WO2019243802A1

WO2019243802A1 - Composition

Info

Publication number: WO2019243802A1
Application number: PCT/GB2019/051700
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark Constantine; Margaret Joan Constantine; Helen Elizabeth Ambrosen; Rowena Jacqueline Bird; Daniel Campbell; Alessandro COMMISSO
Original assignee: Cosmetic Warriors Limited
Priority date: 2018-06-19
Filing date: 2019-06-18
Publication date: 2019-12-26
Also published as: GB201810024D0

Abstract

The present invention provides a solid cosmetic product comprising (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising: (a) a salt of carbonic acid; (b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar, wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7; and (ii) water.

Description

COMPOSITION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a solid cosmetic product, a process for producing said solid cosmetic product, a product prepared by the process, and a cosmetic method using said product.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to solid cosmetic products, particularly those for use in contact with the human or animal body.

A bath product which has been increasingly popular is the Bath Bomb^R™ or Ballistic^R™. These products are primarily designed to provide an experience for the user. They typically contain sodium bicarbonate and citric acid such that on contact with water they effervesce to produce carbon dioxide. This effervescence provides a pleasant sensation for the user. The products also typically contain oils and/or fragrances which are liberated with the effervescence. This liberation adds to the sensory experience of the user. Effervescent products have also been used in other application areas. For example, EP1 191092 teaches a cleansing product, in particular for cleaning hard surfaces which effervesces in use. To protect the effervescent product from premature activation, the effervescent material is covered with an outer layer which is non-effervescent. This outer layer is formed from a hydrated version of the inner effervescent layer.

Surfactant products such as bubble baths, shampoos, shower gels and toothpastes are extremely well known cosmetic products and personal care products. Bubble bath products are typically provided in the form of liquids. 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. For this reason at least, solid materials for creating bath foam have become increasingly popular. These solid surfactant materials may be in the form of a Bubble Bar^R™. For example WOOO/47181 discloses a surfactant product bubble bar which is solid and in the form of a tablet or bar. When required for use, a portion of the solid product may be 'broken off the bar and used. The products of WOOO/47181 are formed from a composition containing cream of tartar, sodium bicarbonate and a surfactant. Although these products address environmental concerns they suffer certain disadvantages. For example, in use the user must apply the required amount of product to the bath water, for example by holding the solid product under running water. In this way, the required foam is produced. Furthermore, some users may find that they do not provide the same 'experience' that a bath ballistic may provide.

The Bath Bomb and Bubble Bar products described above are typically for use as bathing agents, and thus are typically placed in bathwater. The user then immerses themselves in the bathwater into which the product has been or is to be placed. Such products are not typically suitable for washing the skin and/or hair of the user by directly applying said products to the skin or hair.

The present invention seeks to provide solid cosmetic products which provide an enhanced experience for a user whilst also being suitable for washing both the skin and hair of the user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a solid cosmetic product comprising

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7; and

(ii) water.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a solid cosmetic product according to the first aspect of the invention, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) combining a salt of carbonic acid with water to prepare a mixture;

(ii) combining the mixture of step (i) with citric acid and cream of tartar, wherein the citric acid and cream of tartar are provided in a weight ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7; and

(iii) solidifying the resultant composition.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a product obtained or obtainable by the process according to the second aspect of the invention. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a cosmetic method comprising:

(i) contacting the solid cosmetic product according to the first aspect of the invention with water to create a lather;

(ii) contacting the skin or hair of a user with the lather.

For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the invention are now discussed under appropriate section headings. However, the teachings under each section are not necessarily limited to each particular section.

Advantages

The present inventors surprisingly found that a solid cosmetic product as described herein not only effervesces on contact with water, but does so at a rate that enables the use of the product as a cleansing agent that may be applied directly to the user’s skin and/or hair as opposed to being placed in a bath.

The balance of citric acid to cream of tartar in the product provides a product that is relatively mild on the skin, and thus can be used for washing the skin and/or hair of a user by direct application to said skin and/or hair. Citric acid (despite being considered a‘‘weak acid”) is generally rather harsh on a user’s skin if applied directly to the skin, and can be considered a skin irritant if applied in high amounts. By providing a product comprising citric acid and cream of tartar in a weight ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7, the inventors found that the product could be directly applied on the skin of the user whilst providing a relatively mild and pleasant sensation. This sensation is enhanced by the simultaneous effervescence of the product as it is being applied to the skin of the user, for example under a running tap or in a shower.

