Solid cleansing composition

Abstract

A solid cleansing composition comprising at least a first surfactant and a second surfactant, wherein the combined weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition may be in powder form.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to improved cleansing compositions, particularly solid cleansing compositions. Such cleansing compositions are substantially free of sulfate surfactants, are soluble in the presence of a fluid such as water, and in some embodiments may be in powder form. In certain embodiments, the cleansing compositions of the present disclosure can be combined with a fluid such as water and reconstituted prior to use.

Background Art

[0002] Cleansing products are available in a variety of forms, including liquid form. Liquid cleansers contain a significant amount of water (typically over 70%), are prone to leakage and spillage, and typically require larger packaging such as bottles, tubes, and jars. Thus, liquid cleansers can have a greater negative impact on the environment when transported in large quantities around the world and can be less convenient for the user. Thus, in certain cases, it is preferable to utilize solid cleansing products that are soluble and reconstitutable in the presence of a fluid such as water. Such solid cleansers can be sold in smaller packaging such as sachets, packets, stick packs, and pouches, thus being more environmentally considerate by using less plastic. Further, solid cleansers require fewer batches to meet demand and, since the process typically does not require heat, can consume less energy during their manufacturing process. However, solid cleansing products can also be difficult to formulate and manufacture because, for example, they require specific solid-form components to be readily blendable into the final uniform product.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for improved solid cleansing products, particularly in powder form, that are gentle enough for use on the user's skin, soluble in the presence of a fluid such as water, and provide the desired level of cleansing to the user's skin without causing roughness, dryness, or irritation. There is also a need for solid cleansing products that have a reduced environmental impact compared to other forms of cleansing products. This disclosure addresses these and other needs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The subject of this disclosure is a solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition comprises at least a first surfactant and at least a second surfactant. The first surfactant is present in a first surfactant weight. The second surfactant is present in a second surfactant weight. The combined weight of the first and second surfactants is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition is in powder form.

[0005] In certain embodiments, the combined weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is about 60% to about 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition.

[0006] In certain embodiments, the weights of the first surfactant and the second surfactant may be approximately equal to each other.

[0007] In certain embodiments, the first surfactant and the second surfactant may have the same ionic properties.

[0008] In certain embodiments, the first and second surfactants may be selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, or amphoteric surfactants.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the first surfactant may be a taurine salt.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the second surfactant may be an isethionate.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the solid cleansing composition may be substantially free of sulfate surfactants.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the solid cleansing composition may further comprise one or more pH adjusters, including citric acid, magnesium sulfate, or a combination thereof.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the solid cleansing composition may be soluble in a liquid.

[0014] The subject matter of this disclosure further provides a kit. The kit comprises a solid cleansing composition and a container. The solid cleansing composition comprises at least a first surfactant and at least a second surfactant. The combined weight of the first and second surfactants is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition is in powder form. The container is configured to contain a liquid.

[0015] The subject matter of this disclosure further provides cleansing products. A cleansing product comprises, based on the total weight of the cleansing product, about 2% to about 20% by weight of a solid cleansing composition and about 80% to about 98% by weight of a liquid. The solid cleansing composition comprises at least a first surfactant and at least a second surfactant. The combined weight of the first and second surfactants is at least about 60% by weight based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition is in powder form. The cleansing composition is dissolved in the liquid. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] The subject matter of this disclosure relates to improved solid cleansing compositions that provide a desired level of cleansing to the user. Such solid cleansing compositions may have a surfactant content of at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the solid cleansing compositions of this disclosure may be in powder form.

[0017] These and other aspects of the subject matter of this disclosure will be discussed in more detail below and in the examples. For clarity and not limitation, this detailed description is divided into the following sub-sections. 4.1 Definition, 4.2 Cleansing composition, 4.3 Method for preparing a cleansing composition, 4.4 Method of using the cleansing composition, 4.5 Characteristics of the cleansing composition.

[0018] 4.1.Definition The terms used herein generally have their common meanings in the art within the context of this disclosure and in the specific context in which each term is used. Certain terms are discussed below or elsewhere in this specification to provide additional guidance in describing the compositions and methods of this disclosure, as well as methods for their preparation and use.

