composition

Abstract

The present invention provides a cosmetic composition comprising (a) humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition; (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition; (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and (d) a surfactant.

Description

[0001] COMPOSITION

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a product for use as a cosmetic, a process for producing said product, and a product prepared by the method. The present invention also relates to a cosmetic method utilising the product.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates to products particularly those for use in contact with the human body. The present invention relates to the increasing demand for fresh and natural cosmetics. The present invention also addresses the increasing demand for cosmetic products that are fun or have some novelty aspect to enhance the user’s experience of personal care.

[0006] For millennia soaps have been used for the purposes of washing the skin and clothes. The first known use of soap as a cleansing agent was in the ancient Babylonian period, approximately 2800BC, where soap formed from water, cinnamon oil and dissolved ashes was used to wash clothes and prepare wool for weaving. Egyptians also substantiated the use of soap derivatives, for the purposes of personal hygiene, medicinal applications and the effective washing of garments. However it was not until AD77 that Gaius Plinius Secundus (also known as Pliny the Elder) published his encyclopaedic work, Historia Naturalis, whereby the first references to sapo (Latin for soap) were made. References were made to the manufacture of sapo, from tallow and ashes, whilst also describing its potential application as a pomade for hair.

[0007] The appeal of soap as a cleansing and personal hygiene agent grew. Although it was not until the 15th and 16th centuries, when soap production became semi-industrialised and the role it played in personal hygiene was understood, that soap became a universally accepted cleansing product in industrialised nations. However it was the First World War that prompted a shift in this trend, which resulted in the development of the first synthetic detergents in response to a shortage of animal and vegetable fats used for making soap.

[0008] It is well known in the art that soap is effectively the salt of a fatty acid, resulting from the saponification of an animal or vegetable triglyceride using a strong base. Whilst soap is known to be an effective cleansing agent, soap can cause dryness and irritation to dry and sensitive skin. This is due to the basicity of soap and its cleansing action adversely affecting the cutaneous bacterial flora, enzyme activity in the upper epidermis and naturally occurring oils found on the skin and hair. Therefore, soap is not generally considered to be suitable for washing the hair of a user as it may leave the hair feeling dry and waxy. Furthermore, particularly when used with hard water, soap may form a soap scum which is not desirable for a user. In particular, soap scum may stick in the user’s hair and be difficult to wash out. In addition, it is generally known that a soap bar does not smoothly glide on skin when being applied; rather a soap bar may “drag” on skin, leading to an undesirable sensation for the user.

[0009] Synthetic detergents on the other hand can be synthesised in order to exhibit a wide variety of different properties that are particularly beneficial for their particular application. The desired properties of synthetic detergents used as skin or hair cleansers vary hugely from mild, conditioning surfactants to cleansers with high foaming abilities. These synthetic detergents are commonly referred to as surfactant products; for example, shower gels and shampoos. However, these surfactant-containing products are typically provided in the form of liquid or pastes. They are sold in containers to the end user and may be dispensed by the end user. However, the required use of packaging is a disadvantage. From an environmental perspective, waste packaging is a significant problem, despite the availability of recycling.

[0010] Modern cosmetic products are formulated to have a very long shelf-life. The shelf-life of a typical product is thirty one months. However, before products reach a retail environment, they are shipped and then stored in warehouses, sometimes for years before sale. Products may be labelled with a ‘best used by date’ but without an indication of when they were made. Consequently many formulations are assembled with longevity more in mind than effect.

[0011] Consumers are increasingly concerned with the ingredients used in their cosmetics. There have been numerous reports in the media linking various materials in cosmetics with increased risk of various diseases including cancer. One materials category that has been associated with these stories on numerous occasions is preservatives.

[0012] The purpose of cosmetic preservatives is to prevent the growth of microorganisms (including yeasts & moulds), which would have a detrimental influence on the effect or the appearance of the product as well as being a risk to human health. However excessive use of preservatives can be employed to increase shelf-life and therefore the profitability of cosmetics. In response to media or consumer pressure, the industry may switch from one preservative system to another; however it would be more desirable to provide a range of effective preservative-free cosmetics. By eliminating preservative systems from cosmetics, it would be possible to eliminate worries of consumers, such as bioaccumulation through repetitive use. It would also be possible to reduce the environmental impact of the cosmetic products. The use of preservatives in the manufacture of products and use by the consumer leads to the contamination of the environment by these materials.

[0013] The present invention seeks to provide a cosmetic product, which provides a fun and enjoyable personal care or bathing experience for the user. Additionally, the present invention seeks to provide a cosmetic product, which is free from preservatives and which does not require the use of external packaging during storage. The present invention also seeks to provide a surfactant-containing product that may be used for washing both the skin and hair of a user, but which does not require the use of external packaging during storage.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a cosmetic composition comprising (a) humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition; (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition; (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and (d) a surfactant.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a cosmetic composition comprising: (a) humectant; (b) water; (c) a gelling agent; and (d) a surfactant; wherein the composition adheres to one or more of a glass surface, a ceramic surface, a plastic surface (e.g. an acrylic surface) or a metal surface, wherein adherence to a surface is measured in accordance with the method as defined herein.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a cosmetic composition comprising (a) humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition; (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition; (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and (d) a surfactant; the process comprising the following steps:

[0018] (i) contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant to provide a resultant composition;

[0019] (ii) heating the resultant composition; and

[0020] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a cosmetic composition comprising (a) a humectant; (b) water; (c) a gelling agent; and (d) a surfactant; the process comprising the following steps:

[0021] (i) contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant to provide a resultant composition;

[0022] (ii) heating the resultant composition;

[0023] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition; and

[0024] (iv) allowing the resultant composition to cool at a temperature of from about 10°C to about 25°C for a period of at least about 48 hours.

[0025] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a product obtained or obtainable by the process according to either the third or fourth aspects described hereinabove.

[0026] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a cosmetic method comprising contacting the skin or hair of a user with a cosmetic composition as described herein.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition may be free from or substantially free from preservatives. The term “substantially free from preservatives” means that the composition contains any of the preservatives listed in Table 1 in amounts of no greater than the amounts specified. Preferably, the composition is entirely free from all of the preservatives listed in Table 1 , and is thus “free from preservatives”.

[0028] Table 1

[0029] In the process of the present invention, the process preferably excludes a step of addition one or more prohibited preservatives. The prohibited preservatives are those listed in Table 2. The term “free from preservatives” means that the cosmetic composition is free from the preservatives listed below in Table 2.

