Methods for controlling environmental odors on the body

Abstract

The present invention encompasses a method of controlling malodors on human skin comprising the application to the human skin of a composition comprising from about 0.1% to about 5%, by weight of the composition, of solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin; from about 0.1% to about 36%, by weight of the composition, of an oil phase selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and skin protectants; an emulsifier; and an aqueous carrier. The compositions may also optionally comprise one or more of the following: hydrophobic antimicrobials; water-soluble antimicrobial preservatives; low molecular weight polyols; zinc salts; water-soluble polymers; soluble carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts; chelating agents; zeolites; activated carbon; and mixtures thereof. The compositions can be applied directly as a spray, poured from a bottle and applied by hand, or applied via a wipe.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Daily contact with substances which leave unpleasant and/or lingering odors on an individual's body and hair is almost unavoidable. Foods such as fish, onions, garlic or other spices, cooking odors, smoke, tobacco, and gasoline are just a few of the common environmental sources of malodors in daily life.

Numerous attempts have been made to conceal unpleasant odors through the use of deodorizing compositions. These compositions typically rely on the presence of heavy fragrances or perfumes to mask odors. Not only are such perfumes and fragrances often inadequate at fully concealing malodors, very often they are irritating to the user. The perfume or fragrance odor itself may be irritating or offensive to the user's skin, respiratory system and/or olfactory senses, as well as to nearby individuals.

Zeolites such as those marketed under the trade name ABSCENTS.RTM. by the Union Carbide Corporation and UOP are known odor absorbers. However these commonly known solid odor absorbers, in addition to known activated charcoal odor absorbers, lose functionality when wet. Therefore, when wetted by body fluids or when carried in an aqueous solution, these odor absorbers are not preferred as they lose their desired odor absorbent characteristics. Furthermore, zeolites can cause a "harsh" feel if too much is deposited onto the skin.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,165, to Pilosof et al., issued Jul. 9, 1996, describes aqueous, odor absorbing compositions for controlling odors on fabrics, particularly clothes. Such compositions, however, are not for use directly on the human skin.

Thus, there remains a need for improved methods for controlling odors, which are essentially free of irritating ingredients such as perfumes and/or fragrances and which are safe and effective for use on the entire body. More particularly, there is a need for convenient methods of absorbing a broad spectrum of odors that are not fully suppressed by the aforementioned means.

It has been discovered that methods for such enhanced malodor control can be safely provided to the entire body by application of a leave on skin solution which incorporates odor absorbing, uncomplexed cyclodextrins into an aqueous solution. Furthermore, a method of controlling malodor has been discovered comprising the application of uncomplexed cyclodextrins and other optional components. Such methods provide a leave on skin solution with optimal malodor absorbing characteristics and extended shelf-life. Moreover, it has been discovered that the aforementioned benefits may be delivered in an aqueous solution which also optionally delivers skin aid benefits to the user such as protection and/or moisturization.

These and other objects of the present invention will become readily apparent from the detailed description which follows.

All percentages, ratios, and parts herein, in the Specification, Examples, and claims are by weight unless otherwise stated. The term "g", as used herein, means gram. The term "ml", as used herein, means milliliter.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention encompasses a method of controlling malodors on human skin comprising the application to the human skin of a composition comprising from about 0.1% to about 5%, by weight of the composition, of solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin; from about 0.1% to about 36%, by weight of the composition, of an oil phase selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and skin protectants; an emulsifier; and an aqueous carrier. The compositions may also optionally comprise one or more of the following: hydrophobic antimicrobials; water-soluble antimicrobial preservatives; low molecular weight polyols; zinc salts; water-soluble polymers; soluble carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts; chelating agents; zeolites; activated carbon; and mixtures thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The methods for controlling environmental malodors comprising the application of a perfume-free, malodor-absorbing composition. The compositions can be applied directly as a spray, poured from a bottle and applied by hand, or applied via a pre-formed wipe which is wet with the composition when it is applied to human skin.

The term "environmental malodors", as used herein means any odor which may be on a human which is not the result of human body odor and/or body fluids. Such odors include but are not limited to odors from foods such as fish, garlic, onions, peppers and spices; cooking; smoke; tobacco; gasoline; and the like.

The term "body fluids", as used herein, includes eccrine sweat, apocrine sweat, sebum, build up of sensible moisture from transepidermal water loss, vaginal discharge, urine, and mixtures thereof.

The term "body odor" as used herein means odors which are generated as a result of the natural functioning of a human body. Such odors include, but are not limited to odors produced by microorganisms of the human skin (i.e. bacterial decomposition of skin secretions), urine, or vaginal discharge, and mixtures thereof.

The term "human skin" means the entire external surface of human or mammalian skin.

A detailed description of essential and optional components of the present invention is given below.

