Evaluation method, evaluation device, application program, and evaluation system

Abstract

To enable evaluation of compatibility between the skin of a user and topical skin agents with sunscreen effects.SOLUTION: An evaluation method disclosed herein comprises acquiring reflections of ultraviolet light irradiated to the skin of a user applied with a topical skin agent with a sunscreen effect, estimating an ultraviolet protection factor value of the topical skin agent with a sunscreen effect on the skin of the user based on the reflections, and evaluating compatibility between the skin of the user and the topical skin agent with a sunscreen effect using the ultraviolet protection factor value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an evaluation method for estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value when an external skin preparation having a predetermined sunscreen effect is applied to a user's skin, and evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect using the estimation result. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a technique for evaluating the performance of an ultraviolet protection agent that has the function of absorbing and / or scattering ultraviolet light and is placed on the surface of a living body (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-146211 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, many users report that they are unable to feel the UV protection effect (e.g., SPF value) of topical skin products with sunscreen properties that is published or displayed on the packaging or product website, and the current situation is that many users are looking for topical skin products with sunscreen properties that are suitable for their own skin type.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and relates to a method for evaluating the compatibility between a user's skin and an external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to an evaluation method for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, obtaining reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and evaluating the compatibility of the user's skin with the topical skin preparation based on the reflected light.

[0007] The present invention also relates to an evaluation device that includes an acquisition means for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied and acquiring reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and an evaluation means for using the reflected light to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect.

[0008] The present invention also relates to an application that operates an evaluation device that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect has been applied, and evaluates the compatibility of the user's skin with the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect using the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and includes an application program that includes an acquisition process that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquires the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and an evaluation process that uses the reflected light to evaluate the compatibility of the user's skin with the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect.

[0009] The present invention also relates to an evaluation system comprising an ultraviolet light irradiation means for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, a detection means for detecting reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, an acquisition means for acquiring reflected light of the detected ultraviolet light, and an evaluation means for using the reflected light to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the method provided by the present invention, it is possible to evaluate the compatibility between a user's skin and a topical skin preparation with a sunscreen effect, and to suggest a topical skin preparation with a sunscreen effect that is suitable for the user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing how an ultraviolet skin image is captured. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the present evaluation device. [Diagram 3]FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a method for estimating the UV protection value of an external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect that has been applied to a user's skin. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a method for estimating the UV protection value of an external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect that has been applied to a user's skin. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram (overview) relating to estimation of UV protection value. [Figure 6] This is the estimation result of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] (a) is an ultraviolet skin image of subject 1, and (b) is an ultraviolet skin image of subject 7. [Figure 8] This is an estimation result of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is an estimation result of the third embodiment. [Figure 10] This is an estimation result of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is an ultraviolet skin image of subject 21. [Figure 12] The estimated results include the uniformity of the coating film formed. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the present evaluation system. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 shows the results of evaluating the suitability of a single topical skin preparation for users in another embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of displaying recommended products to the user based on the results of the compatibility evaluation in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the results of classifying users into multiple skin types based on the results of measuring the compatibility of a topical skin preparation in another embodiment, and predicting the unknown effects of other topical skin preparations. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of displaying recommended products for the user for each skin type classified in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a map showing the results of predicting the unknown effects of an external skin preparation from the measurement results of the suitability of another external skin preparation in another embodiment. [Figure 19]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an evaluation of suitability between different body parts based on the relationship between estimated and indicated UV protection values ​​in another embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an evaluation of suitability between different applicator tools based on the relationship between the estimated UV protection value and the indicated UV protection value in the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings of the present embodiment are all intended to explain the technical concept, configuration, and operation of the present invention, and are not intended to specifically limit the configuration. In addition, in all drawings, similar components are given similar reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0013] The evaluation method in this embodiment (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as this method) will be outlined below. The evaluation method of this embodiment is an evaluation method for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, acquiring reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and evaluating the compatibility between the skin of the user and the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect based on the reflected light. Also, the evaluation method is an evaluation method for estimating an ultraviolet protection value of the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect on the skin of the user based on the reflected light, and evaluating the compatibility between the skin of the user and the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect using the ultraviolet protection value. The term "skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect" refers to a composition containing an ultraviolet protection component, and the ultraviolet protection component may contain at least one of an ultraviolet absorbing agent and an ultraviolet scattering agent. The type of the index indicating the ultraviolet protection effect described later and the numerical value of the index may be any value. The form of the preparation may be liquid, gel, semi-solid, solid, foam, mist, sheet, etc., and the type of the preparation may be any type such as W / O type cosmetic preparation (water in oil cosmetic preparation), O / W type cosmetic preparation (oil in water cosmetic preparation), milky lotion, gel, cream, lotion, sheet, makeup cosmetic preparation, powder type, etc., and may also include functions other than the ultraviolet protection effect, such as waterproof function, usable as a makeup base, moisturizing function, skin color adjustment, skin condition adjustment, and pollen prevention.

[0014] "Irradiating the skin of a user with ultraviolet light and acquiring reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light" means irradiating the skin of a user with ultraviolet light by an illumination unit and acquiring reflected light reflected from the bare skin of the user or from skin to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, for example, by using an ultraviolet camera. In this case, it is sufficient to be able to calculate the intensity of the acquired reflected light, and therefore, a skin image (ultraviolet skin image) including an area to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied is acquired. When an illumination unit that irradiates light in multiple wavelength bands is used, the ultraviolet light may be irradiated using an optical filter that transmits light in a specific wavelength band. Also, a polarizing plate may be provided to transmit light polarized or polarized in a specific direction.

[0015] "Evaluating the compatibility of the skin of a user with the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect based on the reflected light" refers to evaluating the UV protection effect and uniformity of the coating film formed on the skin by the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect applied to the user's skin using the intensity of the reflected light calculated based on the acquired reflected light and the UV skin image of the reflected light. "Evaluation" refers to comparing and evaluating based on a predetermined standard, index, etc., so that the same evaluation results are obtained even if different evaluators are used, and refers to evaluating the compatibility of the skin of a user with the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect by, for example, comparing the captured UV skin image with a standard UV skin image, comparing a value calculated based on the reflected light with a standard value, etc.

[0016] The "ultraviolet ray protection value of a topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect" is an index showing the amount of ultraviolet ray prevented from reaching the skin of a subject by the application of a topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect, and may be any of the following: Sun Protection Factor (SPF), UVAPF (UVA Protection Factor of Product), UV transmittance, UV transmittance estimated from the UVB region, critical wavelength, absorbance, etc. Also, it may be a numerical value for an index, a difference from a specified reference value, a proportion, a ratio, etc., and it can be determined which index to use and what kind of evaluation is to be performed depending on the type of ultraviolet ray protective ingredient contained in a specified composition and the wavelength band of ultraviolet ray to be irradiated.

[0017] "Estimating UV protection value" means estimating an index of the degree of UV protection from the intensity of reflected light calculated based on the acquired reflected light, for example, from a specified formula described below.