[0030] Table 2 Preferably, the composition is in the form of a solid or semi-solid. In advantageous embodiments, the composition is in the form of a solid. Solid cosmetic products of the present invention are compositions which can substantially sustain their physical shape when unsupported by external means, e.g. packaging etc. Thus, they are considered to be solid, solid-like, in solid form or in solid-like form at room temperature. For the avoidance of doubt, a solid product is one which remains substantially solid at a temperature of up to 30°C. By solid-like, it is understood that some materials are considered on a day to day basis to be solid, yet over an extremely long period of time, may alter in shape, e.g. amorphous materials such as glass etc. However, they are considered to be solid-like as, for the purpose they fulfil, they are solid.

[0031] As used herein, the term “semi-solid” means that the composition is in the form of a gel or paste that can substantially sustain its shape when unsupported by external means. In other words, the composition may have the appearance of a solid and be able to support itself without requiring external means, but may still have a degree of wobble and elasticity. In other words, the composition may be a viscoelastic composition that is able to sustain its shape when unsupported.

[0032] It has been found by the present inventors that, by providing a cosmetic composition comprising the specific components of the present invention, namely a humectant, a gelling agent and a surfactant, it is possible to include high amounts of water (at least 20% by weight of the total composition) in the composition whilst still maintaining a resistance to microbial growth without the use of undesirable preservatives. Without wishing to be bound, the inclusion of a gelling agent in combination with a humectant in the amounts claimed may help to absorb any ‘free’ water such that a higher content of water may be included in the composition without requiring the addition of preservatives.

[0033] Furthermore, it has been found by the present inventors that, by including a gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan), the composition may be prepared in the form of a solid as defined above. For the reasons identified above, the provision of a solid cosmetic composition may be advantageous in that it may eliminate the need for any packaging whilst also allowing for a relatively high water content in the product. A solid shower gel product may also be enhance the bathing or showering experience of the user as it is more convenient and less messy to use than a conventional liquid shower gel. In addition, the present inventors have surprisingly found that the specific combination of the humectant, water, gelling agent and surfactant in the amounts as claimed allows for the production of a product that sticks or adheres to a flat surface, such as glass, ceramic (e.g. tiles or a bathtub), plastic such as acrylic (e.g. acrylic bathtubs), or metal (e.g. stainless steel). In practice, this means that it is possible to removably adhere the products to the side of a shower or bathtub, allowing for an enhanced bathing experience and also for ease of use. For example, the product may be placed on the side of the shower (e.g shower door) at the appropriate height for the user, such that the user may pick up the product from the side of the shower when they wish to use the product without the user needing to bend down to pick up the product from the floor of the shower or other holder.

[0034] Additionally, the sticky nature of the product may add a novelty aspect to the products and makes the bathing or showering experience more enjoyable and fun.

[0035] The present invention therefore relates to a cosmetic composition (preferably a solid cosmetic composition) that is preferably free from preservatives, and yet is still resistant to microbial growth. The composition provides the user with a desirable product that is capable of being stored at room temperature and that may have a shelf-life of from six weeks to twenty months. Due to its self-preserving nature, there may be no need to store the composition in a refrigerator in order to prolong shelf-life.

[0036] It has also been found by the present inventors that the composition as described herein does not leak water over time or have liquid seep from it. The composition as described herein preferably does not substantially shrink over time. In particular and without wishing to be bound, it is thought that the use of a gelling agent as described herein in combination with the surfactant as claimed, (and in combination with the amounts of water and humectant as claimed), may have the effect of absorbing a proportion of the free water in the product such that less water leaches out of the product during storage. This may have the effect of reducing shrinkage of the products over a period of time.

[0037] Preferably, the cosmetic composition is for use as a skin cleanser, shower gel or shampoo. Preferably, the cosmetic composition is for use as a shower gel. It is noted that, while the term “shower gel” is used, the product in this instance is preferably not in the form of a liquid gel, but rather in the form of a solid as described herein. For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the present invention are now discussed under appropriate section headings. However, the teachings under each section are not necessarily limited to each particular section.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0039] Embodiments of the present invention are described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

[0040] Figures 1A to 1C show a composition prepared in accordance with Examples 1 to 3, respectively.

[0041] Figure 2 shows a composition prepared in accordance with Comparative Example 1.

[0042] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Composition

[0044] As discussed herein, in one aspect of the invention, there is provided a cosmetic composition comprising

[0045] (a) humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition;

[0046] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition;

[0047] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and

[0048] (d) a surfactant.

[0049] It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the nature of a cosmetic product means that the composition is not edible. Thus, in some embodiments, the present invention provides a non-edible cosmetic composition as defined herein.

[0050] As described above, the cosmetic composition is preferably in the form of a solid or semi-solid. Therefore, in some embodiments, external packaging is not required to maintain the shape of the composition. However, external packaging such as a pot or container may still of course be utilised in order for convenience of storage or to further increase the shelf-life of the product.

[0051] Humectant

[0052] As discussed herein, the cosmetic composition comprises a humectant. The humectant is preferably provided in liquid form. The humectant may be selected from suitable humectants. In some embodiments, the humectant is selected from the group consisting of honey, glycerine, monopropylene glycol, agave nectar, fruit syrups, herbal syrups, golden syrup, sugar solutions, sugar alcohols and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the humectant is selected from honey, glycerine, monopropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. More preferably, the humectant is selected from glycerine, monopropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. Even more preferably, the humectant comprises at least a mixture of glycerine and monopropylene glycol.

[0053] As described herein, the cosmetic composition comprises humectant (such as glycerine, monopropylene glycol, or mixtures thereof) in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition. In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises humectant (such as glycerine, monopropylene glycol, or mixtures thereof) in an amount of from about 30% to about 65% by weight of the total composition, preferably in an amount of from about 35% to about 60% by weight of the total composition, and more preferably in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the total composition. For avoidance of doubt, the amount of humectant refers to the total amount of any humectant included in the composition. Therefore, if the composition comprises a mixture of glycerine and monopropylene glycol, the amount of humectant refers to the total amount of glycerine and monopropylene glycol.

[0054] In some preferred embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises humectant (such as glycerine, monopropylene glycol, or mixtures thereof) in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition.

[0055] In preferred embodiments, the humectant (such as glycerine, monopropylene glycol, or mixtures thereof) may be present in an amount of from about 50% to about 60% by weight of the total composition.

[0056] In some embodiments, the humectant comprises at least glycerine. The humectant may consist of glycerine or may include glycerine in addition to one or more additional humectants, such as monopropylene glycol. It is preferred that the humectant comprises at least glycerine in an amount of from about 10% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, preferably from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition, preferably from about 25% to about 55% by weight of the total composition, and more preferably from about 30% to about 50% by weight of the total composition. In some preferred embodiments, the humectant comprises at least glycerine in an amount of from about 35% to about 50% by weight of the total composition. In some advantageous embodiments, the humectant comprises at least glycerine in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the total composition, and preferably from about 40% to about 50% by weight of the total composition.

