Category: News

The word soap comes from a type of stone, used by the Romans for cleaning themselves. The first soaps were saponins, made from berries, woody seeds and were prepared from wood ash. In the past, it was sold as a luxury product and was made in Venice, Marseille or Castile, but many people made it at home.

Our company, Albogroup, has been producing soaps for more than 40 years. Our production of soaps and soap bars for hotels and large-scale destruction can meet all market requirements, from customisation to contract manufacturing. Moreover, they comply with all regulations for the protection of the environment.

Traditional soaps, in every size and weight, with ingredients of natural origin and special, sophisticated fragrances. Over 40 years of experience, Albogroup has developed many collections of hotel soaps and cosmetics, from classic lines with organic Olive Oil and organic Argan Oil, to collections of products related to the Eccellenze d’Italia.

As a manufacturing company, Albogroup develops and produces innumerable types of soap, from classic hotel soap to retail soap, and all productions are made directly in Italy at the company’s production sites. For example, we produce:

• Classic soaps and soap bars
• Soaps and soap bars with ingredients of 
natural origin
• Soaps and soap bars with organic ingredients
• Soaps and soap bars with classic and delicate fragrances
• Soaps and soap bars with strong and distinctive fragrances
• Soaps and soap bars with natural colours
• Soaps and soap bars with high glycerine content
• Soaps and soap bars with RSPO MB-certified palm oil
• Soaps and soap bars with Ecolabel, Nordic Ecolabel

Alongside traditional soap production, in recent years Albogroup has developed new production technologies for innovative Solid Cosmetics that are not soaps, but real cosmetics, with a very low water content, that have all the characteristics of a shampoo or shower gel and that release their full strength when in contact with water. They are a decisive step forward in terms of environmental sustainability.

In this article, however, we want to focus mainly on traditional soap and soapette production, the positive characteristics of this product and the services that a large company like Albogroup can offer its customers.

Production of hotel soaps by Albogroup

We have been involved in the production of soaps for more than 40 years, both for large retailers and hotel chains. We customise the soaps, giving the possibility of choosing the type of paste, shape, weight and packaging so that we can meet every request.

Having customised soaps that reflect the values a hotel wants to communicate is crucial to building guest loyalty. This is why Albogroup takes care of all production and development phases and offers a complete full service, also for third-party production. We are a very flexible and dynamic structure capable of responding quickly to market demands and for this reason we believe we are highly competitive, offering a product of excellence both for hotel cosmetics and for large-scale distribution or retail.

Although at first sight soap may appear to be a simple product, it actually encompasses a world of experience, technology and creativity. Just think of the fragrance. There can be infinite possibilities for customisation, and Albogroup offers its customers all its research and experience in creating a unique and recognisable product.

In reality, soap is a small masterpiece of design and product. And creating a soap collection is certainly an art.

Soap ingredients and composition

When we see the words “neutral soap” on the label, we are referring to substances that contain surfactants and ‘foaming’ agents designed to protect our skin and clothes.

When it comes to customising soaps, one should not only focus on the packaging but also on the quality of the soap and its fragrance.

We create soaps with ingredients of natural origin with calming or toning plant extracts. They produce organic soaps, with glycerine, with natural colours and Ecolabel certified. .

Generally, oils are chosen and selected according to the beneficial characteristics they contain. The most commonly used ones are Olive Oil, Coconut Oil and Shea Oil. Special mention should be made of the use of palm oil as a fat base for soap, which we have already developed in this article.

Albogroup has always been careful to develop production processes that are increasingly sustainable and respectful of people and the environment. This is why it also offers its customers RSPO-certified production, i.e. using palm oil from certified, sustainable cultivation.

What should the pH of soap be?

When we talk about pH, we are referring to the amount of hydrogen ions that are present in a substance. These, in fact, determine its acidity. The pH scale ranges from a value of 0, which represents maximum acidity, to a value of 14, which is maximum basicity. pH 7 is neutral, like drinking water, while our skin has a pH of 5.5. Soaps always have a pH between 8 and 10. The acidity of our skin is important because it keeps keratin, which is composed of proteins, resistant and keeps bacteria and fungi away.

Quality soaps made by specialised companies such as Albogroup keep the properties of the natural ingredients in the formula intact. Generally, they are made with quality oils and are free of many chemicals and preservatives that we find in more commercial products for which industrial waste fats are also used.

The fact that soap has an alkaline pH is no problem for our skin. On the contrary, it benefits enormously, thanks to the presence of highly nutritious essential oils. On the market, there are soaps that are defined as neutral but this is impossible because with a neutral pH, saponification would not take place. To know the pH of the soaps we buy, we can use litmus paper to establish the precise level of basicity. A soap that is too basic could irritate the skin.

How did our grandparents make soap?

In the past, soap was regularly made from natural substances in every household in Europe. Olive oil or pork waste was used.

Certainly, our grandparents also periodically prepared soap at home. The process was very simple and they made it in their kitchens, with the help of a large pot, a wooden spoon, moulds and a thermometer. To make olive oil soap, you only need half a litre of oil, 150 grams of water and 64 grams of NaOH. The ingredients should be mixed together cold and left for two months in a cool, dark place. At that point, the soap will be ready for use.

