composition

Abstract

The present invention provides a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water; and (ii) a fragrance, wherein the solid cosmetic product has: a base on which the product is standable; a wall connected to the base to define a receiving portion having an opening disposed opposite the base; and an air inlet disposed in the wall.

Description

[0001] COMPOSITION

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a solid cosmetic product, use of said product, and a device comprising said product.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates to products particularly those for use in contact with the human body.

[0006] In the modern era, a high proportion of cosmetic products are typically provided to consumers in the form of liquid or pastes. For example, hair styling products are typically provided as hair gels or pastes, which require packaging in order to transport and store said products. Oral care (or oral hygiene) products, such as toothpastes and mouthwashes, are also either provided in paste or liquid form, thus requiring some form of external packaging. 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.

[0007] There is also a desire to provide more ‘exciting’ products which add to the bathing experience of a user. In other words, there is a desire to provide products which offer to the user more than the functional delivery of a cosmetically active agent.

[0008] One popular cosmetic product which is both solid and provides a more ‘exciting’ product than its predecessor is the Bath Bomb. Bath bomb type products may be considered a form of bath salt as they typically comprises at least one salt of carbonic acid, and at least one acidifying agent. When a bath bomb is placed into water, it vigorously effervesces releasing carbon dioxide. The reaction is an acid-base reaction resulting in the production of a salt, carbon dioxide and water. Other more recent solid products, particularly those developed by the present applicant include solid shower gels, solid shampoos, solid hair conditioners, solid hair dye, solid body lotions, solid massage bars, shower jellies, solid moisturisers, solid body scrubs, solid bubble bars for creating bubble baths, solid sunscreens, and solid make-up. Many of these products address the issue of avoiding unnecessary packaging, and many ofthem also provide their own unique user experiences, in additional to the functional delivery of a cosmetically active agent.

[0009] In particular, it is found that users sometimes wish to enjoy the fragrance of their purchased product without the need to bathe in the product. To achieve this aim, it is often necessary for users to buy a separate fragranced product such as a candle. This results in further cost to the user and a potential for further unnecessary packaging and transport waste.

[0010] The present invention seeks to provide a solid cosmetic product that may be used as a therapeutic bathing product and is capable of diffusing fragrances with an enhanced experience for the user, and which also may be used to deliver fragrance other than when the user is bathing.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In a first aspect, there is provided use of a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and (ii) a fragrance, for providing both the delivery of the fragrance when a heat source is applied to the solid cosmetic product and for subsequently providing an enhanced bathing experience when the solid cosmetic product is contacted with water.

[0013] In a second aspect, there is provided a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and (ii) a fragrance, wherein the solid cosmetic product has:

[0014] a base on which the product is standable;

[0015] a wall connected to the base to define a receiving portion having an opening disposed opposite the base; and

[0016] an air inlet disposed in the wall.

[0017] In a third aspect, there is provided a device comprising

[0018] (a) a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and (ii) a fragrance, and

[0019] (b) a heat source.

[0020] 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 notnecessarily limited to each particular section.

[0021] Advantages

[0022] It has been found that by providing a solid cosmetic product as described herein, a composition is prepared which may be used in at least two ways.

[0023] In a first use, the solid cosmetic product may be heated to release and diffuse fragrance from the product. This usage may be performed, in one example, by providing a heat source, such as a tealight, on the base of the solid cosmetic product, and at least partially enclosed by the wall of the solid cosmetic product. This may be achieved by assembling the walls of the solid cosmetic product around the same, or by some other means. When the heat source is applied to the solid cosmetic product, fragrance is released from the solid cosmetic product to fragrance the space around it.

