U.S. patent application number 14/961954 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-23 for lubricating members for razor cartridges.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Gillette Company. Invention is credited to Christopher Haines, Bailu Lu, Michael John Moloney, Alison Fiona Stephens.
Application Number | 20160177218 14/961954 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55022719 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160177218 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moloney; Michael John ; et
al. |
June 23, 2016 |
LUBRICATING MEMBERS FOR RAZOR CARTRIDGES
Abstract
The invention relates to a solid compressed lubricating member
for a razor cartridge comprising from 10% to 90% by weight of a
particulate material comprising water soluble polymer and from 1%
to 40% by weight of a silicone polymer or mixtures thereof; wherein
at least a portion of said water soluble polymer particulate is
spray coated with said silicone polymer and methods of manufacture
thereof.
Inventors: |
Moloney; Michael John;
(Brimfield, MA) ; Haines; Christopher; (Westford,
MA) ; Stephens; Alison Fiona; (Egham, GB) ;
Lu; Bailu; (Windsor, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Gillette Company |
Boston |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55022719 |
Appl. No.: |
14/961954 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62093739 |
Dec 18, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
508/107 ;
264/109 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C10M 169/041 20130101;
A61K 8/585 20130101; C10N 2050/023 20200501; A61K 8/31 20130101;
A61K 8/022 20130101; A61K 2800/624 20130101; B26B 21/443 20130101;
C10M 2229/02 20130101; A61K 8/86 20130101; A61K 8/0241 20130101;
C10M 2209/1045 20130101; A61Q 9/02 20130101; C10M 155/02 20130101;
C10M 107/32 20130101; C10M 145/40 20130101; A61K 8/891
20130101 |
International
Class: |
C10M 169/04 20060101
C10M169/04; C10M 155/02 20060101 C10M155/02; C10M 145/40 20060101
C10M145/40; C10M 107/32 20060101 C10M107/32 |
Claims
1. A solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
comprising: i) from 10% to 90% by weight of a particulate material
comprising a water soluble polymer and ii) from 1% to 40% by weight
of a silicone polymer or mixtures thereof; wherein at least a
portion of said water soluble polymer is spray coated with said
silicone polymer compound.
2. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said lubricating member comprises
from 10% to 40%, by weight of said silicone polymer or mixture
thereof.
3. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said silicone polymer or mixtures
thereof are selected from dimethicones, cyclomethicones, phenyl
trimethicones, trimethyl pentaphenyl trisiloxane, phenylated
silicones and or mixtures thereof.
4. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, further comprising a hydrophobic compound or
mixtures thereof, wherein said hydrophobic compound or mixtures
thereof is selected from natural oil or wax, synthetic oil or wax,
trigylcerides, skin active agents, senates and mixtures
thereof.
5. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 4, wherein said hydrophobic compound or mixtures
thereof comprises capric and or caprylic triglycerides, grape seed
oil, olive oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, lanolin, essential oils,
peppermint oil, isohexadecane, petrolatum and mixtures thereof.
6. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said silicone polymer has a surface
tension of 35 mN/m or less.
7. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said silicone polymer has a melting
point of less than 45.degree. C.
8. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said lubricating member has a bulk
density of 1000 kg/m.sup.3 to 1200 kg/m.sup.3.
9. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said particulate, has an average
particle size of from 50 microns to 1250 microns.
10. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein said water soluble polymer comprises
polyethylene oxide polymer.
11. The solid compressed lubricating member for a razor cartridge
according to claim 1, wherein at least 95%, preferably
substantially 100% of said water soluble polymer is spray coated
with said silicone polymer.
12. The solid compressed lubricating member according to claim 1,
for a razor cartridge in the form of a tablet.
13. The hair removal cartridge comprising a lubricating member
according to claim 1.
14. The method of manufacturing a lubricating member according to
claim 1, comprising the steps of i) Providing a particulate of said
water soluble polymer, ii) Spray coating said silicone polymer onto
said water soluble polymer particulates and iii) Applying pressure
onto said spray coated particulates to form a tablet.
15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps
of forming a liquid of said silicone polymer prior to said spray
coating step.
16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps
of filling a pre-form with said particulates prior to the
application of pressure and removing said compressed form from said
pre-form.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to lubricating members for razor
cartridges comprising a water soluble polymer exhibiting improved
lubricating properties which can be readily manufactured without
impacting performance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The use of shaving aids on razor blades to provide
lubrication benefits during the shave is known. See e.g., U.S. Pat.
No. 7,121,754; U.S. Pat. No. 6,298,558; U.S. Pat. No. 5,711,076;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,134,775; U.S. Pat. No. 6,301,785; US 2009/0223057
and US 2006/0225285. Such shaving aids typically comprise a
water-insoluble matrix material to provide structural integrity and
a water-soluble polymer such as polyethylene oxide (polyox) in
order to provide the lubrication during the shave once the
water-soluble polymer forms a solution with the water present
during shaving. Since the introduction of polyox as a shaving
lubricant, however little development has been made in the field,
even though polyethylene oxide polymers are not without
limitations. For example, the use of polyethylene oxide polymers
having a low molecular weight only provides limited lubrication,
and while improved lubrication may be seen when using polyethylene
oxide polymer having higher molecular weights, this negatively
impacts other aspects of the aqueous solution typically formed
in-use. For example, the resultant viscosity in aqueous solution
may also increase, leading to negatively perceived attributes, for
example concerning the feeling of the shave for the user,
particularly in respect of the lubricant. The prior art does also
describe the use of combinations of high and low molecular weight
polyethylene oxide polymers in order to balance these performance
attributes. Nevertheless, such combinations are also limited in
their ability to improve performance and or suffer from other
negative performance attributes. The art further describes the
incorporation of additional materials to further improve the
lubrication performance For example U.S. Pat. No. 6,442,839,
US2007/0110703 and US2009/0223057 describe the use of low levels of
mineral and essential oils, butters, waxes and silicones. The use
of mineral oil to enhance the glide performance is described in
US2008/0060201. However the art also discloses a reduction of the
swelling and solubility of the polymer matrix. The ability of the
polymer matrix to swell in contact with water is however believed
to be the key mechanism by which the lubrication benefit is
delivered to the skin. Hence this is not desirable, as it will
negatively impact the overall performance.
[0003] Another limitation of such shaving aids is related to the
manufacturing process which typically involves an injection molding
or extrusion process step. These processes require elevated
temperatures in order to melt all the component materials and then
subsequently mix them together and then injection mold or extrude.
Consequently, the manufacture of such shaving aids is limited to
low levels of additives and or materials which are not degraded by
such process conditions. Nevertheless, the presence of even low
levels of such additives in the manufacturing process can result in
barrel slip and conveying inconsistencies, which is also
undesirable.
[0004] Alternatively, GB2138438 describes a solid shaving
composition comprising polyethylene oxide and various components
which is wet granulated with 20%-80% isopropyl alcohol, a
hydrophilic compound, followed by drying and blending of additional
components. The mixture is subsequently compressed to a desired
form. The use of such high levels of hydrophilic wet granulating
agents may impact the resultant lubrication performance and reduce
the amount of actives and or polymer matrix provided. Moreover,
granulation will result in increased particle size which may affect
the flexibility of the tablet size and performance of the resultant
composition. Wet granulation may improve tablet density and alters
particle flowability but results in a larger average particle and
consequently may require a larger container for attachment to the
razor cartridge.