Alternatively, we can replace the 500 ml of extra virgin olive oil with coconut oil or shea butter. For the hot process, you will need to heat water in a pot and cook the whole mixture until it becomes sticky. After two hours of slow cooking, it is removed from the heat and allowed to cool. Once it has solidified, the soap can be cut into slices. After three days, it can already be used. To make soaps suitable for scrubbing, coconut flour or coffee powder can also be added during preparation. These are energising substances that will give our skin many benefits.

Albogroup is your partner in contract manufacturing of soaps

The production of customised soap lines for hotels or retail is the core business of Albogroup. When it comes to customising soaps, the focus should not only be on the packaging, but also on the quality of the soap and its fragrance. Albogroup produces soaps and soap bars with natural ingredients tailored to each customer, using fine natural oils, including those of organic origin, natural extracts suitable for all skin types, or natural ingredients with soothing, moisturising, energising and toning properties. The fragrance of each line must also be carefully designed to make the product identifiable and in a certain sense unique. The universe of Albogroup hotel and retail soaps is a never-ending discovery!

Explore our hotel collections or our retail soap lines. Contact us for more information or to develop customised projects or contract manufacturing.

We look to the past but with an eye to the future. Albogroup is committed to producing a cosmetic range that is attentive to the balance of the body and the planet. This is where contract manufacturing comes from; the target market is Hotel Amenities but also quality retail. Design and precision timing are some of the ingredients of our solid shampoo, here are the others.

Solid shampoo: what it is and how to use it

The texture is reminiscent of the past, the bar of soap was the queen in toilet habits before the massive spread of solid soaps. Organised in bars, the solid shampoo is actually much more than a bar of soap. The appearance looks to the past, but the substance of the product is more than current; inside, in fact, is a careful selection of raw materials. Natural active ingredients are preferred to chemically synthesised components; the surfactants therefore wash but without aggravating the scalp.

Talking about solid shampoo also means changing one’s daily habits. It is in fact a product with many advantages but which requires a few minor changes. Solid shampoo can be rubbed directly into damp hair, there is also the option of soaking it in water and using the dissolved product. The feel is different than usual, the benefits are appreciated.

Shampoo with good INCI: all Albogroup products

The International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients, of course, also covers solid shampoo. Here the landscape may appear somewhat varied but above all controversial, there are several brands that promote the alternative in solid form but succumb to the use of ingredients with little connection to the green perspective. The INCI is precisely the right tool to select what is best for the protection of health; its effectiveness also applies to solid shampoo.

The SOLID.O® range was created to combine quality with the fight against plastic pollution; here, the INCI can certify its composition. Whether shampoos or other solutions, the range favours products that are free of silicones and parabens. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are also missing from the composition; we prefer to invest a few more resources than in preservatives and synthetic surfactants.

Best natural solid shampoos: SOLID.O® Original

The intention is to maximise product cuts in order to reduce production costs and be able to invest in the quality of raw materials. For us, this is the formula for quality that can be appreciated in daily use. The shampoos in the line are of course offered in packs of varying weights, the smallest cuts being the most suitable for use in receptive contexts while the largest ones can become excellent allies in the daily routine.

Attention to delicate skin conditions but also a customised approach to different hair types are just some of the reasons behind the shampoo line. The ingredients are also organic and certified; the line can adapt to customisation in fragrances and colouring as well as packaging. The underlying concept is more than solid; customisation is carefully adapted to the customer’s needs.

Shampoos and solid detergents: properties and benefits

The type was created with the intention of revolutionising the current approach to liquid cosmetics. It is not just a question of avoiding the risk of a liquid spilling into the classic travel luggage because the liquid formulation carries real mountains of plastic. This is one of the main strengths of the solid alternative; the packaging is really less demanding. Then there is the cost factor; it is worth trying it to realise this.

The properties of a shampoo but also of other solid cleansers are perhaps the most interesting aspect; empirical evidence can show how the approach to cleansing is more in line with nature. The use of a solid shampoo may result in an initial sensation of greasy wet hair; the reality is a hair that retains its cleansing power and appears cleaner for several days. The difference is stark compared to liquid shampoo.

How many washes does a solid shampoo last?

Many times more than an ordinary liquid shampoo, the answer can be clear when considering field tests. Effective use of the product can guarantee as many as 50 washes for a 100 gram bar, so each wash can cost as little as a few cents. The figure does, however, need a few small recommendations to optimise the duration.

Usage is at least as important as product storage. Solid shampoo is particularly affected by moisture when not in use. Ideally, the cleansing bar should be left to dry and stored inside a dry container because the ideal environment is cool and also out of direct sunlight. A wooden box may be ideal because the material ensures breathability but above all because it helps preserve the world from plastic build-up. Solid shampoo supports the scalp but is also good for the planet.

If you are a company or distributor specialising in cosmetics and would like to contribute to a more sustainable future, please contact Albogroup. We can work together to develop a customised line of environmentally sustainable, plastic-free solid cosmetics, including solid shampoos and bubble baths ideal for hotels. Together, we can create high-performance products that respond to the growing demand for environmentally friendly choices in the hospitality industry and in the distribution of body care cosmetics in general.

Optimising ingredients to maximise revenues, this is in essence what has characterised certain industrial productions to the detriment of the customer. At Albogroup, we instead believe in production that puts natural ingredients at the centre of a green revolution; the environment and the customer gain, but above all the quality of the product. We like to show how each brand can focus on a quality brand extension; we produce soaps for third parties precisely for this reason.

