An improved cosmetic composition

Abstract

A composition for topical application to the skin of a mammal, such as human, wherein the composition comprises at least one prebiotic; a probiotic fraction comprising a probiotic and at least one lys

Description

The invention relates to an improved cosmetic composition for topical application to the skin of a mammal, particularly but not exclusively a human. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION The relationship between the skin barrier and the microbiome is essential for maintaining healthy, resilient skin. The skin barrier is the physical structure composed of lipids, proteins and fats, to protect and regulate the skin. It acts as a physical shield, protecting the skin from external aggressors such as pollutants, irritants, and pathogens, while also retaining its structure and preventing excessive water loss. The microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms living on the skin's surface, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It forms a protective, symbiotic relationship with the skin barrier, by regulating the chemical, physical, microbial and immune functions of the skin. When the skin barrier is strong and intact, it provides an ideal environment for a balanced microbiome. A well-balanced microbiome, in turn, fortifies the skin barrier by maintaining its structural integrity and supporting the skin’s immune function. When both are healthy and in balance, the skin is better equipped to defend itself, retain moisture, and stay resilient. This intricate balance helps the skin fend off harmful bacteria, pathogens and aggressors, making it less prone to issues like dryness, sensitivity, irritation, inflammation, or premature aging. When this balance between the skin barrier and the microbiome is disrupted (for example, by harsh skincare products or environmental stressors), the skin’s ability to retain moisture and fight off harmful microbes is weakened. Under various disease conditions, the equilibrium state of the host-microbial interaction is disrupted, resulting in an ecological imbalance. It is an object of the present invention to reduce, or substantially obviate, the aforementioned problems by problems by promoting and nurturing a healthy microbiome, and maintaining or enhancing the skin barrier. STATEMENT OF INVENTION According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a composition for topical application to the skin of a mammal, the composition comprising: at least one prebiotic; a probiotic fraction comprising a probiotic and at least one lysate of a probiotic; and at least one non-lysate postbiotic; and wherein the probiotic fraction is greater than 4% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition. An advantage of the invention is that including a probiotic fraction that is greater than 4%, together with a prebiotic and a postbiotic, can enhance the microbiome of the skin barrier. In particular, the probiotic fraction may inhibit pathogenic bacteria and thereby contribute to a balanced microbiome. For people with skin conditions such as acne and eczema, this can help to reduce symptoms. The probiotic(s) can also stimulate skin cell turnover and repair, and thereby lead to regenerative effects and reduce the appearance of fine lines. The prebiotics can nourish beneficial microbes. The prebiotics can nourish the probiotic(s) to strengthen the microbiome. The composition may comprise more than 1% w / w prebiotics. The composition may comprise more than 1.5% w / w prebiotics. As used herein the terms probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, lysate, lysis and ferment have the following meanings: Probiotics: As defined by the World Health Organisation, live microorganisms, such as Lactobacillus and Lactococcus bacteria, which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. Prebiotics: Substances oxidised by the microorganisms. Effectively substances that feed live microorganisms (i.e. probiotics). Prebiotics impact the ratio of microorganisms in the microbial community by feeding microorganisms that preferentially use those prebiotics in their metabolism. Therefore, the proportion of preferred microorganisms in the microbiome can be increased by selection of appropriate prebiotics, which has the effect of reducing the proportion of undesirable microorganisms in the microbial community. For example, Lactobacillus is a bacterium with a high energy demand, so prebiotics that are oxidised by Lactobacillus are helpful to increase the concentration of Lactobacillus in the microbial community. Postbiotics: Substances released or produced by the metabolic activity of a microorganism that deliver a beneficial effect on the host. They do not contain any live microorganisms. For example, postbiotics include biological substances, cellular wall fragments, lysates, enzymes, supernatants, phenols and other chemical substances. Lysate: Fluid containing the products of lysis. Lysis: Process where plasma membrane / wall breaks down releasing the cells contents. This kills the cells and extracts active ingredients from inside the cells. Ferment: Product of fermentation, a chemical process where organic matter (anything with carbon) is broken down anaerobically (in the absence of oxygen) using enzymes (redox metabolism). This can contain a live form of bacteria. Typically, the probiotic fraction may be less than or equal to 10% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition. The probiotic fraction may be up to about any of 9%, 8%, 7%, 6% or 5% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition. Preferably, the at