Methods of Use

The present invention encompasses a method of controlling environmental malodors on human skin comprising the application to human skin of a composition comprising from about 0.1% to about 5%, by weight of the composition, of solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin; from about 0.1% to about 36%, by weight of the composition, of an oil phase selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and skin protectants; an emulsifier; and an aqueous carrier. These compositions may also optionally comprise one or more of the following: hydrophobic antimicrobials; water-soluble antimicrobial preservatives; low molecular weight polyols; zinc salts; water-soluble polymers; soluble carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts; chelating agents; zeolites; activated carbon; and mixtures thereof.

An "effective amount" of the compositions of the present invention, as used herein, means an amount sufficient to absorb body odor to the point that it is not discernible by the human sense of smell. While the determination of an effective amount used and the number of uses per day is ultimately left to the discretion of the user, typically an effective amount will be from about 0.05 to about 0.5 grams of odor absorbing composition per use, applied about 1 to about 15 times daily, for as many days as desired by the user.

The compositions of the present invention are topically applied directly to the skin or hair. The compositions can be delivered by placing the composition into a dispensing means and applying an effective amount via spraying or rubbing the composition onto the desired skin surface; typically the entire body. Preferably the dispensing means is a wipe or a spray dispenser. Distribution of the composition of the present invention can also be achieved by using a pre-formed applicator such as a roller, pad, sponge, tissue, cotton ball, hand, etc.

Alternatively, the user may combine the composition of the present invention with a wipe substance of his or her own choosing. To do this, the user simply chooses a wipe substance such as a commercial paper towel, tissue, sponge, cotton, pad, washcloth, or the like; and pours, from a bottle or other suitable container, a solution of the composition of the present invention over the chosen wipe substance and applies the composition to the desired area of the body. In this manner, the user may use as much or as little of the composition of the present invention as he/she desires, depending upon their intended use and degree of odor control necessary.

Cyclodextrin

As used herein, the term "cyclodextrin" includes any of the known cyclodextrins such as unsubstituted cyclodextrins containing from six to twelve glucose units, especially, alpha-cyclodextrin, beta-cyclodextrin, gamma-cyclodextrin and/or their derivatives and/or mixtures thereof.

The term "uncomplexed cyclodextrin" as used herein means that the cavities within the cyclodextrin in the solution of the present invention should remain essentially unfilled while in solution, in order to allow the cyclodextrin to absorb various odor molecules when the solution is applied to a surface. The term "water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin" as used herein means uncomplexed cyclodextrin having a minimum solubility limit of about 1% (1 gram in 100 grams of water).

Non-derivatised beta-cyclodextrin can be present at a level up to its solubility limit of about 1.85% at room temperature. When beta-cyclodextrin is applied to a wipe substrate, levels higher than its solubility limit can be used.

Preferred, the cyclodextrins used in the present invention are highly water-soluble such as, alpha-cyclodextrin and/or derivatives thereof, gamma-cyclodextrin and/or derivatives thereof, derivatised beta-cyclodextrins, and/or mixtures thereof. The derivatives of cyclodextrin consist mainly of molecules wherein some of the OH groups are converted to OR groups. Highly water-soluble cyclodextrins are those having water solubility of at least about 10 g in 100 ml of water at room temperature, preferably at least about 20 g in 100 ml of water, more preferably at least about 25 g in 100 ml of water at room temperature.

It is also preferable to use a mixture of cyclodextrins. Such mixtures absorb body odors more broadly by complexing with a wider range of odoriferous molecules having a wider range of molecular sizes. The levels of cyclodextrin are from about 0.1% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.2% to about 4%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 3%, most preferably from about 0.4% to about 2%, by weight of the composition.

Concentrated compositions can also be used. When a concentrated product is used, i.e., when the level of cyclodextrin used is from about 3% to about 5%, it is preferable to dilute the composition before applying to the skin in order to avoid tacky skin feel and/or an undesirable amount of residue. Preferably the cyclodextrin is diluted with about 50% to about 2000%, more preferably with about 60% to about 1000%, most preferably with about 75% to about 500%, by weight of the composition of water.

The complexation between cyclodextrin and odorous molecules occurs rapidly in the presence of water when the solubilized cyclodextrins are first applied to the skin. Additionally, cyclodextrins which dry on the skin surfaces will once again achieve enhanced absorption capabilities when rewetted with body fluids. This is convenient for the user because the cyclodextrins, while on dry skin, will not fill their cavities with other environmental odors which would otherwise render them less efficient for absorbing body odors. More particularly, upon solubilization of the cyclodextrins by the body fluids, the isolated cavities become available to form inclusion complexes with the body odor molecules. Thus, ultimately, the availability of solubilized uncomplexed cyclodextrin is essential for an effective and efficient odor control performance. A more complete description of the cyclodextrins and cyclodextrin derivatives useful in the present invention can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,165, Pilosof et al., issued Jul. 9, 1996, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Oil Phase

The present invention methods also includes compositions comprising an oil phase. The oil phase is chosen from the following ingredeints: skin protectants, emollients, and/or moisturizers. Saturated or hydrogenated oils are preferred. These ingredients enhance the skin feel characteristics and/or skin care benefits of the present invention. Additionally, the oil phase provides a medium in which hydrophobic antibacterials, if present, may be dissolved.