[0019] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless otherwise explicitly indicated in the context. Thus, for example, a reference to "components" includes mixtures of components.

[0020] As used herein, "about" means within an acceptable error range for a particular value determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within three or more standard deviations per implementation in the relevant art. Alternatively, "about" can mean within a range of up to 10%, up to 5%, up to 3%, up to 1%, or up to 0.5% of a given value. Particularly with respect to a system or process, this term can mean within one order of magnitude of a value, e.g., within a factor of five or within a factor of two.

[0021] As used herein, the term "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0022] As used herein, the term "powder" refers to particulate materials.

[0023] As used herein, the term "solid" refers to materials that are not in liquid form. Solid materials can include free-flowing granules or powders. In certain embodiments, the solid materials described herein can be substantially anhydrous. The cleansing compositions herein can be substantially free or free of added water.

[0024] As used herein, the term "substantially free of" refers to a composition that contains less than about 0.1% by weight or less than about 0.01% by weight of a component or ingredient.

[0025] As used herein, the term "substantially free of added water" refers to a cleansing composition having less than about 3.5%, less than about 2%, less than about 1.5%, less than about 1%, less than about 0.5%, less than about 0.1%, or less than about 0.01% added water. A cleansing composition free of added water may contain trace levels of water, for example, due to the presence of water in ingredients such as fragrances, extracts, or due to the presence of moisture in the air. In certain embodiments, the amount of trace water in the cleansing composition may be less than about 3.5 wt%, less than about 2 wt%, less than about 1.5 wt%, less than about 1 wt%, less than about 0.5 wt%, less than about 0.1 wt%, or less than about 0.01 wt% based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0026] As used herein, the term "% w / w" or "weight percent" refers to the percentage of a component / total weight percentage (100%) of the composition. The term "% w / w" or "weight percent" refers to the amount by weight of a constituent or component. The terms "weight percent", "weight% (wt-%)", "weight% (wt.%)", and "weight% (wt%)" are used interchangeably.

[0027] 4.2. Cleansing Composition The cleansing compositions of the present disclosure advantageously provide solid cleansing compositions having desired cleansing properties. Such cleansing compositions can include one or more surfactants, one or more chelating agents, one or more pH adjusters, one or more preservatives, one or more antioxidants, one or more additional additives, or combinations thereof. One or more surfactants can be present in an amount of at least 60 wt% based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition.

[0028] By way of non-limiting example, one or more additional additives can include one or more colorants, one or more fragrances, one or more bulking / anti-caking agents, one or more skin-beneficial agents, one or more thickeners, one or more foaming agents, and combinations thereof.

[0029] 4.2.1. Surfactants A cleansing composition may contain one or more surfactants. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain, for example, at least two surfactants, where the first surfactant and the second surfactant are different from each other.

[0030] Suitable surfactants for use in the present invention include sulfonates (olefin sulfonates, isethionates, taurates, sulfoacetates, sulfosuccinates, sulfolaurates), amino acid-type surfactants (glycinates, glutamates, and sarcosinates), cryptoanionic surfactants (phosphates, carboxylates, citrates), polymer surfactants (sodium hydrolyzed potato starch dodecenyl succinate, potassium acrylate copolymer), and anionic surfactants such as combinations thereof. Further surfactants suitable for use in the present invention include cationic surfactants such as quaternary ammonium salts, amine oxides, and ester quarts; amphoteric surfactants such as betaine, amidobetaine, esterbetaine, amphoacetate, amphodiacetate, and sultaine; and nonionic surfactants such as alkyl polyglucosides, poloxamers, polysorbates, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, ethoxylated fatty acids, ethoxylated sorbitan esters, ethoxylated glyceryl esters, and polyglyceryl esters.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain at least two surfactants. Both of the surfactants may be anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, or amphoteric surfactants. In certain embodiments, the first surfactant and the second surfactant may be identical in their ionic properties. For example, but not limited to, in certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain a first surfactant and a second surfactant. Both the first and second surfactants may be anionic surfactants; for example, the first surfactant may be sodium cocoyl methyl taurate and the second surfactant may be sodium cocoyl isethionate.

