PROTECTANT FILM FOR SKIN

Abstract: An improved skin-protecting film-forming composition uses the polymer cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer. In general, a composition according to the present invention comprises: cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; an evaporative solvent comprising at least one solvent for the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer that can evaporate so that the copolymer is deposited on the skin; and plasticizer to provide flexibility to the film deposited on the skin. The composition dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user. A preferred composition according to the present invention comprises about 19 percent of cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, about 1 percent of acetyl tributyl citrate, about 30 percent of isooctane, and about 50 percent of hexamethyldisiloxane. Another composition according to the present invention comprises about 19 percent of cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, about 1 percent acetyl tributyl citrate, about 19 percent of isooctane, about 11 percent of isododecane, and about 50 percent of hexamethyldisiloxane.

Description: PROTECTANT FILM FOR SKIN CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [01] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. patent application, Serial No. 09/670,986, filed on September 26, 2000, and naming Donald L. Gerrish as sole inventor, which is herein incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION. [02] This invention is directed to a composition that dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user. 2 . DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART . [03] In many circumstances, it is desirable to apply a protectant film to the skin. Such film protectants are particularly desirable in circumstances in which a wound or opening is present for a long period of time and must be protected. Such protectants are particularly useful in connection with incontinence and ostomy appliances, such as are used after a colostomy. Such films should protect the skin against germs, feces, enzymatic drainage or wound drainage, as well as adhesive trauma. Additionally, such films should be flexible on the skin so that they will not crack or flake and should not interfere with adhesion of ostomy appliances, wound care dressing, tape, or attachable breast forms. Moreover, such films should leave a shiny appearance so that one can see that the film has been applied, and should not leave a residue or irritate the skin. [04] Although a number of films for such uses currently exist, there is a need for films with improved properties that meet the exacting demands of use, particularly in the case of ostomy apertures. There is therefore a need for skin- protecting film-forming polymers with improved properties. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [05] A composition according to the present invention that dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user comprises: (1) cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (2) an evaporative solvent comprising at least one solvent for the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer that can evaporate so that the copolymer is deposited on the skin; and (3) a plasticizer to provide flexibility to the film deposited on the skin. [06] A preferred cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer is a bicycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer. [07] Typically, the solvent system comprises hexamethyldisiloxane and at least one saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon selected from the group consisting of isooctane, isodecane, and isododecane. Preferably, the saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon is isooctane. Alternatively, the saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon can be a mixture of isooctane and isododecane. [08] Typically, the plasticizer is selected from the group consisting of acetyl tributyl citrate, acetyl triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, triethyl citrate, acetyl tripropyl citrate, tripropyl citrate, dibutyl sebacate, acetyl dibutyl sebacate, dipropyl sebacate, acetyl dipropyl sebacate, diethyl sebacate, and acetyl diethyl sebacate. Preferably, the plasticizer is acetyl tributyl citrate. [09] Preferably, the composition comprises from about 5 percent to about 25 percent of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, from about 73 percent to about 94.5 percent of the evaporative solvent, and from about 0.5 percent to about 2.0 percent of the plasticizer. [10] Preferably, when the evaporative solvent comprises isooctane and hexamethyldisiloxane, the ratio of isooctane to hexamethyldisiloxane is about 3:5. When the evaporative solvent comprises isooctane, isododecane, and hexamethyldisiloxane, the ratio of isooctane, isododecane, and hexamethyldisiloxane is preferably about 19:11:50. [11] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition comprises : (1) about 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (2) about 1% of acetyl tributyl citrate; (3) about 30% of isooctane; and (4) about 50% of hexamethyldisiloxane. [12] In an alternative embodiment, the composition comprises: (1) about 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (2) about 1% of acetyl tributyl citrate; (3) about 19% of isooctane; (4) about 11% of isododecane; and (5) about 