The product of the present invention has also been found to be sufficiently solid that it maintains its shape during storage, but which is soft enough that it can be crumbled or broken up relatively easily by the user during use. In this regard, the inclusion of the cream of tartar in the product in such amounts has been found to provide a relatively softer product than a product including only citric acid. This facilitates easy handling of the product, and also a more desirable feel when the product is applied directly to the user’s skin and/or hair, for example by allowing the product to be broken up by the user and rubbed onto the skin and/or hair. However, it was found that a balance of citric acid and cream of tartar is required in order to make the product sufficiently solid that it could be handled with ease and would not crumble prior to use. In addition, a balance of citric acid to cream of tartar provides the product with a desirable rate of effervescence such that a pleasing visual and sensory effect is provided to the user upon contact with water.

Furthermore, by virtue of the inclusion of cream of tartar in the product, migration of the water through the entirety of the product was demonstrated, thus facilitating the reaction between the acid and salt to generate effervescence all the way through the product. As such, it was found to be possible to include additional components, such as surfactants, gelling agents, moisturising agents or the like, in the products whilst still maintaining the desired rate of effervescence throughout the entirety of the product.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Composition

As described herein, one aspect of the present invention provides a solid cosmetic product comprising

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water.

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, the present invention provides a non-edible solid cosmetic composition as defined herein.

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, the 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. Flowever, they are considered to be solid-like as, for the purpose they fulfil, they are solid. As mentioned above, due to the solid form of the compositions of the present invention, external packaging is not required to maintain the shape of the composition.

Carbon Dioxide Effervescent Component

The carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises (a) a salt of carbonic acid and (b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar. The weight ratio of the citric acid and cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7.

The carbon dioxide effervescent component is prepared such that it effervesces upon contact with a significant amount of water. The salt of carbonic acid and acidifying component may be present in any suitable amounts to achieve such effervescence, provided that the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar in the acidifying component is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7. One skilled in the art is able to combine the materials (a) and (b) to provide the desired rate of effervescence.

The carbon dioxide effervescent component may be included in the solid cosmetic product in an amount of at least about 50% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of at least about 60% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of at least about 70% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of at least about 75% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, the carbon dioxide effervescent component is present in an amount of from about 50% to about 95% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 55% to about 90% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 60% to about 85% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 65% to about 80% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 70% to about 75% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

As the skilled person understands and as used herein, cream of tartar is potassium bitartrate and has the chemical formula KC₄H₅0₆. It is the potassium salt of tartaric acid that is otherwise known as potassium hydrogen tartrate, and has the following chemical structure:

K®

Citric acid is a weak organic acid with the chemical formula C₆H₈0₇. It is a natural preservative which is present in citrus fruits, and is used to add an acidic or sour taste to food or drinks. The chemical structure of citric acid is shown below:

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :4. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :3. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :2.5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :2. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :1 .5..

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :7. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :6. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :4. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :3. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :2.5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :2. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 3:1 to about 1 :1 .5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is approximately 1 :1 .

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :7. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :6. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :4. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :3. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :2.5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :2. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 2:1 to about 1 :1 .5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is approximately 1 :1 .

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :7. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :6. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :4. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :3. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :2.5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :2. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :1 .5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is approximately 1 :1 .

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 .5 to about 1 :5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :2 to about 1 :5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1.5 to about 1 :2. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is approximately 1 :1 .5. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is approximately 1 :2.

It was surprisingly found by the present inventors that, when the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is within the range of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7, a product can be prepared that is relatively mild on the skin, and thus can be used for washing the skin and/or hair of a user by direct application to said skin and/or hair. The inclusion of the cream of tartar in the product in such amounts also provides a relatively softer product than a product including only citric acid. This facilitates easy handling of the product, and also a more desirable feel when the product is applied directly to the user’s skin and/or hair, for example by allowing the product to be broken up by the user and rubbed onto the skin and/or hair. However, it was found that a balance of citric acid and cream of tartar is required in order to make the product sufficiently solid that it could be handled with ease and would not crumble prior to use. In addition, a balance of citric acid to cream of tartar provides the product with a desirable rate of effervescence such that a pleasing visual and sensory effect is provided to the user. It was also surprisingly found that the inclusion of cream of tartar in the product facilitated the migration of the water through the entirety of the product, thus facilitating the reaction between the acid and salt to generate effervescence all the way through the product.