[0024] Typically, candles are used to diffuse fragrance on heating. However, the present inventors found that it can be difficult to achieve even and long-lasting fragrance diffusion in candles due to the use of waxes. This is particularly the case if one wishes to use plant-based waxes in place of petrochemical based waxes. More specifically, plant-based waxes have a different molecular structure compared to traditional (petrochemical based) paraffin wax which can make it difficult for fragrance oils to fully integrate and bind with the wax. Further, fragrances in powder form are not miscible with waxes and can cause fragrance separation within the candle, meaning that it is not possible to achieve even distribution of fragrance from the candle when used. In addition, polar solvents are typically used to provide fragrances to cosmetic products. However, waxes are mostly non-polar and so the difference in polarity between the wax and fragrance solution means that these components are naturally immiscible and will not blend smoothly. However, if non-polar solvents are used, this can affect the scent profile of the fragrance and result in weaker fragrance diffusion. Therefore, it is not possible to adapt certain fragrances for use in typical candle products and in particular, to adapt certain cosmetic fragrances for this use. The present product provides a solution to this problem. The present product allows a consumer to purchase a single product that they can use to deliver both a room fragrance, in place of using a candle, and a bathing experience that includes the same fragrance. This offers not only the convenience of a single product, but the ability the delivery of a user’s ‘favourite’ cosmetic fragrance that could not otherwise be delivered in a candle or in a plant based candle.In a second use, the solid cosmetic product may be deposited in bathing water and used as a bath bomb product.

[0025] The present inventors have therefore found that providing a solid cosmetic product as described herein, allows homogenous incorporation of a fragrance, which in turn is diffused evenly and in a long-lasting manner when a heat source is provided. Further, the solid cosmetic product can be used in deposited in bathing water and used as a bath bomb product

[0026] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027]

[0028] As discussed herein, in one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water; and (ii) a fragrance, wherein the solid cosmetic product has:

[0029] a base on which the product is standable;

[0030] a wall connected to the base to define a receiving portion having an opening disposed opposite the base; and

[0031] an air inlet disposed in the wall.

[0032] It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the nature of a cosmetic product means that the product is not edible. Thus in a further aspect the present invention provides a nonedible solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water; and (ii) a fragrance, wherein the non-edible solid cosmetic product has:

[0033] a base on which the product is standable;

[0034] a wall connected to the base to define a receiving portion having an opening disposed opposite the base; and

[0035] an air inlet disposed in the wall.

[0036] The solid 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 the solid product must remain substantially solid at 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.

[0037] Due to the solid form of the compositions of the present invention, external packaging is not required to maintain the shape of the composition.

[0038] The composition of the present invention is typically made by moulding of the product.

[0039] The solid cosmetic product may be any suitable cosmetic which may be formed into a solid. Examples include bathing products, bath bombs, bath oils, bath melts, solid bubble bars, soaps, syndet bars, solid shower gels, massage bars, shower jellies, solid moisturisers, solid body scrubs. In one aspect, the solid cosmetic product is a bathing product.

[0040] In one aspect, the solid cosmetic product has:

[0041] a base on which the product is standable;

[0042] a wall connected to the base to define a receiving portion having an opening disposed opposite the base; and

[0043] an air inlet disposed in the wall.

[0044] It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the base and wall are formed of the solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water; and (ii) a fragrance. Therefore, the base and the wall of the solid cosmetic product effervesce on contact with water.

[0045] In a preferred aspect, the base and wall are separately formed portions of the product. In a preferred aspect, the wall comprises a plurality of separately formed portions of the product. In one aspect, the plurality of separately formed portions of the product can be positioned together so that the solid cosmetic product is capable of forming a variety of different shapes. In one aspect, the plurality of separately formed portions of the product can be positioned together so that the solid cosmetic product is in the form of a single shape. The single shape may be a more complex shape or design. Particularly, the wall comprising a plurality of separately formed portions of the product allows the formation of more complex shapes. In one aspect, the base comprises a substantially flat surface defining the receiving portion, the substantially flat surface being in contact with a corresponding substantially flat surface ofthe wall or the plurality of separately formed wall portions. Such an arrangement means that a receiving portion can be defined in a simple manner by the user before use without the need for additional components such as adhesives.

[0046] In a preferred aspect, the receiving portion is for housing a heat source received via the opening. In a preferred aspect, the base comprises a recess for receiving the heat source. In a preferred aspect, the heat source is a tea light.