[0005] Another alternative approach described in the art is the use
of encapsulates to protect temperature sensitive materials, such as
described in EP 2286787. However encapsulation has limited
application in shaving aids, as the encapsulate must provide the
dual function of encapsulating and protecting the sensitive
material from temperature and process degradation, while still
ensuring its controlled release without impacting the overall
performance. Moreover such systems typically only allow low loading
of hydrophobic actives and are also expensive.
[0006] Consequently, there is still a need to provide a lubricating
member for razor cartridges comprising a water soluble polymer
exhibiting improved lubricating properties which can be readily
manufactured without impacting performance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] One aspect of the invention relates to a solid compressed
lubricating member for a razor cartridge comprising: [0008] a) from
10% to 90% by weight of a particulate material comprising a water
soluble polymer and [0009] b) from 1% to 40% by weight of a
silicone polymer or mixtures thereof;
[0010] wherein at least a portion of said water soluble polymer is
spray coated with said silicone polymer compound.
[0011] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of
manufacturing said lubricating member comprising the steps of
[0012] 1) Providing a particulate of said water soluble polymer,
[0013] 2) spray coating said silicone polymer onto said water
soluble polymer particulates and [0014] 3) applying pressure onto
said spray coated particulates to form a tablet
[0015] Preferably the method further comprises the steps of: [0016]
1) Forming a liquid of said silicone polymer prior to said spray
coating step, [0017] 2) Filling a pre-form with said particulates
prior to the application of pressure and [0018] 3) Removing said
compressed form from said pre-form.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a graph depicting the consumer test data results
of a lubricating member according to the invention, versus a
comparative lubricating member without a silicone polymer
compound.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] Water Soluble Polymer
[0021] According to the invention the solid compressed lubricating
member comprises from 10% to 90% by weight of a particulate
material(s) comprising a water soluble polymer or mixture thereof.
The lubricating member may comprise at least about 50%, preferably
at least about 60%, more preferably up to about 90%, by weight of
the water soluble polymer. The particulate material is solid at
25.degree. C. and preferably has a melting point of 30.degree. C.
or more.
[0022] Examples of suitable water soluble polymers include
polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyacrylamide,
polyhydroxymethacrylate, polyvinyl imidazoline, polyethylene
glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, polyhydroxyethymethacrylate, silicone
polymers, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, said water
soluble polymer is selected from the group consisting of
polyethylene oxide, polyethylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.
[0023] The preferred water soluble polymers are the polyethylene
oxides generally known as POLYOX (available from Union Carbide
Corporation) or ALKOX (available from Meisei Chemical Works, Kyoto,
Japan). The water soluble polymer, (especially these polyethylene
oxides), may have average molecular weights of at least about
20,000, preferably at least about 50,000, more preferably at least
about 100,000 or from about 100,000 to about 6 million, preferably
about 300,000 to about 5 million. A particularly preferred
polyethylene oxide comprises a blend of about 40% to 80% of
polyethylene oxide having an average mol.wt. of about 5 million
(e.g. POLYOX COAGULANT) and about 60% to 20% of polyethylene oxide
having an average mol.wt. of about 300,000 (e.g. POLYOX WSR-N-750).
The polyethylene oxide blend may also advantageously contain up to
about 10% (for example about 5%) by weight of a low mol.wt. (i.e.
MW<10,000) polyethylene glycol such as PEG-100.
[0024] Silicone Polymer
[0025] According to the invention the lubricating member further
comprises from about 1% to about 40%, preferably from about 12% to
about 40%, more preferably from about 12% to about 30%, even more
preferably 15% to 25% by weight of a silicone polymer or mixtures
thereof. The silicone polymer is preferably provided in a liquid
form so that it can be spray coated onto the particulate material
as described hereinafter. Preferably the silicone polymer is liquid
at 25.degree. C. Suitable silicone polymers include oils and or
waxes and mixtures thereof. The silicone polymer can provide a
number of in use benefits such as lubrication and skin feel.
[0026] In one preferred embodiment, the silicone polymer or
mixtures thereof is a substance(s) that is very slightly soluble,
preferably practically insoluble in water according to the United
States' Pharmacopeia (USP) definition in 31/NF 26 Vol. 2 General
Notices, Page Xvii. According to that definition, very slightly
soluble means that 1000 to 10000 parts of water are needed to
dissolve 1 part solute and practically insoluble means that more
than 10,000 parts of water are needed to dissolve 1 part solute
respectively.
[0027] In another preferred embodiment the silicone polymer or
mixture thereof may have a melting point of 45.degree. C. or less,
preferably 40.degree. C. or less, even more preferably 30.degree.
C. or less, most preferably 25.degree. C. or less, such that it can
be provided in a liquid form for spray coating. The melting point
is determined according to ASTM D5440-93. Preferably the silicone
polymer is liquid at 25.degree. C. In another preferred embodiment
the silicone polymer or mixtures thereof may be very slightly
soluble and have a melting point of 45.degree. C. or less as
defined above.
[0028] Non-limiting examples of suitable silicone oils include
dimethicones (including partial esters of dimethicones and fatty
acids derived from natural/synthetic oils), cyclomethicones,
phenylated silicones, phenyl trimethicones, trimethyl pentaphenyl
trisiloxane and mixtures thereof.
[0029] Non-limiting examples of commercially available silicone
oils include Dow Corning 200 fluid, Dow Corning 244, Dow Corning
245, Dow Corning 344, and Dow Corning 345, (commercially available
from Dow Corning Corp.); SF-1204 and SF-1202 Silicone Fluids
(commercially available from G.E. Silicones), GE 7207 and 7158
(commercially available from General Electric Co.); and SWS-03314
(commercially available from SWS Silicones Corp.), the Viscasil
series (sold by General Electric Company), SF 1075 methyl-phenyl
fluid (sold by General Electric Company) and 556 Cosmetic Grade
Fluid (sold by Dow Corning Corp.), SF1066 organosilicone surfactant
(sold by General Electric Company) and Silshine 151 (sold by
Momentive) and PH1555 and PH1560 (sold by Dow Corning).
[0030] Suitable silicone waxes include, but are not limited to, any
silicone that is solid at 25.degree. C.; very slightly soluble in
water, preferably practically insoluble in water according to the
United States' Pharmacopeia (USP) definition in 31/NF 26 Vol. 2
General Notices, Page Xvii. According to that definition, means
that 1000 to 10000 parts of water are needed to dissolve 1 part
solute and means that more than 10,000 parts of water are needed to
dissolve 1 part solute respectively); has an onset temperature
measured according to the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
melting Method, defined herein below, which is 10.degree. C. or
greater; and comprises silicones or mixtures thereof.
[0031] Non-limiting examples of suitable silicone waxes include
DC2503 Cosmetic Wax, DC580 Wax, DC AMS-C30 Cosmetic Wax, C30-45
Alkyl Methicone, DC Silkywax 10, Hexamethyldisiloxane, DC ST-Wax
30, C30-45 Alkyldimethylsilyl Polypropylsilsesquioxane, DC SW-8005
resin Wax, C26-28 Alkyl Dimethicone, C26-28 Alkyl Methicone,
Polyphenylsilsesquioxane and mixtures thereof.
[0032] Preferred silicone polymers may be selected from
dimethicones, phenylated silicones and mixtures thereof.
[0033] Suitable silicone polymers for use herein may be selected
such that they have a surface tension of 35 mN/m or less,
preferably 30 mN/m or less, more preferably 25 mN/m or less.
Surface tension is determined according to ASTM D1331-1.