[0032] The surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 60% by weight, at least about 65% by weight, at least about 70% by weight, at least about 75% by weight, at least about 80% by weight, at least about 85% by weight, or at least about 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the surfactant may be present in an amount of about 60% to about 90% by weight, about 60% to about 75% by weight, or about 65% to about 85% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain the surfactant in an amount of about 60% by weight, about 61% by weight, about 65% by weight, about 70% by weight, about 75% by weight, about 80% by weight, about 85% by weight, or about 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0033] When two or more surfactants are used, each surfactant may be present in the same weight or in different weights. In certain embodiments, the first surfactant and the second surfactant may be present in approximately equal weights to each other. In certain embodiments, the first surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 15% by weight, at least about 20% by weight, at least about 25% by weight, or at least about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the first surfactant may be present in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight, about 20% to about 30% by weight, or about 25% to about 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the first surfactant may be present in an amount of about 10% by weight, about 15% by weight, about 20% by weight, about 25% by weight, about 30% by weight, about 35% by weight, about 40% by weight, about 45% by weight, or about 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the second surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 15% by weight, at least about 20% by weight, at least about 25% by weight, or at least about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the second surfactant may be present in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight, about 20% to about 30% by weight, or about 25% to about 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the second surfactant may be present in an amount of about 10% by weight, about 15% by weight, about 20% by weight, about 25% by weight, about 30% by weight, about 35% by weight, about 40% by weight, about 45% by weight, or about 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. The first surfactant and the second surfactant may each be present in a weight ratio of about 0.8:1 to about 10:1, about 1:1 to about 8:1, or about 1:1 to about 5:1. In certain embodiments, the first surfactant and the second surfactant may be present in weight ratios of about 0.8:1, about 1:1, about 1:1.5, about 5:1, about 8:1, or about 10:1, respectively.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the first surfactant may be present in an amount equal to or greater than that of the second surfactant. In certain embodiments, both the first and second surfactants may be anionic surfactants; for example, the first surfactant may be sodium cocoyl methyl taurate and the second surfactant may be sodium cocoyl isethionate. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain sodium cocoyl methyl taurate and sodium cocoyl isethionate, respectively, present in a weight ratio of about 0.8:1 to about 10:1. Surprisingly and advantageously, it has been found that sodium cocoyl methyl taurate as the first surfactant, present in an amount equal to or greater than that of sodium cocoyl isethionate as the second surfactant, results in increased solubility. Compared to the addition of sodium cocoyl methyl taurate to sodium cocoyl isethionate, improved solubility was also achieved during production when sodium cocoyl isethionate was added to sodium cocoyl methyl taurate during the blending process.

[0035] 4.2.2. Chelating agents The cleansing composition may contain one or more chelating agents. Suitable chelating agents for use in this disclosure include disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), tetrasodium glutamate diacetate, sodium citrate, citric acid, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the chelating agent may be disodium EDTA. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of chelating agents are suitable for use with this disclosure.

[0036] In certain embodiments, one or more chelating agents may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 15% by weight, about 1% to about 10% by weight, or about 1% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, one or more chelating agents may be present in amounts of about 1% by weight, about 3% by weight, about 5% by weight, about 8% by weight, about 10% by weight, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0037] 4.2.3. pH adjusters The cleansing composition may contain one or more pH adjusters. Suitable pH adjusters for use in this disclosure include, for example, citric acid, magnesium sulfate, monopotassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, sodium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, one or more pH adjusters may be inherently acidic. In certain embodiments, one or more pH adjusters may be inherently basic. In certain embodiments, one or more pH adjusters may include citric acid, magnesium sulfate, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may include a combination of citric acid and magnesium sulfate. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of buffers are suitable for use with this disclosure.

