Colgate's new launch follows the retail successes of both its Softsoap Foam Works, instant foaming hand soap for children, introduced in 2002, and of Dial Complete anti-bacterial foaming soap.
Called Advanced Protection, the introduction underscores the growth of the foaming hand soap market in the US and abroad. This type of formulation first started to appear in industrial and service sector applications, as it was found to be both hygienic and cost-effective.
Following on from its success in the private sector, the trend is now growing for foaming handwashes in households, with the US and European markets leading the way.
Particular to this type of soap is the dispensing technology, which requires air to be simultaneously pumped into the soap as it is being dispensed. Airspray supplies over 20 different types of airsprays, each designed and patented to pump out foamed soap without the need for chemicals or aerosols.
The company's instant foam dispensers are computer engineered mechanisms that allow a precise mixture of liquid and air by using a smooth-action button. Valve technology aims to provide reliability and ease-of-use, which means that even shaking the product before use does not affect the quality of the foam.
Airspray claims that its dispensers provide instant foam, making the product appear richer and feel milder. It is suitable for a variety of cosmetic and personal care applications, and is claimed to provide more accurate dosage and more effective spread of ingredients.
Based in the US, the company has experience major growth in the past couple of years. As well as Colgate-Palmolive, it also supplies its packaging technologies to other big names such as P&G, L'Oreal and Unilever.
Most recently the company added the WaterGuard line, which is aimed specific for all applications used in wet conditions, such as showers and baths. The line consists of the WRT4, WRF3, WRM3 and the WRD4 designed for applications such as bath and shower washes, shampoo and conditioners, hand soaps, baby washes and children's washes.
The growing success of its air-based dispensers means that last month the company announced plans to expand production at both its plants in both Florida, US, as well as in the Netherlands in an effort to meet rising demands for its dispensers.