[0018] "Using the UV protection value to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect" means evaluating whether the user's skin is compatible with the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect and whether the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect can exert its function by comparing the UV protection value with the estimated UV protection value when the same topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect is applied to another user, or by using the uniformity of the coating film formed on the skin by the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect calculated from the coefficient of variation of the estimated UV protection value.

[0019] Here, the compatibility between the user's skin and an external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect will be described. The compatibility of a skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect with a user's skin means whether the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect is suitable for the user's skin, and may be the compatibility of the UV protection effect of the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect, the compatibility of the applied state formed on the skin, the compatibility with the user's skin condition (sensitive skin, etc.), the compatibility with the feeling of use desired by the user, etc., and may be any one item or multiple items. Specifically, in the case of the compatibility of the UV protection effect, it means whether the UV protection value estimated when the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect is applied to the user's skin meets the UV protection value expected by the user, whether the estimated UV protection value is estimated to be equivalent to the UV protection value (e.g., SPF value) published by the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect, etc. In the case of suitability of the application state of the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect, it is the uniformity of the coating film formed by the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect on the user's skin, the ease of application of the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect to the skin, etc., and also the presence or absence of irritation to the user's skin after application of the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect, etc. In addition, suitability for the user's usability is the preference of the usability based on the input results of the user's questionnaire items after application of the topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect, etc. By evaluating these suitabilities, it is possible to propose a topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect that is optimal for the user's skin.

[0020] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied to the user's skin (here, the user's face). In this embodiment, the skin topical agent 20 is applied to a total of four locations, two locations on the forehead and one location on each of the left and right cheeks. Note that the locations and number of locations where the skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied as shown in FIG. 1 are merely examples, and other locations and other numbers may be used. In this embodiment, different compositions are applied to the four application locations shown in FIG. 1, respectively, to estimate and compare the UV protection values ​​of four types of compositions at once, but this is not limited to this. For example, since there are often differences in texture and wrinkles between the cheeks and the forehead, there is a possibility that differences due to the skin condition may occur in the application state of the skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect, so the skin topical agent 20 may be applied to a site with a similar skin condition, and estimated and evaluated. In this way, a comparison can be made under similar skin conditions, so that a clear comparison of the compositions can be made. In addition, since there is a possibility that there is a difference in the skin condition between the left cheek and the right cheek, for example, multiple types of compositions (for example, two types) may be applied to the left cheek. Furthermore, to avoid differences in skin condition, one type of composition may be applied to the same area, the UV protection value may be estimated, and then the agent may be removed by face washing, and a different agent may be applied to the same area to estimate the UV protection value. Any application method may be used for evaluation, but it is preferable to apply and evaluate multiple types of skin topical agents 20 with sunscreen effect at once, since applying and evaluating multiple types of skin topical agents 20 with sunscreen effect at once shortens the overall evaluation time and allows evaluation under the same skin condition (for example, avoiding the possibility of different skin conditions due to washing the face every time the composition is changed).

[0021] In this way, there are no restrictions on the position at which the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect is applied, or the type (number) of topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be applied at one time, and the optimal application position and number of applications can be determined depending on the user's skin condition, the type (number) of topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect, the time required for evaluation, etc.

[0022] In this embodiment, as a method for acquiring reflected light of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the skin (face) of a user to which the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect has been applied, an image of the skin (face) of the user to which the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect has been applied is acquired using an ultraviolet camera 30. When capturing an image, ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the user's skin from an illumination unit 50 (not shown) capable of irradiating light in the ultraviolet wavelength band. In this way, it becomes possible to capture an image of the user's skin under ultraviolet irradiation.

[0023] A method for estimating the UV protection value of a coating of a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect applied to a user's skin will be described with reference to Figs. 2 to 5.

[0024] <Evaluation device 200> Fig. 2 is a conceptual diagram of an evaluation device 200. This evaluation method makes it possible to evaluate the compatibility between a user's skin and an external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect, using the evaluation device 200 shown in Fig. 2.

[0025] The evaluation device 200 in this embodiment is composed of an acquisition unit 130, an estimation unit 150, and an evaluation unit 160. In addition, the evaluation device 200 includes an information processing device 100 capable of executing various processes, and the information processing device 100 includes the acquisition unit 130, the estimation unit 150, and the evaluation unit 160. The information processing device 100 is a general-purpose personal computer, and includes an input unit 170 such as a keyboard, a touch panel, and a pointing device, an arithmetic processing device (e.g., a CPU, etc.), a storage unit, etc. In addition, the information processing device 100 preferably includes the input unit 170 and the display unit 180 (including a display device), but the display unit 180 may be provided in an information processing terminal such as a smartphone provided outside the information processing device 100 and connected via a network. In addition, although it is not necessary to include them in the evaluation device 200, as described above, in this evaluation method, an ultraviolet skin image captured under ultraviolet irradiation is used, so that an illumination unit 50 and a detection unit 70 are required, and the detection unit 70 includes the ultraviolet camera 30 described above.

[0026] The acquisition unit 130 is a means (acquisition means) for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquiring the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and acquires the light from the detection unit 70, for example, via a network.

[0027] The estimation unit 150 is a means (estimation means) for estimating the ultraviolet protection value of the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect on the user's skin based on the ultraviolet skin image. The estimation method by the estimation means will be described later.

[0028] The evaluation unit 160 is a means (evaluation means) for evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect by displaying the data acquired by the acquisition unit 130 on the display unit 180, or by using the UV protection value estimated by the estimation unit 150. The evaluation method by the evaluation means will be described later. It is preferable that the evaluation results by the evaluation unit 160 are displayed in a form that is easy for the evaluator to understand using the display unit 180. Note that the "evaluator" here includes both a salesperson at a store and a user.

[0029] The input unit 170 is a means (input means) for the user to input answers to predetermined medical interview items.

[0030] The display unit 180 can appropriately rearrange the estimation results by the estimation unit 150 and the evaluation results by the evaluation unit 160, or display them in a graph format, so that a user or evaluator can easily understand the estimation results and the evaluation results.

[0031] The memory unit of the information processing device 100 stores application programs for executing the estimation method and evaluation method described below in the information processing device 100, i.e., for realizing the acquisition unit 130, the estimation unit 150, and the evaluation unit 160, and the application programs cause the arithmetic processing device to estimate the UV protection value using data acquired by the acquisition unit 130, and the application programs cause the arithmetic processing device to perform the evaluation and display the evaluation results.

[0032] The illumination unit 50 emits light in a wavelength band including ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 280 nm or more and 400 nm or less. Note that, as long as a predetermined ultraviolet light intensity can be obtained, for example, either an illumination unit that emits light in a wide wavelength band (including the ultraviolet band) or an illumination unit that emits light in a narrow wavelength band (within the ultraviolet band) can be used.