In some embodiments, the acidifying agents consists essentially of a mixture of citric acid and cream of tartar in a weight ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7.

In some embodiments, the acidifying agent consists of citric acid and cream of tartar in a weight ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7. In other words, the citric acid and cream of tartar may be included as the only acids in the solid cosmetic product.

Alternatively, the acidifying agent may further comprise an additional organic acid. For example, the acidifying agent may further comprise an organic acid selected from ascorbic acid, tartaric acid, fumaric acid, succinic acid, adipic acid, malic acid, maleic acid, acetic acid, oxalic acid, glutaric acid, malonic acid and mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments, the acidifying agent (preferably consisting essentially of or consisting of a mixture of citric acid and cream of tartar) is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 50% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 10% to about 45% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 10% to about 40% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 10% to about 35% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 15% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 20% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 25% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. Preferably, the acidifying agent is present in an amount of from about 20% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, citric acid is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 7.5% to about 12.5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 10% to about 12.5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some preferred embodiments, citric acid is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments, cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 25% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 7.5% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 10% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 10% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 12.5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some preferred embodiments, cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments (for example in embodiments wherein the acidifying agent consists essentially of or consists of citric acid and cream of tartar), citric acid is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product and cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments, citric acid is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product and cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments, citric acid is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product and cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

The carbon dioxide effervescent component comprises a salt of carbonic acid. In some embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid is selected from sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium sesquicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium sesquicarbonate, calcium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, magnesium

bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, ammonium carbonate, ammonium sesquicarbonate and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid is selected from sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium

sesquicarbonate and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid is selected from sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid is a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate. In some preferred embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid is sodium bicarbonate. In some preferred embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid is sodium carbonate.

In some embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid (such as sodium bicarbonate) is present in an amount of from about 40% to about 80% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid (such as sodium bicarbonate) is present in an amount of from about 40% to about 70% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some preferred embodiments, the salt of carbonic acid (such as sodium bicarbonate) is present in an amount of from about 45% to about 55% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

Preferably, the salt of carbonic acid is sodium bicarbonate and is present in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. Preferably, the salt of carbonic acid is sodium bicarbonate and is present in an amount of from about 45% to about 55% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

Water

As described herein, the solid cosmetic product comprises water. The water may be present in any suitable amount to provide a solid product and which is not sufficient to initiate the reaction between the salt of carbonic acid and the acidifying agent and thus initiate the generation of carbon dioxide.

In some embodiments, water is present in an amount of no greater than about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as no greater than about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as no greater than about 4% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, water is present in an amount of from about 0.01 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 1% to about 4% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 1.5% to about 4% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 2.5% to about 3.5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some preferred embodiments, water is present in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

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 (including fruit juice), vegetable (including vegetable juice), honey, syrup 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. The water may also be provided as a dilution agent in the commercially available surfactant products that may be utilised for the present invention.

In some embodiments, the water includes a fruit juice, a vegetable juice or mixtures thereof. 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 and mixtures thereof. The vegetable juice may be selected from carrot juice, turnip juice, fennel juice, parsnip juice, red pepper juice, kale juice, chard juice, aubergine juice, broccoli juice, spinach juice, celery juice, and mixtures thereof.

In some preferred embodiments, the water includes a fruit juice selected from apple juice, orange juice, papaya juice, mango juice, pineapple juice, grape juice and mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments, the water is provided as a dilution agent in a surfactant that is included in the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments, the water is provided as a combination of tap water or distilled water together with water that is a dilution agent in a surfactant that is included in the solid cosmetic product.

