WO2012117322A1 - A packaging and applicator device for applying a cosmetic composition - Google Patents

A packaging and applicator device for applying a cosmetic composition Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2012117322A1
WO2012117322A1 PCT/IB2012/050858 IB2012050858W WO2012117322A1 WO 2012117322 A1 WO2012117322 A1 WO 2012117322A1 IB 2012050858 W IB2012050858 W IB 2012050858W WO 2012117322 A1 WO2012117322 A1 WO 2012117322A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
applicator member
applicator
stem
longitudinal axis
intermediate portion
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2012/050858
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jean-Louis Gueret
Original Assignee
L'oreal
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by L'oreal filed Critical L'oreal
Publication of WO2012117322A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012117322A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
    • A45D34/042—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like
    • A45D34/045—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
    • A45D34/042—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like
    • A45D34/045—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container
    • A45D34/046—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container comprising a wiper
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
    • A45D40/26—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball
    • A45D40/262—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball using a brush or the like
    • A45D40/265—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
    • A45D40/26—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball
    • A45D40/262—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball using a brush or the like
    • A45D40/265—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container
    • A45D40/267—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball using a brush or the like connected to the cap of the container comprising a wiper

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to applicators for applying a composition to the skin, the lips, or the nails, and it also relates to packaging and applicator devices including such applicators.
  • Application EP 1 745 717 A2 describes an applicator including an applicator endpiece having a body comprising a proximal first portion, a distal second portion that is connected to the first portion and that defines an end face, and a thin hinge-forming zone that is situated between the first and the second portions, enabling said second portion to pivot relative to the first portion while the end face is being pressed against the surface to be treated.
  • the end face that is used for application is generally inscribed inside a cylindrical envelope that extends the stem, thereby enabling composition to
  • the thin zone extends along the applicator member over an axial distance that is relatively short, so as to enable the distal portion to pivot about a pivot zone in a specific location.
  • Application EP 1 623 650 A2 discloses an applicator having an applicator member that presents a hollow shape that is able to deform while passing through the wiper member.
  • the recess formed between two branches of the applicator member is able to accumulate composition, so as to constitute a supply of composition during
  • the end of the applicator member may be situated on the axis of the stem, or it may be offset relative to said stem.
  • Application EP 1 726 235 A2 discloses an applicator including an applicator member that is sufficiently rigid to avoid deforming substantially while the applicator is being removed from the container.
  • US patent No. 6 280 112 describes a flexible
  • Patent EP 1 053 695 B2 describes an applicator having an applicator member that deforms while passing through the wiper member.
  • applicators for applying a composition to the skin, the lips, or the nails, in particular so as to give the user the possibility of using the applicator for a sufficient length of time during application, thereby avoiding having to reload the applicator too often with
  • composition while making it possible both to deposit locally a quantity of composition that is capable of imparting a strong color or glossiness, and also, when so desired, to draw an accurate outline, in particular during application to the lips.
  • the invention seeks to satisfy that need, and in one of its aspects, the invention provides a packaging and applicator device for applying a cosmetic composition, the device comprising:
  • the intermediate portion extending along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member over a distance that corresponds to at least half of the visible height H of the applicator member;
  • the projection projects in a direction that is not parallel to the plane in which the intermediate portion of the applicator member is flat.
  • the presence of the projection at the end of the applicator member constrains the applicator member to deform while passing through the wiper member, and enables the distal end of the
  • the projection preferably defines a local maximum for the thickness of the applicator member.
  • the portion in particular on its side remote from the face with the maximum offset from the longitudinal axis of the stem, and it may be deposited on the desired zone, e.g. the lips, so as to apply an attractive color, a care treatment, glossiness, and/or an impression of volume.
  • the outlines of the zone to be treated may be drawn sharply by means of the distal end that has been thoroughly wiped as a result of the projection.
  • the projection defines a zone of maximum offset from the longitudinal axis of the stem, the offset of the maximum-offset zone advantageously being strictly greater than the offsets of the intermediate portion and of the proximal portion.
  • the offset is defined as being the distance to the axis of the stem, measured in a direction that is perpendicular to the flatness plane of the intermediate portion.
  • the projection is situated, at least in part, outside the cylindrical envelope that extends the stem, is of diameter equal to the outside diameter of the distal portion of the stem, and is of the same axis as the axis of the distal portion of the stem.
  • the projection comes into contact with the wiper member .
  • visible length H of the applicator member should be understood to mean the height of the portion of the applicator member that is visible when the applicator has been removed from the container.
  • the applicator member may include a proximal portion, e.g. non-visible at least in part, that serves to fasten the applicator member to the stem, and that is engaged in a housing of the stem.
  • the visible height H of the applicator member lies in the range 5 millimeters (mm) to 20 mm, for example.
  • the applicator member is flexible and elastically deformable.
  • the applicator member may be flocked on its surface for coming into contact with human keratinous materials while the applicator is being used.
  • flocking of any type in terms of length, material, and denier (weight) , as well as a mixture of different types of flocking.
  • the flocking may extend over the entire visible height. The portion engaged in the stem need not be flocked.
  • the applicator member is preferably molded out of a plastics material so as to obtain flexibility and shape memory .
  • the applicator member may have optionally-magnetic properties. Where appropriate, the applicator member may thus be made out of a plastics material that includes a filler of magnetic particles.
  • the applicator member may be fitted to the stem, or it may be molded with the stem, in particular out of a different material.
  • the applicator member may be
  • the two opposite faces of the applicator member may join each other without forming a sharp longitudinal edge, in particular when the cross-section of the
  • applicator member is non-polygonal, in particular non- rectangular, e.g. being oval over a fraction of its length.
  • opposite faces should be understood to mean surfaces that are situated on opposite sides of the applicator member. In the absence of any sharp edge at the junction between the faces, it should be
  • each of said faces is defined by the visible outline of the applicator member when observed from above or from below, with the flatness plane of the intermediate portion being horizontal.
  • one of the faces of the applicator member may present a profile in longitudinal section that is
  • the other face may define a
  • substantially-flat rear face on the side remote from the projection may apply the composition with the substantially-flat rear face.
  • the applicator member may include a thin zone that provides flexibility and comfort in use.
  • the thin zone may be constituted, at least in part, by the above- mentioned intermediate portion.
  • the applicator member need not have a pivot zone of small axial extent along the axis of the applicator member.
  • the applicator member may present various shapes in cross-section, and, over at least a fraction of its height, it may for example present a cross-section that is circular or non-circular, e.g. polygonal, the cross-section preferably being of shape that is generally flat over the majority of the length of the applicator member.