least one prebiotic and the probiotic fraction have a combined relative mass of greater than 6% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition. More preferably, the at least one prebiotic, the probiotic fraction and the at least one postbiotic have a combined relative mass of greater than 6.5% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition. The combination of the prebiotic and probiotic fraction may encourage production of barrier lipids and proteins, which may improve the ability of the skin to retain moisture and protect against environmental aggressors, such as pollution or UV radiation. The combination of the prebiotic and probiotics may also help modulate inflammation, by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The postbiotic may contribute to skin hydration, pH balance, protection against pathogens, antioxidant properties, and anti-inflammatory effects. The addition of a postbiotic may have a synergistic effect when combined with the prebiotic and probiotic to improve skin health, and enhance resilience to environmental stressors. Typically, the non-lysate postbiotic may comprise one, some or all of: hyaluronic acid; lactic acid; ectoin; and Leuconostoc ferment filtrate. Preferably, the at least one lysate of a probiotic comprises at least one of: Lactobacillus ferment lysate; and Lactococcus ferment lysate. Typically, the probiotic may comprise Lactobacillus ferment. Preferably, the prebiotic comprises one, some or all of: inulin; an oligosaccharide; and colloidal oatmeal. Inulin may be provided at about 0.4% w / w to about 2% w / w of the composition. Preferably, the inulin may be at about 1.2% w / w. The oligosaccharide may comprise alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, for example at up to about 0.1 % w / w to about 0.5% w / w of the composition, preferably around 0.3% w / w. Typically, the composition may comprise one, some or all of: an antioxidant; an antimicrobial; and an anti-inflammatory. At least one of the antioxidant, the anti-microbial and the anti-inflammatory may be provided by at least one of: raspberry seed oil (such as common raspberry (Rubus idaeus) seed oil); cranberry seed oil (such as American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) seed oil); vitamin A; vitamin E; and a tocopherol. The composition may be acidic or weakly acidic. Typically, the composition may have a pH in the range 4.0 to 6.0, preferably a pH in the range 4.8 to 5.3. Preferably, the composition is in the form of a cream, ointment, serum, toner, oil, balm or mist. For example, the composition may be, or form part of, a face barrier, lip barrier, body barrier or a scalp barrier. Preferably, the composition is suitable for use on the skin of a human, such as an adult human. The composition may be provided in a container of any size, for example a 30 ml container or a 50ml container. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of making a composition for topical application to the skin of a mammal, the method comprising the steps of: a) mixing, in a first vessel, a first set of ingredients including a prebiotic into water to form a first homogenous mixture; b) heating the first homogenous mixture, optionally to a temperature in the range 40°C to 95°C; c) mixing a second set of ingredients including at least one wax or oil into the first homogenous mixture to form a second homogenous mixture; d) cooling the second homogenous mixture, or allowing the second homogenous mixture to cool; e) mixing a third set of ingredients into the second homogenous mixture to form a third homogenous mixture, the third set of ingredients including one, some or all of: a probiotic, at least one lysate of a probiotic, and at least one non-lysate postbiotic, thereby forming the composition. The method may include the step of (f) adjusting the pH of the third homogenous mixture using an alkaline moiety such as sodium hydroxide or a solution thereof. This can change the pH of the composition (typically increasing the pH, i.e. reducing acidity) to make it more suitable for use on skin. The first homogenous mixture may be heated to a temperature in the range 70°C to 85°C, or preferably 75°C to 80°C, during step (b). The second homogenous mixture may be cooled, or allowed to cool, to a temperature in the range 25°C to 65°C during step (d). Preferably, the second homogenous mixture may be cooled, or allowed to cool, to a temperature in the range 35°C to 50°C, more preferably 40°C to 45°C, during step (d). The first set of ingredients may include any one, some or all of: water, a first moisturiser (such as an emollient and / or humectant), and a chelating agent. The first moisturiser may include a humectant. The first moisturiser or humectant may include any one or more of (or independently selected combination of any of) 1,3-propanediol, glycerine, ectoin, inulin, sodium hyaluronate, alpha-glucan oligosaccharide and lactic acid, and / or another biocompatible small molecule diol or triol. The chelating agent may include a phytate, such as sodium phytate or an acid or derivative of phytate. Glycerine (or glycerin) and / or a hyaluronic acid (or a derivative of either / both) may be mixed into the first homogenous mixture prior to step (b). The second set of ingredients may include any one, some or all of: a second moisturiser (such as an emollient and / or humectant), an emulsifier, and a gelling agent or thickener. The second moisturiser may include an emollient, such as one or more of a castor oil / lPDI copolymer, triheptanoin, coco-caprylate / caprate, cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate, undecane, tridecane, raspberry