It was found by the present inventors that the inclusion of water in the product in a suitable amount to provide a solid product, but which is not sufficient to initiate the effervescent reaction, nevertheless facilitates the activation of the reaction upon placing the product in contact with running water or a body of water. Cream of tartar is a relatively milder acid than citric acid. Therefore, the water contained in the product itself may facilitate the activation of the reaction between the salt of carbonic acid and the acidifying agent such that said reaction may occur relatively rapidly and on a timescale acceptable to a user of the effervescent product. The water may also help the product comprising the balance of cream of tartar and citric acid to solidify relatively quickly.

Additional Components

Surfactant

The solid cosmetic product may further comprise a surfactant. 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. Therefore, any amounts of the surfactant as stated herein 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 products according to the present invention, and described above, 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 sodium lauryl sulfate is LC70, which is a 70% aqueous solution of sodium lauryl sulfate. Therefore, in an embodiment wherein the present composition comprises 10% LC70, according to the definitions used herein, the LC70 provides the composition with 7% sodium lauryl sulfate and 3% water.

In some embodiments, a surfactant is present in the solid cosmetic product in an amount of from about 0.01 % to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments, a surfactant is present in the solid cosmetic product in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 2% to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant is present in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant is present in an amount of from about 1% to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

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 embodiments, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of lauryl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, trimethyl glycine betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, cocoamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium coco sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, and mixtures thereof.

In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of lauryl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, and mixtures thereof. In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant is or comprises sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate or mixtures thereof. In some preferred embodiments, the surfactant is or comprises cocam idopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine or mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises a surfactant in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of lauryl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises a surfactant in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

The surfactant may provide a product that generates foam or lather on contact with water, and which may be used to wash the skin and/or hair of a user.

Starch

The solid cosmetic product may further comprise a starch.

Preferably, the starch is selected from corn starch, rice starch, potato starch, tapioca starch, arrowroot, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the starch is potato starch. In some embodiments, the starch is corn starch (cornflour). In some embodiments, the starch is tapioca starch.

In some embodiments, the starch (such as potato starch) is included in the solid cosmetic product in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 0.5% to about 25% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some preferred embodiments, the starch (such as potato starch) is included in the solid cosmetic product in an amount of from about 10% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises potato starch in an amount of from about 5 to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. It was surprisingly found by the present inventors that the inclusion of a starch in the solid cosmetic product provides a product that has an improved feel on the user’s skin. In particular, the inclusion of starch may provide a creamy feel on the skin, and/or provide a product that is less harsh and/or softer on the skin when applied.

Salt of Alginic Acid

The solid cosmetic product may further comprise a salt of alginic acid. The salt of alginic acid may be included in any suitable amounts to still provide a solid cosmetic product that effervesces on contact with water.

In some embodiments, the salt of alginic acid comprises monovalent cations. In some embodiments, the salt of alginic acid comprises divalent cations. In some embodiments, the salt of alginic acid is selected from sodium alginate, potassium alginate, ammonium alginate, calcium alginate, and mixtures thereof. In some preferred embodiments, the salt of alginic acid is sodium alginate.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises the salt of alginic acid (such as sodium alginate) in an amount of no greater than about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 1% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments the solid cosmetic product comprises the salt of alginic acid (such as sodium alginate) in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments the solid cosmetic product comprises the salt of alginic acid (such as sodium alginate) in an amount of from about 1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments the solid cosmetic product comprises the salt of alginic acid (such as sodium alginate) in an amount of from about 2% to about 4% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product further comprises a calcium salt.

Preferably, the calcium salt is provided in addition to the salt of alginic acid (such as sodium alginate). Preferably, the calcium salt is not one which is dissolved in water. The calcium salt may preferably be provided in powder form.

In some embodiments, the calcium salt (preferably in powder form) is selected from calcium lactate, calcium chloride, calcium gluconate, calcium lactate gluconate, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the calcium salt (preferably in powder form) is calcium lactate. In some embodiments in which the solid cosmetic product comprises a calcium salt, the calcium salt (such as calcium lactate) is present in an amount of no greater than about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 1 % to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments the solid cosmetic product comprises the calcium salt (such as calcium lactate) in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments the solid cosmetic product comprises the calcium salt (such as calcium lactate) in an amount of from about 1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some embodiments the solid cosmetic product comprises the calcium salt (such as calcium lactate) in an amount of from about 2% to about 4% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises a combination of a salt of alginic acid and a calcium salt. In some preferred embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises a combination of sodium alginate and calcium lactate.