[0034] Hydrophobic Compound
[0035] According to the invention, the lubricating member may
further comprise a hydrophobic compound or mixtures thereof. In one
embodiment the lubricating member comprises from about 1% to about
40%, preferably from about 5% to about 40%, more preferably from
about 10% to about 40%, even preferably from about 12% to about 30%
by weight of a hydrophobic compound and or mixtures thereof. The
hydrophobic compound is preferably provided in a liquid form so
that it can be spray coated onto the particulate material as
described hereinafter in addition to or combined with the silicon
polymer. Preferably the hydrophobic material is liquid at
25.degree. C. Suitable hydrophobic compounds include natural oils
and or waxes and or fats; synthetic waxes or oils; triglycerides;
skin active agents, sensates, fragrance oils and mixtures thereof.
The hydrophobic material can provide a number of in use benefits
such as lubrication, skin feel and cooling sensation.
[0036] In one preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic compound or
mixtures thereof is a substance(s) that is very slightly soluble,
preferably practically insoluble in water according to the United
States' Pharmacopeia (USP) definition in 31/NF 26 Vol. 2 General
Notices, Page Xvii. According to that definition, very slightly
soluble means that 1000 to 10000 parts of water are needed to
dissolve 1 part solute and practically insoluble means that more
than 10,000 parts of water are needed to dissolve 1 part solute
respectively.
[0037] In another preferred embodiment the hydrophobic compound or
mixture thereof may have a melting point of 45.degree. C. or less,
preferably 40.degree. C. or less, even more preferably 30.degree.
C. or less, most preferably 25.degree. C. or less, such that it can
be provided in a liquid form for spray coating. The melting point
is determined according to ASTM D5440-93 Preferably the hydrophobic
material is liquid at 25.degree. C. In another preferred embodiment
the hydrophobic compound or mixture thereof may be very slightly
soluble and have a melting point of 45.degree. C. or less as
defined herein above.
[0038] Suitable hydrophobic compounds for use herein include for
example natural oils, synthetic oils, or mixtures thereof. As used
herein, the term "oil" includes, but is not limited to any
non-aqueous substance that is very slightly soluble, preferably
practically insoluble in water according to the United States'
Pharmacopeia (USP) definition in 31/NF 26 Vol. 2 General Notices,
Page Xvii. According to that definition, means that 1000 to 10000
parts of water are needed to dissolve 1 part solute and that more
than 10,000 parts of water are needed to dissolve 1 part solute
respectively and is liquid at 25.degree. C.
[0039] The oil may be selected from natural oil, synthetic oil and
mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable natural oils
include Acetylated Castor Oil, Acetylated Hydrogenated Castor Oil,
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi), Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Oil,
Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Anacardium Occidentale (Cashew) Seed
Oil, Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Oil, Arctium Lappa Seed Oil, Argania
Spinosa Kernel Oil, Argemone Mexicana Oil, Avena Sativa (Oat)
Kernel Oil, Bertholletia Excelsa Seed Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed
Oil, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil, Calophyllum
Tacamahaca Seed Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Camellia Kissi
Seed Oil, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Canola Oil,
Caprylic/Capric/Lauric Triglyceride, Caprylic/Capric/Linoleic
Triglyceride, Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride,
Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
Carthamus Tinctorius (Hybrid Safflower) Seed Oil, Carthamus
Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Carum Carvi (Caraway) Seed Oil,
Carya Illinoensis (Pecan) Seed Oil, Castor Oil Benzoate,
Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Oil, Cibotium Barometz Oil, Citrullus
Vulgaris (Watermelon) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cod
Liver Oil, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Oil, Coix Lacryma-Jobi
(Job's Tears) Seed Oil, Corylus Americana (Hazel) Seed Oil, Corylus
Avellana (Hazel) Seed Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Oil,
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot)
Seed Oil, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Elaeis Guineensis
(Palm) Oil, Gossypium (Cotton) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Hybrid
Sunflower) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hippophae
Rhamnoides Oil, Human Placental Lipids, Hydrogenated Canola Oil,
Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate,
Hydrogenated Castor Oil Triisostearate, Hydrogenated Coconut Oil,
Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil, Hydrogenated C12-18 Triglycerides,
Hydrogenated Fish Oil, Hydrogenated Lard, Hydrogenated Menhaden
Oil, Hydrogenated Mink Oil, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Hydrogenated
Orange Roughy Oil, Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil, Hydrogenated Palm
Oil, Hydrogenated Peanut Oil, Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil,
Hydrogenated Shark Liver Oil, Hydrogenated Soybean Oil,
Hydrogenated Sunflower Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Tallow, Hydrogenated
Vegetable Oil, lsatis Tinctoria Seed Oil, Juglans Regia (Walnut)
Seed Oil, Lauric/Palmitic/Oleic Triglyceride, Umnanthes Alba
(Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Unum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil,
Lupinus Albus Seed Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Macadamia
Ternifolia Seed Oil, Maleated Soybean Oil, Mangifera Indica (Mango)
Seed Oil, Marmot Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil,
Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil, Melissa Officina lis (Balm Mint) Seed
Oil, Menhaden Oil, Mink Oil, Moringa pterygosperma Seed Oil,
Mortierella Oil, Neatsfoot Oil, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Oil,
Nigella Sativa Seed Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil,
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Husk Oil,
Orange Roughy Oil, Orbignya Cohune Seed Oil, Orbignya Oleifera Seed
Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil,
Ostrich Oil, Oxidized Corn Oil, Oxidized Hazel Seed Oil, Papaver
Orientale (Poppy) Seed Oil, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Persea
Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Pistacia Vera Seed Oil, Placental Lipids,
Prunus Amygdalus Amara (Bitter Almond) Kernel Oil, Prunus Amygdalus
Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil,
Prunus Avium (Sweet Cherry) Seed Oil, Prunus Cerasus (Bitter
Cherry) Seed Oil, Prunus Persica (Peach) Kernel Oil, Pyrus Malus
(Apple) Oil, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil, Ricinus
Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Rosa Moschata
Seed Oil, Salmon Oil, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Santalum Album
(Sandalwood) Seed Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Shark
Liver Oil, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Seed Oil, Soybean Lipid,
Sphingolipids, Taraktogenos Kurzii Seed Oil, Telphairia Pedata Oil,
Vegetable Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Zea Mays (Corn)
Germ Oil, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil mineral oil and mixtures thereof.
[0040] Suitable synthetic oils include hydrocarbons, esters,
alkanes, alkenes and mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples
include isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate, isohexadecane,
isododecane, polyglyceryl triisostearate and mixtures thereof.
Preferred oils may be selected from capric and or caprylic
triglycerides, grape seed oil, olive oil and mixtures thereof.
[0041] Suitable hydrophobic compounds also include fats and or
waxes such as natural, synthetic and silicone waxes. As used
herein, the term "wax" and "fat" include, but is not limited to,
any hydrophobic material that is solid at 25.degree. C.; very
slightly soluble in water, preferably practically insoluble in
water according to the United States' Pharmacopeia (USP) definition
in 31/NF 26 Vol. 2 General Notices, Page Xvii. According to that
definition, means that 1000 to 10000 parts of water are needed to
dissolve 1 part solute and means that more than 10,000 parts of
water are needed to dissolve 1 part solute respectively; has an
onset temperature measured according to the Differential Scanning
Calorimetry (DSC) melting Method, defined herein below, which is
10.degree. C. or greater; and comprises lipids, silicones or
mixtures thereof.
