Abstract: Composite particle comprising a water-soluble abrasive material or core and a shell comprising a coating which is substantially insoluble in aqueous media during storage and prior to use but which becomes substantially water soluble upon activation prior to or during use. Activation may include application of substantially large quantities of water in use or adjustment of the pH of the aqueous median just prior to or during use. Compositions containing the composite materials and methods for using them to exfoliate skin are displaced.

Abstract: A gel composition and methods for its use singly or in combination with prophylactic devices in safe sexual relations, including prevention of infection by HIV and other sexually transmitted viruses. The composition contains benzoic acid as the active ingredient in an amount up to 2%, a copolymer of polyquaternium-4 and polyacrylamidomethylpropane sulfonic acid and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier such as a water base consisting of about 60% water and about 20% glycerin. The composition may further contain a preservative, such as one or more members of parabens. The gel can maintain its antiviral activity in dilutions of not less than 1000 times. The methods for preventing the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted viruses comprise applying the gel composition directly onto genitalia or intravaginally before and/or during sexual intercourse or using the gel composition in combination with a prophylactic device, such as a condom or a diaphragm.

Abstract: A clear, transparent highly stable skin moisturizing and lubricating composition is provided comprising the product obtained by combining polyglyceryl methacrylate with a pharmaceutically acceptable silicone, in the presence of a suitable emulsifier under application of pressure in the range of about 13,000 to about 50,000 psi. The compositions are adapted for use as cosmetics and/or carriers for active drugs and serve in this form for treatment of skin irritations, burns, skin infections and the like. A method of preparing the compositions of the invention is disclosed. The invention also contemplates methods for lubricating and moisture replenishment of the skin, treating burns, skin infections and the like by topically applying the disclosed skin treatment compositions of the invention.

Abstract: A gamma radiation stable gel consisting mainly of the complex of polyglyceryl methacrylate and at least one alkali metal or ammonium sulfite, bisulfite or metabisulfite.This gel is sterilizeable, bland water soluble, clear and colorless, washable, non-staining lubricating jelly. It is harmless to skin, delicate tissues and mucous membranes. It will not affect surgical instruments or rubber appliances. The gel of the invention may also be used as a drug delivery vehicle.A method of preparing the gel is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of stabilized B-carotene wherein polysorbate is heated under an inert atmosphere to about 100.degree. to about 120.degree. C. in the presence of butylated hydroxytoluene for a period of time sufficient to allow substantially all of the water present in the polysorbate to be driven off. The temperature is then increased to about 160.degree. to about 180.degree. C. and the resultant polysorbate product further heated at this temperature while maintaining the inert atmosphere and under strong stirring for 1 to 11/2 hours. The thus heated polysorbate is then cooled rapidly to about 100.degree. to about 120.degree. C. and 2.0 to 4.0% by weight of B-carotene, based on the weight of the polysorbate, introduced under strong stirring in the presence of para-aminobenzoic acid and a conventional antioxidant such as butylhydroxyquinone under containued maintenance of the inert atmosphere. The resulting liquid composition is cooled to room temperature.