Skin protectant ingredients can prevent or reduce chafing, skin irritation and/or skin friction that may occur between skin-to-skin contact sites. Preferred skin protectants useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to: vitamin A, cod liver oil, cocoa butter, shark liver oil, dimethicone, petrolatum, white petrolatum, mineral oil, jojoba oil, and lanolin. More preferred are dimethicone, petrolatum, white petrolatum, mineral oil, jojoba oil, and lanolin. Most preferred is dimethicone.

Moisturizers can aid in adding moisture to the skin may be included in the oil carrier of the present invention. Preferred moisturizers useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to vegetable oils and mineral oil. More preferred are hydrogenated or saturated vegetable or mineral oils. Other moisturizers useful in the present invention can be chosen from the oily moisturizers in Cosmetic Bench Ref. 1994, pages 46-48, incorporated herein by reference.

Emollients for softening and soothing of skin are also useful in the present invention. Emollients useful herein include tocopherol or tocopherol acetate, triglycerides, vegetable oils, or mineral oil. Other emollients useful in the present invention can be chosen from the oily emollients in Cosmetic Bench Ref. 1994, pages 27-31, incorporated herein by reference.

The oil phase or carrier of the present invention is present at an "effective level" which is a level which provides the desired skin benefits of the particular ingredients. Typically, the oil phase is present at a level of from about 0.1% to about 36%, preferably from about 0.2% to about 6%, by weight of the composition.

Emulsifier

An emulsifier must be used in the compositions of the present methods. Emulsifiers are known in the art of forming oil-in-water emulsions. Preferably, a pair of emulsifiers are used for improved stability. A preferred emulsifier is a no-foaming or low-foaming emulsifier. Suitable emulsifiers are nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, detersive surfactants and mixtures thereof. When an emulsifier containing one, or more, aliphatic alkyl group is used, it is preferred that it contain relatively short alkyl chains of from about 5 to about 14 carbon atoms.

Preferred nonionic surfactants are ethoxylated alkyl phenols, such as Igepal.RTM. surfactants from Rhone-Poulenc; fatty acid esters of ethoxylated sorbitans; polyethylene glycol-polypropylene glycol block copolymers, such as Pluronic.RTM., and Pluronic R.RTM. surfactants from BASF; Tetronic.RTM. and Tetronic R.RTM. surfactants from BASF, ethoxylated branched aliphatic diols such as Surfynol.RTM. surfactants from Air Products; ethoxylated aliphatic alcohols and carboxylic acids; polyethylene glycol diesters of fatty acids; and mixtures thereof.

Preferred anionic surfactants are dialkyl sulfosuccinate, alkylarylsulfonate, fatty alcohol sulfate, paraffin sulfonate, alkyl sarcosinate, alkyl isethionate salts having suitable cations, e.g., sodium, potassium, alkanol ammonium, etc., and mixtures thereof. Preferred amphoteric surfactants are the betaines.

Also preferred are emulsifiers that have the hydrophilic groups situated between hydrophobic chains, such as Pluronic R.RTM. surfactant, Surfynol surfactants, polyethylene glycol diesters of fatty acids, fatty acid esters of ethoxylated sorbitans, dialkyl sulfosuccinate, di(C.sub.8 -C.sub.12 alkyl)di(C1-C2 alkyl)ammonium halides, and mixtures thereof; or emulsifiers which have the hydrophobic chains situated between hydrophilic groups, such as Pluronic surfactants; and mixtures thereof. Mixtures of these emulsifiers are also preferred.

The emulsifier is used in the compositions at a level of from about 0.05% to about 1%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight of the composition. If a hydrophobic antimicrobial agent is included, more emulsifier should be included, typically from about 0.75% to about 1%, by weight of the composition.

Emulsion concentrates may also be used. Emulsion concentrates are preformed emulsions comprising an emulsifier and an oil phase and an aqueous phase. An example of an emulsion concentrate useful in the present invention is Dow Corning.RTM. 365, 35% Dimethicone Emulsion.

Hydrophobic Antibacterial Agents

Optionally, the compositions of the present methods may include hydrophobic antibacterial compounds to help destroy and/or control the amount of bacteria present on the skin, which aids in body odor control.

Hydrophobic antibacterials useful in the present invention include triclosan, triclocarbon, eucalyptol, menthol, methylsalicylate, thymol, and mixtures thereof. Preferered are triclosan and triclocarbon.

When included in the composition of the present invention, the hydrophobic antibacterials may be at a level of from about 0.1% to about 1.5% and preferably from about 0.1% to about 0.3%, by weight of the composition.