[0057] In embodiments where the gelling agent is or comprises carrageenan, such as iota- carrageenan, it is preferred that the humectant comprises at least glycerine. For example, in some embodiments, the gelling agent is carrageenan (e.g. iota-carrageenan) in an amount of at least 2% by weight of the composition, and the humectant comprises at least glycerine in an amount of at least 25% by weight of the total composition. In such embodiments, the glycerine may be present in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 30% to about 60% by weight of the total composition, and preferably from about 40% to about 50% by weight of the total composition. It has been found by the present inventors that the use of glycerine as the humectant allows for excellent dispersion of the carrageenan throughout the mixture during manufacture and thus allows for particularly advantageous setting and physical properties of the resulting composition. Indeed, the compositions containing a combination of glycerine with carrageenan may provide a desirable texture and solidity to the final products, coupled with a high degree of stickiness (i.e. good adherence to a flat surface, such as a glass, ceramic, metal or plastic (e.g. acrylic) surface).

[0058] Preferably, the humectant comprises at least a mixture of glycerine and monopropylene glycol. In some embodiments, the humectant comprises glycerine and monopropylene glycol in a weight ratio of from about 10:1 to about 1 :10, such as from about 5:1 to about 1 :5, more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1 :1. In some preferred embodiments, the humectant comprises glycerine and monopropylene glycol in a weight ratio of from about 5:1 to about 2:1 , such as from about 5:1 to about 3:1.

[0059] Water

[0060] As discussed herein, the cosmetic composition comprises water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition. The water may be provided by any suitable liquid or aqueous source. The water may be provided by distilled water, tap water, rain water, sea water, plant infusions, decoctions (such as tea and / or coffee), alcohol solutions (such as beer, wine and / or spirits), vinegar, fruit juice, vegetable juice or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the water is provided by distilled water, tap water, rain water, sea water, plant infusions, decoctions, fruit juice, vegetable juice or mixtures thereof. In some preferred embodiments, the water is provided by at least tap water. In some embodiments, the water is provided by tap water in combination with one or more selected from the group consisting of sea water, rain water, distilled water and fruit juice. In some embodiments, the water comprises a mixture of tap water and sea water. In some embodiments, the water comprises a mixture of tap water and fruit juice.

[0061] Where present, the fruit juice may be selected from apple juice, orange juice, tomato juice, papaya juice, mango juice, melon juice, pineapple juice, raspberry juice, strawberry juice, blueberry juice, lime juice, lemon juice, blackcurrant juice, grape juice, cucumber juice, grapefruit juice and mixtures thereof. In such embodiments, the water may comprise a fruit juice in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 1 % to about 5% by weight of the total composition. It is noted that this amount of fruit juice contributes to the total amount of water present in the composition.

[0062] In some embodiments, the water is present in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of the total composition. In some embodiments, the water is present in an amount of from about 20% to about 45% by weight of the total composition, preferably in an amount of from about 25% to about 45% by weight of the total composition, more preferably in an amount of from about 30% to about 40% by weight of the total composition. In some embodiments, the water is present in an amount of from about 35% to about 40% by weight of the total composition. Preferably, the water is present in an amount of from about 20% to about 40% by weight of the total composition.

[0063] In some embodiments, the water comprises distilled water, tap water, rain water, sea water, or mixtures thereof in an amount of from about 20% to about 45% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 25% to about 40% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 30% to about 40% by weight of the total composition.

[0064] It was found by the present inventors that, when the composition comprises water in an amount of greater than 60% by weight of the composition, the composition may be too soft and may therefore not fulfil the requirements of being solid or semi-solid within the meaning of the present invention. In addition, when the water is present in an amount of greater than 60%, the cosmetic composition was found to be susceptible to shrinking during storage as a result of water loss from the product, and additionally the product may not stick to one or more of a glass, ceramic, metal or plastic surface. Furthermore, when the water is present in an amount of less than 20% by weight of the composition, it was found that the composition may provide a less desirable feel on the user’s skin. Gelling Agent

[0065] As discussed herein, the cosmetic composition comprises a gelling agent. The gelling agent may be selected from any suitable gelling agent. In particular, the gelling agent may be selected from any gelling agent that allows for the product to set in the form of a solid or semisolid, and more preferably in the form of a solid.

[0066] In some embodiments, the gelling agent may be selected from the group consisting of carrageenan, agar, xanthan gum, pectin, salt of alginic acid, and mixtures thereof. The salt of alginic acid may be selected from sodium alginate, potassium alginate, ammonium alginate, calcium alginate, magnesium alginate, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the salt of alginic acid is sodium alginate.

[0067] In some preferred embodiments, the gelling agent comprises carrageenan. Preferably, the gelling agent is carrageenan (i.e. the gelling agent consists of carrageenan).

[0068] As the skilled person will appreciate, carrageenan is traditionally split into three basic forms: lambda-carrageenan, kappa-carrageenan and iota-carrageenan. The structures of lambda-, kappa-, and iota-carrageenan are shown below:

[0069] Lambda-carrageenan:

[0070] Kappa-carrageenan:

[0071] It has been found by the present inventors that iota-carrageenan may provide for an improved gelling effect. Therefore, in some embodiments, the carrageenan is or comprises iota- carrageenan.

[0072] In some preferred embodiments, the gelling agent consists of iota-carrageenan; i.e. the iota- carrageenan is the only gelling agent used in the composition. The use of iota-carrageenan as the sole gelling agent in the composition has been found to improve the homogeneity of the gel formed.

[0073] Preferably, the gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan) has a gel strength of at least about 250 g / cm2, more preferably at least about 300 g / cm2, even more preferably at least about 400 g / cm2.

[0074] Gel strength is a measure of a gel’s resistance to stress, and is a measure of the maximum force required to break or deform the polymer matrix.

[0075] Gel strength may be measured by any standard measurement method that will be known to persons skilled in the art. Preferably, the gel strength may be measured for a gel that is prepared via an aqueous solution containing gelling agent at a concentration of 2% w / w (e.g. 100 g of water contains 2 g of gelling agent), and where the solution has been heated to 20°C to form the gel.