What are natural soaps and what are the ingredients?

Soap is a tradition that goes back a long way, millennia before mass industrial production. The earliest soap recipes can be traced back to the ancient peoples of the Fertile Crescent, the oldest finds date back to 2,500 B.C. and speak of all-natural recipes. The Crusades introduced soap production to the Western world as well. It goes without saying that such long-lived formulas have endured for millennia; they certainly offered valid solutions.

Here we go again with the production of natural soaps. These are products that keep chemicals well away from potentially risky effects on human health and the environment. Opting for the natural solution means turning in the direction of compounds with a clear but above all simply interpretable INCI. Saponification occurs simply by the reaction of sodium hydroxide, the common natural caustic soda, and animal or vegetable fats. The effect is a compound that is sometimes less appealing in appearance, perhaps peculiar in use but certainly healthy.

Properties of natural soaps

The process of saponification already says a lot; natural detergents are those that result from the cold process. Unlike low-cost industrial production, cold processing uses only the heat of the exothermic reaction between caustic soda and fat. Herein lies the value of natural soap as essential oils, vitamins and nutrients can be added at such a temperature that the molecules are not degraded, the active ingredients therefore remain intact to the benefit of the soap’s properties.

The quality of the product is clearly superior, the current direction is towards the use of only vegetable fats so that the soap is also healthier for the customer and less impacting on animals. Almond, coconut, avocado and olive oils, but also shea butter may tend to produce less foam than chemically synthesised products, but they offer an all-natural skin care. The benefits can be observed right from the start.

Benefits of using natural vegetable soaps

Typical effect of aggressive soaps, failure to respect the physiological pH is a source of stress for the skin. This causes irritation, itching and flaking typical of dry skin. Vegetable soaps have a higher glycerine content, which prevents skin stress but above all protects the skin from fluid loss. Working in a non-aggressive manner, vegetable soap favours the unclogging of pores, thus, cleansing blackheads and preventing acne, especially in young people.

Non-aggressiveness also means helping the healing of scars and creating more favourable conditions in the case of pathological skin conditions. The choice of products also affects health in general; one only has to look at the INCI to realise that natural soaps are free of preservatives and agents potentially harmful to health. Some industrial products, for example, have triclosan among their ingredients, which is registered as a pesticide in the United States. Natural soaps have no harmful ingredients; here is another added value.

What is Albogroup’s vegetable soap?

The experience in the cosmetics industry dates back to 1977, since then fashions have evolved along with styles and production methods. The brand is the signature of many revolutionary ideas in the industry, with low-impact production for the environment and a focus on contract manufacturing of hotel and selective retail soaps and soap bars. Optimising resources and focusing on ingredients are the two approaches that drive the group’s production lines: the added value lies in a product that is green but very cool in essence.

A veritable explosion of colours, the Soap in Love line consists of a collection of top-quality perfumed soaps and body and bath cosmetics with the same fragrances. Here the fragrances make the difference to create a simple yet explosively intense mix. The magic lies in the contact of the products with the skin, the foam does not attack but leaves room for the natural cleansing effect of the soap. The packaging is cheerful and colourful, it speaks of a line that is both joyful and respectful. The smile is finally green.

If your company is looking for a reliable partner for the creation of a customised soap line, or if you need a high-quality contract manufacturer of soaps for hotels and distribution, we invite you to get in touch with Albogroup. We provide customised, high quality solutions with a constant focus on excellence and customer satisfaction. Do not hesitate to contact us for more in-depth knowledge on how we can support your business and help you succeed in the soap market.

Ideally moisturised and in perfect balance against irritants, normal skin is probably a chimera that is only admired in advertisements. There are those who speak of luck and those who appeal to the magic of photo editing; at Albogroup, we believe instead in the results of research in the field. Our contract production of soaps aims at quality; the real mission is to bring value to brand extension.

Soap for dry skin, which one to choose?

More than 4,000 years separate us from the ancient recipe for soaps. Water, cassia oil and some alkaline substances made up the first rudimentary soaps, and the peoples of the ‘Fertile Crescent’ were already using them back then. Who knows whether the problem of dry skin was already an uncomfortable certainty back then, certainly the search for balance in the skin has always been the aim of every cleansing compound. The main cause is to be found in the reduced concentration of sebum, an element that forms a natural film to preserve dry skin.

The rule is simple: respect the skin. Aggressive soaps are therefore to be banned when approaching dry skin, it is also important to use the most suitable cleanser for each area of the body. Topical areas require cleansing with stronger compositions than those used, for example, on the face. Help comes from nature; glycerine is the best ally for moisturising the skin as it retains water and leaves the skin hydrated. Argan oil, coconut oil and jojoba oil are particularly respectful of sebum and therefore help to preserve it.

Soap for chapped hands, which one to choose?

Understanding the why helps to find the remedy. This is where the approach to finding the most effective solution starts. Dry skin, for example, tends to be more affected by low temperatures and changes in temperature. Yet dry skin is a phenomenon of the body’s response to the cold, vasoconstriction reserves heat for the inside of the body, leaving the extremities to cool. This results in the classic signs of the skin becoming itchy and dry until annoying fissures and lesions occur.