[0047] In one aspect, the wall is convex on an outer side relative to the receiving portion and concave on an inner side relative to the receiving portion. Such a wall shape is desirable for easily receiving a heat source as well as providing a large surface area for the heat source to be applied to, thus improving diffusion of the fragrance.

[0048] The base and wall defining a receiving portion allows a hollow solid cosmetic product to be formed. Providing the solid cosmetic product in the components of a base and at least one wall portion provides several advantages. Solid products are often made by formulating the cosmetic product in a powder form and then compressing the powder to form the final product. This has the drawback in that complex and intricate products such as hollow solid cosmetic product cannot be easily made in a single piece. Therefore, the solid cosmetic product having the components of a base and at least one wall portion provides a practical and simple way of making a hollow solid cosmetic product. Additionally, hollow cosmetic products are at an increased risk of damage during storage or transportation. Therefore providing such a solid cosmetic product makes it possible to more easily transport the solid cosmetic product, for example to store for sale or by delivery service, without breakage. The user is then able to assemble the solid cosmetic product easily before use.

[0049] Further, such a solid cosmetic product allows the product to be formed into various different shapes that consequently offer an enhanced experience for the user. Particularly, thematic products, such as Halloween products can further enhance the user experience. The shape of the solid cosmetic product of the present invention is not limited. It may be that the solid products are provided with a shape which would be aesthetically pleasing and / or which aids airflow in the use of the product.

[0050] In a preferred aspect, the air inlet is separate to the opening disposed opposite the base. The presence of an air inlet separate to the opening disposed opposite the base means that the solid cosmetic product can act as a ‘chimney’ when a heat source is received within thesolid cosmetic product. In this regard, cold air is able to flow into the solid cosmetic product through the air inlet. Inside the solid cosmetic product, the air is heated by the heat source, and so hot air leaves the solid cosmetic product through the opening disposed opposite the base. In a preferred aspect, the air inlet defines a desirable shape. In particular, the shape of the air inlet may be incorporated as part of the overall design of the solid cosmetic product. For example, in a Jack-o'-lantern shaped Halloween product, the air inlet may also provide the facial features of the lantern, thus enhancing the user experience.

[0051] Carbon dioxide effervescent component

[0052] The solid cosmetic product comprises a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water.

[0053] In one aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises a salt of carbonic acid; and an acidifying agent.

[0054] It has been found that in these aspects once the solid cosmetic product of the present invention is added to water (such as bathing water) the carbon dioxide effervescent component will effervesce, as seen with the majority of commercially available bath bombs.

[0055] The salt of carbonic acid and the acidifying agent are present in the carbon dioxide effervescent component in any suitable amounts to achieve effervescence. One skilled in the art is able to combine these materials to provide the desired rate of effervescence.

[0056] Preferably the salt of carbonic acid and the acidifying agent are present in a weight ratio of from 95:5 to 50:50, preferably in a weight ratio of from 90:10 to 50:50, preferably in a weight ratio of from 90:10 to 55:45, preferably in a weight ratio of from 90:10 to 60:40, preferably in a weight ratio of from 90:10 to 70:30.

[0057] In one aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises a salt of carbonic acid selected from alkali metal carbonates, alkali metal bicarbonates and mixtures thereof.

[0058] Preferably, the salt of carbonic acid is selected from sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate and mixtures thereof.In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 40 to 95 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. It is understood that the carbon dioxide effervescent component is the combined amount of materials that react to form carbon dioxide, and typically comprises a salt of carbonic acid; and an acidifying agent.

[0059] In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 45 to 95 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 50 to 95 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 50 to 90 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 55 to 90 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 60 to 85 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 60 to 80 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the salt of carbonic acid, and preferably sodium bicarbonate, in an amount of from 60 to 75 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component.

[0060] In one aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises an acidifying agent selected from monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, tricarboxylic acids and mixtures thereof.

[0061] Preferably the acidifying agent is selected form citric acid, potassium bitartrate (cream of tartar) and mixtures thereof.