seed oil (for example, Rubus idaeus seed oil) and cranberry seed oil (for example, Vaccinium macrocarpon seed oil). Triheptanoin is a triglyceride ester that can act as a skin conditioning agent. Coco-caprylate / caprate can be derived from coconut oil, and can function as a skinconditioning agent. Cetearyl olivate is a fatty acid ester that can act as an emulsifier. Sorbitan olivate is an ester derived from olive oil, and can function as an emulsifier. Undecane may provide smoothness and hydration for skin. Tridecane may provide a smooth, silky feel for skin. Raspberry seed oil can be rich in essential fatty acids, and can be soothing for skin. Cranberry seed oil can be rich in omega-3 and / or omega-6 fatty acids, and may be moisturising for skin. Castor oil / lPDI copolymer can moisturise and soften the skin. The emulsifier may include cetearyl olivate and / or sorbitan olivate (or other cetearyl and / or sorbitan moiety may be selected). The gelling agent or thickener may include a polymeric sulfonic acid or acryloyldimethyltaurate such as an ammonium salt thereof. Some or all of the ingredients in the second set of ingredients may melt into the mixture during step (c). The at least one wax or oil may include undecane and / or tridecane (and optionally tocopherol). The undecane and / or tridecane may be added last during the mixing in step (c). That is, each of the other ingredients in the second set may be mixed into the mixture before the undecane and / or tridecane (and optionally tocopherol). The method may include the step of mixing ectoin into the second homogenous mixture. This may be done after step (d) or before step (e). Any feature or independently selected combination of features presented with respect to one of the first and second aspects of the invention may be provided in the other of the first and second aspects of the invention. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Example An example of a composition according to the invention was prepared using the compounds and formulations in the tables below. Where a possible % range is given, then any value within the range is also disclosed. For example, the range 1-10 includes independent disclosure of 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. If the range corresponds to fractional values, for example 0.5-5, then the disclosure is of 0.5, 0.6, 0.7 ... (and so on) ... 4.8, 4.9, 5.0 (inclusive of each incremental tenth in the range). If the range corresponds to smaller fractional values, for example 0.01-1, then the disclosure is of 0.01, 0.02, 0.03 ... (and so on) ... 0.98, 0.99, 1.00 (inclusive of each incremental hundredth in the range). Upper and lower limits for a sub-range of possible values for any given ingredient may be independently selected from any value in the relevant range. Phase 1 Ingredients Table Phase Ingredient Preferred component or ingredient source (I.S.) % w / w of I.S. Possible range % w / w 1 Water Purified water 56.5 50-60 1 Propanediol Zemea® (contains propane-1,3-diol) 5.0 3-7 1 Inulin Oligosaccharide Biolin P® (contains inulin (>80%), alpha-glucan oligosaccharide (<20%)) 1.5 0.5-2.5 1 Phytate Dermofeel PA-12 (contains sodium phytate) 0.10 0.01-1 Phase 2 Ingredients Table Phase Ingredient Preferred component or ingredient source (I.S.) % w / w of I.S. Possible range % w / w 2 Glycerine or glycerin Glycerine fluid 10.0 5-15 2 Sodium hyaluronate HySilk® (low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, 150 to 1300 kDa, can be obtained by fermentation of a non-haemolytic microbial strain of Streptococcus equi) 0.10 0.01-1 Phase 3 Ingredients Table Phase Ingredient Preferred component or ingredient source (I.S.) % w / w of I.S. Possible range % w / w 3 Triheptanoin &coco-caprylate / caprate (and) Polyurethane-100 Gransense 21X / C® (contains triheptanoin, coco-caprylate / caprate, dilinoleic acid / butanediol copolymer, castor oil / lPDI copolymer) 5.0 3-7 3 Cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate RSPO Olivem 1000 MB® (contains cetearyl olivate 50-70%, sorbitan olivate 30-50%) 2.0 1-3 3 Polymeric sulphonic acid, partially neutralized Aristoflex A VC® (contains CAS-No.: 335383-60- 3) 0.75 0.1-1.5 3 Essential fatty acids Vitamins Antioxidants Cranberry seed oil cold pressed 0.20 0.1-0.3 3 Essential fatty acids Vitamins Antioxidants Raspberry seed oil cold pressed 0.20 0.1-0.3 3 Undecane, tridecane, tocopherol RSPO Cetiol Ultimate MB® (contains undecane 66-75%, tridecane 22-33%, tocopherol 0.01-0.05%) 2.5 0.5-5 Phase 4 Ingredients Table Phase Ingredient Preferred component or ingredient source (I.S.) % w / w of I.S. Possible range % w / w 4 Water Purified water 6.0 4-8 4 Ectoin or ectoine (CAS Number 96702-03-3) Bitop® ectoin natural (contains (4S)-2-methyl- 1,4,5,6-tetra- hydropyrimidine-4-carboxylic acid) 2.0 1-3 Phase 5 Ingredients Table Phas e Ingredient Preferred component or ingredient source (I.S.) % w / w of I.S. Possible range % w / w 5 Lactococcus Ferment Lysate ProRenew® Complex CLR (lysate from Lactococcus lactis, suspension in a moderately acidic aqueous medium). 