Which soap should be used in the case of chapped hands? All and none, the answer in fact presupposes that the choice of detergent is first associated with moisturising the skin through a suitable treatment. The obligatory step must recreate the skin’s physiological hydration, here glycerine-based products have an almost miraculous effect. It is then necessary to nourish and soothe the skin with vitamins and useful substances, and contact with hot water must be avoided. Soaps based on olive oil, lavender essential oils and balsamic products are preferred.

Consider the pH of the skin

Between 4.2 and 5.6 is in the normal range, the pH of an adult tends to be weakly acidic. There are some pitfalls, however, and herein lie many of the pitfalls in the correct choice of skin cleanser. An adult with oily skin is likely to have more acidic skin than an elderly person or a child. This is certainly due to different hormonal balances and, more directly, to the natural breakdown of the lipids that make up the outer layer of the skin.

The choice of soap must therefore take this into account. It is certainly well known that the skin of an elderly person responds differently to that of a young adult. The soap must therefore adapt to the degree of acidity or, at least, the age of the skin. Avoiding soaps that are too basic or too acidic is a good starting point, so it is often a good idea to refer to the INCI to check for the absence of ingredients that are not very dermocompatible. Then there are the healthy daily habits; preferring short and not too hot showers is one of the simplest but effective solutions.

Vegetable soaps for combination or oily skin

Solutions to complex problems can sometimes be found in the balance of nature, this is one of the most successful approaches when approaching the correct choice of soap. In fact, plant elements prove to be particularly akin to the natural components of the skin, man has lived for millennia immersed in nature, so the choice only brings balance back to his atavistic way of life. Almond oil with its nourishing action but also aloe vera with its antioxidant properties are just some of the ingredients.

The natural compositions are best suited to different skin types; they can be used on oily skin but also on combination skin. Respect for origin requires the absence of colouring agents; the effect can be observed in the absence of coloured residue foams. Vegetable oils and essences are the protagonists of this type of soap; the quality of a product that is certainly appreciated benefits from this. Returning to nature is good, even for the skin.

If you are looking for a partner to develop a customised soap line, or if you need a contract manufacturer of high quality soaps for hotels and distribution, do not hesitate to contact Albogroup. With our experience, expertise and dedication to innovation, we are ready to help you create products that reflect your vision and values.

The language of fragrances is one that reaches the mind even before notes and words; fragrances evoke memories and enhance perceptions. We at Albogroup care so much about scented room essences that we give them exactly the space they deserve. Whether it is one’s own rooms or the spaces in which one feels at home, the power of essences is strong. Here are our proposals in an itinerary completely dedicated to them.

Choosing the Right Fragrance for Every Moment of the Day

Listening to a piece of music can set the ideal mood, the perception of a particular fragrance can even excite. Each fragrance marks the place in a distinct way, becomes the imprint of a moment. Hence the idea of accompanying each area of the day with a different fragrance. The right choice can not only energise but also stimulate the other senses. Perfume accompanies a more pleasant lifestyle, welcomes a different way of experiencing one’s surroundings every day.

Creating the Perfect Working Environment

Maximising focus is the real secret to truly productive work, concentration reduces fatigue levels but above all makes time more enjoyable. Goals count, but the way in which they are achieved is also important. That is why our lines inspired by nature are the proposal designed precisely to stimulate concentration. Efficiency is a natural consequence.

Perfume for Relaxation

Rest is about disconnecting from everything else, severing connections with the world around you to devote precious moments to recharging personal energies. The right fragrance can create a protective bubble between the relaxation dimension and the world around it; here, fragrances envelop but abstract. A good perfume promotes rest, the perfect one can be good for the soul.

Relaxing fragrances and essences for the night

The bedroom is the environment that protects, it is the place dedicated to the most intimate dimension. Here the sense lies in the feeling of being protected; the fragrance must be light but above all inspired by nature. The perception of a pleasant fragrance promotes relaxation; here lies the sense of a selection designed to make the sleeping environment peaceful. The night soothes, the right fragrance regenerates.

Olfactory pyramids of our home and room fragrances

Reproducing a perfume is pure art; our lines are born from the skilful experience of perfumers. Creating a good essence is not enough; you need to imprint the right character by dosing the individual aromas. Every creation starts with research, it is a journey that passes through the senses and leads home.

Ficus, Hortum, Nemus, Sugar, Citrus and Pomegranate are the creations that speak of our research. The synthesis of each essence passes through a study of layers, the individual components overlapping to recreate exactly the right fragrance. Each creation is an experience to be enjoyed at home.

Mémoires Affectives perfume stick diffusers

Home fragrances find their natural expression in a composition designed to enhance their notes. Starting with an elegant yet eye-catching design, all you have to do is add a touch of gold to make it precious and complete it with sticks that can diffuse the essences in the best possible way.

This is the range of room diffusers that Albogroup dedicates to enhancing its fragrances. The effect of a perfume is also made up of timing and pauses, and entrusting the diffusion to the wickers means knowing how to dose. Like a painting deserves the right light, the essence is enjoyed from the balance.

Olfactory Selection Line Home Perfumer

Designed to satisfy the urge to stimulate the sense of smell, the Olfactory line was created to bring fragrance into the environment more quickly. Just a few seconds are all it takes to impart a personal touch to the environment, a single spray can suffice. The solution is ideal for use in the living area of the home, where times are more dynamic.