[0033] The illumination unit 50 and the detection unit 70 are devices necessary for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which the topical skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect has been applied in the evaluation device 200, and for acquiring the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and are therefore illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0034] <How to estimate UV protection value> In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, a skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied to the surface of a user's skin 10, ultraviolet light (incident light) is irradiated onto the user's skin 10, and the reflected light is detected. The intensity of the incident light is indicated by I(λ). Here, the intensity I of the reflected light is R (λ) can be expressed by the following formula (1) based on the surface model of the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect and the user's skin 10 shown in FIG.

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[0035] S(λ) is the proportion of incident light of wavelength λ that is reflected and scattered on the surface of the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect. (1-S(λ)) is the proportion of incident light of wavelength λ that is not reflected and scattered on the surface of the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect. s 2 R(λ) is the proportion of incident light of wavelength λ that is not absorbed by the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect and reaches the interface with the user's skin 10. β(λ) is the proportion of incident light of wavelength λ that is reflected at the interface between the external skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect and the user's skin 10. s (λ) is the fraction of incident light of wavelength λ that is reflected by the user's skin 10.

[0036] The above formula (1) is valid only when the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect is separated from the user's skin 10 and forms a homogeneous layer with no scattering properties, as shown in Figure 3. However, in reality, it is believed that a layer structure such as that shown in Figure 4 is formed due to the penetration of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect into the user's skin 10 and the scattering properties of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect itself due to the incorporation of an ultraviolet scattering agent, etc. At this time, it is believed that the optical path length within the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect changes, and the intensity of reflected light I R (λ) can be approximated by the following equation (2).

number

[0037] The "transmittance T(λ) of ultraviolet light through the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect" is estimated, which is the proportion of incident light with a wavelength λ that reaches the user's skin 10 without being absorbed, scattered, etc. through the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect. The transmittance T(λ) of ultraviolet light through the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect is expressed as follows: T(λ)=(1-S(λ))(1-β(λ))T s It is shown by (λ).

[0038] Here, the intensity of incident light with wavelength λ, I(λ), and the intensity of reflected light, I R The reflectance R(λ) is the ratio of the reflectance R(λ) to the reflectance I(λ), R It is expressed as (λ) / I(λ). I in this formula R By substituting the right-hand side of equation (2) for (λ), we obtain the following equation (3).

number

[0039] Then, by transforming equation (3), we obtain the following equation (4).

number

[0040] When both sides of equation (4) are raised to the power of 1 / γ(λ), the left side coincides with the right side of the above equation for calculating T(λ). That is, the following equation (5) is obtained.

number

[0041] For the sake of explanation, the process of irradiating ultraviolet light (incident light) from the illumination unit 50 is referred to as process 1, the process of detecting the reflected light of the ultraviolet light irradiated in process 1 is referred to as process 2, and the process of estimating the ultraviolet light transmittance of the topical skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect based on the detection result of process 2 and equation (5) is referred to as process 3. T(λ): The transmittance of ultraviolet light of wavelength λ of the skin topical agent 20 with sunscreen effect S(λ): The proportion of incident light with wavelength λ reflected and scattered on the surface of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect R(λ): Reflectance (=(Intensity of reflected light of wavelength λ detected in step 2) / (Intensity of incident light of wavelength λ irradiated in step 1)) R S (λ): The ratio of incident light with wavelength λ reflected by the living body β(λ): The ratio of incident light of wavelength λ reflected at the interface between the living body and the skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect γ(λ): Correction parameter for transmittance at wavelength λ

[0042] In this embodiment, the transmittance T(λ) of the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is calculated based on the formula (5) and the like, using the measured values ​​in the model shown in Fig. 4. Then, the SPF value is calculated as the ultraviolet protection value from the calculated transmittance T(λ) as follows: The ultraviolet protection value calculated (estimated) by this method may also be referred to as the "estimated ultraviolet protection value" or the "estimated SPF value".

[0043] Using the above formula (5), transmittance T(λ) can be obtained for one or more wavelengths λ, and the SPF value can be estimated using the following formula (6). From the viewpoint of improving the estimation accuracy of the SPF value in a preparation that uses a UV absorber and a UV scattering agent in combination, the wavelength λ for obtaining the transmittance T(λ) used in estimating the SPF value is preferably one or more wavelengths selected from wavelengths of 290 nm to 360 nm among wavelengths of 280 nm to 400 nm, more preferably one or more wavelengths selected from wavelengths of 290 nm to 330 nm, and even more preferably one or more wavelengths selected from wavelengths of 290 nm to 320 nm.

[0044]

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[0045] Fig. 5 is a functional block (overview) relating to the estimation of the UV protection value in this embodiment, and the UV protection value is estimated by the above-mentioned illumination unit 50, detection unit 70, and estimation unit 150. Note that since Fig. 5 shows the functions relating to the estimation of the UV protection value, in reality, the acquisition unit 130 is located between the detection unit 70 and the estimation unit 150. In this embodiment, the SPF value is estimated as the UV protection value, but other UV protection values ​​may be used.

[0046] 5, ultraviolet light (incident light) is irradiated from the illumination unit 50 onto the skin 10 of a user to which a sunscreen topical skin preparation 20 has been applied, and the reflected light is detected by the detection unit 70. The ultraviolet light (incident light) is classified into three types: reflected light from the surface of the sunscreen topical skin preparation 20, reflected light in which the ultraviolet light (incident light) is not absorbed by the sunscreen topical skin preparation 20 and is reflected at the interface with the user's skin, and reflected light in which the ultraviolet light (incident light) is not absorbed by the sunscreen topical skin preparation 20 and is scattered and reflected inside the user's skin. These ultraviolet light (incident light), reflected light reflected from the surface of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect, reflected light reflected at the interface between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect, and reflected light where the ultraviolet light (incident light) is not absorbed by the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect and is scattered and reflected inside the user's skin are detected, and the ultraviolet light transmittance of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect is calculated based on the above-mentioned formula (5).

[0047] The transmittance of ultraviolet light estimated based on formula (5) can be used to determine the ultraviolet protection effect and uniformity of the coating film formed on the user's skin by the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect, and to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect. An evaluation method using the uniformity of the coating film formed on the user's skin by the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect will be described later.

[0048] Based on the ultraviolet light transmittance estimated as described above and equation (6), the SPF value is calculated as the ultraviolet protection value of the external preparation for skin 20 having a sunscreen effect. Here, the illumination unit 50 includes a light source that emits ultraviolet light, a bandpass filter that transmits light of a predetermined wavelength band from the light source, and a polarizing plate that transmits light polarized or polarized in a specific direction, and the light that passes through these is used as the incident light. In this way, it is possible to reliably irradiate only the ultraviolet light of the predetermined band that is to be observed (whose protection is to be estimated) onto the user's skin 10, thereby improving the evaluation accuracy of the estimated ultraviolet protection value.