[0038] In certain embodiments, one or more pH adjusters may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 25% by weight, about 5% to about 20% by weight, or about 5% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, one or more buffers may be present in amounts of about 1% by weight, about 5% by weight, about 7% by weight, about 10% by weight, about 14% by weight, about 15% by weight, about 20% by weight, or about 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0039] 4.2.4. Preservatives The cleansing composition may contain one or more preservatives. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of preservatives are suitable for use with the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, one or more preservatives may include sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, p-anisic acid, sodium dehydroacetate, benzoic acid, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, one or more preservatives may include sodium benzoate.

[0040] In certain embodiments, one or more preservatives may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 30% by weight, about 5% to about 25% by weight, or about 15% to about 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, one or more preservatives may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 5% by weight, about 10% by weight, about 15% by weight, about 20% by weight, about 25% by weight, or about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0041] 4.2.5. Antioxidants The cleansing composition may contain one or more antioxidants. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of antioxidants are suitable for use with the disclosure. In certain embodiments, one or more antioxidants may include ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl palmitate, tocopherol, ascorbyl glucoside, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, one or more antioxidants may include ascorbic acid. In certain embodiments, one or more antioxidants may include sodium ascorbyl phosphate.

[0042] In certain embodiments, one or more antioxidants may be present in amounts of about 0.1% to about 5%, about 0.5% to about 3%, or about 1% to about 2%. In certain embodiments, one or more antioxidants may be present in amounts of about 0.1% by weight, about 0.5% by weight, about 1% by weight, about 1.5% by weight, about 2% by weight, about 3% by weight, or about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0043] 4.2.6. Additional Additives The cleansing composition may contain one or more additional additives. In certain embodiments, the one or more additional additives may include one or more colorants, one or more fragrances, one or more bulking agents / anti-caking agents, one or more skin beneficial agents, one or more foaming agents, one or more thickeners, and combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of additional additives are suitable for use with the present disclosure.

[0044] Coloring agents The cleansing composition may contain one or more colorants. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of colorants are suitable for use with the disclosure. In certain embodiments, the one or more colorants may include organic dyes, inorganic pigments, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may be substantially free of added colorants.

[0045] The cleansing composition may contain one or more colorants in amounts of about 0.1% to about 3% by weight, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight, or about 1% to about 1.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain one or more colorants in amounts of about 0.1% to about 0.5% by weight, about 1% by weight, about 1.5% by weight, about 2% by weight, about 2.5% by weight, or about 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain one or more colorants in amounts of about 3% or less by weight, about 2% or less by weight, about 1.5% or less by weight, about 1% or less by weight, or about 0.5% or less by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0046] air freshener The cleansing composition may contain one or more fragrances. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of fragrances are suitable for use with the disclosure. In certain embodiments, one or more fragrances may include individual components or mixtures of components having olfactory properties. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may be substantially free of added fragrances.

[0047] The cleansing composition may contain one or more fragrances in amounts of about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, about 0.05% to about 0.8% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain one or more fragrances in amounts of about 0.01% to about 0.02% by weight, about 0.05% by weight, about 0.08% by weight, about 0.1% by weight, about 0.3% by weight, about 0.4% by weight, about 0.5% by weight, about 0.6% by weight, about 0.7% by weight, about 0.8% by weight, about 0.9% by weight, or about 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain one or more fragrances in amounts of about 1% or less, about 0.8% or less, about 0.5% or less, about 0.4% or less, about 0.3% or less, about 0.1% or less, about 0.08% or less, or about 0.05% or less, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0048] Bulking agent / Solidification inhibitor The cleansing composition may contain one or more fillers / anti-caking agents. These fillers / anti-caking agents may reduce or prevent the formation of aggregated material in the powder and improve the flow during the formation of the final product, also to facilitate packaging, transport, and consumption. Certain fillers / anti-caking agents are water-soluble, while others are soluble in alcohol or other organic solvents. In certain embodiments, fillers / anti-caking agents may function by absorbing excess moisture or by coating particles, thereby allowing them to repel water more effectively. Suitable fillers / anti-caking agents for use in this disclosure include, for example, cellulose, starch, silica and silicates, as well as metal salts. In certain embodiments, one or more fillers / anti-caking agents may include silica, calcium silicate, corn starch, aluminum octenyl succinate starch, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, sodium bicarbonate, or combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of fillers / anti-caking agents are suitable for use with this disclosure.