The essences are those that support the moments of the day, they can for example break up the smells in the kitchen after lunch. The proposals speak the language of nature but not only, among many there are Pomegranate, Vanilla, Citrus, Ficus, Hortum and Nemus. All you have to do is choose.

Ambiance perfumer top notes line

Impressive from the start: here our Top Notes line becomes almost an element that furnishes the home through the right olfactory imprint. The first perception of any room is precisely in the imprint that the scent manages to imprint; this tells a lot about the home and the person living in it.

This is where the intention comes from to entrust the diffusion of aromas to a tool that is effective but also discreet at the same time; the glass leaves room for the essences because the aim is to stimulate the senses starting with the sense of smell. The home is its own environment, it communicates but above all it welcomes; to give it a perfume is a gift that satisfies.

Solid.O Original focuses Albogroup’s ongoing commitment to sustainable cosmetics; its hotel product line sets the pace in the fight against water waste. Condensing innovation and tradition means developing a product that takes its cue from the past to revolutionise the near future. Here are some aspects of it.

Water Saving Formulas for Green Cosmetics

The cosmetics industry needs concrete action, capable of revolutionising points of view to look in the direction of an epochal turning point. Forecasts from the Compounded Average Growth Rate announce figures that speak for themselves: the planet needs a new resource protection policy, and the cosmetics industry is committed to implementing it. Water is the number one problem, climate change now sees a new geography of water resources: long periods of drought alternate with rainfall that is too abundant to draw adequate reserves.

Nature takes its course, man can only adapt and reduce the impact of his lifestyle. This is precisely where the concept of green cosmetics comes in. Products evolve to reduce the impact of industry on common reserves. Reusing water in industrial cooling processes, redesigning cosmetic formulas to reduce rinsing steps, developing solid formulations are just some of the moves the cosmetics industry has made and is making. This is not just about engaging in forest replanting or sponsoring campaigns to protect endangered animal species, cosmetics is changing the way we interpret our daily routines.

What are the characteristics of solid cosmetics?

History is cyclical, books have always told it and experiences are tangible evidence of this. However, the return to solids takes place in a technological key, the innovative formulations are a far cry from those at the turn of the century. Solid cosmetics look towards a reduced impact in terms of wastage of water resources but also point in the direction of respect in composition. Impact on the environment but also concern for the health of the customer, this is the reason behind completely INCI-proof formulations.

Almost completely water-free, solid cosmetics are products redesigned to ensure the natural retention of surfactants and emulsifying agents but without the need for water. Their composition is essential, the choice of ingredients tends to veer in the direction of vegetable fats and natural waxes. The principle is to exploit the mechanisms that work in nature to preserve their properties intact. The absence of petrolatum, silicones and paraffins are just some of the features of solid cosmetics; the result is more health-friendly. There is one thing, however, the choice of a solid cosmetic must rely on the evaluation of the skin type: more sensitive skin needs more suitable solid products.

How do you use a solid shampoo?

Before getting to the heart of the advice, it should be mentioned that 250 grams of solid product allows even more than 80 washes. This makes the explanation of its use all the more valuable. As with any shampoo, the product must be applied to wet skin and hair. Just gently rub in the solid product and apply it from the scalp; the massage must then start at the roots and work its way up to the ends. It then needs to be rinsed as with traditional liquid shampoo.

Storage requires a little care; the dry product can be stored in a box with an airtight seal. This type of product is particularly afraid of humidity; storing it in a dry place is therefore the most effective approach to ensure its stability over time. Contrary to what one might expect, the formulations of solid shampoos embrace several types of needs. This is far from the Spartan idea of one product for all. Cosmetic technology provides natural products to meet the needs of dry or coloured hair, excess sebum and various other needs.

Solid cosmetics for hotels Solid.O Original line

The line is designed to interpret the concept of environmental sustainability in hospitality commodities. The large realities of the sector are increasingly looking for products that are elegant but also have a low impact on consumption. The line of solid detergents makes it possible to focus on quality from a green perspective precisely because it is sustainable.

Moisturising, fortifying and ultra-delicate shampoos are the products designed for hair care. There are also cleansers for intimate hygiene and energising and revitalising solutions for the shower. The solid bar is Albogroup’s proposal to optimise consumption and respect the environment: easily split down the middle, one 15-gram bar can be used for two showers. The solution respects the environment but also reduces consumption, and the quality reception thus becomes more sustainable.

More than 40 years of experience and an active commitment to quality cosmetics lead one to reflect on the impacts and perspectives of packaging. Where plastic is too often demonised, some considerations can be useful to look at its impact on the environment from a different point of view. Production and regeneration are things to consider; cosmetics can also change perspective.

Albogroup has designed and created the Solid.O Original line, a collection of solid hotel cosmetics. This line makes the transition from liquid to solid easier by eliminating the need for airtight containers and encouraging the use of recyclable packaging.

Plastic: Enemy or Ally of Sustainability?

It is a bit like the Odi et amo of materials in the postmodern era, plastic is the useful thing that everyone criticises but no one could do without. Images of plastic islands in the oceans, but also plastic waste high up on Everest are inputs that do not help the material’s notoriety at all. There is one thing of substantial value, however: a plastic container does not pollute if man is not there to abandon it where it should not. Seeing plastic as an enemy may not fully frame the problem; the benefits are not to be overlooked.