Aqueous Carrier

The cyclodextrins useful in the methods of the present invention should be solubilized in and dispersed in an aqueous carrier. The dilute aqueous solution provides the maximum separation of cyclodextrin molecules on the skin and maximizes the chance that an odor molecule will interact with a cyclodextrin molecule. An aqueous carrier is also beneficial in that it provides a clean, convenient means for applying the cyclodextrin to the desired skin sites. Additionally, an aqueous carrier may impart a degree of cleaning power in and of itself via washing away skin cell debris and skin secretions which bacteria feed upon, as well as the bacteria themselves.

The term "aqueous carrier", as used herein, means water and/or any water soluble materials suitable for use as solvents. Any water may be used, such as distilled, deionized, or tap water. Water not only serves as the liquid carrier for the cyclodextrins, but it also facilitates the complexation reaction between the cyclodextrin molecules and any malodorous molecules that are on the skin site when the composition is applied.

The aqueous carrier of the present invention will typically comprise from about 80% to about 98% of the present invention's composition. Preferably the composition of the present invention comprises the aqueous carrier at from about 85% to about 95%, by weight of the composition.

Antimicrobial Preservative

The compositions may optionally but preferably contain solubilized, mild, water-soluble, antimicrobial preservatives which are effective for inhibiting and/or regulating microbial growth in the composition. Contamination of the compositions of the present invention by microorganisms and subsequent microbial growth can result in unsightly or malodorous compositions. Similarly, microorganisms are typically found in cyclodextrin supplies and their growth in aqueous solutions is possible. The inclusion of the antimicrobial preservatives aids in increasing storage stability of the composition of the present invention. In the present invention, the water-soluble antimicrobial preservative is included at an effective amount. The phrase "effective amount" of water-soluble antimicrobial preservative as used herein means a level sufficient to prevent spoilage, or prevent growth of microorganisms inadvertently added to the composition, for a specific period of time.

Antimicrobial preservatives useful in the present invention include biocidal and biostatic compounds (substances that kill microorganisms and/or regulate the growth of microorganisms). Suitable antimicrobial preservatives have a solubility of 0.3% or greater. In addition, suitable preservatives are those which can come into contact with skin without high irritation potential. Preferred antimicrobial preservatives are those that are water-soluble and are effective at low levels because the water insoluble organic preservatives can form inclusion complexes with the cyclodextrin molecules and compete with the malodorous molecules for the cyclodextrin cavities, thus rendering the cyclodextrins ineffective as odor controlling actives. Preservatives suitable for use in the present compositions are fully described in The Theory and Practice of Industrial Pharmacy, by Lachman, Lieberman, Kanig, 3rd. Edition, pages 466-467 and 520-522 (1986), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,165, to Pilosof et al., issued Jul. 9, 1996, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

It is preferable to use a broad spectrum preservative such as one that is effective both on bacteria (both gram positive and gram negative) and fungi. A limited spectrum preservative such as one that is only effective on a single group of microorganisms, for example fungi, can be used in combination with a broad spectrum preservative or other limited spectrum preservatives with complimentary and/or supplementary activity. A mixture of broad spectrum preservatives can also be used.

Preferred water-soluble preservatives include the following: sodium hydroxymethylglycinate (i.e., Suttocide.RTM. A. from Sutton Labs, Chatham, N.J.); sodium benzoate; cyclic organic nitrogen compounds including imidazolidinedione compounds (such as dimethyloldimethylhydantoin i.e., Glydant.RTM. Plus from Lonza, diazolidinyl urea and imidazolidinyl urea) and polymethoxy bicyclic oxazolidine; phenyl and phenoxy compounds including benzyl alcohol, 2-phenoxyethanol and hexamidine isethionate; quaternary ammonium compounds including polyhexamethylene biguanide; low molecular weight aldehydes including formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde; halogenated compounds including chlorhexidine, chlorobutanol, and dibromopropamidine; and mixtures thereof.

In order to reserve most of the cyclodextrins for odor control, the minimal amount of effective preservative should be used. Preferred levels of preservative are from about 0.0001% to about 2%, more preferably from about 0.0002% to about 1%, most preferably from about 0.01% to about 0.5%, by weight of the composition.

pH

Aqueous compositions of the present invention should have a pH of from about 3 to about 10, preferably from about 3.5 to about 8, more preferably from about 3.5 to about 6. Some conventional buffering agents are known in the prior art which may be used to adjust the pH to the desired level if necessary. For example, combinations of salts and acids, such as the following examples: sodium lactate, sodium citrate, potassium phosphate, lactic acid, citric acid, and phosphoric acid are useful. Some of the effectiveness of these ingredients may be lost as they complex with the cyclodextrin, so care is taken in formulating to adjust for that. Other optional buffers appear in The Theory and Practice of Industrial Pharmacy, Lachman, Lieberman and Kanig, Third Edition, incorporated herein by reference.

