Advanced Technology MA-T®: Hygiene Solutions for Elderly Care
As the aging population increases and healthcare demands grow, the need for innovative hygiene solutions in nursing homes and medical institutions becomes crucial. Earth Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and Sirius Co., Ltd., located in Taito, Tokyo, have joined forces to promote hygiene measures utilizing the MA-T® technology. This collaboration focuses on providing efficient and effective hygiene solutions in environments such as nursing homes and home care settings.
Launch of switle CareWater
On September 1, 2025, Sirius will launch 'switle CareWater', a skin cleansing solution developed based on the MA-T® concentrate provided by Earth Pharmaceutical. This product is specifically designed for use with Sirius's 'switle BODY', a device used for personal washing in nursing care.
The aging population, particularly the baby-boomers entering advanced age, has led to a chronic shortage of caregivers and a rising number of elderly caregivers, which places a significant burden on hygiene routines. The challenges related to bathing and maintaining skin hygiene for those needing care require rapid and effective solutions. Leveraging the MA-T® technology's active ingredient - hypochlorous acid ion - in conjunction with the switle BODY device allows for more practical hygiene measures within healthcare and elder care facilities.
Features of switle CareWater
Gentle Cleansing for Sensitive Skin
switle CareWater, composed of 99% water, gently cleanses the skin of persons needing care. It effectively removes dirt that can cause unpleasant odors while minimizing the burden on caregivers, thus facilitating hygienic care practices.
Streamlined Hygiene Management
By allowing switle CareWater to be suctioned and circulated within the switle BODY device, the internal pathways are kept clean, simplifying hygiene management for the equipment.
Low Irritation and Alcohol-Free
The formulation, which effectively cleans at low concentrations using MA-T®, is primarily water-based, making it suitable for use on sensitive skin, especially among elderly individuals.
Introducing switle BODY
switle BODY is a caregiver's tool that allows for the washing of individuals with care needs while they remain in bed, preventing mess and unnecessary wetness. Users need not prepare complicated setups; simply fill the device's tanks with switle CareWater and dedicated soap, push the power button, and they can begin washing. Including a graphene heater, it can warm water between 38 and 45 degrees Celsius.
With innovative technology that sprays and simultaneously absorbs liquid without spills, approximately one liter of water is sufficient for pre-washing, cleansing, and rinsing. The system's design optimizes water and energy use, reducing costs associated with caregiving. At just 5.5kg, the device is lightweight and portable, making it easy to store.
In recognition of its innovation, switle BODY has been approved as a “care technology” product by the Technological Aids Association of Japan, making it eligible for subsidies from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, with a reimbursement rate potentially as high as 75%.
What is MA-T®?
MA-T® stands for Matching Transformation System®, a breakthrough technology that generates activated species (aqueous radicals) from hypochlorous acid ions as needed. By expertly controlling the reactivity, this technology is paving the way for complex chemical reactions and broad scientific applications, contributing robustly to the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). In this initiative, the use of the MA-T® technology in switle BODY with switle CareWater is ensuring that the skin of those receiving care remains clean.
MA-T® technology is already utilized in various sectors, from domestic airlines to hospitals, dental clinics, elder care facilities, and more, showcasing its versatility and potential for broader adoption.
Looking Ahead
As Earth Pharmaceutical approaches its 100th anniversary in 2025, it continues to uphold its mission of supporting life and living through innovative and effective products. Founded in Namba, Osaka, the company has grown to impact lives significantly, providing products such as pest control solutions (e.g., Goki Buri Hoitai), bathing agents (e.g., BATH ROMAN), and oral care (e.g., Mondamin), delivering to approximately 50 countries across Asia and beyond. The company remains committed to evolving and meeting the needs of its stakeholders in the next century and beyond.
For further details, visit their official
news release.