3.0 2-4 5 Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate Probacillus Revive® 16617ADN (Vegan) (contains Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate (98%), Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (2%) 2.0 1-3 5 Lactobacillus Ferment Aurafirm® N Preserved (contains water (98.31%), Lactobacillus Ferment, Oat kernel extract, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate) 2.0 1-3 5 Benzyl alcohol Geogard® 221 / Neopress® 221 (contains benzyl alcohol, dehydroacetic acid, water) 1.0 0.25-2 Phase 6 Ingredients Table Phase Ingredient Preferred component or ingredient source (I.S.) % w / w of I.S. Possible range % w / w 6 Sodium hydroxide NaOH 10% (solution) 0.15 0.1-0.2 The composition according to the formulation of the phase 1-6 ingredient tables was prepared as follows: Phase 1: The phase 1 ingredients were added to a main mixing vessel and mixed until homogenous. Phase 2: The phase 2 ingredients were added to a separate vessel and mixed together (optionally until homogenous). Once mixed together, the phase 2 ingredients were added to the main mixing vessel. The phase 1 and phase 2 ingredients were then mixed in the main mixing vessel until they were homogenised and smooth. The mixture was then heated to between 75°C to 80°C. Phase 3: When the mixture is at a temperature of 75°C to 80°C, the phase 3 ingredients, except for RSPO Cetiol Ultimate, are added. Olivem 1000 MB is a wax and melts when added to the mixture. The other phase 3 ingredients are liquids. After the Olivem 1000 MB has melted or otherwise been incorporated into the mixture, together with the other phase 3 ingredients, RSPO Cetiol Ultimate is added. After the RSPO Cetiol Ultimate is added, the mixture is homogenised until smooth and the mixture then cooled to 40°C to 45°C. Phase 4: The phase 4 ingredients are premixed in a separate vessel until a clear solution is formed. In some cases, it may be necessary to heat the premix of the phase 4 ingredients to 30°C to 35°C. After a clear solution is formed, the phase 4 premixture is added to the mixture in the main mixing vessel while stirring. The mixture is then mixed until it is homogenous. Phase 5: The phase 5 ingredients are added to the main mixing vessel in the order given in the phase 5 ingredients table while stirring the mixture in the main mixing vessel. The mixture is then mixed until homogenous. Phase 6: Sodium hydroxide is added to the mixture while stirring to adjust the pH until the mixture has a pH of 4.8 to 5.3. The resulting composition was found to be an effective skin serum for topical application to human skin, especially to the skin of the face. The final composition contained prebiotics, a probiotic fraction (including probiotics and lysates of probiotics) and non-lysate postbiotics, with a probiotic fraction of about 4.9% w / w (comprised of 0.003% w / w probiotics and 4.91% w / w probiotic lysates), 1.74% prebiotics and 2.17% postbiotics. The prebiotic, probiotic fraction and non-lysate postbiotic active ingredients in the composition were: • Inulin -1.2% w / w (prebiotic) • Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide - 0.3% w / w (prebiotic) • Sativa Kernel Extract - 0.24% w / w (prebiotic) • Leuconostoc / Radish Root Ferment Filtrate - 0.04% w / w (non-lysate postbiotic) • Sodium Hyaluronate - 0.1% w / w (non-lysate postbiotic) • Ectoin - 2% w / w (non-lysate postbiotic) • Lactic Acid - 0.025% w / w (non-lysate postbiotic) • Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate -1.96% w / w (probiotic lysate) • Lactobacillus Ferment - 0.003% w / w (probiotic) • Lactococcus Ferment Lysate - 2.95% w / w (probiotic lysate) In addition to these ingredients, the composition also contained other active ingredients with omega fatty acids and antioxidant benefits, including raspberry seed oil (0.2% w / w), cranberry seed oil (0.2% w / w) and tocopherol (0.00075% w / w). For example, the raspberry seed oil may be common raspberry (Rubus idaeus) seed oil. For example, the cranberry seed oil may be American (or large) cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) seed oil. The inventor has found that combining probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics in a skincare product enhances efficacy when used in sufficiently high concentrations, as it amplifies their beneficial effects on the skin microbiome, barrier function, and overall skin health. A probiotic fraction of greater than 4% w / w has been found to be particularly beneficial, especially when preferably, the probiotic fraction and the prebiotics have a combined concentration of at least 6% w / w. 1. Improved Microbiome Balance Probiotic fraction: At higher concentrations of greater than 4% w / w, a probiotic fraction delivers more beneficial microorganisms or microbial components to the skin. This increased presence can better inhibit pathogenic bacteria, helping to restore and maintain a balanced microbiome. For people with conditions like acne, eczema, or sensitivity, this microbiome support can lead to visible improvements in skin clarity and calmness. Prebiotics: Higher prebiotic levels nourish beneficial microbes on the skin, giving them the resources they need to thrive. Prebiotics essentially "feed" the probiotics, and a higher concentration of greater than 1% w / w, and preferably greater than 1.5% w / w, ensures that the skin's beneficial bacteria flourish, supporting overall microbiome health and resilience. 2. Enhanced Skin Barrier Support The skin barrier benefits from both a probiotic fraction and prebiotics due to their ability to encourage the production of key barrier lipids and proteins. It has been found that higher concentrations of greater than 6% w / w make this process more effective, improving the skin’s ability to retain moisture and defend against environmental aggressors. This effect is especially important in products aiming to strengthen the skin’s natural defences and reduce trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), leading to longer-lasting hydration and smoother, softer skin. 3. Greater Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing Effects Probiotics and prebiotics help modulate inflammation by interacting with the skin’s immune cells. In higher combined concentrations of greater than 6% w / w, it has been found that these ingredients are more effective at reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This can visibly reduce redness, irritation, and sensitivity, making high concentrations especially useful for people with inflammatory skin conditions or reactive skin types. 