Low-Molecular Weight Polyols

The compositions may also optionally comprise low molecular weight polyols. The phrase "low molecular weight polyols", as used herein, refers to linear organic compounds with more than one alcohol functional group per molecule wherein the molecular weight is less than about 95. Low molecular weight polyols with relatively high boiling points, as compared to water, such as propylene glycol and glycerol are preferred ingredients for improving odor control performance of the composition of the present invention. Not to be bound by theory, it is believed that the incorporation of a small amount of low molecular weight glycols into the composition of the present invention enhances the formation of the cyclodextrin inclusion complexes as the skin dries.

It is believed that the polyols' ability to remain on the skin for a longer period of time than water, as the skin dries allows it to form ternary complexes with the cyclodextrin and some malodorous molecules. The addition of the glycols is believed to fill up void space in the cyclodextrin cavity that is unable to be filled by some malodor molecules of relatively smaller sizes. Preferably the glycol used is propylene glycol. Cyclodextrins prepared by processes that result in a level of such polyols are highly desirable, since they can be used without removal of the polyols.

Optimally, the low molecular weight polyols will be added at a level effective to assist in complex formation without significantly reducing available cyclodextrin capacity to absorb the malodor molecules having larger sizes. Typically, low molecular weight polyols are added to the composition of the present invention at a level of from about 0.01% to about 1%, by weight of the composition, preferably from about 0.02% to about 0.5%, more preferably from about 0.03% to about 0.3%, by weight of the composition.

Other Components

The compositions can also optionally contain adjunct odor-controlling materials, such as zinc salts, water-soluble cationic polymers, water-soluble anionic polymers, water-soluble carbonate salts, water-soluble bicarbonate salts, zeolites, and activated carbon; chelating agents; colorants; and/or antiperspirants.

Optionally, but highly preferred, the present invention can include zinc salts for added odor absorption and/or antimicrobial benefit for the cyclodextrin solution. Zinc compounds have been used most often for their ability to ameliorate malodor, e.g., in mouth wash products, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,325,939, issued Apr. 20, 1982 and 4,469,674, issued Sep. 4, 1983, to N. B. Shah, et al., both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Highly-ionized and water soluble zinc salts, such as zinc chloride, provide the best source of zinc ions. The zinc salt, zinc phenolsulfonate, is preferred for use in the skin composition of the present invention; although others may also fall within the scope of the present invention. However, care must be taken in selecting zinc salts, as well as their levels, since some may be irritants to the skin and therefore are not preferred for use in the present invention.

These zinc salts aid in absorbing low molecular weight amine and sulfur-containing compounds. Low molecular weight amines and/or low molecular weight sulfur-containing materials such as sulfide and mercaptans; are components of many types of malodors such as food odors (garlic, onion), breath odor, urine odors, and particularly body/perspiration odor.

When zinc salts are added to the composition of the present invention they are typically present at a level of from about 0.1% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.2% to about 8%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 5%, by weight of the composition.

Some water-soluble polymers such as water-soluble cationic polymer and water-soluble anionic polymers can be used in the composition of the present invention to provide additional odor control benefits. Water-soluble cationic polymers such as those containing amino functionalities, amido functionalities, and mixtures thereof, are useful in the present invention to control certain acid-type odors. Water-soluble anionic polymers such as polyacrylic acids and their water-soluble salts are useful in the present invention to control certain amine-type odors. Preferred polyacrylic acids and their alkali metal salts have an average molecular weight of less than about 20,000, more preferably less than 5,000. Polymers containing sulfonic acid groups, phosphoric acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, and their water-soluble salts, and mixtures thereof, and mixtures with carboxylic acid and carboxylate groups, are also suitable.

Water-soluble polymers containing both cationic and anionic functionalities are also suitable. Examples of these polymers are given in U.S. Pat. No. 4,909,986, issued Mar. 20, 1990, to N. Kobayashi and A. Kawazoe, incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety. Another example of water-soluble polymers containing both cationic and anionic functionalities is a copolymer of dimethyldiallyl ammonium chloride and acrylic acid, commercially available under the trade name Merquat 280.RTM. from Calgon.

While the aforementioned water soluble polymers are useful in the present invention, when using these materials, care must be taken to insure no residual acrylic acid is present due to safety concerns associated with the presence of acrylic acid.

Water-soluble alkali metal carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts, such as sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, and mixtures thereof can be added to the composition of the present invention in order to help to control certain acid-type odors. Preferred salts are sodium carbonate monohydrate, potassium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof. When these salts are added to the composition of the present invention, they are typically present at a level of from about 0.1% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.2% to about 3%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 2%, by weight of the composition. When these salts are added to the composition of the present invention, it is preferred that incompatible metal salts not be present in the invention. Preferably, when these salts are used, the composition should be essentially free of zinc and other incompatible metal ions, e.g., Ca, Fe, etc. which form water-insoluble salts.

Amine acid chelating agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) can optionally be added to the composition of the present invention in order to enhance the activity of the water-soluble, antimicrobial preservative. When a chelating agent is added to the composition of the present invention, it is typically present at a level of from about 0.01% to about 0.3%, preferably from about 0.05% to about 0.2% by weight of the composition. It is important that the composition of the present invention be essentially free of any added metal ions that can be chelated by any chelating agent that is added to the composition of the present invention because such metal ions complex with, and deactivate, the chelating agents.