[0042] The wax may comprise natural wax, synthetic wax or mixtures
thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable natural waxes include
Abies Alba Leaf Wax, Acacia Dealbata Leaf Wax, Acacia Farnesiana
Flower Wax, Beeswax, Ceresin, Cetyl Esters, Cistus Labdaniferus
Flower Wax, Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Wax, Aurantium
Dulcis (Orange) Peel Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax,
Eclipta Prostrata Wax, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax,
Helichrysum Angustifolium Wax, Jasminum Officina le (Jasmine)
Flower Wax, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Flower Wax, Jojoba Esters,
Jojoba Wax, Lanolin Wax, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower
Wax, Lawsonia Inermis Wax, Mink Wax, Montan Acid Wax, Montan Wax,
Myrica Cerifera (Bayberry) Fruit Wax, Ocimum Tenuiflorum Wax, Olive
Wax, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax, Ouricury Wax, Palm Kernel Wax,
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Wax, Pistacia Lentiscus Leaf Wax,
Polianthes Tuberosa Flower Wax, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Peel Wax, Ribes
Nigrum (Black Currant) Wax, Rosa Centifolia Flower Wax, Salvia
Sclarea (Clary) Wax, Shellac Wax, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba)
Butter, Soft Olive Wax, Spent Grain Wax, Stipa Tenacissima Wax,
Sunflower Seed Wax, Vegetable Wax, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Leaf Wax,
Petrolatum and mixtures thereof.
[0043] Non-limiting examples of suitable synthetic waxes include
Hydrogenated Japan Wax, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Hydrogenated
Jojoba Wax, Hydrogenated Microcrystalline Wax, Hydrogenated Rice
Bran Wax, Hydrolyzed Beeswax, Microcrystalline Wax, Oxidized
Beeswax, Oxidized Microcrystalline Wax, Ozokerite, Paraffin, PEG-6
Beeswax, PEG-8 Beeswax, PEG-12 Beeswax, PEG-20 Beeswax, PEG-12
Carnauba, Potassium Oxidized Microcrystalline Wax, Sulfurized
Jojoba Oil, Synthetic Beeswax, Synthetic Candelilla Wax, Synthetic
Carnauba, Synthetic Japan Wax, Synthetic Jojoba Oil, Synthetic Wax
and mixtures thereof.
[0044] The hydrophobic compound(s) may comprise one or more
triglycerides, each triglyceride, having the following formula:
##STR00001##
[0045] wherein R, R' and R'' may be the same as or different from
one or both of the others, wherein each of R, R' and R'' is a fatty
acid and wherein each triglyceride is solid at 25.degree. C.
[0046] Suitable oils from which triglycerides may be formed from
include, but are not limited to, the oils listed herein. Suitable
fatty acids for formation of triglycerides include, but are not
limited to, Myristoleic acid, Palmitoleic acid, Sapienic acid,
Oleic acid, Linoleic acid, .alpha.-Linolenic acid, Arachidonic
acid, Eicosapentaenoic acid, Docosahexaenoic acid, Lauric acid
(C.sub.12), Myristic acid (C.sub.14), Palmitic acid (C.sub.16),
Stearic acid (C.sub.18), Arachidic acid (C.sub.20) and mixtures
thereof.
[0047] Specific sources of triglycerides suitable for inclusion
herein include Butter, Shea Butter, Butyrospermum Parkii, Lipex
Shea, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Cocoa Butter,
Hydrogenated Shea Butter, Hydrogenated Cocoa Butter, Irvingia
Gabonensis Kernel Butter, Tallow, Lard, Mangifera Indica (Mango)
Seed Butter, Kokum Butter and mixtures thereof. Particularly
preferred are shea butter, cocoa butter and mixtures thereof. The
triglyceride(s) may fall under the definition of "wax" (or "fat")
or "oil" as used herein and, in such a case, should be included as
a wax (or fat) or oil for the purposes of determining the
proportions of wax or oil.
[0048] The hydrophobic material may comprise skin active agents
such as, but not limited to oil soluble vitamins, such as vitamin E
derivatives, including vitamin E acetate and tocopherol nicotinate;
oil-soluble vitamin A derivatives, such as retinyl palmitate;
lanolin; ceramides; sterols and sterol esters; salicylic acid;
camphor; eucalyptol; essential oils; peppermint oil, Iso E Super
[(1-(1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octahydro-2,3,8,8-tetramethyl-2-naphthalenyl)ethanon-
e]; and mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred are lanolin,
essential oils, peppermint oil and mixtures thereof. These
materials may fall under the definition of "wax" or "oil" as used
herein and, in such a case, should be included as a wax or oil for
the purposes of determining the proportions of wax or oil.
[0049] In some embodiments, the hydrophobic compound comprises one
or more sensates. A large number of coolant compounds of natural or
synthetic origin are known. The most well know is peppermint oil.
Among synthetic coolants, many are derivatives of or are
structurally related to menthol, i.e., containing the cyclohexane
moiety, and derivatized with functional groups including
carboxamide, ketal, ester, ether and alcohol. Non-limiting examples
include methyl emthylamido oxalate, (under the tradename Frescolat
X-cool available from Symrise), menthyl lactate (such as Frescolate
ML Natural available from Symrise), and Menthyl Pyrrolidone
Carboxylate also known as Menthyl PCA (under the tradename
Questices available from Givaudan).
[0050] The lubricating member may comprise more than one sensate.
In this case, at least one sensate is a hydrophobic compound which
in liquid form is used to dissolve one or more additional sensates.
In particular, peppermint oil can be used to dissolve a variety of
other sensates which include N substituted methanecarboxamides
having the formula:
##STR00002##
[0051] in which m is 0 or 1, Y and Z are selected independently
from the group consisting of H. OH, C1-C4 straight or branched
alkyl, or, a C1-C4 straight or branched alkoxy, X is (CH2)n-R,
where n is 0 or 1 and R is a group with non-bonding electrons, with
the provisos that: (a) when Y and Z are H. X is not F, OH, MeO or
NO2 in the 4-position and is not OH in the 2 or 6-position, and (b)
when Y or Z is H then X, Y and Z are such that (i) the groups in
the 3- and 4-positions are not both OMe, (ii) the groups in the 4-
and 5-positions are not both OMe, (iii) the groups in 3- and
5-positions are not OMe if the group in the 4-position is OH, and
(iv) the groups in the S- and 5-positions are not OH if the group
in the 4-position is methyl.
[0052] The preferred compounds are those in which X is in the
4-position. The most preferred compounds are when X is in the
4-position and Y and Z are H, OH, Me or OMe. Preferred groups with
non-bonding electrons are halogens, OH, OMe, NO2, CN, Ac, SO2NH2,
CHO, CO2H and C1-C4 alkyl carboxylates such as CO2Et.
[0053] One specific example of a suitable N-substituted
menthanecarboxamide is
N-[4-(cyanomethyl)phenyl]-(1R,2S,5R)-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanecarbo-
xamide of Formula II which is available from Givaudan as a solution
concentration of 8% in peppermint oil.
##STR00003##
[0054] This material is also commonly referred to as N-para-benzene
acetonitrile menthane carboxamide. See e.g. Research Disclosure RD
522003 (Givaudan), U.S. Patent Pub. Nos 2009/0311206 and
2009/0306152, both assigned to Beiersdorf, 2006/0276667,
2010/0086498, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,414,152.
[0055] Other sensates may comprise a menthane carboxylic
acid-N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-amide of formula (A):
##STR00004##
[0056] Or wherein said menthane carboxylic
acid-N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-amide has the formula (B):
##STR00005##
[0057] Non-limiting examples of such menthane carboxylic
acid-N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-amides are disclosed in U.S. Patent Pub.
2011/0081303, and 2010/0086498. This material is also described
under CAS #68489-09-8, may also be named
(1R*,2S*)-N-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)cyclohexanecarbox-
am-ide and is commercially available as SC1, WS-12 or Frescolat MMC
by Symrise, Inc.