[0076] For example, the gel strength may be measured according to the following method:

[0077] - Prepare solution of gelling agent in water at a concentration of 2% w / w (e.g., 100 g of water would contain 2 g of gelling agent);

[0078] - Heat solution to 20°C, and leave to mature at 20°C for 17 hours;

[0079] - Measure gel strength as the mass in grams necessary to depress a plunger 4mm into the gel. This is a measure of the gel’s resistance to stress. Gel strength may be measured using any suitable instrument, such as a Stevens Texture Analyzer with the following analytical parameters: o Plunger: 12 mm diameter o Speed: 0.5 mm / sec

[0080] In some preferred embodiments, the gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan) has a gel strength of at least about 250 g / cm2. In some preferred embodiments, the gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan) has a gel strength of at least about 450 g / cm2. Preferably, the gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan) has a gel strength of from about 250 g / cm2to about 800 g / cm2, preferably from about 300 g / cm2to about 700 g / cm2, more preferably from about 400 g / cm2to about 600 g / cm2, even more preferably from about 450 g / cm2to about 550 g / cm2.

[0081] In preferred embodiments, the gelling agent comprises iota-carrageenan with a gel strength of at least about 400 g / cm2, preferably a gel strength of from about 450 g / cm2to about 600 g / cm2.

[0082] An example of a suitable gelling agent having such gel strength may be Gely Blue 6203 (available from Gelymar) or Algogel® RCG 8351 (available from Algaia).

[0083] It has been found by the present inventors that, where a gelling agent having a gel strength of at least about 250 g / cm2, and preferably at least about 400 g / cm2, is used, the product is able to retain its shape and structure without requiring the use of external packaging and also has a desirable texture allowing the product to be held and readily applied to the user’s skin or hair. Additionally, it has been found that the use of such gelling agents surprisingly improves the ability of the product to stick or adhere to flat surfaces, which has benefits as discussed hereinabove. For example, in preferred embodiments, the product is able to stick to flat surfaces, such as a glass surface, a ceramic surface, a plastic surface (such as an acrylic surface), a metal surface, or the like.

[0084] In some embodiments, the gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan) is present in an amount of no greater than about 5% by weight of the total composition, such as in an amount of no greater than about 4% by weight of the total composition, such as in an amount of no greater than about 3% by weight of the total composition.

[0085] In some preferred embodiments, the gelling agent (such as iota-carrageenan) is present in an amount of from about 2% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, preferably from about 2% to about 4% by weight of the total composition, more preferably from about 2% to about 3% by weight of the total composition. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of gelling agent to water is from about 1 :10 to about 1 :30, preferably from about 1 : 10 to about 1 :20.

[0086] Surfactant

[0087] As described herein, the solid cosmetic composition comprises a surfactant.

[0088] As the skilled person will appreciate, surfactants are typically sold as commercial products in which the pure surfactant (i.e. the active surfactant) is diluted in water. As used herein, the amounts of the surfactant do not relate to the commercially available diluted products, but rather to the amount of pure surfactant. For the avoidance of any doubt, the amount of water included in the solid cosmetic compositions according to the present invention takes into account the amounts of water used for the dilution in the commercially available surfactant products. For example, a commercially available product that contains lauryl betaine is Surfac LB3, which is a 30% aqueous solution of lauryl betaine. Therefore, in an embodiment wherein the present composition comprises 10% Surfac LB3, according to the definitions used herein, the Surfac LB3 provides the composition with 3% lauryl betaine and 7% water.

[0089] In some embodiments, the surfactant (i.e. active surfactant) is present in an amount of from about 0.5% to about 30% by weight of the total composition, preferably from about 1 % to about 25% by weight of the total composition, more preferably from about 1 % to about 20% by weight of the total composition, even more preferably from about 1 % to about 10% by weight of the total composition. In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic composition.

[0090] In some embodiments, the surfactant is selected from an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant and mixtures thereof. In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant.

[0091] In some embodiments, the surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, N-lauroyl sarcosine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium cocosulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, lauryl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, trimethyl glycine betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, cocoamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, cetrimonium chloride, behentrimonium chloride, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocosulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, cocamidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, and mixtures thereof.

[0092] Preferably, the surfactant comprises at least one anionic surfactant. In such embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, sodium cocosulfate, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the anionic surfactant is selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocosulfate and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the surfactant may consist of only anionic surfactant(s).

[0093] Preferably, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocosulfate and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the surfactant comprises at least sodium cocosulfate. In preferred embodiments, the surfactant comprises at least sodium cocosulfate in powder or needle form.

[0094] Total & Further

[0095] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0096] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition;

[0097] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of the total composition;

[0098] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and

[0099] (d) a surfactant.

[0100] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0101] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition;

[0102] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of the total composition;

[0103] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of from about 2% to about 5% by weight of the total composition; and

[0104] (d) a surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the total composition.

[0105] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises: (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 50% to about 60% by weight of the total composition;

[0106] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 40% by weight of the total composition;

[0107] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of from about 2% to about 5% by weight of the total composition; and

[0108] (d) a surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the total composition.

[0109] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0110] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, wherein the humectant is selected from the group consisting of glycerine, monopropylene glycol and mixtures thereof;

[0111] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of the total composition;

[0112] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the gelling agent is or comprises carrageenan; and

[0113] (d) a surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the total composition, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocosulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, cocamidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, and mixtures thereof.

[0114] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0115] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, wherein the humectant comprises at least glycerine, optionally in combination with monopropylene glycol;

[0116] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition;

[0117] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the gelling agent is or comprises carrageenan; and

[0118] (d) a surfactant in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20% by weight of the total composition.

[0119] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0120] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, wherein the humectant comprises at least glycerine, optionally in combination with monopropylene glycol;

[0121] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 40% by weight of the total composition;

[0122] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the gelling agent is or comprises iota-carrageenan; and

[0123] (d) a surfactant in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20% by weight of the total composition, preferably from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the total composition, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocosulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0124] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0125] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 50% to about 60% by weight of the total composition, wherein the humectant comprises at least glycerine, optionally in combination with monopropylene glycol;

[0126] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 40% by weight of the total composition;

[0127] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the gelling agent is or comprises iota-carrageenan; and

[0128] (d) a surfactant in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20% by weight of the total composition, preferably in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the total composition, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocosulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0129] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0130] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, wherein the humectant comprises glycerine and monopropylene glycol in a weight ratio of from about 5: 1 to about 1 :1 ;

[0131] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of the total composition;

[0132] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the gelling agent is or comprises carrageenan, preferably iota-carrageenan; and

[0133] (d) a surfactant, preferably in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the cosmetic composition.

[0134] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition comprises:

[0135] (a) a humectant in an amount of from about 45% to about 70% by weight of the total composition, wherein the humectant comprises glycerine and monopropylene glycol in a weight ratio of from about 5: 1 to about 1 :1 ;

[0136] (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of the total composition;

[0137] (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition, wherein the gelling agent is or comprises carrageenan, preferably iota-carrageenan, and wherein the gelling agent has a gel strength of at least about 250 g / cm2; and

[0138] (d) a surfactant, preferably in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the cosmetic composition. In some embodiments, the gelling agent is iota-carrageenan in an amount of from about 2% to about 4% by weight of the total composition and the humectant comprises glycerine in an amount of from about 25% to about 60% by weight of the total composition.