Zeolites can also be used in the present invention. A preferred class of zeolites are characterized as "intermediate" silicate/aluminate zeolites. The intermediate zeolites are characterized by SiO.sub.2 /AlO.sub.2 molar ratios of less than about 10. Preferably the molar ratio of SiO.sub.2 /AlO.sub.2 ranges from about 2 to about 10. The intermediate zeolites have an advantage over the "high" zeolites. The intermediate zeolites have a higher affinity for amine-type odors, they are more weight efficient for odor absorption because they have a larger surface area, and they are more moisture tolerant and retain more of their odor absorbing capacity in water than the high zeolites. A wide variety of intermediate zeolites suitable for use herein are commercially available as Valfor.RTM. CP301-68, Valfor.RTM. 300-63, Valfor.RTM. CP300-35, and Valfor.RTM. CP300-56, available from PQ Corporation, and the CBV100.RTM. series of zeolites from Conteka.

Zeolite materials marketed under the trade name ABSCENTS.RTM. and Smellrite.RTM., available from The Union Carbide Corporation and UOP are also preferred. These materials are typically available as a white powder in the 3-5 micron particle size range. Such materials are preferred over the intermediate zeolites for control of sulfur-containing odors, e.g., thiols, mercaptans. Zeolites are explained more fully in U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,628, to Trihn et al., issued Jul. 4, 1995, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The carbon material suitable for use in the present invention is the material well known in commercial practice as an absorbent for organic molecules and/or for air purification purposes. Often, such carbon material is referred to as "activated" carbon or "activated" charcoal. Such carbon is available from commercial sources under such trade names as; Calgon-Type CPG.RTM.; Type PCB.RTM.; Type SGL.RTM.; Type CAL.RTM.; and Type OL.RTM..

Colorants and dyes can be optionally added to the odor absorbing compositions for visual appeal and performance impression. When colorants are used, care must be taken in the selection of choosing dyes that will not color skin. Preferred colorants for use in the present compositions are highly water-soluble dyes, e.g., acid blue 3, acid blue 104, acid green 1, acid green 25, acid yellow 3, acid yellow 73 sodium salt, D&C green No. 5, 6 & 8, D&C yellow No. 7, 8, 10 & 11, D&C violet No. 2, FD&C blue No. 1 & 2, FD&C green No. 3, FD&C yellow No. 5 & 6, and mixtures thereof.

Optionally, the present skin composition may also comprise known antiperspirants and/or other known deodorant compositions not explicitly disclosed previously. Examples of antiperspirants appropriate for aqueous solutions include aluminum-zirconium tetrachlorohydrex glycine complex, aluminum-zirconium pentachlorohydrate, aluminum sesquichlorohydrate, or aluminum chlorhydrate and mixtures thereof.

Process Of Making Compositions

The compositions used in the present method may be prepared by oil-in-water emulsion techniques such as are commonly known in the art. Examples of such techniques are described in Remington's Pharmaceutical Science, Eighteenth Edition, pp. 304-306, 1990, incorporated herein by reference. The compositions of the present method also may be prepared by a process comprising the steps of: making a mixture by mixing an emulsifier and an oil phase until homogenous and adding an aqueous phase with mixing until the mixture is homogenous. Making a solution by adding cyclodextrin with an aqueous phase with mixing until the cyclodextrin dissolves. Making a second mixture by mixing the solution with the mixture until the second mixture is homogenous. Where desired, the second mixture may be further diluted by adding an aqueous phase with mixing until homogenous. Where hydrophobic antimicrobials also comprise the compositions, the process of making the mixture in the first step additionally comprises adding a premix with mixing to the emulsifier and the oil phase until homogenous, wherein the premix is prepared by mixing a hydrophobic antimicrobial with an emulsifier until the premix is homogenous. The term "homogenous", as used herein, means a uniformly dispersed solution. Homogeneity is indicated by a composition which is substantially smooth, lump-free and uniform in appearance. A stable emulsion remains homogeneous over a given period which is determined by the required shelf life of the composition.

As an alternative to making the mixture by mixing an emulsifier, an oil phase, and an aqueous phase; an emulsion concentrate comprising an emulsifier, an oil phase, and a minimal amount of aqueous carrier may be used. Emulsion concentrates useful in the present invention will be from about a 3-fold to about a 20-fold concentrate. The concentrated emulsion may then be diluted by adding aqueous carrier followed by addition of the remaining ingredients as discussed above. A suitable method of forming an emulsion concentrate is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,043,155, to Puchalski et. al, issued Aug. 27, 1991. An example of an emulsion concentrate useful in the present invention is Dow Corning.RTM. 365, 35% Dimethicone Emulsion.

Other variations of processes of making the compositions which are useful include making the mixture in one step by addition and mixing of each of the ingredients. Alternatively, less than all of the ingredients may be pre-combined for subsequent combination with other ingredients or with other pre-combined ingredients to form the composition.