  • the outside surface of the visible portion of the applicator member need not have any cavities, e.g. the applicator member may be solid and without any recesses, in particular without any recesses of small volume, e.g. of volume that is less than or equal to 3 cubic
  • the applicator member includes a cavity that may optionally be a through cavity.
  • the cavity may hold a supply of composition, thereby enabling the applicator member to be used for a greater length of time or enabling a greater quantity of composition to be deposited more easily, so as to reinforce a makeup effect, e.g. the glossiness of a lip gloss.
  • the cavity may open out to one or both faces of the applicator member.
  • the cavity may thus be a through cavity, e.g. opening out into both of the above-mentioned opposite faces.
  • the presence of the cavity also makes it possible to impart greater flexibility to the applicator member.
  • the applicator member may include two branches that define the cavity, at least in part.
  • the branches may present a shape that is: circular;
  • branches may be hollow, where appropriate.
  • the axes of the branches may be contained in the plane in which the intermediate portion is flat.
  • the cavity may extend over at least a fraction of the intermediate portion, e.g. over the major fraction of its length.
  • the projection may be situated in a zone of the distal portion in which the two branches defining the cavity join together.
  • the proximal portion serves to connect to the stem.
  • the proximal portion may include, or may be constituted by, an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g
  • the proximal portion may present an end bevel.
  • Width of the intermediate portion may be greater than the width of the proximal portion. Width is
  • the thickness e ⁇ of the intermediate portion of the applicator member may be substantially constant, and in particular it may vary by less than 10% over a distance of at least 3 mm along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member.
  • the thickness e ⁇ may be greater than or equal to 1 mm, for example.
  • the intermediate portion may be at least five times wider than it is thick, better eight times, better still ten times .
  • the intermediate portion may be oriented obliquely towards the side on which the distal portion is offset.
  • the oblique orientation of the distal portion contributes to offsetting the projection even more.
  • the intermediate portion may have a width L that is substantially constant over at least half of its length, better over all of its length.
  • intermediate portion may vary by less than 10% over at least 3 mm, along its longitudinal axis.
  • the width of the intermediate portion may vary, e.g. passing via an extremum.
  • the intermediate portion may extend with a flat cross-section over a distance, along the applicator member, of more than one fourth of the visible height H of the applicator member.
  • the angle a between the longitudinal axis of the stem and the longitudinal axis of the intermediate portion may lie in the range 1° to 30°, for example.
  • the size of the projection situated on the distal portion of the applicator member depends on the quantity of composition that needs to remain at the end of the applicator member after it has passed through the wiper member .
  • the projection may be rounded or of prismatic shape, and may join the intermediate portion via a sloping plane .
  • the projection may have a shape that is symmetrical, e.g. circularly symmetrical, about an axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member.
  • the projection may have the shape of a spherical cup or of a pyramid.
  • the projection may be situated so as to be set back from the side edges of the applicator member, or, in a variant, it may extend as far as said edges .
  • the projection joins the remainder of the applicator member without forming a step.
  • applicator member on the side including the face carrying the projection may thus be a profile that is rounded in the zone where the projection joins the intermediate portion, e.g. a profile that is circularly arcuate and outwardly concave.
  • the profile may define a point of inflection, e.g. situated on the projection.
  • the profile may be a profile with a slope that is constant towards the distal end, up to the vicinity of the vertex of the projection.
  • the face of the applicator member remote from the projection is preferably generally plane, but the distal portion of the applicator member may include two opposite projections, each being situated on a respective face of the applicator member.
  • the projections may be identical in shape, or, in a variant, they may be of shapes that are different.
  • the maximum-offset zone may be defined by one or the other of the projections, or it may be defined equally well by either of the projections when the applicator is made in such a manner as to present this characteristic, e.g. having a shape that is symmetrical about a mid-plane that is parallel to the plane in which the intermediate portion is flat.
  • the maximum-offset zone preferably has an offset e x that is strictly greater than the offset of the remainder of the applicator member, relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem.
  • the maximum-offset zone of the distal portion may be situated less than 4 mm from the distal end of the applicator member, better less than 3 mm, better still less than 1 mm, this distance being measured along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member.
  • the maximum-offset zone is situated in the bottom fourth of the visible height H of the applicator member, measured along the longitudinal axis of the stem, when said stem is vertical with the applicator member at the bottom.
  • the projection preferably presents a width that tapers towards its vertex.
  • the projection may thus present a profile that is triangular when the applicator member is observed along its longitudinal axis.
  • the maximum thickness e max of the distal portion may be greater than or equal to 1.5 mm.
  • the width of the applicator member may taper over the entire length of the distal portion.
  • the distal portion may thus have a shape that is
  • the wiper member is usually arranged in a neck of the container, and may be made out of an elastomer material.
  • the wiper member may have a wiper lip that is optionally
  • the wiper orifice may optionally be
  • the wiper orifice is circular or substantially circular.
  • the wiper member may include a flexible lip.
  • the wiper member is preferably made other than with a block of foam having open or half-open cells.
  • the wiper member makes it possible to wipe the stem so as to keep said stem clean and so as to conserve a satisfactory appearance for the user.
  • the wiper member may deform the applicator member while said applicator member is being removed from the container and/or it may deform while the applicator member is passing therethrough.
  • the applicator is removed from the container
  • the stem is preferably relatively rigid, and does not deform in visible manner while being used for
  • the stem may be connected to a handle that may serve as a closure member for closing the container.
  • the handle may include at least one reception zone, e.g. a cavity or a flat, for receiving a finger.
  • the reception zone may be at a specific orientation relative to the orientation of the applicator member.
  • the container is advantageously closed in leaktight manner when not in use.
  • the applicator may be arranged, when not in use, so as to be fastened on the container.
  • the composition may be a cosmetic, a skin care product, makeup, or a care product.
  • the composition is preferably a composition for the lips, e.g. a lipstick or a lip gloss.
  • the invention also provides a cosmetic treatment method for treating human keratinous materials
  • the method comprising the steps of:
  • Figure 1 is a partially in longitudinal section and shows a packaging and applicator device made in accordance with the invention
  • Figure 2 shows the body of the Figure 1 applicator member in isolation, before flocking
  • Figure 3 is a front view as seen looking along arrow III in Figure 2;
  • Figure 3 • Figures 5A and 5B show the applicator being removed from the container, in two embodiments of the applicator member;
  • Figures 7 to 25 show variant embodiments of the applicator member.
  • Figure 1 shows a packaging and applicator device 1 comprising a container 2 and an applicator 3.
  • the container 2 contains a composition P that is a lipstick in the embodiment described, but it would not be beyond the ambit of the present invention for the
  • composition P to be something else, e.g. a care product for the lips, an eyeshadow, an eyeliner, or a nail varnish.
  • the applicator 3 comprises a stem 4 that is
  • the closure member 5 defines a grip surface 21, and includes an internally-threaded skirt 21a so as to be screwed onto a threaded neck 7 of the container 2.
  • the stem 4 presents a cross-section that is circular, but it would not be beyond the ambit of the present invention for this to be otherwise.
  • the stem 4 may be solid or hollow.
  • the greatest outside diameter of the stem 4 lies in the range 3 mm to 6 mm, for example.
  • closure member 5 may possibly be fastened by snap-fastening, without turning relative to the container 2.
  • the closure member 5 may include at least one reception zone for receiving a finger, e.g. a cavity 17 shown by dashed lines in Figure 1. In a variant that is not shown, the cavity is replaced by a flat.
  • the applicator member 6 includes a body 9 that is made out of flexible material, preferably made out of an injected thermoplastic material that is covered by flocking 6a.
  • the applicator member 6 may present a shape that is generally flat in a plane that is
  • the body 9 includes a proximal portion 10 for connecting to the stem 4.
  • the proximal portion 10 may be of shape that is generally cylindrical, being received in a housing of matching shape provided at the distal end of the stem 4.
  • the proximal portion 10 presents an end bevel .
  • the body 9 also includes a distal portion 20 that is provided with a projection 15 that projects from the face 12 in the embodiment in Figure 2, said projection
  • the tip of the surface of the applicator member that is furthest from the axis X is defined by the projection 15.
  • An intermediate portion 30 connects together the distal and proximal portions 20, 10.
  • the various portions 10, 20, 30 of the applicator member 6 are made as a single piece,
  • the body 9 of the applicator member 6 is molded out of a plastics material selected from the following list: elastomers; thermoplastic materials; thermoplastic elastomers, in particular thermoplastic elastomer polyester such as Hytrel®;
  • nitrile rubber silicone; ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) , styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) ; styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS) ; polyurethane (PU) ; ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) ; polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ;
  • PE polyethylene
  • PET polyethylene terephthalate
  • PP polypropylene
  • the visible portion 6b of the applicator member 6 is defined by the portion of the applicator member that extends below the stem 4, and may be covered completely by the flocking 6a, as shown.
  • the material from which the body 9 of the applicator member 6 is made is more flexible than the material from which the stem 4 is made, so as to enable the body of the applicator member 6 to deform during application, when the user presses gently against the surface to be made-up.
  • the applicator member 6 may optionally have magnetic properties.
  • the body 9 of the applicator member 6 may be made out of a plastics material including a filler of magnetic particles.
  • the visible height H of the body 9 of the applicator member 6 lies in the range 5 mm to 20 mm, for example.
  • applicator member 6 may define a profile 15a that is circularly arcuate in the zone for joining the projection
  • the second face 13 may define a flat rear face on its side remote from the projection 15.
  • the intermediate portion 30 is wider than it is thick, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, its thickness e ⁇ being measured between the two faces 12 and 13 of the
  • applicator member 6 parallel to the plane of Figure 2, and perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis Y of the intermediate portion 30.
  • the width L of the intermediate portion 30 is measured perpendicularly to the thickness e ⁇ . In cross- section, a greatest dimension of the body 9 of the applicator member 6, given by the width L, is less than or equal to 7 mm, for example.
  • the intermediate portion 30 extends over at least a length Li , measured along the longitudinal axis Y of the intermediate portion 30, that, as shown, may correspond to more than one fourth of the visible height H, or better to more than one third of the height H, as in the embodiment in Figure 2.
  • the thickness e ⁇ of the intermediate portion 30 preferably varies by less than 10% over a distance of at least 3 mm.
  • the thickness need not vary at all over the distance Li , as in the embodiment under consideration.
  • the intermediate portion 30 is preferably at least five times wider than it is thick, better eight times, as shown in the embodiment in Figures 1 to 4, or better still ten times. Thus, preferably L > 5e ⁇ .
  • the intermediate portion 30 extends obliquely on the side of the projection 15, i.e. in Figure 2 downwards and to the right.
  • the axis Y of the intermediate portion 30 coincides with the axis X of the stem 4.
  • the intermediate portion 30 may have a width L that is constant, as shown in Figure 3, over a distance d ⁇ that is greater than or equal to 2 mm, for example.
  • the intermediate portion 30 of the applicator member 6 generally extends along a longitudinal axis Y that slopes at a non-zero angle a relative to the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4.
  • the angle a lies in the range 1° to 30°.
  • the maximum offset zone 23 of the distal portion 20 is preferably situated at a distance d of less than 4 mm from the distal end 22 of the applicator member 6, better at a distance of less that 2 mm, the distance d being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4.
  • the width of the applicator member 6 may taper over the entire distal portion 20, as shown in Figure 3.
  • the maximum thickness e max of the distal portion 20 is greater than or equal to 5 mm, better greater than or equal to 6 mm, being measured perpendicularly to the axis Y of the intermediate
  • the distal portion 20 may have a shape that is triangular, as shown in Figure 4. In variants, the distal portion 20 may have any other shape, in particular a rounded shape.
  • the device 1 further comprises a wiper member 8, for example a member that bears against the neck 7 of the container 2, and that contributes to closing the wiper member 8
  • leaktight closure is obtained by means other than the closure member 5 bearing against the wiper member 8.
  • the wiper member 8 includes a wiper lip 11 that defines a wiper orifice that is circular, for example.
  • the wiper member 8 may have a wiper lip that is optionally undulating, optionally slotted, and/or
  • the wiper member 8 may be semi-rigid, being made out of PE or PP, for example.
  • the user may load the applicator member 6 with composition P by dipping it into the container 2, and then removing it by passing through the wiper member 8, as shown in Figure 5A.
  • the projection 15 constrains the end of the
  • the projection 15 may contribute not only to straightening the applicator member 6 relative to the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4, but also to pressing the face 13 remote from the projection 15 against the wiper member 8.
  • Figure 6 shows a variant embodiment of the proximal portion 10, in which said proximal portion defines a shoulder 10c that may come into abutment against the end of the stem 4.
  • Figure 7 shows a variant embodiment of the
  • the longitudinal axis Y of the applicator member is rectilinear and coincides with the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4.
  • Figure 8 shows a variant embodiment in which the longitudinal axis Y of the applicator member also
  • the projection 15 may join the intermediate portion 30 via a sloping plane 15b.
  • Figures 10 and 11 show two embodiments of applicator members each presenting a respective cavity 16.
  • the width of the intermediate portion 30 may vary, as shown in Figure 11.
  • the applicator member 6 may include two branches 41 and 42 that define the cavity 16.
  • the projection 15 of the distal portion 20 may be situated in the zone in which the two branches 41 and 42 join together.
  • the width of the applicator member 6 is constant until it reaches the distal end 20.
  • the thickness of the intermediate portion 30 may be constant, and in
  • Figure 15 shows an applicator member 6 of thickness that tapers continuously towards the distal end until it reaches the projection 15.
  • the projection 15 may be joined to the intermediate portion 30 along a very gradual slope.
  • Figures 17 and 18 show variants having one and two projections respectively.
  • the projection may present a dome shape.
  • the applicator member 6 presents thickness that is constant over more than three fourths of its length.
  • Figures 22 to 25 are plan views showing other examples of outlines for the applicator member 6.

Landscapes

  • Cosmetics (AREA)
  • Coating Apparatus (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a packaging and applicator device (1) for applying a cosmetic composition (P) to the skin, the lips, or the nails, the device comprising : • a container (2) containing the composition for application; • an applicator (3) comprising: · a stem (4) having a longitudinal axis (X); and • an applicator member (6) presenting two opposite faces (12, 13), and having: • a proximal portion for connecting to the stem (4); • a distal portion that is provided with at least one projection that projects from at least one of said faces (12, 13), the projection being closer, along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member (6), to the distal end of the applicator member than to the stem ( 4 ); and • an intermediate portion that interconnects the proximal and distal portions, and that is wider than it is thick, with thickness being measured between said faces, the intermediate portion extending along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member over a distance that corresponds to at least half of the visible height (H) of the applicator member (6); and • a wiper member (8) for wiping the applicator member (6) while it is being removed from the container (2), the visible height (H) of the applicator member lying in the range of 5mm to 20mm.

Description

A PACKAGING AND APPLICATOR DEVICE FOR APPLYING A
COMPOSITION
The present invention relates to applicators for applying a composition to the skin, the lips, or the nails, and it also relates to packaging and applicator devices including such applicators.
Application EP 1 745 717 A2 describes an applicator including an applicator endpiece having a body comprising a proximal first portion, a distal second portion that is connected to the first portion and that defines an end face, and a thin hinge-forming zone that is situated between the first and the second portions, enabling said second portion to pivot relative to the first portion while the end face is being pressed against the surface to be treated. The end face that is used for application is generally inscribed inside a cylindrical envelope that extends the stem, thereby enabling composition to
accumulate at the end of the applicator member while passing through the wiper member. In numerous examples, the thin zone extends along the applicator member over an axial distance that is relatively short, so as to enable the distal portion to pivot about a pivot zone in a specific location.
Application EP 1 623 650 A2 discloses an applicator having an applicator member that presents a hollow shape that is able to deform while passing through the wiper member. The recess formed between two branches of the applicator member is able to accumulate composition, so as to constitute a supply of composition during
application. The end of the applicator member may be situated on the axis of the stem, or it may be offset relative to said stem.
Application EP 1 726 235 A2 discloses an applicator including an applicator member that is sufficiently rigid to avoid deforming substantially while the applicator is being removed from the container. US patent No. 6 280 112 describes a flexible
applicator member with a face that is used for
application that is substantially plane, and lateral sides, one of which is concave and the other is convex.
Patent EP 1 053 695 B2 describes an applicator having an applicator member that deforms while passing through the wiper member.
There exists a need to improve still further
applicators for applying a composition to the skin, the lips, or the nails, in particular so as to give the user the possibility of using the applicator for a sufficient length of time during application, thereby avoiding having to reload the applicator too often with
composition, while making it possible both to deposit locally a quantity of composition that is capable of imparting a strong color or glossiness, and also, when so desired, to draw an accurate outline, in particular during application to the lips.
The invention seeks to satisfy that need, and in one of its aspects, the invention provides a packaging and applicator device for applying a cosmetic composition, the device comprising:
• a container containing the composition for
application;
· an applicator comprising:
• a stem having a longitudinal axis; and
• an applicator member presenting two opposite faces, and having:
• a proximal portion for connecting to the stem;
• a distal portion that is provided with at least one projection that projects from at least one of said faces, the projection being closer, along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member, to the distal end of the applicator member than to the stem; and
• an intermediate portion that
interconnects the proximal and distal portions, and that is wider than it is thick, with thickness being measured between said faces, the intermediate portion extending along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member over a distance that corresponds to at least half of the visible height H of the applicator member; and
• a wiper member for wiping the applicator member while it is being removed from the container.
The projection projects in a direction that is not parallel to the plane in which the intermediate portion of the applicator member is flat. The presence of the projection at the end of the applicator member constrains the applicator member to deform while passing through the wiper member, and enables the distal end of the
applicator member to be wiped more thoroughly. The projection preferably defines a local maximum for the thickness of the applicator member.
By means of the invention, a relatively large load of composition may be present on the intermediate
portion, in particular on its side remote from the face with the maximum offset from the longitudinal axis of the stem, and it may be deposited on the desired zone, e.g. the lips, so as to apply an attractive color, a care treatment, glossiness, and/or an impression of volume. In addition, the outlines of the zone to be treated may be drawn sharply by means of the distal end that has been thoroughly wiped as a result of the projection.
Preferably, the projection defines a zone of maximum offset from the longitudinal axis of the stem, the offset of the maximum-offset zone advantageously being strictly greater than the offsets of the intermediate portion and of the proximal portion. In this embodiment, the offset is defined as being the distance to the axis of the stem, measured in a direction that is perpendicular to the flatness plane of the intermediate portion.
Preferably, the projection is situated, at least in part, outside the cylindrical envelope that extends the stem, is of diameter equal to the outside diameter of the distal portion of the stem, and is of the same axis as the axis of the distal portion of the stem. Thus, when the stem is removed along the axis of the stem, and while the applicator member is passing through the wiper member, the projection comes into contact with the wiper member .
Applicator member
The term "visible length H" of the applicator member, should be understood to mean the height of the portion of the applicator member that is visible when the applicator has been removed from the container.
The applicator member may include a proximal portion, e.g. non-visible at least in part, that serves to fasten the applicator member to the stem, and that is engaged in a housing of the stem.
The visible height H of the applicator member lies in the range 5 millimeters (mm) to 20 mm, for example.
The applicator member is flexible and elastically deformable.
The applicator member may be flocked on its surface for coming into contact with human keratinous materials while the applicator is being used.
It is possible to use flocking of any type in terms of length, material, and denier (weight) , as well as a mixture of different types of flocking. The flocking may extend over the entire visible height. The portion engaged in the stem need not be flocked.
The applicator member is preferably molded out of a plastics material so as to obtain flexibility and shape memory .
The applicator member may have optionally-magnetic properties. Where appropriate, the applicator member may thus be made out of a plastics material that includes a filler of magnetic particles.
The applicator member may be fitted to the stem, or it may be molded with the stem, in particular out of a different material. The applicator member may be
fastened to the stem by overmolding onto the stem, by adhesive, by heat-sealing, by stapling, by force-fitting, by snap-fastening, by clamping, or by screw-fastening.
The two opposite faces of the applicator member may join each other without forming a sharp longitudinal edge, in particular when the cross-section of the
applicator member is non-polygonal, in particular non- rectangular, e.g. being oval over a fraction of its length. The term "opposite faces" should be understood to mean surfaces that are situated on opposite sides of the applicator member. In the absence of any sharp edge at the junction between the faces, it should be
considered that each of said faces is defined by the visible outline of the applicator member when observed from above or from below, with the flatness plane of the intermediate portion being horizontal.
When the applicator member includes only one
projection, one of the faces of the applicator member may present a profile in longitudinal section that is
rounded, in particular that is circularly arcuate, beside the projection. The other face may define a
substantially-flat rear face on the side remote from the projection. The user may apply the composition with the substantially-flat rear face.
The applicator member may include a thin zone that provides flexibility and comfort in use. The thin zone may be constituted, at least in part, by the above- mentioned intermediate portion. The applicator member need not have a pivot zone of small axial extent along the axis of the applicator member.
Over its visible portion, the applicator member may present various shapes in cross-section, and, over at least a fraction of its height, it may for example present a cross-section that is circular or non-circular, e.g. polygonal, the cross-section preferably being of shape that is generally flat over the majority of the length of the applicator member.
The outside surface of the visible portion of the applicator member need not have any cavities, e.g. the applicator member may be solid and without any recesses, in particular without any recesses of small volume, e.g. of volume that is less than or equal to 3 cubic
millimeters (mm3) .
In a variant, the applicator member includes a cavity that may optionally be a through cavity. The cavity may hold a supply of composition, thereby enabling the applicator member to be used for a greater length of time or enabling a greater quantity of composition to be deposited more easily, so as to reinforce a makeup effect, e.g. the glossiness of a lip gloss.
The cavity may open out to one or both faces of the applicator member. The cavity may thus be a through cavity, e.g. opening out into both of the above-mentioned opposite faces.
Where appropriate, the presence of the cavity also makes it possible to impart greater flexibility to the applicator member.
The applicator member may include two branches that define the cavity, at least in part. In cross-section, the branches may present a shape that is: circular;
oblong, e.g. elliptical; polygonal, e.g. triangular, square, or rectangular. The branches may be hollow, where appropriate. The axes of the branches may be contained in the plane in which the intermediate portion is flat.
The cavity may extend over at least a fraction of the intermediate portion, e.g. over the major fraction of its length.
The projection may be situated in a zone of the distal portion in which the two branches defining the cavity join together. The proximal portion serves to connect to the stem. The proximal portion may include, or may be constituted by, an endpiece for mounting in the stem, e.g. an
endpiece of cylindrical shape. The proximal portion may present an end bevel.
Width of the intermediate portion may be greater than the width of the proximal portion. Width is
measured parallel to the flatness direction of the intermediate portion and perpendicularly to the
longitudinal axis of the applicator member.
The thickness e± of the intermediate portion of the applicator member may be substantially constant, and in particular it may vary by less than 10% over a distance of at least 3 mm along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member. The thickness e± may be greater than or equal to 1 mm, for example. By way of example, the intermediate portion may be at least five times wider than it is thick, better eight times, better still ten times .
Relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem, the intermediate portion may be oriented obliquely towards the side on which the distal portion is offset. Thus, the oblique orientation of the distal portion contributes to offsetting the projection even more.
The intermediate portion may have a width L that is substantially constant over at least half of its length, better over all of its length. The width of the
intermediate portion may vary by less than 10% over at least 3 mm, along its longitudinal axis.
In a variant, the width of the intermediate portion may vary, e.g. passing via an extremum.
The intermediate portion may extend with a flat cross-section over a distance, along the applicator member, of more than one fourth of the visible height H of the applicator member.
When the intermediate portion extends obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem, the angle a between the longitudinal axis of the stem and the longitudinal axis of the intermediate portion may lie in the range 1° to 30°, for example.
The size of the projection situated on the distal portion of the applicator member depends on the quantity of composition that needs to remain at the end of the applicator member after it has passed through the wiper member .
The projection may be rounded or of prismatic shape, and may join the intermediate portion via a sloping plane .
The projection may have a shape that is symmetrical, e.g. circularly symmetrical, about an axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator member.
By way of example, the projection may have the shape of a spherical cup or of a pyramid.
When the applicator member is observed from above, perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the
applicator member, the projection may be situated so as to be set back from the side edges of the applicator member, or, in a variant, it may extend as far as said edges .
Preferably, the projection joins the remainder of the applicator member without forming a step.
In longitudinal section, the profile of the
applicator member on the side including the face carrying the projection, may thus be a profile that is rounded in the zone where the projection joins the intermediate portion, e.g. a profile that is circularly arcuate and outwardly concave. The profile may define a point of inflection, e.g. situated on the projection. The profile may be a profile with a slope that is constant towards the distal end, up to the vicinity of the vertex of the projection.
The face of the applicator member remote from the projection is preferably generally plane, but the distal portion of the applicator member may include two opposite projections, each being situated on a respective face of the applicator member. The projections may be identical in shape, or, in a variant, they may be of shapes that are different.
When the distal portion includes two projections, the maximum-offset zone may be defined by one or the other of the projections, or it may be defined equally well by either of the projections when the applicator is made in such a manner as to present this characteristic, e.g. having a shape that is symmetrical about a mid-plane that is parallel to the plane in which the intermediate portion is flat.
The maximum-offset zone preferably has an offset ex that is strictly greater than the offset of the remainder of the applicator member, relative to the longitudinal axis of the stem.
The maximum-offset zone of the distal portion may be situated less than 4 mm from the distal end of the applicator member, better less than 3 mm, better still less than 1 mm, this distance being measured along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member.
By way of example, the maximum-offset zone is situated in the bottom fourth of the visible height H of the applicator member, measured along the longitudinal axis of the stem, when said stem is vertical with the applicator member at the bottom.
The projection preferably presents a width that tapers towards its vertex. The projection may thus present a profile that is triangular when the applicator member is observed along its longitudinal axis.
The maximum thickness emax of the distal portion may be greater than or equal to 1.5 mm.
The width of the applicator member may taper over the entire length of the distal portion. In plan view, the distal portion may thus have a shape that is
triangular . Wiper member
The wiper member is usually arranged in a neck of the container, and may be made out of an elastomer material.
Any type of wiper member may be used. The wiper member may have a wiper lip that is optionally
undulating, optionally slotted, and/or optionally
adjustable. The wiper orifice may optionally be
circular. Preferably, the wiper orifice is circular or substantially circular.
The wiper member may include a flexible lip. The wiper member is preferably made other than with a block of foam having open or half-open cells.
The wiper member makes it possible to wipe the stem so as to keep said stem clean and so as to conserve a satisfactory appearance for the user.
The wiper member may deform the applicator member while said applicator member is being removed from the container and/or it may deform while the applicator member is passing therethrough.
While the applicator member is passing through the wiper member, the distal portion of the applicator member is wiped as a result of the presence of the projection.
The applicator is removed from the container
preferably keeping the longitudinal axis of the stem on the longitudinal axis of the container.
Applicator
The stem is preferably relatively rigid, and does not deform in visible manner while being used for
applying the composition.
In usual manner, the stem may be connected to a handle that may serve as a closure member for closing the container.
The handle may include at least one reception zone, e.g. a cavity or a flat, for receiving a finger. The reception zone may be at a specific orientation relative to the orientation of the applicator member.
Packaging device
The container is advantageously closed in leaktight manner when not in use. The applicator may be arranged, when not in use, so as to be fastened on the container.
The composition may be a cosmetic, a skin care product, makeup, or a care product. The composition is preferably a composition for the lips, e.g. a lipstick or a lip gloss.
Method
The invention also provides a cosmetic treatment method for treating human keratinous materials,
preferably the lips or the skin, the method comprising the steps of:
• removing an applicator, as defined above, from a container along the longitudinal axis of the stem, the projection of the applicator member coming into contact with the wiper member while the applicator is being removed; and
• applying the composition to the materials being treated .
The invention can be better understood on reading the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments thereof, and on examining the accompanying drawings, in which:
• Figure 1 is a partially in longitudinal section and shows a packaging and applicator device made in accordance with the invention;
• Figure 2 shows the body of the Figure 1 applicator member in isolation, before flocking;
• Figure 3 is a front view as seen looking along arrow III in Figure 2;
• Figure 4 is a cross-section view on IV-IV in
Figure 3; • Figures 5A and 5B show the applicator being removed from the container, in two embodiments of the applicator member;
• Figure 6 shows a variant embodiment of the
proximal portion of the applicator member; and
• Figures 7 to 25 show variant embodiments of the applicator member.
Figure 1 shows a packaging and applicator device 1 comprising a container 2 and an applicator 3.
The container 2 contains a composition P that is a lipstick in the embodiment described, but it would not be beyond the ambit of the present invention for the
composition P to be something else, e.g. a care product for the lips, an eyeshadow, an eyeliner, or a nail varnish.
The applicator 3 comprises a stem 4 that is
rectilinear in the embodiment shown, that is of
longitudinal axis X, that is connected at its proximal end to a closure member 5 for closing the container 2, and that carries an applicator member 2 at its distal end .
The closure member 5 defines a grip surface 21, and includes an internally-threaded skirt 21a so as to be screwed onto a threaded neck 7 of the container 2.
In the embodiment described, the stem 4 presents a cross-section that is circular, but it would not be beyond the ambit of the present invention for this to be otherwise. The stem 4 may be solid or hollow. The greatest outside diameter of the stem 4 lies in the range 3 mm to 6 mm, for example.
In particular when the stem 4 is not of cross- section that is circular, the closure member 5 may possibly be fastened by snap-fastening, without turning relative to the container 2.
The closure member 5 may include at least one reception zone for receiving a finger, e.g. a cavity 17 shown by dashed lines in Figure 1. In a variant that is not shown, the cavity is replaced by a flat.
The applicator member 6 includes a body 9 that is made out of flexible material, preferably made out of an injected thermoplastic material that is covered by flocking 6a.
As shown, the applicator member 6 may present a shape that is generally flat in a plane that is
perpendicular to the plane of Figure 2, with two opposite main faces 12 and 13.
The body 9 includes a proximal portion 10 for connecting to the stem 4. As shown, the proximal portion 10 may be of shape that is generally cylindrical, being received in a housing of matching shape provided at the distal end of the stem 4. In the embodiment under consideration, the proximal portion 10 presents an end bevel .
The body 9 also includes a distal portion 20 that is provided with a projection 15 that projects from the face 12 in the embodiment in Figure 2, said projection
defining a zone of maximum offset ex from the axis of the proximal portion 10, which axis coincides with the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4. In other words, the tip of the surface of the applicator member that is furthest from the axis X is defined by the projection 15.
An intermediate portion 30 connects together the distal and proximal portions 20, 10.
Preferably, the various portions 10, 20, 30 of the applicator member 6 are made as a single piece,
advantageously being molded as a single piece.
By way of example, the body 9 of the applicator member 6 is molded out of a plastics material selected from the following list: elastomers; thermoplastic materials; thermoplastic elastomers, in particular thermoplastic elastomer polyester such as Hytrel®;
nitrile rubber; silicone; ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) , styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) ; styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS) ; polyurethane (PU) ; ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) ; polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ;
polyethylene (PE) ; polyethylene terephthalate (PET) ; and polypropylene (PP) .
The visible portion 6b of the applicator member 6 is defined by the portion of the applicator member that extends below the stem 4, and may be covered completely by the flocking 6a, as shown.
Preferably, the material from which the body 9 of the applicator member 6 is made is more flexible than the material from which the stem 4 is made, so as to enable the body of the applicator member 6 to deform during application, when the user presses gently against the surface to be made-up.
The applicator member 6 may optionally have magnetic properties. The body 9 of the applicator member 6 may be made out of a plastics material including a filler of magnetic particles.
The visible height H of the body 9 of the applicator member 6 lies in the range 5 mm to 20 mm, for example.
In longitudinal section, the face 12 of the
applicator member 6 may define a profile 15a that is circularly arcuate in the zone for joining the projection
15 to the intermediate portion 30. The second face 13 may define a flat rear face on its side remote from the projection 15.
The intermediate portion 30 is wider than it is thick, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, its thickness e± being measured between the two faces 12 and 13 of the
applicator member 6, parallel to the plane of Figure 2, and perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis Y of the intermediate portion 30.
The width L of the intermediate portion 30 is measured perpendicularly to the thickness e±. In cross- section, a greatest dimension of the body 9 of the applicator member 6, given by the width L, is less than or equal to 7 mm, for example. The intermediate portion 30 extends over at least a length Li , measured along the longitudinal axis Y of the intermediate portion 30, that, as shown, may correspond to more than one fourth of the visible height H, or better to more than one third of the height H, as in the embodiment in Figure 2.
The thickness e± of the intermediate portion 30 preferably varies by less than 10% over a distance of at least 3 mm. The thickness need not vary at all over the distance Li , as in the embodiment under consideration.
The intermediate portion 30 is preferably at least five times wider than it is thick, better eight times, as shown in the embodiment in Figures 1 to 4, or better still ten times. Thus, preferably L > 5e±.
In the embodiment shown, the intermediate portion 30 extends obliquely on the side of the projection 15, i.e. in Figure 2 downwards and to the right. In variants, some of which are described below, the axis Y of the intermediate portion 30 coincides with the axis X of the stem 4.
The intermediate portion 30 may have a width L that is constant, as shown in Figure 3, over a distance d± that is greater than or equal to 2 mm, for example.
In the embodiment in Figure 2, the intermediate portion 30 of the applicator member 6 generally extends along a longitudinal axis Y that slopes at a non-zero angle a relative to the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4. By way of example, the angle a lies in the range 1° to 30°.
The maximum offset zone 23 of the distal portion 20 is preferably situated at a distance d of less than 4 mm from the distal end 22 of the applicator member 6, better at a distance of less that 2 mm, the distance d being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4.
The width of the applicator member 6 may taper over the entire distal portion 20, as shown in Figure 3. By way of example, the maximum thickness emax of the distal portion 20 is greater than or equal to 5 mm, better greater than or equal to 6 mm, being measured perpendicularly to the axis Y of the intermediate
portion.
In plan view, the distal portion 20 may have a shape that is triangular, as shown in Figure 4. In variants, the distal portion 20 may have any other shape, in particular a rounded shape.
The device 1 further comprises a wiper member 8, for example a member that bears against the neck 7 of the container 2, and that contributes to closing the
container 2 in leaktight manner. In a variant, leaktight closure is obtained by means other than the closure member 5 bearing against the wiper member 8.
The wiper member 8 includes a wiper lip 11 that defines a wiper orifice that is circular, for example.
The wiper member 8 may have a wiper lip that is optionally undulating, optionally slotted, and/or
optionally adjustable.
The wiper member 8 may be semi-rigid, being made out of PE or PP, for example.
The user may load the applicator member 6 with composition P by dipping it into the container 2, and then removing it by passing through the wiper member 8, as shown in Figure 5A.
The projection 15 constrains the end of the
applicator member 6 to bear against the wiper member 8, as shown by dashed lines in Figure 5A, thereby making it possible to eliminate any excess composition P at the distal end of the applicator, and enabling the user to draw a sharp outline for the treated zone.
In a variant shown in Figure 5B, the projection 15 may contribute not only to straightening the applicator member 6 relative to the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4, but also to pressing the face 13 remote from the projection 15 against the wiper member 8. Figure 6 shows a variant embodiment of the proximal portion 10, in which said proximal portion defines a shoulder 10c that may come into abutment against the end of the stem 4.
Figure 7 shows a variant embodiment of the
applicator member 6 that includes two projections 15 on the two opposite faces 12 and 13. In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis Y of the applicator member is rectilinear and coincides with the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4.
Figure 8 shows a variant embodiment in which the longitudinal axis Y of the applicator member also
coincides with the longitudinal axis X of the stem 4, but in which there is only one projection 15.
In Figure 9, it can be seen that the projection 15 may join the intermediate portion 30 via a sloping plane 15b.
Figures 10 and 11 show two embodiments of applicator members each presenting a respective cavity 16.
The width of the intermediate portion 30 may vary, as shown in Figure 11.
The applicator member 6 may include two branches 41 and 42 that define the cavity 16. The projection 15 of the distal portion 20 may be situated in the zone in which the two branches 41 and 42 join together.
In the embodiment in Figure 12, the width of the applicator member 6 is constant until it reaches the distal end 20.
In Figure 13, it can be seen that the thickness of the intermediate portion 30 may be constant, and in
Figure 14, it can be seen that it may vary, passing via a minimum.
Figure 15 shows an applicator member 6 of thickness that tapers continuously towards the distal end until it reaches the projection 15. In Figure 16, it can be seen that the projection 15 may be joined to the intermediate portion 30 along a very gradual slope.
Figures 17 and 18 show variants having one and two projections respectively.
In Figure 19, it can be seen that the projection may present a dome shape.
In Figure 20, it can be seen that the projection 15 may be situated set back from the outline of the
applicator member 6, when said applicator member is observed from above.
In Figure 21, the applicator member 6 presents thickness that is constant over more than three fourths of its length.
Figures 22 to 25 are plan views showing other examples of outlines for the applicator member 6.
The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. In particular, characteristics of the variant embodiments shown may be combined together within variants that are not shown.
The expression "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one".

Claims

1. A packaging and applicator device (1) for applying a cosmetic composition (P) to the skin, the lips, or the nails, the device comprising:
· a container (2) containing the composition for application;
• an applicator (3) comprising:
• a stem (4) having a longitudinal axis (X) ; and
· an applicator member (6) presenting two opposite faces (12, 13), and having:
• a proximal portion (10) for connecting to the stem ( 4 ) ;
• a distal portion (20) that is provided with at least one projection (15) that projects from at least one of said faces (12, 13), the projection being closer, along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member (6), to the distal end of the applicator member than to the stem (4); and
· an intermediate portion (30) that interconnects the proximal and distal portions (10, 20), and that is wider than it is thick, with
thickness being measured between said faces, the intermediate portion (30) extending along the
longitudinal axis of the applicator member over a distance (Li) that corresponds to at least half of the visible height (H) of the applicator member (6); and
• a wiper member (8) for wiping the applicator member (6) while it is being removed from the
container (2 ) ,
the visible height (H) of the applicator member lying in the range of 5mm to 20mm.
2. A packaging and applicator device (1) for applying a cosmetic composition (P) to the skin, the lips, or the nails, the device comprising:
• a container (2) containing the composition for application;
• an applicator (3) comprising:
• a stem (4) having a longitudinal axis (X) ; and
· an applicator member (6) presenting two opposite faces (12, 13), and having:
• a proximal portion (10) for connecting to the stem ( 4 ) ;
• a distal portion (20) that is provided with at least one projection (15) that projects from at least one of said faces (12, 13), the projection being closer, along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member (6), to the distal end of the applicator member than to the stem (4); and
· an intermediate portion (30) that interconnects the proximal and distal portions (10, 20), and that is wider than it is thick, with
thickness being measured between said faces, the intermediate portion (30) extending along the
longitudinal axis of the applicator member over a distance (Li) that corresponds to at least half of the visible height (H) of the applicator member (6); and
• a wiper member (8) for wiping the applicator member (6) while it is being removed from the
container (2),
a greatest dimension, in cross-section, of the body (9) of the applicator member (6) is less than or equal to 7mm. 3. A packaging and applicator device (1) for applying a cosmetic composition (P) to the skin, the lips, or the nails, the device comprising:
• a container (2) containing the composition for application;
· an applicator (3) comprising:
• a stem (4) having a longitudinal axis (X) ; and • an applicator member (6) presenting two opposite faces (12, 13), and having:
• a proximal portion (10) for connecting to the stem ( 4 ) ;
· a distal portion (20) that is provided with at least one projection (15) that projects from at least one of said faces (12, 13), the projection being closer, along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member (6), to the distal end of the applicator member than to the stem (4); and
• an intermediate portion (30) that interconnects the proximal and distal portions (10, 20), and that is wider than it is thick, with
thickness being measured between said faces, the intermediate portion (30) extending along the
longitudinal axis of the applicator member over a distance (Li) that corresponds to at least half of the visible height (H) of the applicator member (6); and • a wiper member (8) for wiping the applicator member (6) while it is being removed from the
container (2 ) ,
the maximum thickness (emax) of the distal portion (20) being greater than or equal to 1.5mm. 4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the thickness (e±) of the intermediate portion (30) varying by less than 10% over a distance of at least 3 mm along the longitudinal axis of the applicator member ( 6) .
5. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the intermediate portion (30) being five times wider than it is thick, better eight times, better still ten times .
6. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the intermediate portion (30) being oriented, relative to the longitudinal axis (X) of the stem (4), obliquely towards the side on which the distal portion (20) is offset . 7. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the maximum-offset zone (23) of the distal portion (20) being situated at a distance (d) of less than 4 mm from the distal end (22) of the applicator member (6), better at a distance of less that 3 mm, better still at a distance of less than 1 mm, this distance being measured along the longitudinal axis (Y) of the applicator member (6) .
A device according to any preceding claim except for claim 3, the maximum thickness (emax) of the distal portion (20) being greater than or equal to 1.5 mm.
A device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 except for claim 3, the width of the applicator member (6) tapering over the entire length of the distal portion (20), and, in plan view, the distal portion (20) preferably having a shape that is triangular.
10. A device according to any preceding claim, the face (13) of the applicator member (6) remote from the projection (15) being generally plane.
A device according to any preceding claim, the
maximum-offset zone (23) having an offset (ex) that is strictly greater than the offset of the remainder of the applicator member, relative to the longitudinal axis (X) of the stem.
12. A device according to any preceding claim, the
projection (15) joining the intermediate portion (30) via a surface that, in longitudinal section, has a profile (15a) that is circularly arcuate.
13. A device according to any preceding claim, the
composition (P) being a composition for applying to the lips or the eyelids.
14. A device according to any preceding claim, the
applicator member (6) being fitted to the stem (4) .
15. A device according to any preceding claim, the
intermediate portion (30) having a width (L) that is constant .
A device according to any preceding claim, the
intermediate portion (30) extending with a flat cross- section over more than one fourth of the visible height (H) of the applicator member (6) .
A device according to any preceding claim, the
applicator member (6) presenting a cavity (16) that is optionally a through cavity.
18. A cosmetic treatment method for treating human
keratinous materials such as the lips or the skin, the method comprising the steps of:
· removing an applicator (3) , as defined in any preceding claim, from a container (2) along the longitudinal axis (X) of the stem (4), the projection (15) of the applicator member (6) coming into contact with the wiper member (8) while the applicator is being removed; and
• applying the composition (P) to the materials being treated.
PCT/IB2012/050858 2011-02-28 2012-02-24 A packaging and applicator device for applying a cosmetic composition WO2012117322A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1151592A FR2971923B1 (en) 2011-02-28 2011-02-28 DEVICE FOR PACKAGING AND APPLYING A PRODUCT
FR1151592 2011-02-28
US201161453563P 2011-03-17 2011-03-17
US61/453,563 2011-03-17

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
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US20120204899A1 (en) * 2009-10-09 2012-08-16 Kao Corporation Lip cosmetic applicator device
JP2015208636A (en) * 2014-04-30 2015-11-24 花王株式会社 Lip cosmetic application device
FR3026619A1 (en) * 2014-10-01 2016-04-08 Oreal RIGID APPLICATOR WITH FLOCKED HEAD AND ZONE OF FLEXIBILITY
KR20170139672A (en) * 2015-05-28 2017-12-19 로레알 Cosmetic applicator
CN110381775A (en) * 2016-12-15 2019-10-25 Elc 管理有限责任公司 The composition for processing skin and method of packaging
CN114760880A (en) * 2019-11-28 2022-07-15 欧莱雅 Applicator for applying a cosmetic product to human keratin fibres, in particular to the eyebrows, and method for making up and/or caring for human keratin fibres

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FR3058622B1 (en) 2016-11-17 2019-08-23 L'oreal APPLICATOR FOR APPLYING A COSMETIC PRODUCT ON KERATINIC MATERIALS
KR102535039B1 (en) * 2019-04-14 2023-05-22 톨리 매니지먼트 엘티디. Cosmetic applicator with flexible fluid retaining portion
FR3116423B1 (en) * 2020-11-24 2022-10-14 Oreal One-piece cosmetic applicator tip with stem
FR3136639A1 (en) 2022-06-15 2023-12-22 L'oreal Applicator head, applicator device and cosmetic process

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US20120204899A1 (en) * 2009-10-09 2012-08-16 Kao Corporation Lip cosmetic applicator device
US9468280B2 (en) * 2009-10-09 2016-10-18 Kao Corporation Lip cosmetic applicator device
JP2015208636A (en) * 2014-04-30 2015-11-24 花王株式会社 Lip cosmetic application device
FR3026619A1 (en) * 2014-10-01 2016-04-08 Oreal RIGID APPLICATOR WITH FLOCKED HEAD AND ZONE OF FLEXIBILITY
KR20170139672A (en) * 2015-05-28 2017-12-19 로레알 Cosmetic applicator
KR102077381B1 (en) 2015-05-28 2020-02-13 로레알 Cosmetic applicator
US11490712B2 (en) 2015-05-28 2022-11-08 L'oreal Cosmetic applicator
CN110381775A (en) * 2016-12-15 2019-10-25 Elc 管理有限责任公司 The composition for processing skin and method of packaging
CN114760880A (en) * 2019-11-28 2022-07-15 欧莱雅 Applicator for applying a cosmetic product to human keratin fibres, in particular to the eyebrows, and method for making up and/or caring for human keratin fibres

Also Published As

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FR2971923A1 (en) 2012-08-31

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