Preferably, the weight ratio of the salt of alginic acid to the calcium salt is from about 10:1 to about 1 :10, such as from about 5:1 to about 1 :5, such as from about 2:1 to about 1 :2, such as approximately 1 :1 .

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises a combination of sodium alginate and calcium lactate, and the weight ratio of sodium alginate and calcium lactate is from about 10:1 to about 1 :10, such as from about 5:1 to about 1 :5, such as from about 2:1 to about 1 :2, such as approximately 1 :1 .

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises a salt of alginic acid in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, and a calcium salt in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. In some preferred embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises sodium alginate in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, and calcium lactate in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

The inclusion of the salt of alginic acid, optionally together with a calcium salt, has been found to provide the composition with improved moisturising qualities. A small amount of gel like material could be generated upon contact with water, which softens and nourishes the skin of the user. It was also found that the alginate salt together with the calcium salt could be included in the product that comprises the citric acid in combination with the cream of tartar, as the inclusion of cream of tartar and water avoids the formation of a gel barrier around the outer periphery of the product since the cream of tartar and water allows for the migration of water throughout the whole of the product. Therefore, the alginate/calcium salt combination could be included in the product without the formation of a gel barrier around the periphery of the product occurring upon contact with water.

Further Components

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 a humectant, binder, filler, opacifier, essential oil, vitamin, perfume, fragrance, colouring, clay, vegetable butter, vegetable oil, fruit extract, herb extract, decorative item, gelling agent and mixtures thereof.

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. It is particularly preferred that the composition of the present invention further comprises a fragrance. Preferably the fragrance is selected from essential oils.

Preferably, the solid cosmetic product comprises a fragrance in an amount of from about 0.001 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product. Preferably, the solid cosmetic product comprises a fragrance in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 2.5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

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.

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.

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 some embodiments, the solid cosmetic composition further comprises a colouring. The colouring may be any suitable pigment and/or dye. In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic composition may comprise a colouring in an amount of from about 0.001 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, such as in an amount of from about 0.01 % to about 2.5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

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.

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

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.

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, syrup, glycerol, cosmetic glitter, other vegetable butters (e.g. mango, avocado), clays (e.g. kaolin), and mixtures thereof. The product may further comprise a gelling agent. For example, the product may comprise a gelling agent selected from the list of pectin, guar gum, xanthan gum, agar, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the gelling agent may be present in the product in an amount of from about 0.01 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

Preferably, the solid cosmetic product is suitable for use in washing the hair and/or body of the user. Preferably, the solid cosmetic product is suitable for use in washing both the hair and body of the user. In some preferred embodiments, the solid cosmetic product is a solid shower gel. In some preferred embodiments, the solid cosmetic product is a solid shampoo.

Preferably, the solid cosmetic product generates a significant amount of lather or foam upon contact with water therefore, in some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product is a solid shaving preparation or shaving foam. A user may thus contact the solid cosmetic product with water to generate a lather, and then apply the lather to their skin or hair as they would with a typical shaving gel or foam.

Total Product

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component in an amount of from about 50% to about 95% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, the carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the solid cosmetic product;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7, wherein the citric acid is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, and wherein the cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product; and (ii) water in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) sodium bicarbonate;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) sodium bicarbonate in an amount of from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the solid cosmetic product;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7, wherein the citric acid is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 15% by weight of the solid cosmetic product, and wherein the cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product; and

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7;

(ii) water; and

(iii) a surfactant.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) sodium bicarbonate;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water; and (iii) a surfactant selected from the group consisting of cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water; and

(iv) a starch.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) sodium bicarbonate;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water; and

(iii) potato starch.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water; and

(v) a salt of alginic acid, and optionally a calcium salt.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) sodium bicarbonate;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water; and

(iii) sodium alginate, and optionally calcium lactate.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising: (a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

wherein the citric acid and cream of tartar are present in a weight ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7;

(ii) water;

(iii) a surfactant;

(iv) a starch; and

(v) a salt of alginic acid, and optionally a calcium salt.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product comprises:

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) sodium bicarbonate;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water;

(iii) a surfactant selected from the group consisting of cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and mixtures thereof;

(iv) potato starch; and

(v) sodium alginate, and optionally calcium lactate.