[0049] The cleansing composition may contain one or more fillers / anti-caking agents in amounts of about 1% to about 20% by weight, about 5% to about 15% by weight, or about 10% to about 18% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain one or more fillers / anti-caking agents in amounts of about 1% to about 5% by weight, about 10% by weight, about 15% by weight, about 18% by weight, or about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0050] Skin Beneficial Agents A cleansing composition may contain one or more activators that provide one or more skin benefits / ingredients. For example, but not limited to, a cleansing composition may contain one or more skin-beneficial agents, including one or more anti-acne agents, anti-aging agents, antibacterial agents, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, such skin beneficial agents may include, for example, one or more of the following: retinol, retinyl esters, tetronic acid, tetronic acid derivatives, hydroquinone, kojic acid, gallic acid, arbutin, ct-hydroxy acid, niacinamide, pyridoxine, ascorbic acid, vitamin E and its derivatives, aloe, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, witch hazel, caffeine, zinc pyrithione, fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid, colloidal oatmeal, acids such as alpha-hydroxy acids, poly-hydroxy acids, and β-hydroxy acids, enzymes such as chlorella, papaya, and papain, N-acetylglucosamine, gluconolactone, white willow bark extract, hyaluronic acid, oat extract, aloe extract, and amino acids.

[0051] In certain embodiments, one or more skin-beneficial agents may include one or more emulsifiers, one or more silicones, or a combination thereof. One or more emulsifiers may include potassium cetyl phosphate. One or more silicones may include dimethicone, cyclomethicone, amodimethicone, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of skin-beneficial ingredients / carriers are suitable for use with the present disclosure.

[0052] One or more skin-beneficial agents may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 30% by weight, about 5% to about 25% by weight, or about 2% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, one or more skin-beneficial agents may be present in amounts of about 1% by weight, about 2% by weight, about 5% by weight, about 7% by weight, about 10% by weight, about 15% by weight, about 20% by weight, about 25% by weight, or about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0053] foaming agent The cleansing composition may contain one or more foaming agents. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of foaming agents are suitable for use with the present disclosure. For example, but not limited to, one or more foaming agents may include sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, one or more foaming agents may include sodium bicarbonate and citric acid.

[0054] One or more foaming agents may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 60% by weight, about 10% to about 45% by weight, or about 15% to about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, one or more foaming agents may be present in amounts of about 5% by weight, about 10% by weight, about 20% by weight, about 30% by weight, about 45% by weight, about 50% by weight, or about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may contain two or more foaming agents. A first foaming agent may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 30% by weight, about 5% to about 20% by weight, or about 10% to about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. A second foaming agent may be present in amounts of 1% to about 30% by weight, about 5% to about 20% by weight, or about 10% to about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the first blowing agent may be sodium bicarbonate, and the second blowing agent may be citric acid.

[0055] Thickening agent The cleansing composition may contain one or more thickeners. Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of thickeners are suitable for use with the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, one or more thickeners may include xanthan gum, carrageenan, acrylates, crosslinked polymers, carbomers, cellulose, or combinations thereof.

[0056] One or more thickening agents may be present in amounts of about 1% to about 10% by weight, about 3% to about 8% by weight, or about 1% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, one or more thickening agents may be present in amounts of about 1% by weight, about 3% by weight, about 5% by weight, about 8% by weight, or about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition.

[0057] 4.2.7. Formulations In certain embodiments, the cleansing composition may include one or more surfactants, one or more chelating agents, one or more pH adjusters, one or more preservatives, one or more antioxidants, or a combination thereof. Based on the total weight of the cleansing composition, the cleansing composition may include one or more surfactants in about 60% to about 90% by weight, one or more chelating agents in about 1% to about 15% by weight, one or more pH adjusters in about 1% to about 25% by weight, one or more preservatives in about 1% to about 30% by weight, and one or more antioxidants in about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. In certain embodiments, the one or more surfactants may include at least two anionic surfactants, for example, sodium cocoyl methyl taurate and sodium cocoyl isethionate. The one or more chelating agents may include disodium EDTA. The one or more pH adjusters may include citric acid and magnesium sulfate. The one or more preservatives may include sodium benzoate. The one or more antioxidants may include ascorbic acid. In certain embodiments, one or more antioxidants may include sodium ascorbyl phosphate.