Waterproofness, resistance to reuse and chemical stability are some of the prerogatives attributed to the material. Plastic has been part of everyday life for more than 150 years, and even packaging in cosmetics has always made extensive use of it. Considerations in terms of environmental impact would come naturally, but reality may, however, exonerate – at least in part – polymeric materials.

There is a small consideration to be made: a bottle of shower gel, even when the detergent has run out, can be just as useful as a container for liquids. A jar of face cream could become a jewellery box, that’s how small gestures are allies of sustainability: is this more to do with plastic or man?

Energy Comparison of Plastic and Glass Production

The common perception regarding the impact on the environment is particularly curious. Just by comparing plastic with glass, the belief is often that glass has a more ecological aura. Approximately 1,600°C are required for the melting process that is indispensable for the production of glass artefacts and containers, while just 230°C is the temperature at the tip of an extruder in the plastic production process. It is enough to start from this figure to draw initial conclusions.

What is the energy cost of glass production? Definitely high and mostly from gas and other fossil fuels; here the energy impact of the material is further tested by the carbon footprint of the production process. Then there is the production of carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, produced in the glassmaking process. Soda ash and silica sand are the other necessary ingredients. The result is an increase in land exploitation and the impact of mining. Plastic is a polymer, the monomers carbon and methane are the building blocks; however, its production requires less energy, which cannot necessarily be obtained by burning fossil fuels.

More sustainable future

The purpose of this in-depth study is certainly not to demonise other materials in order to praise the virtues of plastic. The past teaches us that the non-reuse of plastics has been the cause of real environmental disasters; one only has to analyse the waters of the seas to realise how plastic polymers have now become part of their “unnatural” composition. However, the future draws cues from the past and points straight towards innovation. Today’s technologies enable the regeneration of plastics, triggering a true virtuous cycle.

Steam and high temperatures break down the molecules of plastic to obtain the hydrocarbon bricks; the result returns the fossil fuels from which it started. Plastic once again proves itself ready to take on the shape that – even cosmetic packaging – wants to give it. What might appear to be enemy number one actually turns into the ally of a more sustainable future. More than 40 years of experience also in cosmetic packaging teach us: solving plastic pollution is possible, but the future lies in responsible cooperation by all.

Albogroup, contract manufacturing of solid cosmetics

Plastic is not the real evil of the world, all that is needed is the will to truly save our planet from its plight. Concrete gestures are needed, classic greenwashing campaigns can only doom our common future in the name of fictitious environmental causes. The past has produced too many plastics. It is therefore time to reuse those already in the environment.

The Solid.O Original line is Albogroup’s answer even in the most prestigious hospitality establishments. Moving from liquid to solid no longer requires the use of airtight containers, so paper and recyclable materials reinterpret the packaging. From intimate cleansers to shampoos, the solid formulation is the concrete alternative towards optimising resources. Cosmetics, plastics and sustainability can meet in the name of the common good.

Contact Albogroup if you want to contract produce your own line of solid cosmetics.

Knowledge of materials and full respect for the qualities of the product to be contained, these are the prerequisites for the creation of packaging that satisfies. The flexible formula is proving to be one of the most popular solutions, especially in cosmetics, and the advantages and possible shapes are convincing more and more customers. Albogroup responds to these needs with its customised courtesy lines for hotels, a series of products specially designed to balance flexibility and security.

Here are some insights into this.

What is flexible packaging in cosmetics?

Our experience would lead us to introduce the topic from a technical point of view, the one for which we specialise in the field of packaging in cosmetics. Here we prefer instead to focus on the end of the dynamic packaging typology in order to follow a path backwards towards the main characteristics and uses of flexible packaging in cosmetics. Shapes and sizes vary, the idea of brand identity that the right packaging guarantees remains.

The format is generally under 100 mL but flexible packaging can also cover larger product volumes. Creams, soaps, bubble baths and cosmetic products are the ideal types for this type of packaging. The solutions optimise the use of plastics but above all guarantee transport-proof efficiency. It is no coincidence that products with flexible packaging are among the most popular with consumers.

What are the advantages of flexible packaging?

Although the classic rigid packaging may convey the idea of greater strength, the customer has become increasingly aware of the virtues of flexible packaging. People tend to prefer to evaluate the product before buying a larger quantity, flexible packaging offers the opportunity to test its characteristics. In reality, the meanings behind the choice may be much deeper.

Material

As much as it is a common belief that flexible packaging also uses plastics intensively, one only has to open the classic hotel commodity to appreciate the product in quite different materials. Paper but also thin films of aluminium and even organic fibres can certainly be part of flexible packaging. These materials are selected but above all tested to ensure full safety from a hygienic and practical point of view.

Combinations are particularly successful. The aluminium in a thin layer has the function of protecting the product from light, a light plastic film enhances its waterproof insulation properties. The effect is packaging that is recyclable and, also for this reason, has a lower impact on production and disposal costs after use.

Hermetic Seal

If one considers the classic plastic bottle, this requires a larger volume but, above all, a larger amount of material to ensure its closure by means of the classic cap. Its shape is certainly efficient, but it is wasteful when it is intended for single use. The flexible packaging solution circumvents this obstacle with a simpler stratagem.

Although one thinks of the classic tear-off pack, flexible packaging allows for different sealing solutions. There may be the application of a cap, which is ideal in larger volume packages, but there may also be the use of rubber sealing. Much depends on the characteristics of the cosmetic product, each package being specially designed.