[0058] A suitable hydrophobic compound may also be a hydrophobic
liquid formed by mixing two solids that form a eutectic mixture.
Non-limiting examples include the mixture of menthol and methyl
lactate, such as Frescolat Plus available from Symrise, and the
mixture of N-ethyle p-menthane-3-carboxamide (also known as WS-3)
and N-2,3-trimethyl-2-ispropyl butanamide (also known as WS-23),
such as Ice 1500 available from Qaroma.
[0059] Preferred hydrophobic compounds include capric and or
caprylic triglycerides, grape seed oil, olive oil, shea butter,
cocoa butter, lanolin, essential oils, peppermint oil,
isoheaxdecane, petrolatum and mixtures thereof. More preferred is
petrolatum.
[0060] Optional Ingredients
[0061] The lubricating material may further comprise additional
components, preferably components which are solid, dry components
and preferably suitable for particulate compression. The term dry
components refers to components comprising less than 10%,
preferably less than 1% by weight of water.
[0062] Suitable additional components include cationic polymers.
Suitable cationic polymers are, for example, cationic cellulose
derivatives, for example a quaternized hydroxymethyl cellulose
obtainable under the name Polymer JR 400.RTM. from Amerchol,
cationic starches, copolymers of diallylammonium salts and
acrylamides, quaternized vinylpyrrolidone/vinyl imidazole polymers,
for example Luviquat.RTM. (BASF), condensation products of
polyglycols and amines, quaternized collagen polypeptides, for
example lauryldimonium hydroxypropyl hydrolyzed collagen
(Lamequat.RTM.L/Grunau), quaternised wheat polypeptides,
polyethyleneimine, cationic silicone polymers, for example
amidomethicones, copolymers of adipic acid and
Dimethyl-aminohydroxypropyldiethylenetriamine
(Cartaretin.RTM./Clariant), copolymers of acrylic acid with
dimethyldiallylammonium chloride (Merquat.RTM. 550/Chemviron),
polyaminopolyamides, as described, for example, in FR-A-2 252840,
and the cross-linked water-soluble polymers thereof, cationic
chitin derivatives, for example of quaternised chitosan, optionally
distributed as microcrystals; condensation products of
dihaloalkyls, for example dibromobutane, with bisdialkylamines, for
example bisdimethylamino-1,3-propane, cationic guar gum, for
example Jaguar.RTM. C-17, Jaguar.RTM. C-16 from Celanese,
quaternised ammonium salt polymers, for example Mirapol.RTM. A-15,
Mirapol.RTM. AD-1, Mirapol.RTM. AZ-1 from Miranol. As anionic,
zwitterionic, amphoteric and non-ionic polymers there come into
consideration, for example, vinyl acetate/crotonic acid copolymers,
vinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acrylate copolymers, vinyl acetate/butyl
maleate/isobornyl acrylate copolymers, methyl vinyl ether/maleic
anhydride copolymers and esters thereof, uncrosslinked polyacrylic
acids and polyacrylic acids cross linked with polyols,
acrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride/acrylate copolymers,
octyl acrylamide/methyl methacrylate/tert-butylaminoethyl
methacrylate/2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate copolymers,
polyvinylpyrrolidone, vinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymers,
vinylpyrrolidone/dimethyl-aminoethyl methacrylate/vinyl caprolactam
terpolymers and also optionally derivatised cellulose ethers and
silicones. Furthermore the polymers as described in EP 1093796
(pages 3-8, paragraphs 17-68) may also be used.
[0063] The lubricating material may further comprise a copolymer of
polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO). The PEO/PPO
copolymer may have an average molecular weight of at least 5,000,
preferably in the range of from 10,000 to 20,000, more preferably
from 11,000 to 15,000, even more preferably from 12,000 to 13,000
and even more preferably still from 12,250 to 12,750. Without
wishing to be bound by theory, the inclusion of a PEO/PPO copolymer
of sufficient molecular weight is thought to further improve the
lubrication properties of the lubricating member in aqueous
conditions, especially in combination with a further water soluble
polymer (particularly polyethylene oxide), and thus prevent an
undesirable feeling in use.
[0064] The PEO/PPO copolymer may advantageously be a block
copolymer, for example a di-block, tri-block, multi-block,
radial-block or random-block copolymer. Preferably, the PEO/PPO
copolymer is a tri-block copolymer, more preferably a tri-block
copolymer having the sequence: PEO-PPO-PEO, the later commercially
available under tradenames such as Pluracare from BASF and Pluronic
from Sigma-Aldrich.
[0065] The PEO/PPO copolymer may have a weight ratio of PEO to PPO
(i.e. of ethylene oxide repeat units to propylene oxide repeat
units), of from 1000:1 to 1:1000 or from 100:1 to 1:100.
[0066] Advantageously, the weight ratio is selected to improve the
solubility properties of the PEO/PPO copolymer in a system
comprising a water-soluble polymer (especially polyethylene oxide)
and water, and so may be from 10:1 to 1:10, preferably from 1:1 to
1:7 (or any ratio in which the weight of PPO is greater than or
equal to the weight of PEO), more preferably from 1:2 to 1:5, even
more preferably from 1:2.5 to 1:4 and even more preferably still
from 1:2.5 to 1:3. The PEO/PPO copolymer may have an HLB of from 0
to 50, advantageously from 1 to 30, preferably from 5-25, more
preferably from 10-25, even more preferably from 17-24 and even
more preferably still from 18-23.
[0067] The PEO/PPO copolymer is typically present at an amount of
from 0.01% to 50%, preferably from 0.01% to 50%, more preferably
from 2% to 40%, even more preferably from 3% to 25%, even more
preferably still from 4% to 20% and most preferably from 5% to 10%
by weight of the lubricating material or by weight of the
lubricating member.
[0068] The lubricating member may also further comprise a
water-insoluble material such as hydrophobic binders. Such
components may enhance the life of the lubricating material by
reducing its tendency to be mechanically eroded. Advantageously,
the hydrophobic binder is solid at standard temperature and
pressure. Suitable hydrophobic binders include divalent metal
cation stearate, preferably magnesium stearate, calcium stearate,
zinc stearate, or mixtures thereof, more preferably magnesium
separate; ethyl cellulose; polycaprolactone; polyethylene;
polypropylene; polystyrene; butadiene-styrene copolymer (e.g.
medium and high impact polystyrene); polyacetal;
acrylonitrilebutadiene-styrene copolymer; ethylene vinyl acetate
copolymer and blends such as polypropylene/polystyrene blend; and
mixtures thereof. The lubricating material may comprise from 1 to
20%, more preferably from 5 to 15% by weight of hydrophobic binder.
The hydrophobic binder may fall under the definition of hydrophobic
compound as used herein and in such a case should be included for
purposes of determining the amount by weight of the hydrophobic
compound or mixture.
[0069] Further Optional Ingredients
[0070] In some embodiments, the lubricating material may comprise
any other ingredients commonly found in commercially available
shaving aid members. The lubricating member may therefore contain
other conventional shaving aid ingredients, preferably suitable for
particulate compression such as low molecular weight water-soluble
release enhancing agents such as polyethylene glycol (MW<10,000,
e.g., 1-10% by weight PEG-100), water-swellable release enhancing
agents such as cross-linked polyacrylics (e.g., 2-7% by weight),
colorants, skin feel/care actives, surfactants, soaps (including
interrupted soaps), antioxidants, preservatives, emollients, beard
softeners, astringents, medicinal agents, plasticizers, additional
lubricants, depilatories/keratolytic materials, tackifiers,
skin-soothing agents, fragrances, compatibilisers,
anti-inflammatory agents, antipruritic/counterirritant materials
etc and mixture thereof. These ingredients may fall under the
definition of hydrophobic compounds as used herein and should be
included as such in determining the amount of hydrophobic
compounds.
