenerating, skin-renewing, moisturizing), glyceryl glucose (moisturizing, promotes skin elasticity), glycyrrhetinic acid (soothing, anti-inflammatory, skin-protecting), Glycyrrhiza Inflata root extract containing licochalcone A (anti-inflammatory, soothing, antioxidant, skin-protecting), honokiol & magnolol (Magnolia extract) (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, soothing), hyaluronic acid (intensively moisturizing, plumping, wrinkle reducing), creatine (supports cell regeneration,Moisture retention, strengthens the skin barrier), N-[(2,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)thiazol-2-yl]isobutyramide (skin soothing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (skin texture refining, soothing, sebum regulating, moisturizing), Panthenol (Provitamin B5) (soothing, moisturizing, skin barrier strengthening), Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, soothing, regenerating), Taurine (cell renewal, revitalizing, moisturizing), Vitamin A Palmitate & Retinol (skin renewal, wrinkle reducing, pore refining, sebum regulating), Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin C Phosphate & Vitamin C Palmitate (brightening, antioxidant, collagen-promoting) and Asparagopsis Armata Extract and Chlorella vulgaris Extract.,
[0042] All of these active ingredients are hydrophilic and compatible with the alginate pads obtained with the system according to the invention. They can be integrated into the pads depending on the desired effect—e.g., for moisturizing, skin-soothing, or skin-refining formulations.
[0043] The proportions of cosmetic active ingredients in the powder formulation must be selected by the specialist to ensure compliance with legal requirements and skin compatibility. Furthermore, the concentrations of the base substances (alginate, etc.) should be adjusted to achieve the desired texture and stability of the pads.
[0044] The proportion of cosmetic active ingredients is advantageously in the range from 0.2 to 5 wt.%, preferably 0.5 to 4.5 wt.% and particularly preferably from 1.5 to 3.5 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0045] The powder formulation may also contain dyes and / or color pigments. Suitable dyes include substances approved for cosmetic purposes, as listed, for example, in the publication "Cosmetic Dyes" of the Dye Commission of the German Research Foundation, Verlag Chemie, Weinheim, 1984, pp. 81-106. These dyes are typically used in concentrations of 0.001 to 1.0 wt.%, based on the total weight of the powder formulation.
[0046] Advantageous color pigments include titanium dioxide, mica, iron oxides and / or tin oxide.
[0047] Advantageous dyes include carmine, Prussian blue, chromium oxide green, ultramarine blue and / or manganese violet.
[0048] The reusable molds, each with at least one cavity, are preferably made of plastic (as an injection-molded part, crucible inlay, or by 3D printing), ceramic, or metal.
[0049] Another object of the present invention is a method for producing a facial pad comprising the steps: a) Mixing the powder formulation specified for the system according to the invention with water in a ratio of 1:2 to 1:4, preferably 1:3, b) filling the mass into the reusable mold specified for the system according to the invention, c) Dry the mass for 2 to 20, preferably 5-10 minutes at room temperature, d) Removing the solid pad from the mold.
[0050] In a preferred embodiment of the method, a water-based serum is added during drying, which is preferably selected from
[0051] Hyaluronic acid serum (effect: intensive hydration, plumps fine lines), niacinamide serum (vitamin B3) (effect: regulates sebum production, reduces redness, strengthens the skin barrier), panthenol (provitamin B5) serum (effect: soothes irritated skin, promotes regeneration, moisturizes), ectoin serum (effect: cell protection, reduces inflammation and environmental damage), aloe vera serum (effect: soothes and hydrates the skin, has an anti-inflammatory effect), green tea extract serum (effect: antioxidant protection, soothes sensitive skin), and caffeine serum (effect: invigorating, decongestant, promotes circulation, ideal for eye pads).
[0052] With regard to all relative or percentage weight-based quantities mentioned here, it should be noted that these must be selected within the framework of the powder formulations specified for the system according to the invention in such a way that, in the composition according to the invention, they always add up to 100% or 100% by weight, taking into account all components or ingredients or additives or constituents or excipients. However, this is self-evident to the person skilled in the art.
[0053] Furthermore, the person skilled in the art may deviate from the numerical, range, weight and quantity specifications given below depending on the application or individual case, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0054] It is also self-evident that embodiments, forms of embodiment, advantages and the like which are mentioned below only for one aspect of the invention for the purpose of avoiding repetition also apply accordingly with regard to the other aspects of the invention. Examples
[0055] The following recipe examples describe the invention without, however, limiting it thereto. Example 1: Soothing, moisturizing formula
[0056] Diatomaceous Earth, Calcium Sulfate, Algin, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate + Phycocyanin, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Ectoine Example 2: Skin-refining formula
[0057] Diatomaceous Earth, Calcium Sulfate, Algin, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, + Beta Vulgaris Root Extract, Caffeine, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide Manufacturing and application example:
[0058] To produce the pads, the powder recipe is mixed with water in a fixed ratio (approx. 1:3, variable depending on the product recipe) and poured into the mold.
[0059] The mixture should then dry, and after 5-10 minutes, it can be removed from the mold. As it dries, the liquid mass transforms into a solid pad with a pudding-like texture that feels very pleasant on the skin.
[0060] The product is then applied to the appropriate area of the face, e.g., as half-moon pads under both eyes, and left to work for 5-15 minutes. Alternatively, the pads can be stored in the refrigerator overnight and used the next day.
[0061] Even without refrigeration (and when prepared at room temperature), the formula develops a very pleasant, cooling effect. The alginate mass itself also has moisturizing effects.
[0062] Different formulations can be used to meet different skin needs using appropriate active ingredients, for example to soothe and refresh the skin, to provide moisture, to anti-age, to refine the skin's appearance, to combat impurities, to regenerate the skin, etc.