[0062] In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 60 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. It is understood that the carbon dioxide effervescent component is the combined amount of materials that react to form carbon dioxide, andtypically comprises a salt of carbonic acid; and an acidifying agent. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 55 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 50 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 45 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 40 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 35 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component. In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises the acidifying agent, and preferably citric acid, in an amount of from 5 to 30 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component.

[0063] In a preferred aspect the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises sodium bicarbonate in an amount of from 55 to 90 wt.% and citric acid in an amount of from 5 to 40 wt.% based on the carbon dioxide effervescent component.

[0064] Fragrance

[0065] The composition of the present invention comprises a fragrance. Preferably the fragrance is selected from essential oils. 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.

[0066] In one embodiment, the one or more essential oils present in the solid product are selected from Tarragon, Lemon myrtle, Jasmin, Ylang ylang, Labdunum, 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 solid product are selected from Tarragon, Lemon myrtle, Labdunum, and Lemon.The fragrance may be present in any suitable amount. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 8 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 8 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 4 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition.

[0067] In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.01 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.05 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.1 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.2 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.5 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 1 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 1.5 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 2 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition.

[0068] In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.01 to 8 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.1 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance, such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.2 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance,such as the essential oil, is present in an amount of from 0.5 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 1 to 4 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 1 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 2 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 2 to 4 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition. In one aspect, the fragrance is present in an amount of from 2 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic composition.

[0069] Additional Components

[0070] The essential components of the solid cosmetic product are defined herein. However the composition may contain further additional components.

[0071] In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product further comprises a colouring. Preferably, the colouring is a water soluble colouring. The colouring can be naturally derived or it can be synthetic.

[0072] Preferably the solid cosmetic product comprises colouring in an amount of from 0.001 to 5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from 0.001 to 4 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from 0.001 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from 0.001 to 2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from 0.1 to 2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from 1 to 2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product.

[0073] In one aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water. Water may be present in any suitable amount. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.01 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.01 to 2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.01 to 1 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.01 to 0.5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.01 to 0.2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferredaspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.01 to 0.1 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.02 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.05 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises water in an amount of from 0.1 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product.

[0074] In one aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises a glycol. A understood by one skilled in the art a glycol is an aliphatic diol. The glycol may be present in any suitable amount. The glycol may be any suitable glycol. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.01 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.01 to 2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.01 to 1 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.01 to 0.5 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.01 to 0.2 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.01 to 0.1 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.02 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.05 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product. In a preferred aspect the solid cosmetic product comprises glycol in an amount of from 0.1 to 3 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product.

[0075] The solid product of the present invention may also 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. For example, binders, fillers, opacifiers, decorative items and mixtures thereof.

[0076] Fruit and herb extracts and juices, vegetable oils and essential oils are all compatible with the composition. Colours, both naturally derived and synthetic can be used to colour the product.In one embodiment, the cosmetically acceptable additives are selected from the group consisting of vitamins, fragrances, colourings, clays, decorative articles and mixtures thereof.

[0077] 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 a one embodiment, 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 solid product of a material, such as a natural material, that has a high vitamin content.

[0078] The ingredients in the present invention do not require cosmetic preservatives. The use of cosmetic preservatives can increase the potential to irritate the skin.

[0079] The decorative items which may be present in the solid product include items such as glitter, paper such as rice paper, sequins, dried or fresh flowers, herbs, vegetables, parts thereof or mixtures thereof. Other enhancing materials may also be incorporated

[0080] Further preferred additive materials include vegetable oils, chocolate, herbs and spices, cosmetic colours (e.g. paprika, gardenia extract, D&C red no. 30), beans (e.g. aduki), fruit, fresh or dried (e.g. banana, avocado, mango, papaya, kiwi, raspberry, strawberry, blueberries, grapes, tomato, asparagus, or cucumber), honey, glycerin, cosmetic glitter, other vegetable butters (e.g. mango, avocado), clays (e.g. kaolin), starches (e.g. corn starch) and mixtures thereof.

[0081] Amounts

[0082] 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.

[0083] Use

[0084] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of solid cosmetic product comprising a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and a fragrance, for providing both the delivery of the fragrance when a heat source isapplied to the solid cosmetic product and for subsequently providing an enhanced bathing experience when the solid cosmetic product is contacted with water.