50% of hexamethyldisiloxane. [13] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. This specification illustrates several embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [14] An improved skin-protecting film-forming composition uses the polymer cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer. This creates a unique protectant film when the polymer is dispersed in a solvent system that evaporates rapidly. [15] In general, a composition of the present invention is a composition that dries to produce a protectant film for skin when applied to the skin of a user. The composition comprises: (1) cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (2) an evaporative solvent comprising at least one solvent for the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer that can evaporate so that the copolymer is deposited on the skin; and (3) a plasticizer to provide flexibility to the film deposited on the skin. [16] A suitable source of a cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer that is useful in compositions according to the present invention is Phoenix Chemical, Inc. of Somerville, New Jersey. A particularly suitable cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer is a bicycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer marketed by Phoenix Chemical as Giovarez AC-5099M. [17] Typically, the solvent system comprises hexamethyldisiloxane and at least one saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon selected from the group consisting of isooctane, isodecane, and isododecane. Preferably, the saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon is a mixture of isooctane and isododecane. Alternatively, the saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon can be isooctane. Other saturated branched-chain hydrocarbons can be used. Preferred saturated branched-chain hydrocarbons include those having low molecular weights and are volatile such that the composition will dry in a short period of time when applied to the skin. [18] Typically, the plasticizer is selected from the group consisting of acetyl tributyl citrate, acetyl triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, triethyl citrate, acetyl tripropyl citrate, tripropyl citrate, dibutyl sebacate, acetyl dibutyl sebacate, dipropyl sebacate, acetyl dipropyl sebacate, diethyl sebacate, and acetyl diethyl sebacate. Preferably, the plasticizer is acetyl tributyl citrate. Other plasticizers can be used, including homologues and derivatives of these esters. Preferred plasticizers include those that confer flexibility to the composition when dry and prevent the dried composition from cracking when the skin flexes. [19] Preferably, the composition comprises from about 5% to about 25% of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, from about 73% to about 94.5% of the evaporative solvent, and from about 0.5% to about 2.0% of the plasticizer. The amount of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer affects the drying time and the degree of protection of the composition. Compositions having smaller amounts of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer exhibit faster drying times, but provide less protection. Therefore, the' optimum amount of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer is based on the desired degree of protection and drying time. The degree of protection and drying times may be determined by methods known in the art. [20] Where the evaporative solvent comprises isooctane and hexamethyldisiloxane, the ratio of isooctane to hexamethyldisiloxane is preferably about 3:5. When the evaporative solvent comprises isooctane, isododecane, and hexamethyldisiloxane, the ratio of isooctane, isododecane, and hexamethyldisiloxane is preferably about 19:11:50. The ratios of the ingredients or solvents in the solvent system are specific for the particular solvents used. The amounts of certain solvents will depend on the type of solvent, safety standards, skin irritation, and skin defatting. In other words, the amounts of solvents will depend on the solubility, irritability, and volatility of the given solvents. The solubility, irritability, and volatility may be determined by methods known in the art . [21] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition comprises: (1) about 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (2) about 1% of acetyl tributyl citrate; (3) about 30% of isooctane; and (4) about 50% of hexamethyldisiloxane. [22] In an alternative embodiment, the composition comprises: (1) about 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (2) about 1% of acetyl tributyl citrate; (3) about 19% of isooctane; (4) about 11% of isododecane; and (5) about 50% of hexamethyldisiloxane. [23] The composition is made by adding the solvents (isooctane and/or isododecane and hexamethyldisiloxane) to the polymer and plasticizer and mixing with vigorous agitation. Methods known in the art may be used to make the composition of the present invention. The degree of agitation required need only to be vigorous enough to ensure that the solvents, polymer and plasticizer are thoroughly mixed. [24] A composition comprising 30% isooctane, 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, 1% acetyl tributyl citrate, and 50% hexamethyldisiloxane was made by mixing 22.5 kg of isooctane and 14.25 kg of cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer for about 10 to about 15 minutes. Then 0.75 kg of acetyl tributyl citrate was added, and the mixture mixed for about 5 to about 10 minutes. 