Space-efficient

The virtue of liquids lies in the fact that they adapt and take the shape of the container that holds them; this can be an artistically shaped bottle as well as flexible packaging. The latter thus offers the opportunity to adapt the transported liquid to space requirements. In a bag as well as inside a packaging box, the flexible formula allows the product’s transport density to be increased.

There is also a factor that goes straight to customer sensitivity: the flexible packaging allows the entire product to be used without leaving any residue inside the container. Just take the example of the classic toothpaste, its packaging allows you to squeeze it all the way through. Optimising use and reducing waste contributes to increasing brand reputation: the product proves to be closer to the customer’s needs already from the impact on consumption.

Single-dose sachets and Sachets for contract cosmetics

The typology is the one most commonly found in upscale hotel reception, the guest likes the products to be packaged perfectly when used. Maximum hygiene as well as a profound respect for the clientele are the messages that rely on this type.

Then there are the free product tests, these are the best calling card especially when launching a new cosmetic line on the market. Here it is the heat-sealing that makes the difference; quality standards must rely on ISO 9001:2016 specifications. For us at Albogroup this is the practice; quality is the secret of packaging that works.

Albogroup is a valuable partner for the production of single-dose sachets, either by customising its own lines for hotels or by directly producing products for samples and cosmetic preparations in general.

Contact us for more information on our products and services.

The commitment is the concrete one of those who put 40 years of experience at the service of others, innovation in cosmetics also passes through the packaging revolution. This is the point of view according to us at Albogroup, manufacturers of hotel toiletries.

Biodegradable bottles and containers for cosmetics, what are they?

Preferring recyclable plastics is only the first step towards real respect for the environment. Greenwashing is finally being put aside, the cosmetics industry is actively engaged with policies of profound product renewal starting with packaging strategies. Here, technologies are meeting nature, allowing new uses of biodegradable materials. The green revolution has just begun.

After textiles, the chemical and cosmetics industries were among the most impactful on the environment in terms of packaging and packaging. The current landscape is actively working on different solutions, all starting with a radical change in outlook. Where detergents of the past were in liquid form, the solution lies in the shift to solid detergents. Here the plastic of bottles and containers can be transformed into recyclable or even better recycled cardboard packaging.

Ecological materials and bioplastics

The war on oil derivatives also passes through the reuse of natural raw materials. Here, research and innovations in the sector make an important contribution. The past of packaging in cosmetics involved the production of plastic containers with the associated CO2 pollution and environmental impact. Plant fibres provide the solution: in addition to replacing the carbon chains in plastic, their production from plants helps reduce the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the air.

Green polyethylene is the link between plastic and its natural production, this is mostly obtained from the cultivation of sugar cane. It is therefore a by-product from other industrial supply chains. The effect is a recyclable product that requires no further resources other than the reuse of the waste material. Industry gets closer to nature and does so in a truly green way.

Ecological solutions to reduce waste

Everyone has a role to play in the active commitment to the environment, the change has to be radical and can only start with daily habits. The use of more sustainable packaging is necessary but not the only move. Therefore, ecology goes through six key steps: refill, reuse, returnable packaging, solid cosmetics, reduce disposable, ecological design.

Used bottles can be reused for the purchase of products on tap, that is what refills are all about. The alternative lies in reusing plastic containers for a variety of purposes. The returnable vacuum is a practice that draws on the past, very reminiscent of the old custom of selling milk door-to-door. The future, in this case, can only take its cue from the virtues of the past. Solid cosmetics are profoundly changed products from the old soap bars, their use paving the way for a new era of sustainable packaging. Reducing disposables means lowering the volume of waste, marine ecosystems can only thank you. Reducing unused volumes, that is what ecodesign is all about in sustainable design.

A law to stop microplastics

There has been a marked change of pace since January 2020; since then, in many parts of the world banned the marketing of products containing microplastics. Although they are apparently harmless elements, the microgranules contained in several products still cause pollution of the seas. PE, PMMA, Nylon, PET and PP are some of the acronyms of substances with a major impact on the marine ecosystem.

The passage of legislation constituted a turning point for the entire cosmetics chain, the use of natural and biodegradable fibres allowed the replacement of harmful polymers with substances more easily sustainable by the environment. Even packaging had to adapt, becoming biodegradable and recyclable, to guarantee performance, but respecting the law and nature.

Cosmetic products without plastic packaging

Solid.O Original represents innovation in bathroom commodities; it is a clean breakthrough in functional quality. Albogroup believed and still believes in products in solid form to reduce the impact of production but also to optimise the use of packaging. The innovative cosmetic bars offer practically transportable solutions; hence the need for plastic for transport is lost as this can be replaced by simple recyclable paper.

The advantages already start with practicality. Using it does not require any special care, but transporting it is much more practical than classic liquid products. One example is in the freedom to carry it in hand luggage even when travelling by plane. Shampoos and shower lines for multiple needs, intimate cleansers, make-up removers and various other products are offered in the solid formula. This is how Albogroup has revolutionised the concept of low-impact packaging.

Discover Albogroup’s line of solid hotel cosmetics and contract manufacturing services for hotels, large-scale distribution and selective retail.

Contact us for more information.

Starting from waking up and continuing during the course of the day, until just before going to sleep, we are used to using very different soaps and detergents.