[0139] In addition to the above, the cosmetic composition may further comprise one or more cosmetically acceptable additives. The person skilled in the art is aware of a range of cosmetically acceptable additives which are suitable for incorporation into such compositions. In some embodiments, the one or more cosmetically acceptable additives are selected from a binder, starch, filler, opacifier, UV absorbing material, exfoliating material, essential oil, vitamin, perfume, fragrance, colouring, vegetable butter, vegetable oil, cocoa powder, arrowroot powder, herb, fruit, ginger, luminescent material, activated charcoal, fruit and / or herb extract, decorative item and mixtures thereof.

[0140] Fragrance may be added to the product to make the experience of using the present composition more pleasant. Combining essential oils such as lavender, chamomile or rose absolute into fragrances for the invention ensures the user has a pleasant experience.

[0141] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition thus further comprises a perfume or a fragrance. The amount of fragrance is preferably from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 0.5% to about 4% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 1 % to about 3% by weight of the total composition.

[0142] The essential oils may be selected based on the fragrance desired, skin type to be treated and other effects desired based on the well-known properties of essential oils. The addition of essential oils, when taken in to the nose, are known to alter mood. For example, essential oils are known to create effects of drowsiness or stimulating the senses. Many well documented effects can be achieved by the use of essential oils.

[0143] In one embodiment, the one or more essential oils present in the product are selected from Tarragon, Lemon myrtle, Jasmin, Ylang ylang, Labdanum, Lemongrass, Rose otto, Grapefruit, Patchouli, Rosemary, Armois, Lemon, Neroli, Sweet violet, Lavender, Orange 50 fold, Vanilla, Peppermint, Benzoin, Hydrangia, Litsea Cubeba, Cardamon, Tonka, and Chamomile blue. In one embodiment, the one or more essential oils present in the product are selected from Tarragon, Lemon myrtle, Labdunum, and Lemon. Vitamins, particularly B, C and E are very beneficial for the skin. Vitamin rich ingredients such as Wheatgerm oil can also be used to deliver vitamins on to the skin. In some embodiments, the vitamins are selected from vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E and mixtures thereof. It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the vitamin may be provided from any suitable source. For example the vitamin(s) may be provided from a synthetic source or from incorporation into the product of a material, such as a natural material, that has a high vitamin content.

[0144] The advantages of the present invention discussed herein may be applied to any cosmetic product, for example a shower gel or other skin cleanser. Other cosmetic categories that would be applicable under the present invention include: shaving preparations, moisturisers, skincare & body lotions, sunscreen products, shampoos, conditioners & hair dressings and lip balms. All are categories of product, which conventionally require packaging, are stored at room temperature and have a long shelf-life.

[0145] Materials which may be included in the present composition include but are not limited to: Oil, Butter & Waxes - Almond Oil, Sesame Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Jojoba Oil, Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Mango Butter, Cupuacu Butter, Lanolin, Beeswax, Rose Wax, Orange Peel Wax - typically used in a range of 5% - 20% by weight of the total composition.

[0146] Capsules - a combination of a salt of alginic acid (such as sodium alginate) and a calcium salt (such as calcium lactate) to prepare a capsule dispersed in the composition - typically used in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the total composition.

[0147] Whole Fruits & Vegetables - Avocado, Banana, Strawberries, Blueberries, Grapefruit, Orange, Fennel - typically used in a range of 0.5% - 25% by weight of the total composition. Fragrance Materials - typically used in a range of 0.1 % - 5% by weight of the total composition.

[0148] Colorant Materials - typically used in a range of 0.001% - 2% by weight of the total composition.

[0149] Sunscreens (UV absorbing and / or reflecting materials) - Octocrylene, Titanium Dioxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Sulisobenzone and salts thereof (such as benzophenone-4 and / or benzophenone-5), octyl methoxycinnamate, butylmethoxydibenzoylmethane, homosalate, ecamsule, and mixtures thereof - typically used in a range of 1 % - 25% by weight of the total composition, more preferably from about 1 % to about 10% by weight of the total composition.

[0150] Salts & Sugars (exfoliant materials) - Sea Salt, Castor Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar, Molasses - typically used in a range of 0.1% - 10% by weight of the total composition. Cereals, Plant Materials and Beans - Oats, Rice, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Aduki Beans, Coffee Beans, Seaweeds, Ground Bamboo, Cocoa Powder, Arrowroot Powder, Tea Tree Leaf, Arnica Montana, Lycopodium Powder, Cypress Leaf, Devil’s Claw Root, Ginger Root - typically used in a range of 0.01% - 5% by weight of the total composition.

[0151] Herbs - Rosemary, Sage, Basil, Oregano, Fennel Seed, Coriander Seed, Parsley, Marjoram

[0152] - typically used in a range of 0.01 % to 1 % by weight of the total composition.

[0153] Starches - Corn starch, Potato starch, Tapioca starch, Rice starch, and mixtures thereof - typically used in a range of about 0.1 - 15% by weight of the total composition.

[0154] Luminescent Material - e.g. zinc sulphide - typically used in a range of from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the total composition.

[0155] Activated Charcoal - typically in a range of from about 0.1 % to about 1 % by weight of the total composition.

[0156] Stabilising Agents - Lactic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Malic Acid & Fruit Powder - typically used in a range of 0.01% - 3% by weight of the total composition.

[0157] Protein Sources - Tofu, Banana, Soya, Soya Lecithin, Eggs - typically used in a range of 1%

[0158] - 30% by weight of the total composition.

[0159] Decorative Items - glitter, lustre, paper such as rice paper, sequins, popping candy, dried or fresh flowers, dried or fresh fruit, vegetables, parts thereof or mixtures thereof - typically used in a range of 0.1% - 5% by weight of the total composition.

[0160] These ingredients may be combined with any of the previously disclosed ranges and combinations of humectant, water, gelling agent and surfactant.

[0161] In some embodiments, the composition is free from or substantially free from magnesium sulphate. As used herein “substantially free from magnesium sulphate” means that magnesium sulphate is present in an amount of no more than about 0.5% by weight of the total composition, preferably no more than about 0.1 % by weight of the total composition.

[0162] In some embodiments, the composition is free from or substantially free from one or more of menthol, mustard oil, magnesium oil and witch-hazel.

[0163] The above ranges provide preferred amounts of each of the components. Each of these ranges may be taken alone or combined with one or more other component ranges to provide a preferred aspect of the invention.