[0058] 4.3. Method for preparing a cleansing composition This disclosure provides a method for preparing a cleansing composition. In certain embodiments, the components of the cleansing composition may be in powder form. If necessary, the method for forming the cleansing composition may include an initial step of rolling or grinding the individual components into powder form. For example, the first step may be rolling or grinding one or more surfactants into powder form. As an example, the first surfactant may initially be in flake form, and the second surfactant may be in noodle form, but each of these surfactants is milled (together or individually) to form a powder having a desired particle size.

[0059] When preparing the cleansing products described herein, a surfactant (or, if used, multiple surfactants) is added to a dry powder blender. A mixture of other dry components is added to the surfactant. For example, the mixture of other dry components may include chelating agents, bulking agents, buffering agents, anti-caking agents, and other optional components (such as anti-acne agents, colorants, and fragrances). These components are then mixed in the blender for a time sufficient to achieve homogeneity. In certain embodiments, a uniform, fluid powder may be formed. After mixing, the final product is prepared.

[0060] The final product may be packaged in a suitable container in the form of tablets, a loose powder, or any other form. The container may be substantially airtight or completely airtight. In certain embodiments, the final product may be packaged in a laminated sachet. Once the cleansing product is formed and packaged, it may be distributed to one or more users to provide at least a cleansing function during use. In certain embodiments, the final product may be in the form of a kit comprising a solid cleansing composition in suitable packaging, such as a laminated sachet, and a container suitable for containing a liquid, such as water.

[0061] 4.4. How to use the cleansing composition The cleansing compositions of this disclosure can be used in combination with a liquid (e.g., water) such that the cleansing composition (e.g., in powder form) is completely dissolved in the liquid before application to the user's skin. In certain embodiments, the cleansing compositions of this disclosure can be completely dissolved in a liquid such as water in about 2 minutes or less, about 1 minute or less, or about 30 seconds or less. Any suitable type of purified water is suitable for use with the cleansing compositions of this disclosure. In certain embodiments, the water is of potable quality. Any potable quality water, such as, but not limited to, tap water, filtered water, purified water, well water, or bottled water, is suitable for use with this disclosure.

[0062] When dispensed in powder form, the user can add the cleansing composition to a certain amount of liquid (e.g., about 200-250 mL) such as water to form a moist cleansing product, which can then be run over the user's hands, fingers, body, or face. In certain embodiments, the cleansing product can be added to a certain amount of liquid such as water and shaken for about 1-2 minutes to form a moist product. The cleansing composition and liquid can be combined in any suitable container, such as an aluminum bottle equipped with a foaming pump. For example, but not limited to, the container cap may be a cap, a flip-top cap, a pump, or a self-foaming pump. By running the moist product over the user's hands, fingers, body, or face, the moist product exhibits its cleansing function. In certain embodiments, the moist cleansing product may have foaming properties and may be in the form of a gentle foam when applied to the user's skin. Once cleansing is complete, the user can rinse the applied moist cleansing product with water. In certain embodiments, the user may add the cleansing composition to a liquid in such an amount that the wet cleansing product contains about 1% to about 20% by weight or about 3% to about 10% by weight of the cleansing composition and about 80% to about 99% by weight or about 90% to about 97% by weight of the liquid, based on the total weight of the wet cleansing product. In certain embodiments, the final product may contain about 3% by weight of the cleansing composition and about 97% by weight of the liquid, based on the total weight of the wet cleansing product.

[0063] 4.5. Characteristics of the cleansing composition This disclosure provides an improved cleansing composition. Such a cleansing composition may be in solid form, for example, in powder form including loose powder, crystalline powder, or granules. In such form, the components of the cleansing composition can be subjected to grinding or rolling to provide a desired form. The cleansing compositions of this disclosure are suitable for direct application to the user's skin or face.