37.5 kg of hexamethyldisiloxane was then slowly added and mixed for about 15 to about 20 minutes. Mixing was conducted at about 400 to about 1700 rpm. [25] The polymer is applied to the skin and forms a protective film that can be used, for example, to cover ostomy apertures, wounds, and other openings in the skin. The compositions of the present invention may be applied by various methods with a variety of devices. For example, the compositions may be applied to the skin with a cotton pad or sprayed on the skin with a pump spray bottle. The compositions of the present invention may be washed off the skin with soap and water. However, the composition need not be removed as the composition will wear off with natural skin cell turnover. The composition may be reapplied to the same area. [26] Preferably, the compositions of the present invention dry rapidly, about 5 to about 60 seconds, preferably, about 5 to about 45 seconds, more preferably, about 5 to about 30 seconds after being applied to the skin. The compositions of the present invention allow the skin underneath the composition to breath. The breathability of the compositions may be determined by methods standard in the art. See e. g. , Barlow and Wiechers (1999) Cosmetics & Toiletries 11 (12) .47-53, which is herein incorporated by reference. [27] As illustrated in the Examples below, the present invention provides a protectant film that leaves a clear film on the skin. The film is flexible on the skin so that it will not crack or flake. The film does not interfere with adhesion of ostomy appliances, wound care dressing, tape, or attachable breast forms. The film protects skin against urine, feces, enzymatic drainage, would drainage or adhesive trauma. The application of the film leaves a shiny appearance so that one can see that the film has been applied. [28] The composition of the present invention is non-stinging. The solvent of the composition evaporates rapidly, leaving a dry film. These properties enhance the performance of the composition. [29] The following examples are intended to illustrate but not to limit the invention. Example 1 Wear-Time Study [30] The wear-time of the preferred composition (about 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, about 1% acetyl tributyl citrate, about 30% isooctane, and about 50% hexamethyldisiloxane) of the present invention was evaluated by studying the wear-time of the base plate used for ostomy pouches. Twelve (12) healthy subjects who did not have ostomies. wore 2 base plates and closed end pouches, one on each side of the abdomen. On one side, the preferred composition of the present invention was applied and no protective film was applied to the other side. Ostomy appliances were worn for up to 7 days. No significant difference in the wear-time of the base plate was observed between the side having the composition of the present invention as compared to the side without. Therefore, the compositions of the present invention do not affect the adhesion or wear-time of adhesives and adhesive articles such as ostomy appliances. Example 2 Study of Protective and Preventative Characteristics [31] The efficacy and safety of the preferred composition (about 19% cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, about 1% acetyl tributyl citrate, about 30% isooctane, and about 50% hexamethyldisiloxane) of the present invention was determined for use in the treatment of perineal skin breakdown from incontinence. Generally, the reduction in erythema, denudement and pain over a period of 5 days was evaluated. Erythema and denudement was assessed both visually and with photography. Pain was assessed through a subject's verbal and physical communication. Seven (7) subjects having incontinence of urine and feces and having foley catheters were treated with the preferred composition of the present invention. The composition was sprayed around the peritoneal area about every 24 hours . The pain, denudement and erythema decreased in all subjects. Surface area reduction was observed in all of the subjects. Five (5) of the subjects had a decrease in pain on Day 2 and 2 subjects had a decrease in pain on Day 3. Four (4) subjects had no pain by the end of the study period. No adverse events were reported. Therefore, the composition of the present invention may be used to treat or prevent denudement, erythema and pain associated with incontinence. Additionally, the composition of the present invention may be used to treat or prevent exposure of skin to irritants and contaminants. [32] The clinicians applying the composition noted that they liked the touchless spray system and the fact that the presence of the composition was observable by a shiny appearance unlike creams and other formulations. The subjects requested continued treatment with composition. [33] To the extent necessary to understand or complete the disclosure of the present invention, all publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned herein are expressly incorporated by reference herein to the same extent as though each were individually so incorporated. [34] Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail, with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions and embodiments are possible. Therefore, the scope of the invention is determined by the following claims.