Equipment suitable for forming the mixtures and emulsion may be selected from those known in the art or which become known in the art. For example, suitable apparatii include dual propeller blade mixers. A turbine mixer and an in-line homogenizer using tandem rotor-stators, such as described in the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,043,155, may also be used.

The resultant emulsion containing the ingredients in their total amounts has a preferred viscosity at room temperature (i.e., 20.degree.-25.degree. C.) in the range of from about 10 to about 200 centipoise more preferably from about 15 to about 150 centipoise; most preferably from about 20 to about 100 centipoise.

Since the compositions of the present method are to be applied directly to the skin and/or hair, various applicators are useful for delivering the compositions to the entire body for maximum odor control. For example, the compositions are preferably deposited on a paper product such as a wipe which later is contacted with the skin to transfer the composition to the skin.

Any wipe structures and/or methods of making the wipe structures commonly known in the art may be used in the compositions of the present method. The wipe comprises a flexible dispensing means. The term "flexible dispensing means", as used herein, includes papers, cloths, non-wovens, films, foams, sponges, rollers, pads, tissues, cotton balls, and the like. Preferred wipe substrates comprise a porous material, such as the non-woven substrates, foams, or sponges, which are capable of holding the composition within the pores of the substrates. Examples of cellulosic non-wovens particularly useful and economic in the present invention are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,191,609, Trokhan, issued Mar. 4, 1980. Further description of useful wipes and methods of making said wipes are found in World Patent 95/17175, to Mitra et. al, publication date of Jun. 29, 1995. Both references are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Techniques for combining the wipe substrates with the composition of the present method are well known in the art. Examples of common methods of combining the composition to the wipe substrate may involve coating, immersing, dipping, or spraying, the wipe substrate with the composition of the present invention. The composition is added to the wipe substrate at level sufficient to provide the desired odor control and/or other desired skin benefits of the present invention. A convenient method of combining the composition of the present invention with the chosen substrate is to place the substrate inside an open package which will ultimately house the finished product until use. The composition is poured onto the substrate and allowed to distribute throughout. It is preferred that the homogenous composition is poured onto each wipe individually rather than onto a stack of wipes. The package is then closed and the wipes ready for use.

The composition of the present invention method can also be delivered as a liquid via a spray dispenser or a bottle. Preferred is a manually activated spray dispenser to avoid the use of aerosols which may be irritating to sensitive areas of the body. Spray dispensers useful in the present invention are described more fully in U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,165 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The following non-limiting examples illustrate the formulations and methods of use of the present invention.

Examples I, II, and III

______________________________________ Example I Example II Example IIIIngredients Wt. % Wt % Wt %______________________________________Dow Corning .RTM. 365, 11.42 5.71 2.8635% DimethiconeEmulsionPropylene glycol 1 1Citric acid 0.03 0.03 0.03Disodium phosphate 0.02 0.02 0.02Suttocide .RTM. A. 0.5 0.25Sodium Benzoate 0.1Glydant Plus .RTM. 0.3Tetrasodium EDTA 0.1Hydroxy propyl beta 1 1.5 0.5cyclodextrinZinc phenolsulfonate 1.01 1.01Polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated 0.75castor oilTriclosan 0.25Distilled Water Balance Balance Balance______________________________________

Prepare Example I as follows: Prepare a premix by mixing an amount of water equal to about 11.42% of the total formula weight with the Dow dimethicone emulsion mixture. Prepare an aqueous solution by mixing an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight with propylene glycol, citric acid, disodium phosphate, tetrasodium EDTA and zinc phenolsulfonate until all are dissolved. Prepare a second aqueous solution by mixing an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight with hydroxy propyl beta cyclodextrin until dissolved. Prepare a mixture by combining the aqueous solution with the premix with mixing until homogenous. Prepare a second mixture by combining remaining water of the total formula with the mixture and mixing until homogenous. Prepare a third mixture by combining the second aqueous solution with the second mixture with mixing until homogenous. Combine Glydant Plus.RTM. with the third mixture with mixing until homogeneity is achieved and the Glydant Plus.RTM. is dissolved.

Prepare Example II as follows: Prepare a premix by mixing triclosan with polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated castor oil over low heat, such as a hot plate set on low, until the triclosan is dissolved, and then combine with Dow Coming.RTM. 365, 35% Dimethicone Emulsion with mixing until homogenous. Prepare a mixture by adding an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight to the premix with mixing until homogenous. Prepare an aqueous solution by adding propylene glycol, citric acid, disodium phosphate, tetrasodium EDTA and zinc phenolsulfonatean to an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight with mixing until all are dissolved. Prepare a second aqueous solution by adding hydroxy propyl beta cyclodextrin to an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight with mixing until the hydroxy propyl beta cyclodextrin is dissolved. Prepare a second mixture by mixing the aqueous solution with the mixture until homogenous, and then adding remaining water of the total formula weight with mixing until homogenous. Prepare a third mixture by adding the second aqueous solution to the second mixture with mixing until homogenous. Add Glydant Plus.RTM. to the third mixture with mixing until the Glydant Plus.RTM. is dissolved and the mixture is homogenous.