[0164] Cosmetic Composition - Further Aspect

[0165] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a cosmetic composition comprising: (a) humectant; (b) water; (c) a gelling agent; and (d) a surfactant; wherein the composition adheres to one or more of a glass surface, a ceramic surface, a plastic surface (e.g. an acrylic surface) or a metal (e.g. stainless steel) surface, wherein adherence to a surface is measured in accordance with the method as defined herein.

[0166] The amounts and descriptions of the humectant, water, gelling agent and surfactant as described hereinabove with respect to the first aspect may equally apply to the composition of the second aspect in various combinations.

[0167] In preferred embodiments, the composition adheres to at least a glass surface. Preferably, the composition adheres to a plastic surface, such as in particular an acrylic surface.

[0168] For the purposes of the present invention, a composition is considered to adhere to one or more of a glass surface, a ceramic surface, a plastic surface (e.g. an acrylic surface) or a metal surface if the composition remains stuck to the surface after a period of at least 1 minute after the composition is initially contacted with the surface, and where the surface is at a 90° angle to the floor (i.e. where the surface runs vertically relative to the floor, in the same way as a shower door, for example). By “stuck to” is meant that the product does not fall off, peel away from or slide down the surface, and also that it requires some degree of force for a user to remove the product from the surface. However, the product is not adhered so strongly that it is not possible to remove the product from the surface. The advantage of the product removably adhering to the surface may be that it is more convenient to store and use the product during normal use. For example, it can be stuck to a shower door at hand-height by the user, which means that removal of the product and its subsequent use during a shower is more convenient and does not require any bending down to pick the product up. In addition, adherence of the product to a shower or bathtub provides a novelty and fun aspect, thus enhancing the user’s experience.

[0169] It is preferred that the composition adheres to the surface for a period of at least 5 minutes, preferably at least 10 minutes, more preferably at least 30 minutes and even more preferably at least 1 hour. In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition may adhere to one or more of a glass surface, a ceramic surface, a plastic surface (e.g. an acrylic surface) or a metal surface for a period of at least 12 hours, more preferably a period of at least 24 hours, and even more preferably a period of at least 48 hours.

[0170] Process As discussed herein, according to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a cosmetic composition comprising (a) humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition; (b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition; (c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and (d) a surfactant; the process comprising the following steps:

[0171] (i) contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant to provide a resultant composition;

[0172] (ii) heating the resultant composition; and

[0173] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition.

[0174] In some embodiments, step (i) of contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant comprises at least the following sub-steps:

[0175] (a) preparing a first preparatory composition comprising at least some humectant and gelling agent, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives;

[0176] (b) preparing a second preparatory composition comprising water, optionally togetherwith one or more cosmetically acceptable additives and / or at least some humectant; and

[0177] (c) contacting the first and second preparatory compositions to produce a resultant composition; wherein the surfactant is added to the second preparatory composition with water in step (b) and / or is added in step (c) during or after the contacting of the first and second preparatory compositions.

[0178] These sub-steps may be referred to herein as steps (i)(a), (i)(b) and (i)(c) of the process.

[0179] The surfactant may be added to the second preparatory composition comprising water. In other words, step (i)(b) may comprise preparing a second preparatory composition comprising water and a surfactant. Alternatively or additionally, the surfactant may be added during step (i)(c); i.e. the surfactant may be added during the step of contacting the first and second preparatory compositions, and / or after contacting the first and second preparatory compositions. The surfactant is thus included in the resultant composition.

[0180] The water may first be heated prior to contacting the water with the gelling agent, humectant and / or surfactant. Therefore, in some embodiments, the process further comprises a step of heating the water, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives, before contacting the water with gelling agent, humectant and / or surfactant in step (i). In some embodiments, the water is heated before said contact to a temperature of no greater than about 105°C, such as no greater than about 100°C, such as no greater than about 95°C, such as no greater than about 90°C, such as no greater than about 85°C, such as no greater than about 80°C. In some embodiments, the water is heated before said contact to a temperature of from about 50 to about 105°C, such as from about 60°C to about 100°C, such as from about 60 to about 95°C, such as from about 60 to about 90°C, such as from 60 to about 85°C, such as from about 60 to about 80°C, such as from about 65 to about 80°C, such as from about 70 to about 80°C. For example, the water may be pre-heated to a temperature of from about 70 to about 105°C.

[0181] The water may be heated before the surfactant is added to water in step (i)(b). For example, the water may be heated to a temperature of from about 70 to about 105°C. The surfactant may then be added to the heated water and mixed to prepare the second preparatory composition.

[0182] The water may be heated before the surfactant or first preparatory composition is contacted with the water in steps (i)(b) or (i)(c) together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives. For example, the water may be heated together with a plant material (such as the petals, stem or leaves of a flower, coffee beans or powder, tea leaves, tea powder, or tea bags, herbs) to prepare a plant infusion or decoction. In some embodiments, the water is heated together with a plant material selected from rose petal, camomile (optionally dried), marigold (optionally dried), herbs, tea (such as green tea), coffee, and mixtures thereof.

[0183] In some preferred embodiments, the process comprises the following steps:

[0184] (i)(a) preparing a first preparatory composition comprising at least some humectant and gelling agent, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives;

[0185] (i)(b) preparing a second preparatory composition comprising water and a surfactant, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives or at least some humectant

[0186] (i)(c) contacting the first and second preparatory compositions to produce a resultant composition;

[0187] (ii) heating the resultant composition; and

[0188] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition.

[0189] In some embodiments, the process comprises the following steps:

[0190] (0) heating water, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives; (i)(a) preparing a first preparatory composition comprising at least some humectant and gelling agent, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives; (i)(b) preparing a second preparatory composition comprising the heated water and a surfactant, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives or at least some humectant;

[0191] (i)(c) contacting the first and second preparatory compositions to produce a resultant composition;

[0192] (ii) heating the resultant composition; and

[0193] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition

[0194] Preferably, the humectant is in liquid form. In such embodiments, the humectant and gelling agent may be combined in step (i), and preferably in step (i) (a), to disperse the gelling agent in the liquid humectant.

[0195] The preparatory composition prepared in step (i)(a) may contain the total amount of humectant to be included in the composition, or alternatively may include a portion of the humectant but not the total amount of humectant. In such alternative embodiments, some of the humectant may be added later during the process, such as during step (i)(b). For example, some of the humectant may be added in step (i)(a) together with the gelling agent, and then some humectant added to the water and optionally surfactant in step (i)(b) before and / or after and / or during the addition of the first preparatory composition to the second preparatory composition. In some embodiments, some humectant is added as part of the first preparatory composition in step (i)(a) and the remainder of the humectant is added as part of the second preparatory composition in step (i)(b). Where the humectant comprises a combination of glycerine and monopropylene glycol, the glycerine may be added in step (i)(a) and the monopropylene glycol may be added in step (i)(b).