[0064] The cleansing compositions described herein may be packaged in any desired method or package, depending on the specific form of the cleansing product. If in the form of a fluid powder, the cleansing product may be stored in a disposable airtight package or sachet, or in a container (such as a tube, canister, bottle, or ampoule), so that the user can dispense the desired amount of cleansing product as needed. Thus, the cleansing product may be stored in a multipurpose container from which the user can take the desired amount of product for use, or the product may be stored in a disposable container, so that the package dispenses a single dose of cleansing product when the container is opened.

[0065] Cleansing products may be packaged in substantially watertight and airtight packaging. For example, the product may be contained in its own disposable packaging, such as a sachet, capsule, dissolvable film, blister packaging, or other single packaging or sealed environment. The user releases the cleansing product from the packaging for use by, for example, removing or releasing it from blister packaging, separating / breaking a capsule, or dissolving the outer film. In embodiments where the cleansing product is in powder form, the user may not need to break the cleansing product into further powder.

[0066] The cleansing product may be encapsulated in an outer capsule or other shell, or in an outer soluble film or casing, and the cleansing components contained inside may be released by separating or breaking the outer material to release the cleansing product, or by dissolving it during use. In some embodiments, the cleansing product is a granular or powder material that can be dispensed from a storage container before use. [Examples]

[0067] The following embodiments are intended to illustrate, either expressly or implicitly, the subject matter of this disclosure, but are not intended to limit to any particular style, shape, or form.

[0068] Example 1: Solid Cleansing Composition This embodiment provides exemplary solid cleansing compositions as shown in Tables 1 and 2 (hereafter) in accordance with the present disclosure. One composition (Table 1, Formulation 1) contained two anionic surfactants (i.e., sodium cocoyl methyl taurate and sodium cocoyl isethionate) in a total weight of about 61% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The two surfactants were present in approximately equal weights to each other. Sodium cocoyl methyl taurate was present in a greater amount (32.5% by weight) than sodium cocoyl isethionate (28.5% by weight). The composition further contained a chelating agent (disodium EDTA), a preservative (sodium benzoate), two pH adjusters (magnesium sulfate and citric acid), and an antioxidant (ascorbic acid). The composition was in powder form.

[0069] [Table 1]

[0070] The second composition (Table 2, Formulation 2) contained two anionic surfactants (i.e., sodium cocoyl methyl taurate and sodium cocoyl isethionate) in a total weight of approximately 61% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The two surfactants were present in approximately equal weights to each other. Sodium cocoyl methyl taurate was present in a greater amount (32.5% by weight) than sodium cocoyl isethionate (28.5% by weight). The composition further contained a chelating agent (disodium EDTA), a preservative (sodium benzoate), two pH adjusters (magnesium sulfate and citric acid), and an antioxidant (sodium ascorbyl phosphate). The composition was in powder form.

[0071] [Table 2]

[0072] Example 2: Manufacturing and Filling This embodiment provides formulations 3-6 (Table 3). All formulations failed during manufacturing and filling, either according to the predictive model or at the manufacturing site. The liquid was determined to be unusable for the final formulation.

[0073] [Table 3]

[0074] Example 3: Preservative-based / Microbiological Test This embodiment provides a preservative system that was evaluated and failed microbiological testing.

[0075] [Table 4]

[0076] Example 4: Manufacturing Filling / Microbiological Testing This example provides formulations 7-10 (Table 5). All samples were successful in manufacturing and filling, but failed microbiological testing when reconstituted with hard water (high pH).

[0077] [Table 5]

[0078] While systems and methods have been described in relation to various embodiments of various descriptions, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the broader concept of the invention. Therefore, this disclosure is understood to be not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but to encompass modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the claims.

