GB2563283A

GB2563283A - Cream preparing kit

Info

Publication number: GB2563283A
Application number: GB1709234.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Ceraulo Ella-Louise; Jane Hermitage Jennifer; Stuart Pearce Ian; Ing Chuan Daly John; Thomas Joy; Robert Smith Liam; Anthony Barker Trevor
Original assignee: Cornelius Group PLC
Current assignee: Cornelius Group PLC
Priority date: 2017-06-09
Filing date: 2017-06-09
Publication date: 2018-12-12
Also published as: GB201709234D0

Abstract

A cream preparing kit that includes a cream preparing device and an anhydrous cream base formulation. The anhydrous cream base formulation includes at least one gelling agent and at least one emollient, and contains less than 5% water by weight of the formulation. The cream preparing device has comprising a housing that comprises a reservoir for containing the anhydrous cream base formulation. The housing having reservoir access means through which water can be supplied into the reservoir and reconstitute the anhydrous cream base formulation to form a cream within the reservoir. The cream preparing device has dispensing means that dispenses the cream from the reservoir. Preferably the device also contains a means of agitation which may be a blade or steel or ceramic balls. Anhydrous cream base formulations and a method for preparing creams using such formulations are also disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the gelling agent is Jeesperse and the emollient is isopropyl myristate and the means of agitation within the preparation device is a stainless steel ball.

Description

CREAM PREPARING KIT

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a kit for preparing creams, more specifically a kit for preparing water-based skins cream as needed in or away from home by simply adding water. The present invention also relates to an anhydrous cream base formulation and a method of preparing a cream from the anhydrous cream base formulation.

Background of the Invention A wide variety of creams are available for improving the cosmetic appearance of skin, protecting skin from harmful solar radiation or for topically applying certain medicaments. The creams are often water-based formulations that are prepared on an industrial scale and packaged in liquid or semi-liquid form ready for use but are generally stored, distributed and displayed for purchase by consumers and used at some later date. Such creams often comprise 60 to 95% water by weight.

Water however is becoming a precious commodity, especially in certain parts of the world.

Many consumers have come to be aware of this and wish to play their part in conserving it or at least to have more control over what water is used to prepare the products that they use. These and other consumers may also prefer to use artisanal or freshly-made products, perhaps allowing them to be involved in the preparation of the cream and/or to be able to customize the cream to their current but changing needs. The ability to be able to customize cream products can be especially important to those using cosmeceutical products, e.g. for treating skin following surgery. There are instances in which the presence of water can give rise to some undesirable effects. Water based products are often vulnerable to microbial attack, requiring preservation. Water can negatively affect the stability of some materials with a reduction in their efficacy over time, for example retinol (aka Vitamin Ai) and probiotics. Storing a formulation in a water free state and reconstituting it as needed ensures the efficacy and freshness of the product. For example, this concept is used to allow long term storage of medications like liquid antibiotics which can be stored in powder form and mixed as required.

United States patent application US 2014/0275289 (Concept Labs) discloses an anhydrous concentrate comprising a polymer, a binding agent, a surfactant and oil soluble materials. The anhydrous concentrate forms part of kit for making a water-based consumer product that contains oil soluble materials, for example topical cosmetic products and car waxes.

European patent application EP 1905484 A1 (Unilever) discloses a method of providing a topical base composition for use in the preparation of a cosmetic composition. The method involves providing a cosmetic container, providing in the container a substantially anhydrous mixture of a fatty acid material having a melting point in the range of 40°C to 80°C and a nonionic surfactant, adding sufficient heated water to the container so that substantially all of the fatty acid material is solubilised to provide a fatty acid/nonionic surfactant base mixture, and agitating the contents of the container to form a cream or lotion base. The heated water is hot e.g. boiled water or water that has been heated by microwave radiation or ultrasound. EP 1905484 A1 also discloses an anhydrous composition in the form of a tablet, powder or amorphous mass for use in this method.

International patent application US 2003/097003 A1 (Unilever) discloses a method of providing a topical base composition for use in the preparation of skin care compositions. The method involves providing a mixture of fatty acid and an organic base to form a fatty acid soap, and providing sufficient water based composition at a temperature up to 100 °C such that substantially all of the fatty acid is dispersed or solubilized. In certain embodiments skin creams are prepared by mixing and melting various anhydrous ingredients at 80 °C, cooling the mixture to form a powder, adding water at room temperature and mixing for 1 to 2 minutes with a spatula to form smooth, homogenous skin creams.

International patent application WO 2003/045348 A1 (Unilever) discloses a method of providing a topical base composition for use in the preparation of skin care compositions. The method involves providing a cosmetic container, providing in the container a fatty acid material and other components necessary to form an anhydrous fatty acid soap material, providing sufficient heated water to the container to the fatty acid material is solubilised to provide a fatty acid soap material, and agitating the contents of the container to form a cream or lotion base. In certain embodiments skin creams are prepared by using a 50:50 blend of stearic and palmitic acids as the fatty acid material and forming a tablet or powder. To prepare a base material for use in topical cosmetic compositions, boiling water is added to a vial containing the tablet or powder, mixed by hand or mechanically, cooled for 3 to 5 minutes at ambient temperature or in a refrigerator.

There is therefore a need for a cream preparing kit that consumers can use to prepare a water-based cream on demand by simply adding water to an anhydrous cream base formulation and which overcomes some or all of the shortcomings of the known kits or methods, or at least provides a useful alternative to them.

The present invention addresses that need.

Statement of the invention

In a first aspect, the present invention provides a cream preparing kit comprising a cream preparing device and an anhydrous cream base formulation; said anhydrous cream base formulation comprising at least one gelling agent and at least one emollient, and containing less than 5% water by weight of the formulation; said cream preparing device comprising a housing that comprises a reservoir for containing the anhydrous cream base formulation; said housing having reservoir access means through which water can be supplied into the reservoir and reconstitute the anhydrous cream base formulation to form a cream within the reservoir; said cream preparing device having dispensing means that dispenses the cream from the reservoir.

Preferably the cream preparing kit further comprises agitation means that assists in mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water within the reservoir.

Preferably the housing has means through which agitation means can be supplied into the reservoir.

Preferably the agitation means comprises at least one shearing mixing element.

Preferably the agitation means comprises a plurality of stainless steel or ceramic balls or beads.

Preferably the agitation means comprises a slidable blade mechanism.

Preferably the at least one gelling agent of the anhydrous cream base formulation is selected from acrylic polymers, cellulosics, gums, polyamides, polyquaterniums and clays.

Preferably the at least one gelling agent is selected from sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide and glyceryl polyacrylate.

Preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 1 to 30 weight % of the gelling agent(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation.

Preferably the at least one emollient of the anhydrous cream base formulation is selected from esters, silicones, alkanes, mineral/petrochemical oils, plant oils and fatty alcohols.

Preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 60 to 99 weight % of the emollient(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation.

Preferably the cream preparing further comprises a concentrate for mixing with the anhydrous cream base formulation to provide a customised cream.

Preferably the addition of the concentrate provides to the anhydrous cream base formulation provides a moisturising cream, a pigmenting cream, a sun protection cream, an anti-aging cream, an anti-wrinkle cream, a tensing cream, anti-acne cream, an anti-eczema cream, a skin peeling cream, a plumping cream, a mattifying cream, a pore minimising cream, a sweat reducing cream, a probiotic cream or an anti-microbial cream.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides an anhydrous cream base formulation, the cream base formulation comprises: a) at least one gelling agent; and b) at least one hydrophobic emollient; said anhydrous cream base formulation containing less than 5% water by weight of the formulation.

Preferably the gelling agent is an acrylic polymer such as sodium polyacrylate.

Preferably the hydrophobic emollient is dicaprylyl carbonate.

In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for preparing a cream, said method comprising the steps of: a) providing an aforesaid anhydrous cream base formulation; b) adding water; and c) mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water to form the cream.

Terms

Terms used in the specification have the following meanings:

The term "agitation means" as used herein means something that assists in mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water within the reservoir. Agitation means can take various forms including one or more shearing mixing elements, such as one or more mixing balls and/or mixing beads e.g. one or more stainless steel or ceramic balls or beads. Suitable agitation means can also be suitability provided as at least one movable element, for example a slidable spatula-like blade.

The term "anhydrous" as used herein means containing no or at least substantially no water, i.e. less than 5% water by weight, preferably less than 2% water by weight, more preferably than 1% water by weight, and even more preferably less than 0.5% water by weight. The anhydrous cream base formulation can for example be in the form of a liquid or gel and it may be clear or opaque in appearance. The anhydrous cream base formulation is mixed with water to form a cream.

The term "customised cream" as used herein means a cream that has been formulated for a specific purpose, for example by admixing a concentrate to the anhydrous cream base formulation, before, during or after admixing to form the desired cream. One skilled in the art would appreciate that a cream can be customised for a wide variety of purposes. Preferred customised creams include moisturising creams, pigmenting creams, sun protection creams, anti-aging creams, anti-wrinkle cream, tensing/firming creams, anti-acne creams, anti-eczema creams, skin peeling creams, plumping creams, mattifying creams, pore minimising creams, sweat reducing creams, probiotic creams and anti-microbial creams.

The term "gelling agent" as used herein means a material capable of altering the viscosity of a solvent by forming a gel. Suitable gelling agents include acrylic polymers (e.g. sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide and glyceryl polyacrylate), cellulosics (e.g. carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose and cellulose), gums (e.g. xanthan gum), polyamides, polyquaterniums (e.g. poly(2-methacryloxyethyltrimethylammonium chloride) aka Polyquaternium-37), clays (natural or modified including e.g. bentonites, laponites, smectites, and hectorites, including disteardimonium hectorite). Preferred gelling agents include acrylic polymers, especially sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide and glyceryl polyacrylate, most especially sodium polyacrylate.

The term "emollient" as used herein means a substance that softens the external layers of human skin. It is for example a non-water-miscible liquid or gel that provides the internal or external phase of the emulsion that is formed by the cream forming kit of the present invention. Suitable hydrophobic emollients include esters, silicones, alkanes, mineral oils, plant oils and fatty alcohols. Preferred hydrophobic emollients include dicapryiyl carbonate, isopropyl myristate and jojoba oil, especially dicapryiyl carbonate.

The term "hydrophobic" as used herein means water-repelling.

The term "shearing mixing element" as used herein means a component that when agitated within a fluid increases the shearing forces within the fluid to facilitate thorough and substantially uniform mixing. For example shaking the anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention and water within the reservoir of the cream preparing device of the cream preparing kit of the present invention with at least one shearing mixing element admixed enhances the agitation of the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water in a manner that promotes the homogeneity and physical stability of the resulting cream. The at least one shearing mixing element is preferably of a size, form and shape that is optimal for the shape, form and volume of the reservoir of the cream preparing device i.e. the at least one shearing mixing element should be able to move freely within the reservoir as the cream preparing device is shaken. Preferably a plurality of shearing mixing elements are provided. Preferred shearing mixing elements include mixing balls and/or mixing beads e.g. stainless steel or ceramic balls or beads.

Other than in the operating examples, or where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients used herein are to be understood as modified in all instances by the term "about".

Throughout this specification and in the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other stated integer or group of integers.

Brief description of the Drawings

The present application includes the accompany drawings. In the drawings:

Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a cream preparing kit of the present invention.

Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section of the cream preparing device that is shown in Figure 1.

Detailed description of the invention

The present invention provides a cream preparing kit.

In broad terms the cream preparing kit of the present invention comprises a cream preparing device and an anhydrous cream base formulation.

The cream base formulation comprises at least one gelling agent and at least one emollient. The cream base formulation is anhydrous, which for present purposes means it contains less than 5% water by weight of the formulation. The composition of the cream base formulation and its preparation is described in more detail below.

The use of an anhydrous cream base formulation provides an opportunity for consumers and authorised manufacturers to save water and reduce waste. Manufactures can waste water if they make water-based products that have a limited shelf life. It is often not resource-efficient to transport water-based products to consumers when the consumers have reliable sources of good quality water readily accessible to them.

The cream preparing device comprises a housing that comprises a reservoir for containing the anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention and agitation means. The housing of the cream preparing device has reservoir access means through which water can be supplied into the reservoir and reconstitute the anhydrous cream base formulation to form a cream within the reservoir. The cream preparing device has dispensing means that dispenses the cream from the reservoir. The construction of the cream preparing device is described in more detail below.

It is an important feature of the present invention that a cream can be formed as and when needed. This could be at home, for example as part of a morning and/or evening treatment regimen. This could be away from home, for example in a hotel, on an airplane or even on the beach. It is an important aspect of the convenience of the invention that the consumer can prepare a cream from the anhydrous cream base formulation in a minimum of time, ideally within seconds, with a minimum of effort, e.g. no blenders, whisks, heating or washing up. Simply creating an aesthetically-pleasing and smooth-feeling cream on demand for immediate use.

The cream is formed and ready to use substantially instantaneously, which is convenient for consumers. The cream is also stable so the consumer does not need to use all of the cream as soon as it has been prepared else waste unused cream. The cream once prepared can be used for multiple applications. The storage life of the cream will however depend on the specific formulation used and the storage conditions.

The cream preparing kit of the present invention preferably has agitation means that assists in mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water within the reservoir.

Agitation means can take various forms. However as a useful aspect of the invention is the ability form a cream as and when needed, the agitation means should ideally provide quick, easy but effective mixing at ambient temperature using a minimum of machinery. Suitable agitation means can be suitability provided in the container in which the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water are mixed, for example as one or more shearing mixing elements, such as one or more mixing balls and/or mixing beads e.g. one or more stainless steel or ceramic balls or beads. Suitable agitation means can also be suitability provided as at least one movable element, for example a slidable spatula-like blade.

The cream preparing kit of the present invention includes an anhydrous cream base formulation from which a cream is prepared by adding water, for example water at ambient temperatu re.

The anhydrous cream base formulation comprises at least one gelling agent and at least one hydrophobic emollient. Preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from one to four gelling agents and from one to four hydrophobic emollients, more preferably from one to three gelling agents and from one to three hydrophobic emollients.

In certain preferred embodiments the anhydrous cream base formulation is in the form of an oil gel base that comprises a blend of gelling agents and emollients.

For present purposes the cream base formulation is anhydrous as it contains less than 5% water by weight of the formulation, preferably less than 3% water by weight of the formulation, more preferably less than 2% water by weight of the formulation, even more preferably less than 1% water by weight of the formulation.

Various gelling agents can be used in the anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention. Suitable gelling agents include acrylic polymers (e.g. sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide and glyceryl polyacrylate), cellulosics (e.g. carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose and cellulose), gums (e.g. xanthan gum), polyamides, polyquaterniums (e.g. poly(2-methacryloxyethyltrimethylammonium chloride) aka Polyquaternium-37), clays (natural or modified including e.g. bentonites, laponites, smectites and hectorites, including disteardimonium hectorite). Preferred gelling agents include acrylic polymers, especially sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide and glyceryl polyacrylate, most especially sodium polyacrylate.

In certain preferred embodiments the at least one gelling agent includes at least one emulsifier.

The anhydrous cream base formulation suitably comprises from 0.3 to 90 weight % of the gelling agent(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation. Preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 1 to 30 weight % of the gelling agent(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation. More preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 5 to 25 weight % of the gelling agent(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation. Even more preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 10 to 20 weight % of the gelling agent(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation.

Various hydrophobic emollients can be used in the anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention. Suitable hydrophobic emollients include esters, silicones, alkanes, mineral oils, plant oils and fatty alcohols. Preferred hydrophobic emollients include dicapryiyl carbonate, isopropyl myristate and jojoba oil, especially dicapryiyl carbonate.

The anhydrous cream base formulation suitably comprises from 5 to 99.5 weight % of the emollients, based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation. Preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 60 to 99 weight % of the emollients, based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation. More preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 65 to 95 weight % of the emollients, based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation. More preferably the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 70 to 90 weight % of the emollients, based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation.

For some consumers it is an important feature of the present invention that they can customise the cream that they can prepare from the anhydrous cream base formulation. Customisation enables consumers to obtain creams that meet their own skin needs, which can depend on their age, exposure to the elements, any existing skin damage or simply their desired look. These needs can change over time, by location or environment, or even just by mood. It is important for some consumers to be able to interact with and control the manufacture of the product that they will be applying to themselves.

This customisation can be provided by the manufacture of various anhydrous cream base formulations, for example by including perfumes, softeners, colourants or vitamins in anhydrous cream base formulations that are available for purchase. For example, customised anhydrous cream base formulations could be used to provide foundation, blusher or highlighter creams.

Suitable additional components for self-customisation include natural products such as essential oils, scents and vitamins. Consumers would need to exercise reasonable care when choosing to self-customise the anhydrous cream base formulation, which might involve seeking suitable medical advice from a pharmacist, their doctor or if necessary a dermatologist. Such additional components can be provided in the form of a customising concentrate, for example to provide sun/UV protection, protection from air pollution, anti-ageing, acne control or eczema treatment functionalities.

The cream preparing device of the cream preparing kit of the present invention can take various forms. The suitability of its form will depend on the cream to be prepared and its intended use. A useful aspect of the invention is the ability to freshly prepare a cream as and when needed, the cream preparing device preferably comprises a readily portable and ideally self-contained unit, for example a handheld mixing device. In certain preferred embodiments the cream preparing device comprises a pump bottle. The cream preparing device, or at least the reservoir of the cream preparing device, is preferably airless and/or hermetically sealable.

The cream preparing device can be formed of any material that is suitable for its intended use. The cream preparing device may, for example, be made of plastic or glass. For many intended uses the cream preparing device is preferably reusable. Preferably the material is recyclable.

In some embodiments the cream preparing device is made available to consumers with the anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention provided in the reservoir of the cream preparing device. This will generally be the most convenient option for consumers so they need only to add water to begin forming the desired cream. Such an arrangement is especially suited for devices that are intended to be used once and then appropriately disposed and ideally recycled.

In other embodiments the cream preparing device is made available to consumers with no anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention provided in the reservoir of the cream preparing device. The cream preparing device is provided with suitable means for the consumer to load a suitable amount of anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention into the reservoir of the cream preparing device. The anhydrous cream base formulation could be provided in unit doses, and if desired packaged accordingly, for convenient use with the cream preparing device. Such an arrangement is especially suited for devices that are intended for multiple uses and ideally designed to be cleaned between uses, for example in a dishwasher or suitable alternative. Such an arrangement also suits those consumers would appreciated the ability to customise the cream, for example by adding suitable additional components themselves to the anhydrous cream base formulation.

The cream preparing device comprises a housing that comprises the reservoir for containing the anhydrous cream base formulation. When the cream preparing kit includes agitation means to assist in mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water, the agitation means is preferably provided in the reservoir of the cream preparing device.

The housing of the cream preparing device has reservoir access means through which water can be supplied into the reservoir and reconstitute the anhydrous cream base formulation to form a cream within the reservoir. When the cream preparing kit includes agitation means, the agitation means is preferably supplied into the reservoir of the cream preparing device via the reservoir access means in the housing.

The water that is supplied into the reservoir of the cream preparing device can be obtained from various sources.

For convenience, tap water may be used. For certain locations tap water might not be available or the quality of the tap water might be unsuitable for use. Instead of tap water one can use bottled water of various types. Some consumers might choose to use a speciality water such as spring water, mineral water or even coconut water.

Water can vary in hardness, due to the presence of minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium carbonates. Tap water can include added chemicals such as fluoride for dental health purposes.

The cream base formulation of the present invention is ideally formulated to be robust enough to tolerate varying degrees of water hardness. Alternatively it can be formulated to be customised for use with a specific type of water.

For those some consumers who wish to prepare a cream that is customised to their needs or otherwise personalised, they can add one or more aforementioned additional components into the reservoir of the cream preparing device before shaking the cream preparing device to form the cream. This is conveniently done by adding the additional component(s) as a powder or liquid directly into the reservoir before or after adding the water. Such consumers may try various combinations of additional components, water-types, amounts (of anhydrous cream base formulation, water and/or additives), mixing times, mixing techniques and agitation means as they wish to prepare creams that suit them best.

This customisation can also be provided by the consumer having the opportunity to add components to the anhydrous cream base formulation either before adding water to the anhydrous cream base formulation to form the desired cream, or by adding them together with the water to the anhydrous cream base formulation to form the desired cream. The extent to which consumers will be willing to customise the anhydrous cream base formulation themselves will depend on the individual consumer.

The cream preparing device has dispensing means that dispenses the cream from the reservoir. This can take various forms. Preferably the dispensing means is a pump-operable nozzle arrangement. More preferably the dispensing means is a pump-operable nozzle arrangement that is at least temporarily securable to the reservoir access means.

For clarity and convenience the cream preparing kit of the present invention and how it is used to prepare a desired cream will now be described with reference to a preferred embodiment that is depicted in the accompanying drawings. However one skilled it the art would appreciate that the cream preparing kit could take various alternative forms.

Figure 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of a cream preparing kit of the present invention. The cream preparing kit comprises a cream preparing device 5 in the form of a cylindrically shaped bottle that has a housing 10 composed of a translucent material. The housing 10 has a threaded neck opening (not shown) that provides access to the interior of the housing 10 that forms a mixing reservoir 15. The housing, or at least that part of the housing that forms the mixing reservoir, is preferably formed of a material that is transparent or at least sufficiently translucent to enable the consumer to see what has or will be added to the mixing reservoir.

The Figure shows two cream preparing devices 5, the one on the left having a pump mechanism 20 which is threadably attached to the neck opening on the housing 10, the one to its right having a cap 25 in place over the pump mechanism 20. The pump mechanism shown is an airless pump however other pump mechanisms could be used, including non-airless pump mechanisms, including those that have a dip tube. Each cream preparing device has a base portion 30 that is attached to housing 10. The cream preparing device on the right has been charged with an amount of anhydrous cream base formulation 35 taken from the jar of anhydrous cream base formulation shown on the far right of the drawing. The pump mechanism 20 is operable by depressing a pump head 40 that includes a pump nozzle 45. Shown to the left of the jar of anhydrous cream base formulation is a bottle 50 that contains a scented oil for optionally customising the anhydrous cream base formulation and a bottle top 55 that includes a dropper 60 for adding a desired amount of the scented oil to the anhydrous cream base formulation, e.g. the anhydrous cream base formulation that has been loaded into the housing 5 of the right-standing cream preparing device 5. Shown in front of the jar of anhydrous cream base formulation is a vial that contains a customising concentrate that can be added to the anhydrous cream base formulation to provide a desired additional functionality to the cream that is produced by the cream preparing kit, for example UV protection. The foreground of the drawing shows a pair of mixing ceramic mixing balls 65 and four stainless steel mixing beads 70.

Figure 2 depicts a longitudinal section of the cream preparing device 5 that is shown in Figure 1. As well as showing many of the features described above, Figure 2 shows the threaded neck opening 75 of the housing 10 through which access is provided to the mixing reservoir 15. It also shows a pump inlet 80 thorough which cream prepared within the mixing reservoir 15 enters the pump mechanism 20 to be delivered the consumer via the pump nozzle 45 by depressing the pump head 40. Figure 2 also shows an insert 85 that sits within the mixing reservoir 15 which moves up the reservoir 15 as the product is dispensed due to the vacuum created ensuring the pack does not fill with air.

In use, a consumer takes a cream preparing device 5, removes the pump mechanism 20 and cap 25 by unscrewing the pump mechanism 20 from the threaded neck opening 75 of the housing 10 and charges the mixing reservoir with anhydrous cream base formulation and any customising concentrate or other desired additional components, unless the cream preparing device 5 was provided preloaded with same. The consumer then adds a suitable volume of water, e.g. water at ambient temperature, into the mixing reservoir 15 of the cream preparing device 5. The threaded neck opening 75 is preferably formed to enable the consumer to the add water without any special equipment, however a funnel (not shown) could be conveniently used, and optionally provided as part of the cream preparing kit. The housing 10 can usefully include a fill line (not shown) to assist in providing the right amount of water. If desired, but preferably, the consumer adds one or both of the mixing balls 65 and/or several or all of the mixing beads 70 to the mixing reservoir 15 too. The consumer screws the pump mechanism 20 with cap 25 suitably tight on the threaded neck opening 75 of the housing 10 to provide a watertight seal. The consumer then shakes the cream preparing device 5 vigorously for some 10 to 15 seconds. This creates an emulsion within the mixing reservoir 15 of the cream preparing device 5. The consumer depresses the pump head 40 of the pump mechanism 20 of the cream preparing device 5 to deliver the desired cream through the nozzle 45.

The pump mechanism is useful for creating high shear on the emulsion, which acts to disperse any lumps and thereby ensure the cream is prepared as a homogenous product.

In certain other preferred embodiments of the cream preparing kit of the present invention, the cream preparing device is provided with a predetermined amount of anhydrous cream base formulation of the present invention and a single mixing ball within the mixing reservoir 15 of the cream preparing device 5. The consumer need only add water to the cream preparing device 5 and shake the cream preparing device 5 to form an emulsion within the mixing reservoir 15 and depress the pump head 40 to deliver the desired cream.

The present invention provides an anhydrous cream base formulation, the cream base formulation comprises: a) at least one gelling agent; and b) at least one hydrophobic emollient; said anhydrous cream base formulation containing less than 5% water by weight of the formulation. The composition of the anhydrous cream base formulation has been described whilst describing the cream preparing kit of the present invention.

The present invention also provides a method for preparing a cream. In broad terms the method comprises the steps of: a) providing an aforesaid anhydrous cream base formulation; b) adding water; and c) mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water to form the cream.

The anhydrous cream base formulation and the water are mixed in a suitable container, which could take a variety of forms, for example within the interior of a mixing bottle. However the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water are preferably mixed in the reservoir of cream preparing device described above with reference to the cream preparing kit of the present invention.

The water should be added in an amount that is sufficient to form a cream from the anhydrous cream base formulation. The amount of water can be varied to provide a cream that has a desired form and consistency that is appropriate for its intended use. The housing 10 optionally includes one or more fill lines to assist the consumer to conveniently add a desired volume of water to the mixing reservoir 15. The amount of water can be vary depending on the choice of water used and the presence of certain additives. For convenience, the water that is added is tap water, most conveniently tap water at ambient temperature, although this assumes fresh, good quality tap water is accessible.

The anhydrous cream base formulation can be mixed with the water in a variety of ways. For example the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water can be mixed by hand or mechanically. In general, vigorous shaking the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water in the container for a number of seconds is sufficient to form the cream.

In certain embodiments agitation means are provided to assist in the mixing of the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water. Agitation means can take various forms. However as a useful aspect of the invention is the ability to form a cream as and when needed, the agitation means should ideally provide quick, easy but effective mixing at ambient temperature using a minimum of machinery. Suitable agitation means can be suitability provided in the container in which the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water are mixed, for example as one or more shearing mixing elements e.g. one or more mixing balls and/or one or more mixing beads. Suitable agitation means can also be suitability provided as at least one movable element, for example a slidable spatula-like blade.

Various modifications and variations of the described formulations, methods, equipment and uses of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments.

The present invention will now be further described by way of examples.

EXAMPLES

Example 1

Preparation of anhydrous cream base formulations A to F

Anhydrous cream base formulations A to F were prepared using the ingredients listed in Tables 1 to 6 respectively. Wt% = % weight of components in anhydrous cream base, g = % in a typical emulsion prepared with the base following in the specified dosage of cream base and water.

Table 1: Anhydrous cream base formulation A

Materials g wt %

Isopropyl myristate (IPM) emollient with 5% Thixcin® R gelling agent 6 40.27

Cetiol® CC emollient 6 40.27

Tinovis® ADE gelling agent 1.5 10.07

Triethanolamine (TEA) 0.4 2.68

Cetiol® HE emollient 0.4 2.68

Jeecide® CAP-3 preservative 0.6 4.03 SUM_14.9_100.00_ 3.725 g anhydrous cream base packed in each 25 g bottle. 21.275 g water to reconstitute to 25ml fill line.

Typical Properties:

Viscosity-Brookfield RVDV-1 Spindle 2, 10 rpm = 2340 cPs

Table 2: Anhydrous cream base formulation B

Materials g wt%

Isopropyl myristate (IPM) emollient with 5% Thixcin® R gelling agent 6 39.45

Cetiol® CC emollient 6 39.45

Tinovis® ADE gelling agent 0.26 1.71

Saboflow® LT gelling agent_2.35_15.45_

Jeecide® CAP-3 preservative 0.6 3.94 SUM_15.21_100.00_ 3.802 g anhydrous cream base packed in each 25 g bottle. 21.1975 g water to reconstitute to 25ml fill line.

Typical Properties: Viscosity- Brookfield RVDV-1 Spindle 2, 10rpm= 2320 cPs

Table 3: Anhydrous cream base formulation C

Materials g wt%

Isopropyl myristate (IPM) emollient with 5% Thixcin® R gelling agent 6 40.27

Cetiol® CC emollient 6 40.27

Cosmedia® ACE gelling agent 1.5 10.07

Triethanolamine (TEA) 0.4 2.68

Cetiol® HE emollient 0.4 2.68

Typical Properties:

Viscosity-Brookfield RVDV-l Spindle 2, 10 rpm = 1648 cPs

Table 4: Anhydrous cream base formulation D % raws as in reconstituted 25g % Oil base of finished cream formulation

Materials

Isopropyl myristate (IPM) emollient with 5% Thixcin® R gelling agent 7 36.84

Jojoba oil (refined) emollient 5 26.32

Propylene glycol 4 21.05

Cosmedia®ACE gelling agent 1.5 7.89

Saboflow® LT gelling agent 0.3 1.58

Cetiol® HE emollient 0.5 2.63 _0.00_

Disodium EDTA powder 0.1 0.53

Jeecide® CAP-3 preservative 0.6 3.16 SUM_19_100.00_ 4.75 g anhydrous cream base packed in each 25 g bottle. 20.25g water to reconstitute to 25ml fill line. +20.25 water

Typical Properties:

Viscosity-Brookfield RVDV-l Spindle 2, 10 rpm = 2320 cPs

Table 5: Anhydrous cream base formulation E % raws as in reconstituted 25 g % Oil base of finished cream formulation

Materials

Jeesperse® CPW BC gelling agent 6 31.58

Isopropyl myristate (IPM) emollient 7 36.84

Cetiol® HE emollient 0.3 1.58

Triethanolamine (TEA) 0.3 1.58

Jeecide® CAP-3 preservative 0.4 2.11 SUM_14_73.68_ 3 g anhydrous cream base packed in each 25 g bottle. 22 g water to reconstitute to 25ml fill line.

Table 6: Anhydrous cream base formulation F % raws as in reconstituted 25 g % Oil base of finished cream formulation

Materials

Isopropyl myristate (IPM) emollient with 5% Thixcin® R gelling agent 6 43.48

Cetiol® CC emollient 6 43.48

Cosmedia® ACE gelling agent 0.8 5.80

Triethanolamine (TEA) 0.2 1.45

Cosmedia® SP gelling agent 0.8 5.80 SUM_100_100_ 3.45 g anhydrous cream base packed in each 25 g bottle. 21.55 g water to reconstitute to 25ml fill line.

The following describes the materials that were used to prepare anhydrous cream base formulations A and F. These include gelling agents, emollients and certain other materials. GELLING AGENTS:

Thixcin® R, INCI: Trihydroxystearin:

This is a non-hygroscopic derivative of castor oil that imparts a high degree of thixotropic thickening in cosmetics mineral, vegetable and silicones oils, as well as low-polarity aliphatic solvents. It provides thixotropy and imparts good pay-off in stick products, improves product stability when used in the oil phase of emulsions, and it can be used as a binder in pressed powder formulations. Thixcin® R gelling agent stabilises the oil phase, creating a base that remains homogenous for uniform packing into bottles. The oil phase instantly becomes fluid on shaking in pack, especially with extra agitation of the mixing ball, thus the gelling agent thickening the oil phase does not slow the oils emulsification into the water when it is added to pack. Some formulations without an oil gelling agent sediment the polymer quickly. This sometimes resulted in the oil phase becoming unstable in that the water gelling polymer / polymers would sediment and clump becoming difficult to shake back to uniformity. For example a 12 day 40 degree stability sample of an oil phase prepared with Tinovis® ADE gelling agent in Cetiol® CC emollient and isopropyl myristate emollient with no Thixcin® R gelling agent contained firm white lumps of sediment polymer which would not re-disperse.

Tinovis® ADE, INCI: Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Hydrogenated Polydecene, PPG-1 Trideceth-6: This is an oil gelling agent and emulsifying thickener, commercially available from BASF, which has a wide pH gelling capability of 5.0-12.5. This agent quickly gels the water on shaking.

Cosmedia ACE, INCI: Sodium Polyacrylate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate:

This is an oil gelling agent and emulsifying thickener, commercially available from BASF, which has a wide pH range gelling capability of 5.5-12.0. This agent quickly gels water on shaking.

Saboflow® LT, INCI: Polyacrylamide, C13-14, Isoparaffin, Laureth-7:

This is an oil gelling agent and emulsifying thickener, commercially available from Sabo S.p.A., which has a wide pH range gelling capability. Formulations containing Saboflow® LT gelling agent tends to gel slightly slower than with the Tinovis® ADE or Cosmedia® ACE gelling agents, thus allowing a longer mixing time.

Jeesperse® CPW BC, INCI: Beeswax Yellow, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter & Sodium Polyacrylate:

This is an oil gelling agent and cold process emulsifier that is commercially available from Jeen International Corp. To prepare an anhydrous cream base formulation the Jeesperse® CPW BC gelling agent was heated into isopropyl myristate to create a liquid oil phase Its gelling was optimised with a mixture of triethanolamine and Cetiol® HE emollient. This process creates a soft paste/liquid oil base which is highly shear thinning and can be reconstituted with water. When reconstituting the neat powder or dispersion of unmelted Jeesperse® CPW BC in our cream making kit the product became unhomogenous and lumpy, often blocking the pump. EMOLLIENTS:

Cetiol® CC, INCI: Dicapryiyl Carbonate:

This is an emollient that is commercially available from BASF. It is a light dry feeling cosmetic ester.

Isopropyl myristate (IPM), INCI: Isopropyl myristate:

This is an emollient that is commercially available from various sources. It is a commonly used light feeling cosmetic ester.

Refined Jojoba Oil, INCI: Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil:

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax made of esters, similar in composition to the skin's own sebum. Commercially available from various sources, it is quickly absorbed by the skin, softening and forming a protective layer on the skin to prevent water loss. OTHER MATERIALS:

Cetiol® HE, INCI: PEG-7 Glyceryl cocoate:

This an emulsifier. Premixed with Triethanolamine to allow this otherwise water soluble pH modifier to blend homogenously with the oil phase constituents.

Triethanolamine (TEA) 99%:

This is a pH modifier that is used to boost alkalinity in the formulation. It boosts gelling of all polymeric gelling agents used in anhydrous cream base formulations of the present invention and is present to ensure the final cream pH does not drop too low.

Jeecide® CAP-3, INCI: Caprylyl glycol, phenoxyethanol, propylene glycol, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate:

This is a preservative and biocide with broad spectrum capabilities that is commercially available from Jeen International Corp. It is provided as a clear liquid that is paraben and formaldehyde-free and stable over pH 3 to 10.

The following procedures were used to prepare anhydrous cream base formulations A and F: FORMULATION PREPARATION:

Premix 1: Thixcin® R gelling agent was dispersed in isopropyl myristate (iPM) emollient at 5%. IPM is weighed, heated to 55 °C. Thixcin® R Powder is added with gentle agitation. Sample is placed under high shear homogeniser (Siiverson® high shear homogeniser) at max speed for 20 minutes. Batch temperature is maintained at 55-60 °C . After 20 minutes of high shear mixing the batch is allowed to cool with gentle agitation until it is below 35 °C.

Premix 2: Triethanolamine (TEA) is pre blended with Cetiol® HE emollient to allow dispersion of TEA in the oily materials.

To prepare oil phases: Oil phase ingredients and premixes are weighed one at a time. The formulation is blended with an overhead propeller stirrer on medium agitation to ensure a homogenous product.

Product is packed into bottles (30 ml airless pack AP30*S hotties) with 1 stainless steel 5 mm mixing bali. More bails can be used if the cream is expected to thicken very quickly to enhance mixing on shaking. FORMULATION PREPARATION Bx3 with Jeesperse® Coid Mix Wax

Weigh Jeesperse® geiiing agent and isopropyl myristate emollient. Heat to 60 °C, with mixing. When melted and homogenous add Cetioi® HE emollient/triethanolamine premix. Add Jeecide® CAP-3 preservative. Homogenise. Allow to cooi with gentie agitation. Pack.

RECONSTITUTION OF CREAM - TAP WATER

The oil phase is already packed in the finished airless pump packaging in a quantity suitable to make 25 ml /g of finished cream. To reconstitute the cream, tap water is added to the 25 ml fill line, in the lab test the amount of water added is 25 g - the quantity of oil phase in the bottle. The tap water is used at the temperature from the tap i.e. 14-16 °C. The tap water is hard water, with a total mean hardness of 325 CaCO3 mg/l and pH of 7.2. (Affinity Water report). LAB TEST PROCEDURE:

Weigh water in 25 ml Pyrex® beaker. Shake bottle to shear oil phase. Open pack and pour in preweighed water. Replace iid, start timer and start shaking immediately. Stop after 10 seconds. Pump hottie dispenser until product is dispersed to check it has thickened. Test again at 30 seconds. While shaking the bottle thickening is apparent by the change in sound of the bail moving in the product.

RECONSTITUTION OF CREAM - SPECIALITY WATER

The cream can be customised by selecting a special water, spring water / mineral water / volcanic mineral water / carbonated water etc.

Same procedure as for Tap Water. Used Volvic® Volcanic Mineral Water, which is a soft water with a total hardness of 66 CaCO3 mg/l and pH of 6.70 (Volvic® Water test report)

RECONSTITUTION OF CREAM - CARBONATED WATER

As the water fizzes on pouring into the bottle it is not possible to achieve the 25g cream preparation. Add 18 g premeasured carbonated water (Harrogate® sparkling spring water. pH 4.95) into the pack using the same procedure as for Volvic® water leaving a larger head space in the top of the pack to accommodate and foam.

RECONSTITUTION OF CREAM - CUSTOMISING CONCENTRATES

To test the customisability of the formulation several customising concentrates were formulated. These have been created to be added to the end formulation at a dosage of 5% in the final cream. This is an addition of 1.25 g into the total 25g of emulsion created. In end use these would be dosed into the product using a pipette / dropper /syringe pack suited to deliver this quantity of product. In the final commercial product, the consumer would pipette in the concentrate, then use tap / speciality water to fill up to the fill line before resealing the pack and shacking to create the emulsion.

Procedure for lab testing:

Shake pack containing the oil base and mixing bail to shear the oil phase. Remove lid. Weigh 1.25 g of customising concentrate into the pack. Top up to 25 g with tap water (e.g. if there is 4 g oily base in pack and 1.25 g of customising concentrate added 19.75 g of water would be added to the product to make up to 25 g). Replace lid, start timer, start shaking immediately. VISCOSITY TESTING:

Oil Phase: Oil phase viscosity is measured using a Brookfield® RVDV-l Viscometer with Spindle 2 or 3 at lOrpm. Samples are tested at 20 °C.

Cream samples: Creams are tested at 10 and 30 seconds after preparation. All dispense as a homogenous pleasant feeling cream or lotion after 30 seconds. Cream pH is tested using a calibrated Hanna® HI8519N electronic pH meter. Viscosity is tested using a Brookfield® HB DV2T Cone and Plate, Cone CP-52 or CP-42 in a ramp test 10-100rpm.

Example 2

Preparation of customising concentrate formulations G and H

The following customising concentrates to be added to an anhydrous cream base formulation were prepared as described below, each customising concentrate being formulated to provide a cream for a specific purpose.

Customising concentrate formulation G was prepared using the ingredients listed in Table 7.

Table 7: Customising concentrate to provide pollution protection cream

Typical Properties: Viscosity- Brookfield RVDV-1 Spindle 2, 10 rpm = 820 cPs, pH = 7.01. g= % of product in the final cream when added in the specified dose of 5% or 1.25 ml in a total of 25 ml emulsion. % = % weight in formulation of the customising concentrate.

Customising concentrate formulation G has been formulated to provide a cream that protects skin from pollution. The cream is a water based formulation slightly gelled with xanthan gum and coloured violet. A range of hydrophilic biological actives have been used for their skin protection benefits: FILMEXEL® film former and protector- Kappaphycus alvarezii, Caesalpinia spinose·.

This is a multifunctional natural film-forming active ingredient that is commercially available from Silab. It is a natural polymer derived from Caesalpinia spinosa and Kappaphycus alvarezii, which provides a useful film forming effect and prevents penetration of pollutants.

CELLDETOX® detoxifier, INCI: Hydrolyzed Candida Saitoana extract:

Cell autophagy is a homeostasic process for the recycling of altered constituents and organelles. By reinforcing this detoxifying cell system, CELLDETOX’ minimizes the accumulation of lipofuscin aggregates and thereby contributes to cell and tissue longevity. MITOKINYL® protector, INCI: Yeast extract:

Rich in glucomannans from the yeast Pichia heedii, this product, which is commercially available from Silab. Mitokinyl regulates the synthesis of mitokines and the deactivation of AhR, major biological pathways identified in the fight against pollution, it allows the skin to recover an effective functional barrier.

Other ingredients:

Glydant Plus® Liquid preservative, INCI DMDM Hydantoin (and) lodopropynyl Butylcarbamate: This is a synergistic preservation system that combines DMDM hydantoin and lodopropynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC) for a dual mode of action, offering broad spectrum efficacy with no need for auxiliary preservatives. Commercially available from Lonza, this water-soluble preservative is stable in sunlight and over a wide range of temperatures and pH levels.

Unicert® Violet K7025-J dye, INCI: CI60730

This is a water soluble dye that is commercially available from Sensient Cosmetic Technologies and used in a variety of cosmetic products, especially hair care, skin care, and toiletries.

Customising Concentrate formulation H was prepared using the ingredients listed in Table 8.

Table 8: Customising Concentrate to provide vitamin blend cream

Typical Properties:

Viscosity-Brookfield RVDV-1 Spindle 2, 10 rpm=2120 cPs pH = Not Applicable g= % of product in the final cream when added in the specified dose of 5% or 1.25 ml in a total of 25 ml emulsion. % = % weight in formulation of the customising concentrate.

Customising Concentrate formulation H has been formulated to provide a cream with anti-aging properties. The cream includes a vitamin blend of retinol (vitamin A), vitamin E and vitamin C (RetiSTAR® ACE). This is in a water-free lipophilic base as retinol is unstable in water. The concentrate is lightly gelled with Thixcin® R gelling agent:

Myritol® 318, INCI Name: Caprylic/capric triglyceride:

This is a triglyceride-based emollient that is commercially available from BASF. It is a clear, slightly yellowish, polar, odourless oil, with a mean molecular weight, and a spreading value of approx. 550 mm2/10 min. This product has a saponification value of 335 - 350, a refractive index (20°C) of 1.4480 -1.4500, and a density (20°C) of 0.945-0.949 g/cm3.

RetiSTAR® Stabilized retinol, INCI: Caprylic/Capric triglyceride (and) Sodium Ascorbate (and) Tocopherol (and) Retinol:

This an oily dispersion containing retinol, tocopherol, sodium ascorbate and PEG-40

Hydrogenated Castor Oil in caprylic/capric triglycerides that is commercially available from BASF. The ratio and absolute concentration of these three ingredients is balanced to achieve maximum stability of retinol in cosmetic emulsions. Retinol is useful for caring for aging skin, protecting against photo-aging, specifically wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and loss in elasticity.

Example 3

Measurement of creams formed from the anhydrous cream base formulations

The following Table summarises the results of the measurements that were made to the creams that were prepared from anhydrous cream base formulation A.

Table 9: Cream prepared from anhydrous cream base formulation A

Preparing this anhydrous cream base with these different waters and customisations resulted in sufficiently gelled homogenous emulsions within 30 seconds. The product felt pleasant when rubbed on skin.

These results show that the different waters and customisations can have an impact on the final cream viscosity and pH. The pH remains well within the pH range in which the gelling agent functions optimally. The viscosity is such that the resultant emulsion pumps from the pack without creating splatter.

Claims

1. A cream preparing kit comprising: a cream preparing device and an anhydrous cream base formulation; said anhydrous cream base formulation comprising at least one gelling agent and at least one emollient, and containing less than 5% water by weight of the formulation; said cream preparing device comprising a housing that comprises a reservoir for containing the anhydrous cream base formulation; said housing having reservoir access means through which water can be supplied into the reservoir and reconstitute the anhydrous cream base formulation to form a cream within the reservoir; and said cream preparing device having dispensing means that dispenses the cream from the reservoir.

2. The cream preparing kit according to claim 1, further comprising agitation means that assists in mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water within the reservoir.

3. The cream preparing kit according to claim 2, wherein the housing has means through which agitation means can be supplied into the reservoir.

4. The cream preparing kit according to claim 2, wherein the agitation means comprises at least one shearing mixing element.

5. The cream preparing kit according to claim 4, wherein the agitation means comprises a plurality of stainless steel or ceramic balls or beads.

6. The cream preparing kit according to claim 2, wherein the agitation means comprises a slidable blade mechanism.

7. The cream preparing kit according to any preceding claim, wherein the gelling agent(s) of the anhydrous cream base formulation is/are selected from acrylic polymers, cellulosics, gums, polyamides, polyquaterniums and clays.

8. The cream preparing kit according to claim 7, wherein the at least one gelling agent is selected from sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide and glyceryl polyacrylate.

9. The cream preparing kit according to any preceding claim, wherein the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 1 to 30 weight % of the gelling agent(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation.

10. The cream preparing kit according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one emollient of the anhydrous cream base formulation is selected from esters, silicones, alkanes, mineral/petrochemical oils, plant oils and fatty alcohols.

11. The cream preparing kit according to any preceding claim, wherein the anhydrous cream base formulation comprises from 60 to 99 weight % of the emollient(s), based on the total weight of the anhydrous cream base formulation.

12. The cream preparing kit according to any preceding claim, which further comprises a concentrate for mixing with the anhydrous cream base formulation to provide a customised cream.

13. The cream preparing kit according to claim 12, wherein the addition of the concentrate provides to the anhydrous cream base formulation provides a moisturising cream, a pigmenting cream, a sun protection cream, an anti-aging cream, an anti-wrinkle cream, a tensing cream, an anti-acne cream, an anti-eczema cream, a skin peeling cream, a plumping cream, a mattifying cream, a pore minimising cream, a sweat reducing cream, a probiotic cream or an anti-microbial cream.

14. An anhydrous cream base formulation, the anhydrous cream base formulation comprising a least one gelling agent and at least one emollient, said anhydrous cream base formulation containing less than 5% water by weight of the formulation.

15. A method for preparing a cream, said method comprising the steps of: a) providing an anhydrous cream base formulation of claim 14; b) adding water; and c) mixing the anhydrous cream base formulation and the water to form the cream.