[0196] The second preparatory composition may first be heated prior to contacting the first and second preparatory compositions. Therefore, in some embodiments, the process further comprises a step of heating the second preparatory composition, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives, before the first and second preparatory compositions are contacted in step (i)(c). In some embodiments, the second preparatory composition is heated before the first and second preparatory compositions are contacted in step (i)(c) to a temperature of no greater than about 105°C, such as no greater than about 100°C, such as no greater than about 95°C, such as no greater than about 90°C, such as no greater than about 85°C, such as no greater than about 80°C. In some embodiments, the second preparatory composition is heated before the first and second preparatory compositions are contacted in step (i)(c) to a temperature of from about 50 to about 105°C, such as from about 60°C to about 100°C, such as from about 60 to about 95°C, such as from about 60 to about 90°C, such as from 60 to about 85°C, such as from about 60 to about 80°C, such as from about 65 to about 80°C, such as from about 70 to about 80°C. For example, the second preparatory composition may be heated to a temperature of from about 70 to about 105°C.

[0197] In some embodiments, the resultant composition is heated in step (ii) to a temperature of no greater than about 100°C, such as no greater than about 95°C, such as no greater than about 90°C, such as no greater than about 85°C, such as no greater than about 80°C. In some embodiments, the resultant composition is heated in step (ii) to a temperature of from about 50 to about 100°C, such as from about 60 to about 95°C, such as from about 70 to about 90°C, such as from about 80 to about 90°C.

[0198] As discussed herein, the cosmetic composition is preferably in the form of a solid or semisolid. Therefore, in some embodiments, the resultant composition is cooled in step (iii) such that it sets to a solid or semi-solid composition. Preferably, the resultant composition is cooled in step (iii) such that it sets to a solid composition. This may be achieved by, for example, leaving the composition in the mould at room temperature until the composition is solid or semi-solid, chilling the composition in the mould in a refrigerator until the composition is solid or semi-solid, leaving the composition in a warm environment or any other method of cooling the composition. It is noted that the term “cooled” does not necessarily refer to active cooling (e.g. via a refrigerator) but encompasses a step of passive cooling whereby the composition is left at room temperature or in a warm environment to cool down passively over time such that it sets.

[0199] In preferred embodiments, the resultant composition is cooled or allowed to cool for a period of at least about 48 hours, preferably at least about 60 hours and more preferably at least about 72 hours. It has been surprisingly found by the present inventors that, where the composition is cooled for a period of at least about 48 hours, the composition may set in such a way that it is ‘sticky’ in the sense that it adheres to flat surfaces, including glass, ceramic, plastic (e.g. acrylic) or metal (e.g. stainless steel) surfaces, such as shower doors.

[0200] The resultant composition may be cooled or allowed to cool at a temperature of from about 0°C to about 35°C. As such, the composition may be cooled in a refrigerator or may be allowed to cool at room temperature or in a slightly warm environment. In preferred embodiments, the resultant composition may be cooled or allowed to cool at a temperature of from about 10°C to about 35°C, more preferably from about 10°C to about 25°C, and even more preferably from about 15°C to about 25°C. Preferably, the composition is allowed to cool at room temperature for a period of at least about 48 hours.

[0201] The cooling step (iii) may also be referred to as a curing step.

[0202] As discussed herein, according to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a cosmetic composition comprising (a) humectant, (b) water, (c) a gelling agent, and (d) a surfactant; the process comprising the following steps:

[0203] (i) contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant to provide a resultant composition;

[0204] (ii) heating the resultant composition;

[0205] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition; and

[0206] (iv) allowing the resultant composition to cool at a temperature of from about 10°C to about 35°C for a period of at least about 48 hours.

[0207] As for the process of the third aspect, in some embodiments, step (i) of contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant comprises at least the following sub-steps:

[0208] (a) preparing a first preparatory composition comprising at least some humectant and gelling agent, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives;

[0209] (b) preparing a second preparatory composition comprising water, optionally togetherwith one or more cosmetically acceptable additives and / or at least some humectant; and

[0210] (c) contacting the first and second preparatory compositions to produce a resultant composition; wherein the surfactant is added to the second preparatory composition with water in step (b) and / or is added in step (c) during or after the contacting of the first and second preparatory compositions.

[0211] These sub-steps may be referred to herein as steps (i)(a), (i)(b) and (i)(c) of the process.

[0212] In some preferred embodiments, the process according to the fourth aspect comprises: (i)(a) preparing a first preparatory composition comprising at least some humectant and gelling agent, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives;

[0213] (i)(b) preparing a second preparatory composition comprising water and a surfactant, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives and / or at least some humectant; (i)(c) contacting the first and second preparatory compositions to produce a resultant composition;

[0214] (ii) heating the resultant composition;

[0215] (iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould; and

[0216] (iv) allowing the resultant composition to cool at a temperature of from about 10°C to about 35°C for a period of at least about 48 hours.

[0217] Each of steps (i) to (iv) may be characterised in line with the features described above in respect of the third aspect.

[0218] Method

[0219] In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a method comprising contacting the skin or hair of a user with the cosmetic composition as defined herein. Preferably, the method comprises contacting the skin of a user with water together with the cosmetic composition.

[0220] In some embodiments, the cosmetic composition is a shower gel, preferably in the form of a solid shower gel. The cosmetic composition may be applied to the skin or hair of the user either directly, or after the user has taken a suitable sized, smaller portion of the composition from the total composition by breaking a portion off the product as a whole. The cosmetic composition may be mixed with water, then applied to the skin of the user and subsequently rinsed off. Alternatively, the cosmetic composition may be applied directly to the skin of the user and subsequently rinsed off with water.

[0221] EXAMPLES

[0222] Example 1

[0223] A product having the following composition was prepared:

[0224] The product was prepared using the following method:

[0225] 1 . The iota-carrageenan and glycerine were mixed together to prepare a preparatory composition;

[0226] 2. Water was heated to 80°C, and was then blended with cocosulfate powder, sodium laureth sulfate and monopropylene glycol;

[0227] 3. The preparatory composition was added to the water phase and mixed;

[0228] 4. The resultant composition was heated to a temperature of about 80°C and mixed for about 10 to 15 minutes to ensure complete dissolution of the carrageenan;

[0229] 5. Colour was added;

[0230] 6. The mixture was removed from the heat, and fragrance added and stirred in; and

[0231] 7. The mixture was poured into a mould and allowed to cool until it set into solid form.

[0232] The product was found to have a solid consistency such that it can be turned out of the mould easily, and can sustain its physical shape when unsupported by the mould or any external packaging. A photo of the product once turned out from the mould is shown in Figure 1A.