[0049] The detection unit 70 also includes an ultraviolet camera 30, a bandpass filter that transmits light of a predetermined wavelength band from the reflected light, and a polarizing plate that transmits light polarized or polarized in a specific direction, and the reflected light that has passed through the polarizing plate and bandpass filter is imaged by the ultraviolet camera 30. In this way, it is possible to detect ultraviolet light of a predetermined band that is to be observed (whose protection is to be estimated), thereby improving the evaluation accuracy of the estimated ultraviolet protection value.

[0050] In the first to fourth embodiments, multiple types of external skin preparations 20 having a sunscreen effect were applied to multiple subjects, and the results of estimating the ultraviolet protection value by the above-mentioned method are shown. <Embodiment 1> Subjects: 7 Application area: 16cm each 2 Formulations: 4 types: A, D, E, and F The estimation results are shown in Figure 6. Figure 6 shows the SPF values ​​estimated based on the estimation method described above. The properties, dosage form, listed SPF value (sometimes referred to as the "published SPF value" or "published UV protection value"), application amount, and application area of ​​each formulation are as shown in Figure 6.

[0051] As is clear from Figure 6, in the case of the same formulation, for example formulation A, there was a difference of more than two times in the estimated SPF value between subject 1 and subject 2. Furthermore, in the case of a particular subject, for example subject 7, formulation A, which has a nominal SPF value of 30, had an estimated SPF value of 20.5, whereas formulation D, which has a nominal SPF value higher than formulation A, had an estimated SPF value of 16.7, which was a lower value.

[0052] Thus, there was variation in the estimated SPF values, regardless of the type of formulation or the subject. Also, formulations with lower SPF values ​​had higher estimated SPF values ​​than formulations with higher SPF values. Therefore, for example, it can be said that there are cases where a higher SPF value is estimated by selecting a formulation with a lower SPF value than by selecting a formulation with a higher SPF value in the hope of a higher effect, i.e., a higher UV protection effect is obtained.

[0053] As such, since topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effects generally have published UV protection values ​​(corresponding to the indicated SPF), it is preferable to evaluate suitability by comparing the estimated UV protection value with the published UV protection value.

[0054] FIG. 7(a) shows an ultraviolet skin image of subject 1 of the first embodiment, and FIG. 7(b) shows an ultraviolet skin image of subject 7 of the first embodiment. Between subject 1 and subject 7, subject 7 shows a color with a higher UV protection value for both agents. In this way, by displaying not only numerical values ​​as in FIG. 6 but also images as in FIG. 7, it is possible to visually grasp which agent is suitable. That is, for example, by using the displays of FIGS. 7(a) and (b), it is possible to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the external skin agent 20 having a sunscreen effect based on the reflected light (UV skin image) without estimating the UV protection value. In this case, evaluation is possible by preparing a reference UV skin image.

[0055] <Embodiment 2> Subjects: 7 Application area: 16cm each 2 Formulations: 4 types: A, D, E, and F

[0056] The estimation results are shown in Figure 8. The UV protection values ​​shown in Figure 8 are values ​​obtained by dividing the SPF values ​​estimated based on the estimation method described above by the listed SPF values. The properties, dosage form, listed SPF values ​​(published SPF values), application amounts, and application areas of each formulation are as shown in Figure 8.

[0057] The indicated SPF (value) of formulations E and F is 50+, so for convenience, the indicated SPF value was calculated as 60. This is because many commercially available products with an indicated SPF value of 50+ actually have an SPF value of around 60.

[0058] 8 is greater than 1, the estimated SPF value is greater than the indicated SPF value, and the closer the UV protection value is to 1, the closer the estimated SPF value is to the indicated SPF value. Therefore, a value greater than or closer to 1 can be evaluated as an agent that is suitable for the subject's skin, making it easier to determine which agent is suitable. In the second embodiment, the application amount is 1 mg / cm2. 2 Therefore, the estimated SPF value is generally lower than the indicated SPF value (the indicated SPF is calculated based on the amount of application of 2 mg / cm2). 2 (Measured under these conditions), therefore the UV protection value (divided value) is expected to be less than 1, and the closer it is to 1, the better it can be judged to be.

[0059] The amount of UV rays required for a subject's skin to begin to turn red is called the Minimal Erytherma Dose (MED), and the indicated SPF is calculated as the MED of the subject's skin with sunscreen applied to it compared to the MED of the subject's bare skin with sunscreen applied.

[0060] The indicated SPF is an average value of the measured values ​​of several subjects, whereas the estimation method of the present embodiment allows the user to know the UV protection effect for himself / herself.

[0061] For example, some formulations contain additives such as UV protection agents and film-forming agents to increase the indicated SPF, but these ingredients can cause a burden on the skin. In contrast, if a user could choose a formulation that has a low indicated SPF but provides high UV protection for the user, it may be possible to reduce such a burden.

[0062] In addition to the above reasons, some users may prefer formulations with a lower SPF rating due to personal preference, and it is possible to inform such users of formulations that have a high UV protection effect for them even if they have a lower SPF rating.

[0063] In addition, the information processing device 100 may calculate the display SPF of a formulation for which the display SPF has not been published using the above calculation method for multiple other subjects who have measured the MED before and after application of the above sunscreen, and calculate the UV protection value by dividing the SPF value estimated for the target user based on the above estimation method by the display SPF. In this embodiment and the following embodiments, the "display SPF" includes the display SPF calculated by the information processing device 100.

[0064] <Embodiment 3> Subjects: 5 Application area: 16cm each 2 Formulation: Four types: P, Q, R, and S. All four types have the same SPF value of 50+.

[0065] The estimation results are shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 shows the SPF values ​​estimated based on the estimation method described above. The properties, dosage form, indicated SPF value (published SPF value), application amount, and application area of ​​each formulation are as shown in Figure 9.

[0066] As is clear from FIG. 9, even if the indicated SPF value is the same, there is variation in the estimated SPF value depending on the subject. For subjects 8 to 10, formulation Q is a formulation whose estimated SPF value is close to the indicated SPF value, for subject 11, formulation R is a formulation whose estimated SPF value is close to the indicated SPF value, and for subject 12, formulation P is a formulation whose estimated SPF value is close to the indicated SPF value. In this way, since the formulation whose estimated SPF value is close to the indicated SPF value varies depending on the subject, it is particularly effective and preferable when proposing a formulation suitable for the user to simultaneously compare formulations with the same indicated SPF value on the same face. In embodiment 3, all the indicated SPF values ​​are the same as 50+, but the estimated SPF values ​​differ depending on the subject, and it is possible to propose a skin topical agent with the most suitable sunscreen effect for the subject.

[0067] In this way, when multiple types of topical skin preparations with sunscreen effects and published UV protection values ​​(corresponding to the displayed SPF value) are applied to the user's skin and the reflected light of UV light irradiated onto the skin is obtained (when the user's skin is imaged to obtain an UV skin image), at least two or more of the multiple types of topical skin preparations with sunscreen effects have the same published UV protection values ​​(formulations P, Q, R, and S all have displayed SPF values ​​of 50+), so for a user expecting a high UV protection effect, it can be determined that the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effects whose estimated SPF value is closest to the published UV protection value is highly suitable, and useful suggestions can be made to the user.