Claims: I claim: 1. A composition that dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user comprising: (a) cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (b) an evaporative solvent system comprising at least one solvent for the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer that can evaporate so that the copolymer is deposited on the skin; and (c) a plasticizer to provide flexibility to the film deposited on the skin. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the solvent system comprises hexamethyldisiloxane and at least one saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon selected from the group consisting of isooctane, isodecane, and isododecane. 3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the at least one saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon is a mixture of isooctane and isododecane. 4. The composition of claim 2, wherein the at least one saturated branched-chain hydrocarbon is isooctane. 5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the plasticizer is selected from group consisting of acetyl tributyl citrate, acetyl triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, triethyl citrate, acetyl tripropyl citrate, tripropyl citrate, dibutyl sebacate, acetyl dibutyl sebacate, dipropyl sebacate, acetyl dipropyl sebacate, diethyl sebacate, and acetyl diethyl sebacate. 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein the plasticizer is acetyl tributyl citrate. 7. The composition of claim 1, wherein the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer is a bicycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer. 8. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises from about 5 percent to about 25 percent of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, from about 73 percent to about 94.5 percent of the evaporative solvent, and from about 0.5 percent to about 2.0 percent of the plasticizer. 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein the evaporative solvent comprises a mixture of isooctane and isododecane, and the plasticizer is acetyl tributyl citrate. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the evaporative solvent comprises isooctane and hexamethyldisiloxane, and the plasticizer is acetyl tributyl citrate. 11. The composition of claim 9, wherein the composition comprises from about 5 percent to about 25 percent of cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, from about 73 percent to about 94.5 percent of the evaporative solvent, and from about 0.5 percent to about 2.0 percent of the plasticizer. 12. The composition of claim 10, wherein the composition comprises from about 5 percent to about 25 percent of the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer, from about 73 percent to about 94.5 percent of the evaporative solvent, and from about 0.5 percent to about 2.0 percent of the plasticizer. 13. The composition of claim 9, wherein the ratio of isooctane, isododecane, and hexamethyldisiloxane is about 19:11:50. 14. The composition of claim 10, wherein the ratio of isooctane to hexamethyldisiloxane is about 3:5. 15. A composition that dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user comprising: (a) about 19 percent of cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (b) about 1 percent of acetyl tributyl citrate; (c) about 30 percent of isooctane; and (d) about 50 percent of hexamethyldisiloxane. 16. A composition that dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user comprising: (a) about 19 percent cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (b) about 1 percent of acetyl tributyl citrate; (c) about 19 percent of isooctane; (d) about 11 percent of isododecane; and (e) about 50 percent of hexamethyldisiloxane. 17. A composition that dries to produce a protective film for skin when applied to the skin of a user comprising: (a) cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer; (b) an evaporative solvent system comprising hexamethyldisiloxane and at least one saturated branched- chain hydrocarbon selected from the group consisting of isooctane, isodecane, and isododecane that is a solvent for the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer and can evaporate so that the copolymer is deposited on the skin, the cycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer being soluble in the evaporative solvent system; and (c) a plasticizer to improve flexibility to the film deposited on the skin. 18. The composition of claim 17, wherein the composition dries in about 5 to about 60 seconds after being applied to the skin. 19. The composition of claim 17, wherein the cycloalky methacrylate copolymer is Giovarez AC-5099M bicycloalkyl methacrylate copolymer. 20. A method of treating or preventing erythema, denudation, pain, or a combination thereof due to incontinence in a subject which comprises applying the composition of claim 1 to the subject. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the composition is sprayed onto the skin of the subject. 22. A method of treating or preventing skin irritation in a subject which comprises applying the composition of claim 1 to the skin of the subject.

Inventors: GERRISH DONALD LEE, GERRISH, DONALD, LEE
Applicants: COLOPLAST CORP, GERRISH DONALD LEE, COLOPLAST CORPORATION, GERRISH, DONALD, LEE
Application year: 2001
Main classification: A61L26
IPC codes: A61L26