South African Student Invents Waterless Bathing

South African Student Invents Waterless Bathing


When finding a steady source of potable water is challenge enough in the developing world, who has the time — or water — to take a shower? One South African student may have the answer with his unique, water-less shower gel — that he invented on his dumb phone.

DryBath, as the gel is called, was developed by 22-year-old university student Ludwick Marishane in response to the rankness of a friend. Rubbed onto the skin, like Purell, the gel kills bacteria, moisturises the skin and, unlike Dettol, leaves a fresh scent, according to Marishane’s company website, Headboy Industries. One packet — priced at $US0.50 for rural communities, $US1.50 for corporate types — is enough to wash the entire body and kill 99.9 per cent of germs, which should cut down on the disease rate in rural areas onset by by poor hygiene. Marishane also sees the technology being adopted by militaries, hotels, and even airlines.

What’s really amazing is that Marishane brought the product to market using only his feature phone. From the initial research to building his business plan to developing the patented blend of biocide, bioflavonoids and moisturisers, he did it all without a computer. [Headboy Industries via LiveScience]


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