Prepare Example III as follows: Prepare a premix by mixing an amount of water equal to about 2.86% of the total formula weight with Dow Coming.RTM. 365, 35% Dimethicone Emulsion until homogenous. Prepare an aqueous solution by adding propylene glycol, citric acid, disodium phosphate, and tetrasodium EDTA to an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight with mixing until all are dissolved. Prepare a second aqueous solution by adding hydroxy propyl beta cyclodextrin to an amount of water equal to about 5.71% of the total formula weight with mixing until the hydroxy propyl beta cyclodextrin is dissolved. Prepare a mixture by adding the aqueous solution to the premix, and then add in remaining water of the total formula with mixing until homogenous. Prepare a second mixture by adding the second aqueous solution to the mixture with mixing until homogenous. Add Glydant Plus.RTM. to the second mixture with mixing until homogeneous.

Preparation for Application to Skin:

The solutions of the present invention, such as those formed from the examples may be loaded onto a wipe or poured into a spray device or poured directly onto the skin or cloth of the user's choosing for convenient application to the skin.

To prepare wipes: Place dry fabric or wipe substance inside an open package which will ultimately contain the finished product. Where the composition comprises dimethicone, the mixture should once again be mixed vigorously to obtain a homogenous solution. Pour the composition onto the fabric to distribute throughout. Close the package for storage until consumer use.

To prepare spray: Pour the composition into the selected spray package. Close the package for storage until consumer use.

Example IV

A man is cooking fish and a spicy sauce requiring the dicing of garlic, onions, and various peppers. He is told that his hands and hair smell of these food odors and he wants to remove these odors from his body. The man rubs his hands and hair with wipes containing the composition in Example I. The man notices less odor after using the wipes.

Example V

A woman finds that after she smokes a cigarette during a break at work, her hands and face smell of smoke and tobacco. She applies the composition from Example II via a hand-held trigger-spray bottle. She sprays the composition on her face and hands and the composition removes the residual smoke and tobacco odors which she found so disagreeable. This woman notices less odor and feels more comfortable returning to her desk after using the spray.

Example VI

A man, on his way to an important meeting, stops to buy gasoline for his car. As he is filing the gas tank, gasoline splashes on his hands. The man wipes his hands on a paper towel but the gasoline odor remains on his hands. The man removes a small bottle from his gym bag which contains the composition of Example III. He opens the bottle and pours some of the composition on his hands. He then smells his hands and notices that the gasoline odor is no longer present.

Claims

1. A method of controlling environmental malodors on human skin comprising the application to human skin of a composition comprising:

a. from about 0.1% to about 5%, by weight of the composition, of solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin;

b. an aqueous carrier;

c. from about 0.1% to about 36%, by weight of the composition, of an oil phase selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and skin protectants; and

d. an emulsifier.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the composition is deposited on a wipe which comprises a flexible dispensing means.

3. The method of claim 2 wherein the composition further comprises one or more water-soluble antimicrobial preservatives.

4. The method of claim 3 wherein the water-soluble antimicrobial preservative is sodium hydroxymethylglycinate.

5. The method of claim 4 wherein the composition further comprises one or more optional components selected from the group consisting of low molecular weight polyols; hydrophobic antimicrobials; zinc salts; water-soluble polymers; soluble carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts; chelating agents; zeolites; activated carbon; and mixtures thereof.

6. A method of controlling environmental malodors on human skin comprising the application to human skin of a composition comprising:

a. from about 0.1% to about 5%, by weight of the composition, of solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin;

b. an aqueous carrier;

c. from about 0.1% to about 36%, by weight of the composition, of an oil phase selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and skin protectants;

d. an emulsifier; and

e. a hydrophobic antimicrobial.

7. The composition according to claim 6 wherein the hydrophobic antimicrobial is selected from the group consisting of triclosan, triclocarbon, eucalyptol, menthol, methylsalicylate, and thymol; and is present at a level of from about 0.1% to about 1.5% by weight of the composition.

8. The method of claim 7 wherein the composition further comprises one or more optional components selected from the group consisting of low molecular weight polyols; water-soluble antimicrobial preservatives; zinc salts; water-soluble polymers; soluble carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts; chelating agents; zeolites; activated carbon; and mixtures thereof.

9. The method of claim 8 wherein the composition is deposited on a wipe which comprises a flexible dispensing means.

10. The method of claim 8 wherein the composition is delivered as a liquid by a spray bottle.

11. The method of claim 6 wherein the composition further comprises one or more water-soluble antimicrobial preservatives.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein the water-soluble antimicrobial preservative is sodium hydroxymethylglycinate.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein the composition is deposited on a wipe which comprises a flexible dispensing means.