4. Improved Skin Renewal and Anti-Aging Effects Probiotics in particular can stimulate skin cell turnover and repair processes by promoting a healthier skin ecosystem. A higher concentration of greater than 1%, and preferably greater than 1.5% w / w can enhance these regenerative effects, leading to a more refined skin texture, reduced appearance of fine lines, and a more even complexion. 5. Boosted Hydration and Moisture Retention Both probiotic fractions and prebiotics can enhance moisture retention by supporting a healthy barrier and attracting moisture to the skin. The inventor has found that higher combined levels of probiotic fractions and prebiotics of greater than 6% w / w intensify this benefit, helping to lock in hydration for longer periods and reducing the risk of dryness or dehydration. 6. Increased Resilience Against Environmental Stressors High combined concentrations of probiotic fractions and prebiotics of at least 6% w / w can strengthen the skin's resilience to stressors such as pollution and UV damage. By supporting the microbiome and barrier, these ingredients help the skin better respond to external aggressors, reducing visible signs of stress and aging. In addition, combining prebiotics, a probiotics fraction and postbiotics in a single skincare composition provide a well-rounded approach to skin health, going beyond what isolated or dual combinations of microbiome-supporting ingredients can achieve in separate products. The composition aids establishment of a balanced and resilient skin microbiome by combining three elements: prebiotics, a probiotics fraction and postbiotics. Each plays a unique role, working together to provide a synergistic effect to strengthen the skin barrier, support skin health, and enhance its resilience to environmental stressors, especially in the concentrations disclosed herein. In particular, compositions for topical application to the skin including prebiotics, a probiotic fraction and postbiotics have the following benefits: 1. Probiotic fraction This is beneficial bacteria and lysates of beneficial bacteria applied topically to the skin, which assist in: • Maintaining a balanced microbiome by promoting the growth of healthy bacteria and keeping harmful bacteria in check. • Supporting the immune function of the skin, which can reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and improve the skin’s overall appearance. • Providing a more diverse bacterial environment, enhancing the skin's natural defences. 2. Prebiotics Prebiotics serve as “food” for probiotics, providing nutrients to encourage the growth and survival of beneficial bacteria. They: • Selectively nourish the probiotics, ensuring that the beneficial strains have the resources needed to thrive, which strengthens the microbiome. • Help to create a microbiome environment that deters the growth of harmful bacteria, thereby supporting a more resilient skin ecosystem. 3. Postbiotics Postbiotics include the metabolic by-products of probiotics, such as peptides, enzymes, and organic acids. They assist in: • Supporting skin health by contributing to barrier repair, hydration, and pH balance. • Providing antimicrobial properties that help keep pathogens in check, reinforcing the protective role of the microbiome. • Providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, which help soothe the skin, calm redness, and protect against free radicals and other environmental stressors. The combined action of these three elements in compositions according to the invention, provides a multidimensional approach to skincare, enhancing the skin's natural defences and resilience. Probiotic fractions introduce healthy bacteria, prebiotics sustain them, and postbiotics offer immediate skin benefits that support the skin barrier and improve hydration, texture, and protection. By strengthening the microbiome and creating a supportive environment, compositions according to the invention help the skin withstand environmental challenges like pollution, UV exposure, and harsh weather. They also play a key role in calming inflammation, reducing signs of aging, and improving skin hydration, making compositions according to the invention an advanced and comprehensive option for skincare that goes beyond single-ingredient approaches. Incorporating a probiotic fraction, prebiotics and postbiotics in compositions according to the invention allows for a holistic approach to skin care and skin health. They reintroduce and support the good bacteria, while maintaining the diversity needed to help limit the presence of bad bacteria, that can cause irritation and inflammation. They rebalance the skin pH, regulate and support the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, calm irritation, enhance hydration and provide antioxidant protection. The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A composition for topical application to the skin of a mammal, the composition comprising: at least one prebiotic; a probiotic fraction comprising a probiotic and at least one lysate of a probiotic; and at least one non-lysate postbiotic; and wherein the probiotic fraction is greater than 4% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition.