[0085] Device

[0086] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device comprising

[0087] (a) a solid cosmetic product comprising a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and a fragrance, and

[0088] (b) a heat source.

[0089] Example

[0090] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0091] Various embodiments will now be described in detail by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0092] Figure 1 shows the multiple parts of the product in a disassembled form;

[0093] Figure 2 shows the multiple parts of the product in an assembled form; and

[0094] Figure 3 shows the multiple parts of the product in a partially assembled form.

[0095] The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting example.

[0096] A solid cosmetic product having the following composition was prepared.

[0097]

[0098] The product was prepared as follows:

[0099] 1. Weigh A into mixer and mix briefly

[0100] 2. Mix B together, add to A and mix thoroughly to disperse3. Add the mix to the mould, and compress until hard

[0101] The mixture was pressed in three separate moulds to form three parts of an overall product. The three parts can be seen in Figure 1. The parts were assembled as shown in Figure 2 to form an overall product and tea light was placed in the base in a receiving recess. The tea light was lit to provide a heat source. The construction of the product allowed for a ‘chimney effect’ in which cold air was drawn through the inlet disposed in the wall (the mouth and eyes of the face), is heated by the tea light, fragrance was evaporated and entrained in the heated air which then exited the product through the opening disposed opposite the base. It was found that the fragrance of the product was extremely well dispersed in the room and found to pleasant to the user. For clarity, a partially assembled product can be seen in Figure 3.

[0102] Various modifications and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from 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. Use of solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and (ii) a fragrance, for providing both the delivery of the fragrance when a heat source is applied to the solid cosmetic product and for subsequently providing an enhanced bathing experience when the solid cosmetic product is contacted with water.

2. A solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and (ii) a fragrance, wherein the solid cosmetic product has:a base on which the product is standable;a wall connected to the base to define a receiving portion having an opening disposed opposite the base; andan air inlet disposed in the wall.

3. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 2, wherein the base and wall are separately formed portions of the product.

4. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 3, wherein the wall comprises a plurality of separately formed portions of the product.

5. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the air inlet defines a desirable shape.

6. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the receiving portion is for housing a heat source received via the opening.

7. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 6, wherein the base comprises a recess for receiving the heat source.

8. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the heat source is a tea light.

9. A solid cosmetic product according to one of claims 2 to 8 wherein the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises a salt of carbonic acid; and an acidifying agent.

10. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 9 wherein the salt of carbonic acid and the acidifying agent are present in a weight ratio of from 90:10 to 50:50.11 A solid cosmetic product according to claim 9 or 10 wherein the salt of carbonic acid and the acidifying agent are present in a weight ratio of from 90:10 to 70:30.12 A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein the salt of carbonic acid is selected from alkali metal carbonates, alkali metal bicarbonates and mixtures thereof.

13. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 9 to 12 wherein the salt of carbonic acid is selected from sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate and mixtures thereof.

14. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 9 to 13 wherein the acidifying agent is selected from monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, tricarboxylic acids and mixtures thereof.

15. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 9 to 14 wherein the acidifying agent is selected citric acid, potassium bitartrate (cream of tartar) and mixtures thereof.

16. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 2 to 15 wherein the solid cosmetic contains fragrance in an amount of 0.001 to 10 wt.% based on the solid cosmetic product.

17. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 2 to 16 wherein the solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the solid cosmetic product further comprises a colouring.

18. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 17 wherein the solid cosmetic product comprises a water soluble colouring.

19. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 17 or 18 wherein the solid cosmetic product comprises colouring in an amount of from 0.001 to 5 wt% based on the solid cosmetic product.

20. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the solid cosmetic product is a bathing product.

21. A device comprising(a) a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component which effervesces on contact with water and (ii) a fragrance, and(b) a heat source.

22. A device according to claim 21, wherein the heat source is a tea light.

23. A device according to claim 21 or 22, characterised by the features of any one of claims 2 to 20.

24. Use according to claim 1 characterised by the features of any one of claims 2 to 20.

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