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.

Process

As discussed herein, according to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a solid cosmetic product according to the first aspect of the invention, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) combining a salt of carbonic acid with water to prepare a mixture;

(iii) solidifying the resultant composition. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the production of a solid cosmetic product comprising: (i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising: (a) a salt of carbonic acid; (b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar, wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 4:1 to about 1 :7; and (ii) water,

the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting the salt of carbonic acid, organic acidifying agent, salt of alginic acid and calcium salt;

(ii) solidifying the resultant composition.

In some embodiments, the solid cosmetic product solidifies in a predetermined shape. The solid cosmetic product may be caused to solidify in a predetermined shape, for example by introducing the composition into a mould. Possible shapes include spheres, hemispheres, cubes, cuboids, pyramids and cones.

The shape of the cosmetic products of the present invention is not limited. It may be that the cosmetic products are provided with a shape which would be aesthetically pleasing and/ or which aids in the use of the product. For example, it may be that the cosmetic product is produced in such a manner so that it solidifies in a shape which is ergonomically acceptable to the user. Therefore, in one embodiment of the process of the present invention, the resultant composition from step (ii) is pressed into a mould, allowed to solidify, and then turned out to produce the cosmetic product.

As described hereinabove, the solid cosmetic product may comprise further components, such as for example a surfactant, a starch and/or a salt of alginic acid. These further components, if present, may be added into the mixture during either step (i) and/or step (ii) of the above process.

In some embodiments, step (i) further comprises combining the salt of carbonic acid and water with a surfactant, starch and/or salt of alginic acid. In some embodiments, step (i) further comprises combining the salt of carbonic acid and water with a surfactant and/or a starch.

In some embodiments, step (ii) further comprises combining the salt of carbonic acid and water with a surfactant, starch and/or salt of alginic acid. In some embodiments, step (ii) further comprises combining the salt of carbonic acid and water with a salt of alginic acid, and optionally a calcium salt. In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a product obtained or obtainable by the process as described hereinabove.

Method

In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method comprising contacting the skin of a user with water in which the solid cosmetic product as defined herein has dissolved or in which the solid cosmetic product as defined herein is dissolving.

For example, the cosmetic method may comprise:

(i) contacting the solid cosmetic product as defined herein with water to create a lather;

(ii) contacting the skin or hair of a user with the lather.

In some embodiments, the cosmetic method may comprise washing the skin and/or hair of the user, or may comprise the application of a lather generated by the solid cosmetic product to the user’s hair or skin in order to facilitate shaving of the user’s hair.

EXAMPLES

The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting examples.

Example 1

A solid cosmetic product having the following composition was prepared:

The surfactant Prime Syntapon LO is an aqueous solution of sodium C12-18 alkyl sulfate with an active surfactant content of ~35%. Therefore, the total water content of this product is ~3.1 % by weight of the composition.

The solid cosmetic product was prepared using the following method:

1. The materials of phase A were combined and sieved thoroughly to disperse the ingredients;

2. Phase B was sieved into phase A;

3. The resulting mixture was mixed thoroughly; and

4. The mixture was pressed together, and allowed to set.

The product comprises citric acid and cream of tartar in a weight ratio of 1 :1.58. The product was able to set solid, and was hard enough to hold its shape and not crumble too easily, but sufficiently soft that the user was able to break up the product relatively easily during use. It was also found that, when the product was held under running water, a significant amount of lather was quickly generated as the product effervesced. The lather was applied onto the skin of the user, and was highly moisturising and cleansing.

Comparative Example 1

A solid cosmetic product having the following composition was prepared:

The solid cosmetic product was prepared using the following method: 1. The materials of phase A were combined and sieved thoroughly to disperse the ingredients;

2. Phase B was sieved into phase A;

3. The resulting mixture was mixed thoroughly; and

4. The mixture was pressed together, and allowed to set.

It was found that the product of Comparative Example 1 that included citric acid but no cream of tartar was too hard to enable quick dissolution. The product was uncomfortable when applied to the skin of the user, and was very harsh, leaving it feeling dry.