2. A composition according to claim 1, wherein the at least one prebiotic and the probiotic fraction have a combined relative mass of greater than 6% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition.

3. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one prebiotic, the probiotic fraction and the at least one postbiotic have a combined relative mass of greater than 6.5% by weight relative to the total mass of the composition.

4. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the non-lysate postbiotic comprises at least one of: hyaluronic acid; lactic acid; ectoin; and Leuconostoc ferment filtrate.

5. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one lysate of a probiotic comprises at least one of: Lactobacillus ferment lysate; and Lactococcus ferment lysate.

6. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the probiotic comprises Lactobacillus ferment.

7. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the prebiotic comprises at least one of: inulin; an oligosaccharide; and colloidal oatmeal.

8. A composition according to claim 7, wherein the oligosaccharide comprises alpha-glucan oligosaccharide.

9. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of: an antioxidant; an anti-microbial; and an anti-inflammatory.

10. A composition according to claim 9, wherein the at least one of the antioxidant, the anti-microbial and the anti-inflammatory comprises at least one of: raspberry seed oil; cranberry seed oil; vitamin A; vitamin E; and a tocopherol.

11. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition has a pH in the range 4 to 6.

12. A composition according to claim 11, wherein the composition has a pH in the range 4.8 to 5.3.

13. A composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is for topical application to human skin.

14. A composition according to claim 13, wherein the composition is for topical application to at least one of: the face: the lips; the scalp; and the body.