[0233] The product was left to cure for a period of 48 hours, and was then applied to a vertical glass surface to determine whether the product adheres to the surface. It was found that the product stuck to the glass surface such that it did not fall off the glass or slide down the glass without application of external force.

[0234] Example 2

[0235] A product having the following composition was prepared:

[0236] The product was prepared using the following method: 1 . The iota-carrageenan and glycerine were mixed together to prepare a preparatory composition;

[0237] 2. Water was heated to 80°C, and was then blended with cocosulfate powder and sodium laureth sulfate;

[0238] 3. The preparatory composition was added to the water phase and mixed;

[0239] 4. The resultant composition was heated to a temperature of about 80°C and mixed for about 10 to 15 minutes to ensure complete dissolution of the carrageenan;

[0240] 5. Colour was added;

[0241] 6. The mixture was removed from the heat, and fragrance added and stirred in; and

[0242] 7. The mixture was poured into a mould and allowed to cool until it set into solid form.

[0243] The product was found to have a solid consistency such that it can be turned out of the mould easily, and can sustain its physical shape when unsupported by the mould or any external packaging. A photo of the product once turned out from the mould is shown in Figure 1 B.

[0244] The product was left to cure for a period of about 12 days and was then applied to a vertical glass surface to determine whether the product adheres to the surface. It was found that the product stuck to the glass surface.

[0245] Example 3

[0246] A product having the following composition was prepared:

[0247] The product was prepared in accordance with the method of Example 1.

[0248] The product was found to have a solid consistency such that it can be turned out of the mould easily, and can sustain its physical shape when unsupported by the mould or any external packaging. The product did begin to shrink after setting due to high water content and loss of some water. A photo of the product once turned out from the mould is shown in Figure 1C.

[0249] The product was left to cure for a period of 2 days and was then applied to a vertical glass surface to determine whether the product adheres to the surface. It was found that the product stuck to the glass surface for a brief period. Over a period of about 5 minutes, the product slowly began to slide down the glass.

[0250] Comparative Example 1

[0251] A product having the following composition was prepared:

[0252] The product was prepared in accordance with the method of claim 1.

[0253] The product did not set fully in the mould and was seeping lots of liquid. The product could not be turned out of the mould due to its liquid texture, and was unable to support itself without external packaging (see Figure 2). The product was not able to stick to a glass surface because it could not be turned out of the mould.

[0254] Various modifications and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing form the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in chemistry, biology or related fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A cosmetic composition comprising(a) humectant in an amount of from about 25% to about 70% by weight of the total composition;(b) water in an amount of from about 20% to about 60% by weight of the total composition;(c) a gelling agent in an amount of at least about 2% by weight of the total composition; and(d) a surfactant.

2. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1 , wherein the humectant is selected from the group consisting of honey, glycerine, monopropylene glycol, agave nectar, fruit syrups, herbal syrups, golden syrup, sugar solutions, sugar alcohols and mixtures thereof; preferably wherein the humectant is selected from the group consisting of glycerine, monopropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

3. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the humectant comprises at least glycerine.

4. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gelling agent is selected from the group consisting of kappa-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan, agar, xanthan gum, pectin, salt of alginic acid, and mixtures thereof.

5. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gelling agent is iota-carrageenan.

6. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gelling agent is iota-carrageenan in an amount of at least 2% by weight of the total composition, and wherein the humectant comprises at least glycerine in an amount of from about 25% to about 60% by weight of the total composition.

7. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gelling agent has a gel strength of at least about 250 g / cm2.

8. The cosmetic composition according to claim 7, wherein the gelling agent has a gel strength of from about 400 g / cm2to about 600 g / cm2.

9. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, N-lauroylsarcosine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium cocosulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, lauryl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, trimethyl glycine betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, cocoamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, cetrimonium chloride, behentrimonium chloride, and mixtures thereof.

10. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium cocosulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and mixtures thereof.11 . The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the humectant is present in an amount of from about 50% to about 60% by weight of the total cosmetic composition, preferably wherein the humectant is present in a total amount of from about 50% to about 60% by weight of the total cosmetic composition and the humectant comprises at least glycerine in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the total composition.

12. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water is present in an amount of from about 20% to about 40% by weight of the total cosmetic composition.

13. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gelling agent is present in an amount of no greater than about 5% by weight of the total composition.

14. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant is present in an amount of from about 1% to about 20% by weight of the total composition.

15. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is free from or substantially free from preservatives.

16. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising one or more cosmetically acceptable additives selected from a binder, starch, filler, opacifier, UV absorbing material, exfoliating material, essential oil, vitamin, perfume,fragrance, colouring, vegetable butter, vegetable oil, cocoa powder, arrowroot powder, herb, fruit, ginger, luminescent material, activated charcoal, fruit and / or herb extract, decorative item and mixtures thereof.

17. The cosmetic composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is a solid or semi-solid cosmetic composition.

18. A cosmetic composition comprising(a) humectant;(b) water;(c) a gelling agent; and(d) a surfactant; wherein the composition adheres to one or more of a glass surface, a ceramic surface, a plastic surface (e.g. an acrylic surface) or a metal surface, wherein adherence to a surface is measured in accordance with the method as defined herein.

19. A process for the production of a cosmetic composition as defined in any one of claims1 to 18, the process comprising the following steps:(i) contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant to provide a resultant composition;(ii) heating the resultant composition; and(iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition.

20. The process according to claim 19, wherein step (i) comprises:(a) preparing a first preparatory composition comprising at least some humectant and gelling agent, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives;(b) preparing a second preparatory composition comprising water, optionally together with one or more cosmetically acceptable additives and / or at least some humectant; and(c) contacting the first and second preparatory compositions to produce a resultant composition; wherein the surfactant is added to the second preparatory composition with water in step (b) and / or is added in step (c) during or after the contacting of the first and second preparatory compositions.

21. The process according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the resultant composition is cooled in step (iii) such that it sets to a solid composition.

22. The process according to claim 21 , wherein the resultant composition is allowed to cool at a temperature of from about 10°C to about 35°C for a period of at least about 48 hours.

23. A process for the production of a cosmetic composition comprising (a) a humectant;(b) water; (c) a gelling agent; and (d) a surfactant; the process comprising the following steps:(i) contacting humectant, gelling agent, water and surfactant to provide a resultant composition;(ii) heating the resultant composition;(iii) introducing the resultant composition to a mould and cooling the resultant composition; and(iv) allowing the resultant composition to cool at a temperature of from about 10°C to about 35°C for a period of at least about 48 hours.

24. A product obtained or obtainable by the process of any one of claims 20 to 23.

25. A cosmetic method comprising contacting the skin or hair of a user with a cosmetic composition as defined in claims 1 to 19.

Images