Soap for the hands and face, shower gel for the body, intimate cleanser and even shampoo for the hair. The systematic use of detergents and soaps on our skin demands a careful but above all conscious choice.

What criteria must soaps meet to be “right” for us? The choice must be made starting with the pH test. Let’s find out what this is and how to make the right choice.

Soap and cosmetics production on a contract basis

Producing quality soaps, shower gels, shampoos and detergents, as well as body creams, is not easy, especially if one is not familiar with the industry. Today, there are many cosmetic brands, distributed in large-scale distribution or in the most selective perfumery, but few producers. In many cases, even well-known and widely distributed brands make use of external or ‘contract’ production. In the cosmetics world, this phenomenon is now widespread. The companies that own the brands prefer to concentrate resources and energy on research, marketing, sales and promotional activities and delegate production to highly specialised external companies.

Albogroup is one such company that directly produces cosmetic products for third parties, both for hotels and for classic distribution. The company is structured in such a way as to be able to satisfy requests for contract manufacturing of soaps in all formats and weights, starting with those destined for hotels up to specific productions of soaps made in-house for important Italian and international brands. If you are looking for a contract manufacturer of soaps and soap bars, you can contact Albogroup and get in touch with the company development department, which will be able to accompany you in your process of conception, line construction and production.

Our historical manufacturing activity has always been linked to the production of contract soaps and soap bars, for the hotel amenities market and the large-scale retail trade. When we develop a contract line of soaps and soap bars for our customers, we focus primarily on the product, its quality and naturalness, on the search for special fragrances that can give the line a stylish look, and on the development of more sustainable packaging. We use high-quality natural ingredients, including organic oils, natural extracts and specific ingredients for each skin type. From our Research Olfactory, we come up with novel combinations of essences to meet all market needs: from the most classic and delicate fragrances to the most sparkling and innovative ones. Contact us if you want to share your project with us!

What is pH?

The acronym pH stands for Hydrogen Potential, introduced in 1909 by Søren Peter Lauritz Sørensen, a Danish chemist known for coining the term pH in 1909 and introducing the related scale for measuring acidity and alkalinity. The Hydrogen Potential is the algorithmic scale by which the acidity, neutrality or basicity of a solution can be measured.

The evaluation of pH measurement is based on the concentration of hydrogen ions (in chemistry H+) present in the solution. The pH value ranges from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic), with 7 being considered neutral. The pH of human skin varies between 4.5 and 6.5, making it slightly acidic. This acidic environment is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

What does physiological pH mean?

The term “physiological pH” refers to the pH value that is compatible with the normal functioning of the human body. For the epidermis, a soap with physiological pH has a pH value similar to that of the skin itself, therefore, usually between 4.5 and 6.5. Using products with a physiological pH helps maintain the skin’s natural balance and prevent irritation and disruption of the skin barrier.

What is the neutral pH value?

The neutral pH value is 7. A soap with a neutral pH is neither acidic nor basic and may be suitable for general cleaning of the skin. However, it is important to note that a neutral pH may not be ideal for all skin types, since human skin, as mentioned, is naturally slightly acidic.

Choosing the right pH according to your skin type

To keep your skin healthy, it is important to choose a soap with a pH that is suitable for your skin type. Below are some guidelines for selecting a soap according to your skin type:

• Dry or sensitive skin: opt for a soap with physiological pH to preserve the hydrolipidic film of the skin and prevent moisture loss. A soap with physiological pH will help maintain the skin’s natural balance and prevent irritation.
• Oily or combination skin: a slightly acidic soap can help balance sebum production and prevent imperfections. Look for soaps with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5.
• Normal skin: for normal skin, a soap with a physiological or slightly acidic pH may be suitable. It is important to monitor the reaction of the skin and adjust the choice of soap if necessary.

Which soap to choose for children?

For children, it is advisable to choose a soap with a physiological pH, as their skin is more delicate and sensitive. A soap with a physiological pH will help maintain the natural balance of the child’s skin and prevent irritation. In addition, it is important to select soaps that are free of artificial perfumes and dyes, which can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Check out the Beba Lena and Friends baby line from Albogroup, also available for customised and contract production.

How do you measure the pH of soap?

To measure the pH of soap, pH test strips or a digital pH meter can be used. pH test strips consist of an absorbent material impregnated with chemicals that change colour according to the pH of the solution in which they are immersed. Simply dip the test strip into liquid soap or rub it on the surface of solid soap, and compare the colour of the strip with the reference scale provided.

A digital pH meter, on the other hand, uses a hydrogen ion-sensitive electrode to determine the pH of the solution. To use a digital pH meter, a sample of soap dissolved in water must be prepared and the electrode immersed in the solution. The meter will give a digital reading of the pH of the sample.

The importance of soap formulation

Soap formulation is a crucial aspect in the production of skin care products. Albogroup uses high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques to ensure that the soaps it produces are safe and effective.

The choice of ingredients, concentration and saponification process directly influence the pH of the soap and its cleansing, emollient and foaming properties.

Precisely for this reason we use raw materials of natural origin and high quality, which maintain the lipid balance of the area of the epidermis for which each soap is intended. This is the only way to ensure well-being and skin care.

The complete customisation of fragrances, colours and packaging allows each brand to guarantee its customers quality products that reflect the spirit of the brand.