[0071] Method of Manufacture/Processing
[0072] The lubricating member may be manufactured according to the
steps described below whereby the water soluble polymer and other
solid dry components are provided as particulates and mixed. The
silicone polymer is, if necessary, liquefied and then spray coated
onto at least a portion of the water soluble polymer particulate
and other dry components if present. Preferably at least 95%, more
preferably at least 98% and even more preferably substantially 100%
of the water soluble polymer and preferably any other dry
particulate material components present are spray coated with the
silicone polymer. Hydrophobic compounds if present may also be
spray coated as a mixture with the silicone polymer or in a
separate spray coating step.
[0073] Any known method of spray coating may be used herein.
Preferably the silicone polymer (and optional hydrophobic compound)
is sprayed at a droplet size of about 0.1 to 250 .mu.m, more
preferably 1 to 10 .mu.m. Typically the flow rate is less than 1
GPM. Typically the droplet size is selected with regard to the
particulate material size and is preferably less than 10% of the
size of the particles. While not being bound by theory, spray
coating the silicone polymer enables a uniform distribution of the
material onto the water soluble polymer and other dry components,
if present and consequently uniform delivery onto the skin in use
from the resultant lubricating member. Furthermore, the use of
compression compaction to form the lubricating member from the
spray coated particulates enables the use of a large variety of
silicone polymers or mixtures thereof, and optional hydrophobic
compounds, providing multiple in use consumer benefits.
[0074] The term compression and or compression molding or
compression compaction as used herein refers to a process by which
the bulk density of a particulate or powder is reduced to form a
solid tablet by the application of pressure. Typically, this is
performed without the application of external shear force or heat.
Preferably the compression compaction is conducted below the
melting point of at least one, preferably all the particulate
components, preferably at an ambient temperature of 25.degree. C.
As such the particulates retain their integrity after the
compression process and are typically visible by the naked eye
after the compression process is completed.
[0075] In certain embodiments, additional energy sources such as
heat may be applied during or post compression to increase
inter-particulate bonding and increase the rigidity of the
resulting lubricating member but which preferably does not
resulting in any substantial melting of the particulate material.
Preferably however the method of the present invention does not
require an extrusion or injection molding step or the application
of energy sources such as heat.
[0076] The lubricating member is provided in the form of a
compressed powder. As used herein the term "compressed powder"
refers to a particulated material which is subsequently compressed,
preferably using cold compression techniques. Preferably the
particulates have an average particle size distribution of from
about 50 to about 1250 microns and preferably from about 300 to
about 1250 microns, more preferably about 1000 microns.
Alternatively the particulate size is such that 90% of particles
pass through a 20 mesh screen; i.e. 90% of particles are less than
841 micron in diameter. The lubricating member is compressed
preferably directly into a preform or container with a compression
force of typically greater than 1 KN. This may be achieved using
any method and equipment known in the art such as a die press. The
bulk density of the particulate material prior to compression is
typically about 300 to about 600 kg/m.sup.3 and increases to about
1000 to about 1200 kg/m.sup.3 following compression. Bulk density
thus may be increased by about 200% to about 400% after the
compression. While not bound by theory, it has been found that the
use of particulate compression manufacturing, preferably cold
particulate compression (i.e. at 25.degree. C. or less) to form the
lubricating member enables highly lubricous components to be
incorporated therein while not negatively impacting the water
solubility and swelling performance of the water soluble polymer.
This also allows flexibility in the size of the resulting
lubricating member to be used for multiple razor cartridges while
enabling the effective delivery of the silicone polymer to the skin
of the consumer in use.
[0077] According to the invention the lubricating member may be
manufactured according to the following steps: [0078] 1. Optionally
forming a particulate of said water soluble polymer and other solid
dry components, [0079] 2. Providing a particulate of said water
soluble polymer, and other solid dry components, preferably at
25.degree. C., at the desired average particle size, [0080] 3.
Mixing the particulate dry components using a suitable powder
mixing device such as a V Blender (nominal Shell RPM 25 RPM) until
visibly uniform and free from agglomerates. [0081] 4. Providing the
silicone polymer component in a liquid state, for example if
necessary by the application of heat to reach the melting point of
the silicone polymer and maintaining the temperature in order to
spray coat silicone polymer in the liquid state. [0082] 5. Spray
coating the silicone polymer (and optionally other hydrophobic
compounds) onto the mixed dry components (i.e. water soluble
polymer particulates and other dry particulate components),
preferably while mixing the dry components. [0083] 6. Continuing
mixing until uniform (for example by use of oil soluble dye and
light microscopy), preferably using high shear (such as V blender
at nominal shell of 3600 RPM). [0084] 7. Optionally passing the
mixture through a granulation screen such as Fruend Vector TF Mini
roller at 2Ton roller pressure at 3.1 RPM and screw feed at 12.7
RPM [0085] 8. Compression compacting the mixture for example by die
compression whereby mixture is added to desired die/reservoir
perform and a die punch applied at a pressure of 0.5-10 kN at
25.degree. C. [0086] 9. Removing the punch and ejecting the tablet
of compressed particulate mixture from the die in desired end size
and shape tablet. [0087] Optionally step 8 may include elevating
the temperature of the mixture by applying a heat source so that
the mixture has a temperature of about 75.degree. C. before
applying the die punch as described above. The die is then cooled
to about 25.degree. C. prior to removing the punch and ejecting the
tablet as described above.
[0088] Hair Removal Head
[0089] According to some embodiments of the invention, the
lubricating member finds particular application for hair removal
devices. Hair removal devices generally comprise a hair removal
head and a handle or grip portion, upon which the hair removal head
is mounted. The hair removal device can be manual or power driven
and can be used for wet and/or dry application. The hair removal
head can include a wide scraping surface such as where the hair
removal device is used with a depilatory, or be a razor cartridge
or foil where the device is a shaving razor. The hair removal head
may be replaceable and/or pivotally connected to a cartridge
connecting structure and in turn or independently (e.g. permanently
fixed) to a handle. In some embodiments, the cartridge connecting
structure includes at least one arm to releasably engage the hair
removal head.
[0090] The hair removal head typically comprises one or more
elongated edges usually positioned between a first and second end,
said one or more elongated edges comprising a tip extending towards
said first end. Where the hair removal head is a razor cartridge
the one or more elongated edges can include blades. For example,
U.S. Pat. No. 7,168,173 generally describes a Fusion.RTM. razor
that is commercially available from The Gillette Company and which
includes a razor cartridge with multiple blades. Additionally, the
razor cartridge may include a guard as well as a skin engaging
member. A variety of razor cartridges can be used in accordance
with the present invention. Nonlimiting examples of suitable razor
cartridges, with and without fins, guards, and/or shave aids,
include those marketed by The Gillette Company under the
Fusion.RTM., Venus.RTM. product lines as well as those disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,197,825, 6,449,849, 6,442,839, 6,301,785,
6,298,558; 6,161,288, and U.S. Patent Publ. 2008/060201. Those of
skill in the art will understand that the lubricating member can be
used with any currently marketed system or disposable razor,
including those having 2, 3, 4 or 5 blades. In such a case, the
hair removal device is a razor, the hair removal head is a razor
cartridge and the one or more elongated edges are blades. Another
example of a hair removal device is a scraping tool for use with a
hair removal composition, i.e. a depilatory.