[0079] Certain features of the Invention, described herein for clarity in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination within a single embodiment. That is, unless explicitly incompatible or specifically excluded, each individual embodiment is considered combinatorial with any other embodiment, and such combination is considered a separate embodiment. Conversely, different features of the Invention described in relation to a single embodiment for the sake of simplicity may also be provided separately or as any partial combination. Finally, embodiments may be described as part of a series of steps or as part of a more general structure, but each step may be considered an independent embodiment in itself, and is combinatorial with others.

[0080] It should be understood that the steps of the exemplary methods described herein do not necessarily have to be performed in the order described, and the order of steps in such methods is merely illustrative. Similarly, in methods consistent with various embodiments of the present invention, additional steps may be included in such methods, and certain steps may be omitted or combined. Where applicable, the elements in the claims of the following methods are described in a particular order with corresponding labeling unless the description of the claims otherwise suggests a particular order for implementing some or all of those elements, but those elements are not necessarily intended to be implemented in that particular order.

[0081] [Implementation Method] (1) A solid cleansing composition, a. At least one first surfactant present in the weight of the first surfactant, b. comprising at least a second surfactant present in the weight of the second surfactant, The total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. A solid cleansing composition wherein the solid cleansing composition is in powder form. (2) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is about 60% by weight to about 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. (3) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the weight of the first surfactant and the weight of the second surfactant are substantially equal to each other. (4) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the first surfactant and the second surfactant have the same ionic properties. (5) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 4, wherein the first surfactant and the second surfactant are selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, or amphoteric surfactants.

[0082] (6) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the first surfactant is a taurate. (7) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the second surfactant is an isethionate salt. (8) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the solid cleansing composition substantially does not contain a sulfate surfactant. (9) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the solid cleansing composition further comprises one or more pH adjusters including citric acid, magnesium sulfate, or a combination thereof. (10) The solid cleansing composition according to Embodiment 1, wherein the solid cleansing composition is soluble in a liquid.

[0083] (11) It is a kit, a. A solid cleansing composition, i. At least a first surfactant, ii. comprising at least a second surfactant, The total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition is in powder form, and b. A kit including a container configured to hold a liquid. (12) Cleansing products, a. A solid cleansing composition in an amount of about 2% to about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing product, i. At least a first surfactant, ii. comprising at least a second surfactant, The total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition, and the solid cleansing composition is in powder form, and is about 2% to about 20% by weight of the solid cleansing composition, b. A cleansing product comprising about 80% to about 98% by weight of liquid, based on the total weight of the cleansing product, wherein the cleansing composition is dissolved in the liquid.

Claims

1. A solid cleansing composition, a. At least one first surfactant present in the weight of the first surfactant, b. comprising at least a second surfactant present in the weight of the second surfactant, The total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. A solid cleansing composition wherein the solid cleansing composition is in powder form.

2. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is about 60% by weight to about 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition.

3. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the weight of the first surfactant and the weight of the second surfactant are substantially equal to each other.

4. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the first surfactant and the second surfactant have the same ionic properties.

5. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 4, wherein the first surfactant and the second surfactant are selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, or amphoteric surfactants.

6. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the first surfactant is a taurate.

7. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the second surfactant is an isethionate salt.

8. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the solid cleansing composition substantially does not contain sulfate surfactants.

9. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, further comprising one or more pH adjusting agents including citric acid, magnesium sulfate, or a combination thereof.

10. The solid cleansing composition according to claim 1, wherein the solid cleansing composition is soluble in a liquid.

11. It's a kit, a. A solid cleansing composition, i. At least a first surfactant and ii. comprising at least a second surfactant, The total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition. The solid cleansing composition is in powder form, and b. A kit including a container configured to hold a liquid.

12. It is a cleansing product, a. A solid cleansing composition in an amount of about 2% to about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleansing product, i. At least a first surfactant and ii. comprising at least a second surfactant, The total weight of the first surfactant and the second surfactant is at least about 60% by weight based on the total weight of the solid cleansing composition, and the solid cleansing composition is in powder form, and is about 2% to about 20% by weight of the solid cleansing composition, b. A cleansing product comprising about 80% to about 98% by weight of liquid, based on the total weight of the cleansing product, wherein the cleansing composition is dissolved in the liquid.

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