[0063] The powder formula and the pads are completely biodegradable.
[0064] The present invention enables a simple and variable application at home for self-production of the pads as part of the cosmetic ritual.
[0065] For the first time, a sustainable alternative is being provided for a previously waste-intensive cosmetic product: > less packaging (container can be refilled) > Administration without water (easier to transport) > fully biodegradable pads, > no preservatives necessary. > Durable, reusable pad shape > Fresh preparation by the end consumer enables greater skin-friendliness and hygiene. > Due to the powder format, none of the usual preservatives for liquid > Cosmetic products that can potentially cause allergies and / or skin irritations. > Hygienic use - when reusing competitor products made of silicone, contamination is possible > Individuality and variability: With one mold, different powder recipes can be used to produce pads with a variety of different beneficial effects depending on individual skin needs
[0066] The biodegradable alginate pads are particularly suitable for the following facial areas due to their adaptable shapes, cooling effect and targeted release of active ingredients: facial area Shape of the pads Application Advantages 1. Eye area Crescent-shaped Under the eyes to reduce puffiness, dark circles and dryness Cooling effect, moisturizing, anti-aging (e.g. niacinamide / ectoin) 2. Lip area Ring / oval shape Care for dry lips or preparation for make-up Soothing, moisturizing, optional plumper effect 3. Forehead & T-zone Rectangular / wide Treatment of wrinkles, oily skin or blemishes Sebum regulation, anti-inflammatory (e.g. salicylic acid), mattifying 4. Cheeks & Contour Large-scale Tightening, balancing of redness or pigment spots Antioxidant effect (e.g. vitamin C), promotes circulation 5. Special areas Narrow stripe / dot shape Nasolabial folds (wrinkle smoothing) or chin (acne treatment) Targeted release of active ingredients, soothing to the skin (e.g. zinc, tea tree oil)
[0067] The pads are universally applicable, but are particularly suitable for sensitive, thin-skinned, or irritation-prone areas such as the eyes and lips. Their combination of tailored shapes and active ingredients provides targeted care that surpasses conventional masks or disposable pads. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION
[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature
[0000] EP 0045493 A2
[0012] Cited non-patent literature
[0000] "Cosmetic Dyes" of the Dye Commission of the German Research Foundation, Verlag Chemie, Weinheim, 1984, pp. 81-106
[0045]
Claims
[1] A system for producing biodegradable facial pads, comprising: a) a powder formulation containing at least one water-soluble alginate, diatomaceous earth, at least one calcium salt and a complexing agent for calcium ions and at least one cosmetic active ingredient, b) a reusable mold with at least one cavity for producing pad-shaped structures, and c) Accessories for precise dosing of the powder formulation. [2] System according to claim 1, characterized by that sodium alginate is contained as water-soluble alginate and the total proportion of sodium alginate is from 5 to 50 wt.%, preferably from 10 to 45 wt.% and particularly preferably from 20 to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation. [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat calcium sulfate is contained as calcium salt and its total proportion is from 5 to 20 wt.%, preferably from 8 to 17 wt.% and particularly preferably from 10 to 15 wt.% based on the total weight of the powder formulation. [4] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the complexing agent for calcium ions is selected from pyrophosphates such as di-, tri- or tetrasodium pyrophosphates as well as EDTA, polylactic acid, iminodisuccinates and sodium citrates, wherein sodium diphosphate is preferred and the proportion of sodium diphosphate is from 0.2 to 5 wt.%, preferably 0.8 to 4 wt.% and particularly preferably from 1.5 to 3.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the powder formulation. [5] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the proportion of diatomaceous earth is in the range of 20 to 50 wt.%, preferably 20 to 40 wt.% and particularly preferably 20 to 30 wt.%, based on the total weight of the powder formulation. [6] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the at least one cosmetic active ingredient is selected from 4-butylresorcinol, allantoin, arctiin, asparagopsis armata extract, azelaic acid, azeloglycin, bakuchiol, beta-glucan, beta vulgaris root extract, caffeine, carnitine, carnosine, centella asiatica, chlorella vulgaris extract, coenzyme Q10, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, ectoin, folic acid, gluconolactone, glycerin, glyceryl glucose, glycyrrhetinic acid, glycyrrhiza inflata root extract, green tea extract, honokiol & magnolol, hyaluronic acid, creatine, lactic acid, mandelic acid, N-acetylglucosamine, N-[(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)thiazol-2-yl]isobuty-ramide, sodium PCA, niacinamide, panthenol, phycocyanin, Resveratrol, Retinyl Palmitate, Salicylic Acid, Silymarin, Sodium Lactate, Superoxide Dismutase, Taurine, Tremella Fuciformis, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin C, Vitamin C Phosphate, Vitamin C Palmitate and Vitamin E, Zinc PCA. [7] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the powder formulation contains at least one of the following combinations of active ingredients: a) Soothing formula: Phycocyanin in a dosage of 0.5-3%, Allantoin in a dosage of 0.1-2%, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate in a dosage of 0.3-1.5%, Ectoin in a dosage of 1-3%, b) Skin-refining formula: Beta Vulgaris Root Extract in a dosage of 1-2%, Caffeine in a dosage of 0.5-2%, Salicylic Acid in a dosage of 0.5-2%, Niacinamide in a dosage of 2-5%. [8] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the reusable mold b) has a cavity which is selected from a half-moon shape for producing pads for the eye area, a ring / oval shape for producing pads for the lip area, a rectangular shape for producing pads for the forehead / T-zone, a strip shape for producing pads for the nasolabial folds or a dot shape for producing pads for the chin.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Composition useful for preparing face masks and process preparing such composition
EP0045493A2