[0091] In some embodiments, said at least one lubricating member is
located on the portion of the cartridge that contacts skin during
the hair removal process, forward and/or aft of the blades. A
feature "forward" of the one or more elongated edges, for example,
is positioned so that the surface to be treated with by the hair
removal device encounters the feature before it encounters the
elongated edges. A feature "aft" of the elongated edge is
positioned so that the surface to be treated by the hair removal
device encounters the feature after it encounters the elongated
edges. Where more than one lubricating member is provided on the
hair removal device, they can be the same (identical) or different,
in terms of physical shape/structure and/or chemical composition,
and one or more of them may comprise the spray coated
particulate.
[0092] In some particular embodiments, a plurality (e.g. 2, a first
and second) of lubricating members may be provided on the hair
removal head, with the first skin engaging member comprising the
same composition or different. These lubricating members may be
placed collectively (for example adjacent to one another) ahead of
or behind the elongated edges (e.g. blades on a razor cartridge),
including side by side, or separately with one ahead of the
elongated edges and the other behind.
[0093] The lubricating member may be free standing utilizing a
suitable attachment means such as adhesive or may be contained at
least partially within a container.
[0094] The container typically has a base and at least one side
wall extending vertically preferably perpendicular from said base
and a skin contacting surface. In a preferred embodiment said
container comprises a base and at least 2 side walls, more
preferably at least 4 side walls, preferably said walls completely
enclosing the base. Typically, each pair of walls are substantially
parallel and preferably one pair of walls is substantially parallel
to the at least two blades. Alternatively, the base may be enclosed
by a one piece single wall. The container may form any shape
including substantially rectangular, or oval. The container
typically has a front wall adjacent the blades and a rear wall,
preferably substantially parallel thereto and furthest from said
blades.
[0095] The container is preferably further provided with at least
one dispensing orifice for dispensing the lubricating member onto
the skin during use. In one embodiment the container is provided
with a top extending substantially perpendicular from the side wall
(s). The container would, in such an embodiment, typically have a
receiving region for receiving the lubricating member. The top may
be substantially parallel to the base or it may be provided at an
angle such that the distance of the top from the blade plane
increases or decreases as the distance of the container from the
blades increases. In one embodiment the height of the top of the
container increases in distance from the blade plane as the
container distance from the blades increases. In an alternative
embodiment the height of the top of the container decreases in
distance from the blade plane as the container distance from the
blade increases.
[0096] The orifice may be of any shape and may, for example, have a
cross sectional area of from about 0.00324 to about 1.613 cm.sup.2.
Small orifices can also be provided with cross sectional area of
from about 0.0324 to about 0.324 cm.sup.2, or from about 0.0645 to
about 0.16135 cm.sup.2. Larger orifices can have cross sectional
areas of from about 0.324 to about 1.613 cm.sup.2, or from about
0.645 to about 1.29 cm.sup.2. The container may comprise a single
orifice or multiple orifices which may be large and or small. In
one embodiment the container comprises at least two orifices.
Combinations of small and large orifices can also be provided on
the same skin engaging member, or on separate members on the same
cartridge, depending on the desired dispense rate and amount of
exposure of the lubricating material to water. In one embodiment
the top of the container is provided with one preferably two
orifices, more preferably two substantially identical orifices
adjacent one another.
[0097] The skin engaging surface of the container which has a
surface area, while the at least one orifice (i.e. the sum for all
orifices if a plurality are present) has a cross sectional area
such that the surface area and cross sectional area are in a ratio
of from about 50:1 to about 1:1, or about 25:1 to about 2:1, or
about 10:1 to about 3:1.
[0098] In some embodiments, at least a portion of said container is
not linear for example angled or curvilinear. Curvilinear as
defined herein means that at least a portion is curved such that it
does not form a straight line. Where at least two containers are
provided, they can also be positioned relative to one another such
that they do not form a straight line. Alternatively, the curved or
angled nature is such that it forms at least a partial ring. A
partial ring, as defined herein, means that the structure has at
least two curved or angled sections which are concave to form an
inner region. The partial ring can also include a curved or angled
portion which is positioned convex to said inner region. One or
more of said containers may also be positioned relative to one
another to form a full ring.
[0099] The container can be formed of a variety of materials. The
container may, preferably be for example, provided from a non-water
soluble material such that it does not degrade or dissolve during
normal use.
[0100] The container typically has sufficient mechanical strength
and rigidity to provide adequate mechanical strength to the entire
skin engaging member, both as initially produced and after a
significant amount of lubricating material has leached out of the
container. Alternatively or in addition a further reinforcing
member may also be utilized. In some embodiments, the container
comprises a base and one or more side walls, forming a receiving
region, or channel, onto or into which the lubricating material is
placed.
[0101] The side walls may or may not be the same height (as
measured extending away from the base of the container). At least
one of the side walls can have a height of about 0.1 cm to about 1
cm, preferably from about 0.2 cm to about 0.4 cm. The pair of side
walls can be biased away from each other as the walls extend away
from said base, or they can be biased towards each other. At least
one wall extends vertically from the base and is preferably
perpendicular to the blade plane (P). One or both ends of the
container can be enclosed, e.g. as described in U.S. Pat. No.
7,581,318. The term maximum height of at least one wall as used
herein refers to the first front wall preferably substantially
parallel to the at least two blades and closest thereto or it
refers to the rear wall farthest from said at least two blades. In
one embodiment the said at least one wall is closest to said at
least two blades. In an alternative embodiment the at least one
wall is farthest from said at least two walls. In one embodiment,
the ratio of the height of the front wall to the rear wall is from
5:1 to 1:5, more preferably from 2:1 to 1:2 and more preferably the
height of the front wall is greater than the rear wall. The walls
have a thickness of from 0.1 cm to 1.0 cm, preferably from 0.3 to
0.5 cm.
[0102] The container may be made of a water-insoluble polymer,
particularly a thermoplastic resin. Thermoplastic resins are those
materials which can be extruded or molded into a shape and are
resilient under normal environmental conditions such as contact
with water, even up to normal household hot water temperatures (for
example up to 125.degree. C.); normal wear and tear by consumers
during use; device assembly and shipping, etc. Thermoplastic resins
suitable for use in the carrier include polystyrene, high impact
polystyrene (polystyrene-butadiene), polypropylene, filled
polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon ethylene vinyl acetate, and
blends such as 70% nylon/30% polyethylene oxide, 60%
polystyrene/40% polyethylene oxide butadiene styrene copolymer,
polyacetal, acrylonitrile-butadiene styrene copolymer, and mixtures
thereof. The preferred resins are high impact polystyrene,
polystyrene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), and mixtures
thereof.
[0103] In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises a guard
comprising at least one elongated flexible protrusion to engage a
user's skin. The at least one flexible protrusion may comprise
flexible fins generally parallel to said one or more elongated
edges. Said at least one flexible protrusion may additionally or
alternatively comprise flexible fins comprising at least one
portion which is not generally parallel to said one or more
elongated edges. Non-limiting examples of suitable guards include
those used in current razor blades and include those disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,607,230 and 7,024,776; (disclosing
elastomeric/flexible fin bars); 2008/0034590 (disclosing curved
guard fins); 2009/0049695A1 (disclosing an elastomeric guard having
guard forming at least one passage extending between an upper
surface and a lower surface). In some embodiments, said lubricating
member is positioned on the cartridge aft of the guard and forward
of said elongated edge. In another embodiment, the lubricating
member is positioned on the cartridge forward of the guard. This
embodiment can be particularly useful to deliver the lubricating
member prior to contact with the guard.