15. A method of making a composition for topical application to the skin of a mammal, the method comprising the steps of:a) mixing, in a first vessel, a first set of ingredients including a prebiotic into water to form a first homogenous mixture;b) heating the first homogenous mixture to a temperature in the range 40°C to 95°C;c) mixing a second set of ingredients including at least one wax or oil into the first homogenous mixture to form a second homogenous mixture;d) cooling the second homogenous mixture, or allowing the second homogenous mixture to cool;e) mixing a third set of ingredients into the second homogenous mixture to form a third homogenous mixture, the third set of ingredients including: a probiotic, at least one lysate of a probiotic, and at least one non-lysate postbiotic.

16. A method as claimed in claim 15, including the step of (f) adjusting the pH of the third homogenous mixture using an alkaline moiety such as sodium hydroxide or a solution thereof.

17. A method according to claim 15 or claim 16, in which the first homogenous mixture is heated to a temperature in the range 70°C to 85°C, or preferably 75°C to 80°C, during step (b).

18. A method according to any of claims 15 to 17, in which the second homogenous mixture is cooled, or allowed to cool, to a temperature in the range 25°C to 65°C during step (d), or preferably in the range 35°C to 50°C, or more preferably in the range 40°C to 45°C, during step (d).

19. A method according to any of claims 15 to 18, in which the first set of ingredients includes water, a first moisturiser or humectant, and a chelating agent; optionally in which the first moisturiser or humectant includes any one or more of 1,3-propanediol, glycerine, ectoin, inulin, sodium hyaluronate, alphaglucan oligosaccharide and lactic acid and / or optionally in which the chelating agent includes a phytate.

20. A method according to any of claims 15 to 19, in which a glycerine and / or a hyaluronic acid or a derivative thereof are mixed into the first homogenous mixture prior to step (b).

21. A method according to any of claims 15 to 20, in which the second set of ingredients includes a second emollient or moisturiser, an emulsifier, and a gelling agent or thickener.

22. A method according to claim 21, in which the at least one wax or oil includes undecane and / or tridecane (and optionally tocopherol) which is / are added last during the mixing in step (c).

23. A method according to claim 21 or claim 22, in which the second emollient or moisturiser includes a castor oil / lPDI copolymer, the emulsifier includes cetearyl olivate and / or sorbitan olivate, and the gelling agent or thickener includes a polymeric sulfonic acid or acryloyldimethyltaurate such as an ammonium salt thereof.

24. A method according to any of claims 15 to 23, including the step of mixing ectoin into the second homogenous mixture after step (d) and before step (e).

25. A container of: composition according to any of claims 1 to 14, or composition made according to any of claims 15 to 24.Application No: GB2419020.9Claims searched: 1-25Examiner: Dr Alistair LongshawDate of search: 29 May 2025Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance X X A A 1-9, 11-14 and 25 1-4-, 6-9, 11-14 and 25 US 2024 / 0285515 Al (WONG) - See whole document, especially paragraphs [0013]-[0017] and [0026], and Tables 1 and 4 CH 718846 A2 (LABO COSPROPHAR AG) - See especially paragraphs [0001], [0010], [0062], [0095] Mintel GNPD (mintel.com), Record ID 11433114, "3D Lifting Cream", CJ Olive Young, January 2024 See especially Product Description and Ingredient List Throda Skincare, 2025, "Throda Skincare Home", throdaskincare.com, [online], Available from https: / / throdaskincare.com / [Accessed 27 May 2025] See whole document, especially the page "The serum"Categories: X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step A Document indicating technological background and / or state of the art. Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if combined with one or more other documents of same category. P Document published on or after the declared priority date but before the filing date of this invention. & Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:Search of GB, EP, WO &US patent documents classified in the following areas of the UKCX :Worldwide search of patent documents classified in the following areas of the IPC_____________A61K; A61Q_______________________________________________The following online and other databases have been used in the preparation of this search report INTERNET, SEARCH-PATENT, SEARCH-NPLInternational Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From A61K 0008 / 99 01 / 01 / 2017 A61K 0008 / 365 01 / 01 / 2006 A61K 0008 / 49 01 / 01 / 2006 A61K 0008 / 73 01 / 01 / 2006 A61K 0008 / 9794 01 / 01 / 2017 A61Q 0019 / 00 01 / 01 / 2006