Flexible Microcapsule Shells for Controlled Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microcapsules used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications are prone to breakage under mechanical force, leading to uneven application and absorption of active ingredients, which can reduce their effectiveness and cause undesirable skin absorption or oily feel.
Innovation Solution
Development of flexible microcapsules with a cellulose-derived or sol-gel encapsulation technology that provides a strong binding capability and controlled release of agents, minimizing breakage and absorption into the skin while maintaining a gentle feel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid microcapsules are used to encapsulate active agents, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the microcapsules break easily under mechanical force causing uneven application and reduced effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible microcapsule shells that can deform under mechanical stress without breaking. These flexible shells allow the microcapsules to withstand application forces and washing while maintaining structural integrity, preventing premature release of active agents and ensuring reliable, controlled delivery over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite microcapsule structures combining multiple materials with complementary properties. The composite construction provides both the strength needed for structural stability and the flexibility required to resist breakage under mechanical force, achieving a balance between durability and reliability.
2Power
If microcapsules are designed to release agents quickly, then the immediate effectiveness is improved, but the duration of action and prolonged skin coverage are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements controlled, periodic release of active agents from the microcapsules. The flexible shells maintain integrity initially, then gradually release agents in controlled amounts over time, providing both immediate effectiveness upon application and sustained action throughout the day, including during washing and perspiration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic release mechanisms where the microcapsule properties change over time. The flexible shells initially protect agents, then progressively allow release through controlled degradation or permeability changes, enabling the system to transition from protection to controlled delivery, achieving both immediate and prolonged effectiveness.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional microcapsules are used, then the encapsulation capability is achieved, but the skin feel becomes oily and unacceptable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the surface properties and composition parameters of the microcapsules to eliminate the oily feel. By adjusting shell material composition, surface treatment, and size distribution, the microcapsules maintain their encapsulation function while providing a non-greasy, cosmetically acceptable feel on the skin.
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification discloses compositions comprising one or more encapsulates comprising one or more agents and methods and uses for the disclosed agents. A composition disclosed herein can be incorporated into a body wash, an after shower body lotion, a shampoo, a conditioner, a soap, a gel, a hand sanitizer, a cream, a spray, a mouse, a lotion, an ointment, a make-up product, a lip balm, a hair spray product, an arachnid/insect repellent or a medicinal product.