[0068] <Embodiment 4> Subjects: 4 people (A, B, C), 3 people (E, O, Ka) Application area: 16cm each 2 The six types of preparations, A, B, C, D, E, and F, all have an indicated SPF value of 15 to 32. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, twice the amount of the external preparation for skin 20 having a sunscreen effect was applied compared to the first to third embodiments (the measurement conditions were the same as those for the indicated SPF value).

[0069] The estimation results are shown in Figure 10. Figure 10 shows the SPF values ​​estimated based on the estimation method described above. The properties, dosage form, indicated SPF value (published SPF value), application amount, and application area of ​​each formulation are as shown in Figure 10.

[0070] As is clear from Fig. 10, similarly to embodiment 3, the difference between the SPF value estimated by the subject and the indicated SPF value differs depending on the formulation (some exceed the indicated SPF value). The formulation with an estimated SPF value exceeding the indicated SPF value is the formulation most suited to the skin of the subject, and when the estimated SPF value is smaller than the indicated SPF value, the formulation with the closest SPF value is the formulation suited to the subject.

[0071] Here, in the third embodiment, the skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated have the same indicated SPF value, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may have the same properties. In the third embodiment, the skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated have an indicated SPF value of 40 or more, and in the fourth embodiment, the skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated have an indicated SPF value of less than 40, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may have an indicated SPF value of 30 or more or less than 30, and for example, the skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may have an indicated SPF value of 20 or more or less than 20. Also, for example, the skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect that is included in a specific group of applications generally classified into low SPF value (SPF value 20 or less) for daily use, medium SPF value (near SPF 30), and high SPF value (SPF 50, 50+) for leisure use may be the skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated. Also, instead of the indicated SPF value, for example, the skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may be one labeled as for low irritation or sensitive skin, or one not labeled as for low irritation or sensitive skin, or one labeled as for children or kids, or one not labeled as for children or kids, or for example, the skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may be one that is non-chemical, or one that is not non-chemical, or for example, the skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may be one that does not contain a specific ingredient (for example, alcohol, preservatives, etc.), or one that contains a specific ingredient (for example, alcohol, preservatives, etc.). That is, the topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect to be evaluated may include common items such as the ultraviolet protection value, ingredients contained in the topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect, functions possessed by the topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect, and the purpose of the topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect. In this way, the user can find the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect that is best suited for him / herself from among the publicly available topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effect that share common information, and more useful information can be provided to the user.

[0072] As shown in the first to fourth embodiments, there is variation in the SPF values ​​estimated by subjects even for the same skin topical preparation 20 with sunscreen effect, and even for the same subject, there are cases where the SPF value estimated by the skin topical preparation 20 with sunscreen effect is close to the indicated SPF value (including cases where the SPF value is greater than the indicated SPF value), and no consistent tendency was observed. Therefore, it can be said that it is useful to propose the skin topical preparation 20 with the optimal sunscreen effect for the user by estimating the SPF values ​​of multiple types of skin topical preparations 20 with sunscreen effect using this estimation method.

[0073] In this way, the reflected light of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the skin of a user to which multiple types of topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effects have been applied is obtained (the user's skin is imaged to obtain an ultraviolet skin image), the UV protection value is estimated for each topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effects, and the estimated UV protection value is used to extract topical skin preparations 20 with highly suitable sunscreen effects (for example, sunscreen topical skin preparations 20 with a high estimated SPF value), thereby making it possible to suggest topical skin preparations 20 with sunscreen effects that have high UV protection effects for the user.

[0074] Generally, users not only expect an ultraviolet ray protection effect from the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect, but also expect whether the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect can be applied evenly to the skin (whether a coating film of the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is formed evenly on the skin), the feeling of use (feel of application), ease of application, etc. Therefore, in this embodiment, the compatibility between the user's skin and the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect can be evaluated not only based on the ultraviolet ray protection effect, but also based on the uniformity of the coating film of the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect from the estimated ultraviolet ray protection value, the feeling of use and ease of application using a medical interview, etc., and the compatibility can be determined.

[0075] A method for estimating the uniformity of a coating film formed by an external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect will be described with reference to Figs. 11 and 12.

[0076] FIG. 11 is an ultraviolet skin image of subject 21 who applied formulation A to the right forehead, formulation B to the left forehead, formulation F to the right cheek, and formulation C to the left cheek.

[0077] First, the UV protection value is estimated for each pixel in the evaluation area from the reflected light of the UV light irradiated on the subject 21 (the method for estimating the UV protection value is the estimation method described in <Method for estimating the UV protection value>). Next, the coefficient of variation is calculated from the estimated UV protection value for each pixel, and is used as an evaluation index for the uniformity of the coating film formed in the evaluation area. It can be said that the lower the coefficient of variation, the higher the uniformity of the coating film formed in the evaluation area.

[0078] FIG. 12 shows the properties, formulation, indicated SPF value (published SPF value), application amount, application area, estimated UV protection value (SPF value), and calculated uniformity evaluation index (coefficient of variation) of each formulation applied to subject 21 in FIG. 11.

[0079] 12, the uniformity evaluation index (coefficient of variation) of formulation C is low, so it can be said that the coating film formed in the evaluation area has high uniformity. In addition, the estimated UV protection value of formulation C is higher than those of formulations A, B, and F, so it can be said that formulation C is the formulation most compatible with the skin of subject 21.

[0080] In this way, when only the estimated UV protection value is considered, formulations C and F may be evaluated as being equally suitable for the skin of subject 21. However, when the uniformity of the coating film formed in the evaluation area is added as an evaluation factor, it becomes possible to extract a formulation with even higher compatibility (in this case, formulation C).

[0081] Next, a method for evaluating the user's usability and ease of application of the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect will be described.

[0082] The questions (medical interview items) include items related to the feel of use, such as ease of application of the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect and irritation to the skin after application (whether there is a tingling sensation, a tight feeling, etc.), and the user's answers are used for the evaluation. When a user selects a topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect, the user's evaluation of the feel of use is important, so it is preferable to include it in the evaluation content.

[0083] In addition, by allowing the user to answer questions (medical interview items) that include, in addition to the user's usability and ease of application, the items that the user considers important when selecting a topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect, for example, whether the user would like to prioritize UV ​​protection effect over usability, or whether the user would like to prioritize not only UV protection effect but also other effects (for example, whitening effect, moisturizing effect), it becomes possible to include these items in the evaluation.

[0084] In this way, by including items other than the estimated UV protection value in the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect, it is possible to recommend the optimal sunscreen topical skin preparation 20 for the user. For example, from preparations with similar indicated SPF values ​​and estimated SPF values, it is possible to extract those with high compatibility by using the user's preferred feel in use and effects other than the UV protection effect as compatibility criteria. Also, from preparations with the same user's preferred feel in use and effects other than the UV protection effect, it is possible to extract those with high compatibility based on the estimated SPF value.

[0085] An example of the evaluation process is shown below. 1) The user answers the questionnaire before applying the formulation. An example of the questionnaire is shown below. · Skin type (sensitive or not) · Skin reaction to UV rays (e.g. redness, tanning easily, etc.) -Which do you prioritize: UV protection or usability? Minimum SPF value (minimum, what SPF value do you expect) Age (kids or not) Main usage scenarios (daily life, leisure) Main areas of use (face, body, face and body) 2) Estimate the UV protection value and the uniformity of the coating formed by the topical skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect based on the UV skin image. The UV protection values ​​of multiple types of external preparations for skin 20 with sunscreen effect are estimated by the estimation method described in <Method for estimating UV protection value>. The UV protection value to be estimated is preferably an index (in this embodiment, the SPF value) indicated on the external preparation for skin 20 with sunscreen effect. -Estimate the uniformity of the coating formed by each topical skin agent 20 with sunscreen effect. 3) After applying the formulation, the user answers the questionnaire. An example of the questionnaire is shown below. How does it feel to apply (is it easy to apply evenly)? Do you feel any irritation on your skin? -Presence or absence of moisturizing or dryness -Whether it feels smooth or sticky -Good finish -Blurring effect on pores -Good makeup application

[0086] In this way, by providing answers to the questionnaire items even after application, the ease of application when the user applies the product, the feeling of application, the presence or absence of visible unevenness, etc. can be included in the suitability evaluation index. In addition, generally, a product that is easy for the user to apply and has no visible unevenness is one that is easy to form a coating film with the formulation and is easy to apply evenly as the topical skin preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect, so suitability for the skin can be evaluated based on the answers to the questionnaire items.

[0087] Then, based on 1) "Which do you prioritize, UV protection effect or usability?", if the user wishes to prioritize UV ​​protection effect, then a sunscreen skin preparation 20 with a higher estimated SPF value is recommended; and if the estimated SPF values ​​are the same, then, for example, for a user with sensitive skin, a sunscreen skin preparation 20 with a lower indicated SPF value is recommended (because a sunscreen skin preparation with a lower indicated SPF value generally contains a smaller amount of UV absorber and is therefore thought to cause less sensitivity), or for a user without sensitive skin, a sunscreen skin preparation 20 with a comfortable application is recommended.

[0088] In this way, compatibility can include at least one of the estimated SPF value and uniformity of the coating of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect formed on the user's skin, and the ease of forming a coating of the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect on the user's skin.Furthermore, using the UV protection value, the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect can be evaluated from various perspectives, making it possible to propose the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect that is most suitable for the user.

[0089] In this way, the user answers certain questions, and the estimated UV protection value and the answers are used to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and a topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect, making it possible to suggest to the user an optimal topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect that also includes properties other than UV protection effect.

[0090] In addition, the compatibility evaluation based on the above flow may be based on a pre-created evaluation program, and may automatically suggest a skin topical preparation 20 with a highly (or poorly) compatible sunscreen effect, or may suggest a skin topical preparation 20 with a highly (or poorly) compatible sunscreen effect based on a pre-created flowchart.

[0091] In addition, when proposing the skin topical preparation 20 with the optimal sunscreen effect for the user, it is acceptable to propose only one optimal formulation, or to propose multiple top-ranked formulations, or if UV protection effect is emphasized, to propose in descending order of estimated SPF value (or descending order of estimated SPF value), or to propose skin topical preparations 20 with the estimated SPF value of a predetermined value or more (or less than a predetermined value), and the content of the proposal may be determined in consideration of the user's demand. In addition, even if the user wishes to prioritize UV ​​protection effect, for example, it may be preferable not to use a skin topical preparation 20 with the estimated SPF value of sunscreen effect from the viewpoint of the interview items or the uniformity of the coating film formed by the skin topical preparation 20 with the sunscreen effect. In such a case, a recommended skin topical preparation 20 with the sunscreen effect may be proposed together with the desired skin topical preparation 20 with the sunscreen effect.

[0092] <Evaluation System> The evaluation system 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0093] The evaluation system 400 in this embodiment is composed of an acquisition unit 330, an evaluation unit 360, an illumination unit 50, and a detection unit 70. The evaluation system 400 includes an information processing device 300 capable of executing various processes, and the information processing device 300 includes the acquisition unit 330 and the evaluation unit 360.

[0094] The information processing device 300 is a general-purpose personal computer, and includes an input unit 370 such as a keyboard, a touch panel, or a pointing device, an arithmetic processing unit (eg, a CPU), a storage unit, an input / output interface, and the like.

[0095] The acquisition unit 330 is a means (acquisition means) for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquiring the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, and acquires the light from the detection unit 70, for example, via a network.

[0096] The evaluation unit 360 is a means (evaluation means) for evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect by displaying the data (e.g., an ultraviolet skin line image) acquired by the acquisition unit 330 on the display unit 380, or by using the ultraviolet protection value estimated by the estimation unit 350. It is preferable that the evaluation results by the evaluation unit 360 are displayed in a form that is easy for the evaluator to understand using the display unit 380. Note that the "evaluator" here includes both a salesperson at a store and a user.

[0097] Furthermore, it is preferable that the information processing device 300 is equipped with an estimation unit 350, an input unit 370, and a display unit 380 (display device), but the display unit 380 may be provided outside the information processing device 300 and connected via a network or the like.

[0098] The estimation unit 350 is a means for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which the obtained external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and estimating the ultraviolet protection value from the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light.

[0099] The display unit 380 is a means for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of the user to which the acquired external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and for displaying the intensity of the reflected light, an ultraviolet skin image, an estimation result by the estimation process, an evaluation result by the evaluation process, etc., based on the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light. It is also a means for displaying the contents of a medical interview to the user.

[0100] In addition, an illumination unit 50 (irradiation means) and a detection unit 70 (detection means) are required to irradiate ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which an external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and the detection unit 70 includes the above-mentioned ultraviolet camera 30. Note that the illumination unit 50 and the detection unit 70 are the same as those described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0101] The memory unit of the information processing device 300 stores a program for executing the above-mentioned evaluation method, and ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the skin of a user to which the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect acquired by the acquisition unit 330 has been applied, and the program causes the evaluation unit 360 to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation 20 with sunscreen effect using the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light.

[0102] <Application Program> An application program (hereinafter, also referred to as this program) for causing the evaluation device 200 to execute the above-mentioned evaluation method is installed in the evaluation device 200.

[0103] Similarly, an application program (hereinafter, also referred to as this program) for causing the information processing device 300 to execute the above-mentioned estimation method is installed in the information processing device 300. In this embodiment, the application program is application software that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and evaluates the compatibility between the user's skin and the external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect using the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light. These programs can also be realized as program products.

[0104] This program includes an acquisition process and an evaluation process.

[0105] The acquisition process is a process of irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquiring the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light. In this embodiment, data based on the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light is acquired, and the intensity of the reflected light of the ultraviolet light is calculated and an ultraviolet skin image is generated in the acquisition process, but for example, the calculation of the intensity of the reflected light of the ultraviolet light and the generation of the ultraviolet skin image may be performed by a device (not shown) different from the evaluation device 200, and the calculated intensity of the reflected light of the ultraviolet light and the generated ultraviolet skin image may be acquired.

[0106] The evaluation process is a process for evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect, using reflected light.

[0107] It is preferable that the program further includes an estimation process and a display process.

[0108] The estimation process is a process in which ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the skin of a user to which the obtained external skin preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and the ultraviolet protection value is estimated from the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light.

[0109] The display process is a process in which ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the skin of a user to which the acquired topical skin preparation with sunscreen effect has been applied, and based on the reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, the intensity of the reflected light and an ultraviolet skin image are displayed, the estimation results from the estimation process, and the evaluation results from the evaluation process are displayed.

[0110] As described above, the present invention has been described by showing specific embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and also includes various modifications, improvements, and other aspects as long as the object of the present invention is achieved.

[0111] <Modification> In this embodiment, when estimating the SPF value as an ultraviolet protection value, a multispectral image (light intensity of each wavelength) is captured and output, and the multispectral image is used to calculate the spectrum of the transmittance of the external preparation for skin 20 with a sunscreen effect, and the SPF value is estimated based on the above formula (6), but this is not limited to this. For example, the detection unit 70 may detect and output the intensity of light of a narrow wavelength to be measured, and estimate the SPF value based on the transmittance of the external preparation for skin 20 with a sunscreen effect and the narrow wavelength ultraviolet light, and the following formula (7).

number

[0112] In this embodiment, as an example of evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect based on reflected light without estimating the UV protection value, Figs. 7(a) and (b) are used, but this is not limited thereto. For example, it is possible to evaluate the compatibility between the user's skin and the skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect using the intensity (numerical value) of reflected light. Note that it is preferable to also have an UV skin image as shown in Figs. 7(a) and (b) and an estimated UV protection value, etc., because it is easier for the user to grasp the UV protection level of the target skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect.

[0113] In each of the first to fourth embodiments, the compatibility was evaluated when the application amount of the multiple types of skin topical preparations 20 having sunscreen effects was the same, but this is not limited to this. For example, the application area of ​​the preparation A in each embodiment was 16 cm 2The UV protection value may be estimated for each of the following patterns: 8 mg of the cream applied to bare skin, 16 mg of the cream applied to bare skin, 24 mg of the cream applied to bare skin, and 32 mg of the cream applied to bare skin. In this way, it is possible to grasp the amount of the cream applied that can fully exert the UV protection effect. Note that, since the UV protection effect does not change beyond a certain amount of the cream applied, it is possible to present the appropriate amount of the cream applied to the user.

[0114] In addition, the face was washed for each application pattern, and a predetermined amount was applied to the same area of ​​bare skin, but for example, the application amount may be different for the same area of ​​bare skin, for example, 8 mg for the right cheek, 16 mg for the left cheek, 24 mg for the left forehead, and 32 mg for the right forehead, and four patterns of UV skin images of the user's skin may be captured at the same time. This has the advantage of reducing the influence of changes in the skin due to the environment at the time of measurement and the advantage of shortening the time until the proposal. And even in this way, it is possible to grasp the application amount with the highest UV protection effect.

[0115] In addition, in the first to third embodiments, the application amount of the skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect is 1 mg / 1 cm 2 , and embodiment 4 is 2 mg / 1 cm 2 However, the amount of the skin topical agent 20 having a sunscreen effect to be applied is 0.5 mg / 1 cm 2 ~4mg / 1cm 2 Preferably, 1 mg / 1 cm 2 ~2mg / 1cm 2 is better. In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the application area of ​​the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is set to 16 cm 2 However, this is not limited to this. 2 More than 9cm is sufficient, preferably 2 It would be good if that were the case.

[0116] In this embodiment, the UV skin image may be captured at any timing after application of the skin external preparation having a sunscreen effect, but is not limited thereto. For example, after application of the same skin external preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect to the user's skin, UV skin images may be acquired at different times after application, such as immediately after application, 1 hour after application, 2 hours after application, and 3 hours after application, to estimate the UV protection value. In addition, for example, the percentage of the UV protection value estimated immediately after application may be calculated for the UV protection value estimated 1 hour after application, 2 hours after application, and 3 hours after application. In this way, it is possible to evaluate the suitability based on the estimated UV protection value corresponding to the elapsed time after application.

[0117] In this embodiment, an ultraviolet skin image is captured in a state where the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied, but this is not limited to the above. For example, after applying the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect, an ultraviolet skin image may be captured, and then, for example, after a predetermined period of exercise or after staying in a hot and humid room for a predetermined period of time, an ultraviolet skin image may be captured again to estimate the ultraviolet protection value. In this way, it is possible to estimate the ultraviolet protection value when sweating is performed while the skin topical preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied.

[0118] In this embodiment, an ultraviolet skin image is captured in a state where the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied, but this is not limited to the above. For example, after washing the face, basic cosmetics (lotion, milky lotion, etc.) are applied, the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied, an ultraviolet skin image is captured, and then makeup is applied (for example, makeup base, foundation, point makeup is applied), and an ultraviolet skin image is captured again, and the ultraviolet protection value is estimated for each. In this way, it is possible to estimate the ultraviolet protection value when the external skin preparation 20 having a sunscreen effect is applied and the skin is given total care (full makeup).

[0119] In this embodiment, the skin external preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect having a display SPF value of 40 or more is evaluated in the third embodiment. This is because many users prefer a skin external preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect having a high SPF value, and such users are generally very interested in ultraviolet protection effects, so it is useful for the user to be able to grasp the skin external preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect that is optimal for the user. In the third embodiment, the display SPF value of four types of agents is 50+, but this is not limited to this, and skin external preparations 20 with sunscreen effects of various values ​​of 40 or more may be used. In addition, such users may be very interested in the extent to which ultraviolet protection effects can be expected for the display SPF value, so as in the second embodiment, the value obtained by dividing the estimated SPF value by the display SPF value may be estimated as the ultraviolet protection value.

[0120] In this embodiment, the skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect having a display SPF value of less than 40 is evaluated in the fourth embodiment. This is because many users prefer a skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect having a low display SPF value, and such users are generally users with weak skin or sensitive skin, so it is useful to be able to grasp the skin topical preparation 20 with the optimal sunscreen effect taking into consideration the usability. Therefore, it is useful to have the user answer the questionnaire items and propose the skin topical preparation 20 with the optimal sunscreen effect for the user in consideration of the answer results. In addition, since it is desired to grasp the skin topical preparation with a high estimated SPF value among those with a low display SPF value (among those with a low irritation sunscreen effect), it is also useful to propose the skin topical preparation 20 with a high estimated SPF value.