Example 2

To further explore the relative amounts of citric acid and cream of tartar, the following solid cosmetic product compositions were prepared:

The products were prepared in accordance with the method of Example 1 .

Each of the products was tested in use and the following observations were recorded.

Example 3

Example 1 was repeated to prepare Composition 3.1. Furthermore, compositions were prepared based on the composition of Example 1 and using the method of Example 1 and wherein the 7wt% of potato starch was replaced with each of

Composition 3.2 - 7wt% tapioca

Composition 3.3 - 7wt% Arrowroot starch

Composition 3.4 - 7wt% Corn starch

Composition 3.5 - 7wt% Rice starch

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 claims.

Claims

1. A solid cosmetic product comprising

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising:

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water.

2. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 1 , wherein the weight ratio of citric acid to cream of tartar is from about 1 :1 to about 1 :2.

3. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the acidifying agent is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 40% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

4. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the citric acid is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

5. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cream of tartar is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 30% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

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

7. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the salt of carbonic acid is present in an amount of from about 40% to about 80% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

8. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water is present in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 5% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

9. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising (iii) a surfactant.

10. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 9, wherein the surfactant is selected from an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant and mixtures thereof.

1 1 . A solid cosmetic product according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the surfactant is selected from lauryl betaine, cocam idopropyl betaine, trimethyl glycine betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, cocoamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium coco sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, and mixtures thereof.

12. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1 , wherein the surfactant is present in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

13. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising (iv) a starch.

14. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 13, wherein the starch is selected from corn starch, rice starch, potato starch, tapioca starch, arrowroot, and mixtures thereof.

15. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the starch is potato starch.

16. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the starch is present in an amount of from about 1 % to about 20% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

17. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising (v) a salt of alginic acid.

18. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 17, wherein the salt of alginic acid is selected from sodium alginate, potassium alginate, calcium alginate, and mixtures thereof.

19. A solid cosmetic product according to any claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the salt of alginic acid is present in an amount of from about 0.1 % to about 10% by weight of the solid cosmetic product.

20. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of claims 17 to 19, further comprising a calcium salt.

21 . A solid cosmetic product according to claim 20, wherein the calcium salt is selected from the group consisting of calcium lactate, calcium chloride, calcium gluconate, calcium lactate gluconate, and mixtures thereof.

22. A solid cosmetic product according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein the weight ratio of the salt of alginic acid to the calcium salt is from about 5:1 to about 1 :5.

23. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims comprising :

(i) a carbon dioxide effervescent component comprising :

(a) a salt of carbonic acid;

(b) an acidifying agent comprising citric acid and cream of tartar,

(ii) water;

(iii) a surfactant;

(iv) a starch; and

(v) a salt of alginic acid.

24. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one component selected from a humectant, binder, filler, opacifier, essential oil, vitamin, perfume, fragrance, colouring, clay, vegetable butter, vegetable oil, fruit extract, herb extract, decorative item, and mixtures thereof.

25. A solid cosmetic product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the solid cosmetic product is a solid shampoo, solid shower gel and/or solid shaving preparation.

26. A process for the production of a solid cosmetic product as defined in any one of claims 1 to 25, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) combining the salt of carbonic acid with the water to prepare a mixture; (ii) combining the mixture of step (i) with citric acid and cream of tartar, wherein the citric acid and cream of tartar are provided in a weight ratio of from about 4:1 to about 1 :7; and

(iii) solidifying the resultant composition.

27. A process according to claim 26, wherein step (i) further comprises combining the salt of carbonic acid and water with a surfactant and/or a starch.

28. A process according to claim 26 or claim 27, wherein step (ii) further comprises combining the mixture of step (i) with a salt of alginic acid and optionally a calcium salt.

29. A product obtained or obtainable by the process of any one of claims 26 to 28.

30. A cosmetic method comprising:

(i) contacting the solid cosmetic product as defined in any one of claims 1 to 25 with water to create a lather;

(ii) contacting the skin or hair of a user with the lather.