[0104] Exemplified Compositions
TABLE-US-00001 Ingredient (weight %) Comparative 1 Inventive 1
Polyethylene oxide (Polyox N12K); (Dow 70 50 Chemicals) Copolymer
of Polyethylene Oxide and 20 20 Polypropylene Oxide (Pluronics F127
(BASF) Guar hydroxyl propyltrimonium chloride 10 10 (Nhance 3196
Ashland) Dimethicone (DC200 350 cst Dow -- 20 Corning)
[0105] Preparation: [0106] 1. Weigh materials into separate weigh
boats. [0107] 2. Pre mix the powder materials together in a turbula
shaker mixer T2F (drive belt positioned on smallest pulley) for 1
min. [0108] 3. If needed, transfer powder blend in Lillo Due pasta
mixer and start mixing at set speed. [0109] 4. Add the silicone
polymer (premelt if needed) in a steady feed until all the liquid
is incorporated into the powder. [0110] 5. Take the resulting
powder blend and load it into a compression tool with a cavity size
of 31.92 (length), 3.27 (width) and 1 mm (depth). [0111] 6. Use the
die punch to compress the powder at a force of 1 tonne for 15 sec.
[0112] 7. Remove the resulting tablet from the die and attach to a
razor cartridge or use for analysis.
[0113] Consumer Test Data
[0114] From the data shown in FIG. 1, it can be seen that the
inventive lubricating members provide consumer noticeable improved
performance with regard to moisturisation, softness and glide
verses comparative lubricating member without a silicone polymer
compound.
[0115] Consumer Test Method
[0116] 10 UK male panellists were recruited for the testing. Each
panellist was asked to shave with a commercially available Gillette
Proglide Power cartridge using a Proglide manual handle using a
Gillette Series sensitive gel. After shaving was completed the
panellists were asked to pat dry the skin with a towel, but not to
use any post shave products. A timer is then started for 2
minutes.
[0117] The comparative product and test product (lubricating member
as described above adhered to a rectangular support which is
attached to a Gillette MACH 3 handle) are provided to each
panellist. The panellist is asked to thoroughly wet the product by
running under the water for 1 minute. After 2 minutes, the
panellist is asked to splash one side of their face once with water
(as indicated). The panellist is then asked to use the product to
take 3 downward non-overlapping strokes across one side of the
cheek area of the face. The panellist is then asked to Re-wet the
product and take another 3 downward non-overlapping strokes over
the area of their face. This step is then repeated until a total of
9 downward strokes have been taken. The panellists are then asked
to splash their face with water and pat dry their face with a paper
towel (NO RUBBING). The panellists are then requested to wait 2
minutes post rinsing before touching their face.
[0118] Panellists are asked to complete questionnaire during the
application and post-rinse. A 7 point dipolar scale is used, "Is"
to "Is not".
[0119] Swell Test Data
[0120] The swelling performance of the inventive 1 composition
verses a comparative 1 control in the absence of the silicone
polymer as detailed above, shows that the swell performance is not
affected by the presence of the silicone polymer.
TABLE-US-00002 Time period: 120 sec Average Std dev Inventive
example 1 319.12 80.61 Comparative example 1 357.83 39.16
[0121] Swell Test Method [0122] 1. Place a rectangular tablet of
the required formulation into a small transparent receptacle. The
receptacle should be sized so that the ends of the tablet touch the
walls of the receptacle thus holding the tablet in place. [0123] 2.
The receptacle is placed under a stereoscope (Olympus SZX7) on top
of a piece of black card. [0124] 3. Set the magnification of the
stereoscope to 3.2 and then focus to provide a clear image of the
tablet. [0125] 4. Add 1 ml of water dyed with 0.1% w/w of D&C
red 28 on 1 side of the tablet. [0126] 5. The timer is started and
photos are taken at t=0 seconds and then the following increments
5, 10, 30, 60, 90 m 120, 150 and 180 seconds using Pixera Pro 150ES
software. [0127] 6. Repeat procedure for a minimum of 3 samples.
[0128] 7. The height of the swollen gel is analysed at least 10
points across the length of the tablet using the Image Pro MC
software [0129] 8. The data is then exported into EXCEL and swollen
gel length is calculated for each time point by averaging the
measurements for each tablet and between tablets. Statistical
analysis is performed by calculating standard deviation.
[0130] Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Melting Method
[0131] This method is the American Oil Chemists' Society Method Cj
1-94, as reapproved in 2009 and it determines the "onset
temperature" (that is the temperature of onset of melting) of oils
and fats by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).
[0132] Apparatus [0133] 1. Aluminium capsules. [0134] 2. DSC
instrument, capable of holding temperature at -60.degree. C. and
achieving a temperature of 80.degree. C.
[0135] Reagents [0136] 1. Indium, powder--60 mesh, 99.999%, such as
Aldrich Chemical Co., Milwaukee, Wis. 53233, or equivalent. [0137]
2. n-Decane, 99+%, such as Aldrich Chemical Co., Milwaukee, Wis.
53233, or equivalent. [0138] 3. Methyl stearate, 99%, such as
Aldrich Chemical Co., Milwaukee, Wis. 53233, or equivalent,
[0139] Procedure [0140] 1. Standardization of equipment--Proceed
with the normal standardization using both indium and n-decane as
reference standards. Follow instrument manual for adjustment to
lock onto these two reference points and flatten the baseline slope
as much as possible when empty pans are analyzed. Analyze the
secondary standard (methyl stearate). Weigh 5 mg of the standard
into the same kind of pan which will be used for the test portion
(if hermetically sealed, it may be reused at a later date). Use the
method sequence in Procedure, 2-7 to obtain the melting point onset
(because of the high purity, only a 2 min hold is necessary for the
standard after crystallization). Be certain that the heating rate
during the definitive heating pattern is at 5.degree. C./min. The
melting point onset should be within .+-.2.00.degree. C. of
36.5.degree. C. If not, recheck calibration. [0141] Note--be
certain to use identical capsules for the test portion as those
used for reference standards and the instrument blank reference.
[0142] 2. Melt each test portion completely and weigh 7.+-.0.200 mg
of each test portion into the same kind of capsule used for the
blank and reference samples (aluminium) and seal to minimize
oxidation and other changes. [0143] 3. Place capsules in DSC at
room temperature. [0144] 4. Heat rapidly to 80.degree. C. and hold
for 10 min. [0145] 5. Cool to -60.degree. C. at 10.degree. C./min
and hold for 30 min. [0146] 6. Heat to 80.degree. C. at 5.degree.
C./min [0147] 7. Use the baseline obtained for an empty capsule
analysis from the final melt segment of the program to define the
position of the baseline under the sample peaks. Overlay the final
melting curve of the test portion over the curve for the empty
capsule with a flexible ruler or other curve guide to define the
baseline of the test portion back to where it intersects the
initial deviation of the melting curve from its baseline. The
baseline beneath the test portion should be a continuation of the
baseline where there are no sample components present. If a shift
has occurred in the heat capacity of the test portion after the
melt, it will be evident relative to the baseline of the empty
capsule. Have the instrument calculate the sigmoid baseline if it
can, or connect the end of the peak point with the last point in
which the test portion was in conjunction with the baseline of the
empty capsule,
[0148] Results
[0149] Determine the onset temperature in .degree. C., which, if
not computer generated, is an extrapolation to baseline of the
steepest slope of the principal peak.
[0150] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."
[0151] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced
or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise
limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it
is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed
herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other
reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such
invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of
a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of
the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning
or definition assigned to that term in this document shall
govern.
[0152] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *