Dissolvable shower gel tablets provide plastic reduction boost as researchers unveil ideal skin hydration formula

14 Jul 2023 --- New research published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science has found that dissolvable shower gel tablets are a more environmentally sustainable alternative to liquid soap packed in plastic.

The study, conducted by scientists from Thailand and India, found that a formula containing 7.5% sodium coco sulfate (SCS) and 5% glycerine had the best cleaning and moisturizing effect. Adding 5% glycerine in the shower gel formula had a “significantly greater skin hydration than other formulas.”

For high cleaning power and foam, the researchers found that the optimal ratio of surfactants for dissolvable shower gel tablets is 7.5:0 (SCS: cocoyl glutamic acid [CGA]).

SCS is a natural surfactant from coconut oil, while CGA is derived from fermented vegetables. “This makes them more sustainable, less skin irritating and a renewable option compared to some synthetic surfactants,” highlight the authors.

“Additionally, it was discovered that the developed products were much more effective at cleaning and easier to use when washing for the volunteers than regular liquid soap.”

Tackling plastic waste
The researchers underscore that increased plastic packaging use in the beauty industry has raised environmental concerns among consumers who are more conscious about their purchasing impacts. The shower gel tablets can be reconstituted in water and used for two to three days.

Moreover, sustainable packaging solutions in the industry are expected to increase to mediate plastic waste by product manufacturers.

Taking inspiration from the pharmaceutical industry, where dissolvable tablets are commonly used as a solid dosage form of medication, the researchers created a shower gel capsule designed to dissolve rapidly.

The scientists created shower gel tablets that can be reconstituted in water and used for two to three days in a refill container.

“This product’s advantages can effectively reduce plastic waste, provide enhanced stability, facilitate transport and promote long-term use,” highlight the authors.

“These findings contribute to developing eco-friendly cosmetic products that mitigate plastic waste and promote sustainability in the beauty industry.”

Testing formula and experience
There were no visible skin abnormalities or allergic reactions on volunteers using the dissolvable gel tablets. Sebum reduction was observed, with participants having a generally positive experience.

“The selected surfactants played a crucial role in determining the cleansing efficacy and foam quality of the product, with SCS exhibiting stronger surfactant activity compared to CGA,” detail the authors.

“The foam-forming evaluation demonstrated that SCS was essential for bubble formation. Adding emollients, such as glycerine and omega oil, significantly improved skin moisture, compared to formulations without emollients.”

In related research, scientists at University of East Anglia, UK developed Dries, a technology that removes 98% of water content from beauty and skin care products, transforming water- and oil-based products into small discs of paper-like material, which can be “instantly” rehydrated with a drop of water.

By Venya Patel