[0121] In this embodiment, the evaluation is performed by dividing the skin topical preparation 20 into a skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect with a display SPF value of 40 or more and a skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect with a display SPF value of less than 40. This is because, as a method of selecting UV protection cosmetics according to a life scene, it is generally known that when performing long-term outdoor activities, it is preferable to select a skin topical preparation with a sunscreen effect from among SPF values ​​of 40 or more from the viewpoint of sunscreen prevention effect, and when performing daily life or short-term outdoor activities, it is preferable to select from among SPF values ​​of less than 40 from the viewpoint of the balance between sunscreen effect and usability, and store sales staff and users may select a skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect based on this. Therefore, in this embodiment, the evaluation is performed by dividing the skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect with a display SPF value of 40 or more and a skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect with a display SPF value of less than 40, so that an evaluation can be performed assuming a scene in which the user will use the skin topical preparation 20 with a sunscreen effect, and it is possible to provide a result that is more useful to the user.

[0122] <Additional Example 1> FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the results of evaluating the suitability of an external skin preparation for users in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] As described above, when the estimated SPF value exceeds the indicated SPF value, the greater the excess, the more suitable the formulation is for the user's skin, and when the estimated SPF value is smaller than the indicated SPF value, the formulation closest to the indicated SPF value is said to be the one suitable for the user.

[0124] Therefore, the larger the value obtained by subtracting the indicated SPF value from the estimated SPF value, or the larger the ratio of the estimated SPF value to the indicated SPF value, the higher the compatibility of the topical skin preparation with the user's skin is evaluated.

[0125] Then, based on the subtracted value or ratio, the information processing device 100 or 300 transmits to the user's information processing terminal and displays information recommending to the user an topical skin preparation that has been evaluated as having high compatibility with the user's skin, or information not recommending to the user an topical skin preparation that has been evaluated as having low compatibility with the user's skin.

[0126] In the example shown in the figure, for a single preparation A, the ratio between the SPF value estimated based on the reflected light and the indicated SPF value is calculated.

[0127] As shown in Figure 15, based on the ratio of the SPF value estimated for each formulation as in Figure 14 to the displayed SPF value, formulations recommended to the user (high compatibility) and formulations not recommended to the user (low compatibility) may be displayed on the user's information processing terminal along with their displayed SPF values.

[0128] In this case, the recommendation level for the user may be calculated and displayed as a multi-level rating value (number of stars, etc.) such as "Recommended level ★★☆☆☆" depending on the value of the ratio or the value obtained by subtracting the displayed SPF value from the estimated SPF value. Also, based on the similarity of the ratio value or the subtracted value, recommendation information for other products such as "XX is also recommended for you" may be displayed.

[0129] In the above, the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation is evaluated based on the estimated SPF value and the indicated SPF value. However, it is not essential to use the indicated SPF value, and compatibility may be evaluated from the estimated SPF value regardless of the indicated SPF value.

[0130] <Additional Example 2> FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the results of predicting the unknown effects of an external skin preparation from the measurement results of the compatibility of another external skin preparation in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] As shown in the figure, the subjects were classified into six groups (skin types) based on the ranking of the UV protection effect estimated from the UV reflectance of formulations P, R, and S, and the average UV protection effect (SPF value) estimated from the UV reflectance of formulation T was calculated for each group.

[0132] In the example shown in the figure, the number of subjects was 110, the SPF value of each formulation was 50+, the application method for each formulation was by hand, the application site was the cheek, and the application area was 8 cm 2 The application amount was 8 mg.

[0133] As can be seen from the figure, the average value of the effectiveness of formulation T differs for each group (skin type). For example, skin type "123" in the figure indicates a group of subjects whose average values ​​of UV protection effectiveness (SPF value) were formulations P, R, and S, in that order. Also, skin type "321" indicates a group of subjects whose average values ​​of UV protection effectiveness (SPF value) were formulations S, R, and P, in that order.

[0134] According to this skin type, formulations P, R, and S can be presented to each subject as recommended or non-recommended products in order of their effectiveness. This also allows each subject to know his or her own skin type. Furthermore, according to the skin type, the suitability (SPF value) of an unknown formulation T, which is different from the formulations P, R, and S used to classify the above skin types, for a new user can be evaluated and predicted, and product recommendation information or product non-recommended information can be sent to the user's information processing terminal and displayed.

[0135] 17 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the product recommendation information based on the above skin type on an information processing terminal. As shown in the figure, for example, information on a formulation recommended for a user with a specific skin type is displayed by (range of) displayed SPF.

[0136] 18, the above skin types can be expressed as a map using the suitability of the above preparations P, R, and S to the user's skin and displayed on the user's information processing terminal. The above six skin types are classified according to the ranking of the UV protection effect (estimated SPF value) of the three preparations P, R, and S on the user's skin, so that the skin type is determined by a combination of the preparation with the highest suitability (UV protection effect) for the user among the above preparations P, R, and S and the preparation with the lowest suitability, and the six skin types can be expressed as a map with six squares by forming a matrix with both.

[0137] FIG. 1(a) shows the estimated suitability of formulation T for the six skin types as a map. Each value in the map indicates the ratio of the estimated SPF value to the indicated SPF value (50+) for each skin type. This allows users with each skin type to know their own suitability for formulation T by looking at each value in the map.

[0138] Figure 2(b) shows the number of subjects classified into each of the six skin types as a map. This allows users of each skin type to know the percentage of people with their skin type out of the total, and the percentage of other skin types, by looking at the values ​​in the map.

[0139] Since each area of ​​these maps indicates a skin type, the maps may be hyperlinked so that by selecting one of the areas, information about a formulation recommended for users with that skin type is displayed.

[0140] <Additional Example 3> In the above embodiment, it is also possible to present the suitability of each formulation to the user's skin in different body parts by comparing them. Figure 19 is a diagram showing the evaluation of suitability based on the relationship between the estimated SPF value and the indicated SPF value in different body parts.

[0141] The example in the figure shows that gel-type formulation A with an SPF of 50+ is applied to the inside of the forearm and cheek by the fingers at a distance of 16 cm each. 2 The evaluation results when 16 mg was evenly applied to the area are shown.

[0142] As is clear from the figure, the ratio of the estimated SPF to the indicated SPF is much higher when applied to the cheek than when applied to the inside of the forearm, and it can be seen that the effectiveness differs depending on the application site, even though the same formulation is used. Based on this information, it is possible to present information about formulations suitable for each site to users who are looking for UV protection effects.

[0143] <Additional Example 4> In the above-mentioned embodiment, it is also possible to compare and present the suitability of each formulation to the user's skin between different application methods (tools). Figure 20 is a diagram showing the evaluation of suitability between different application methods based on the relationship between the estimated SPF value and the indicated SPF value.

[0144] In the example shown in the figure, application to the user's face was performed using fingers and a cosmetic puff. Other conditions regarding the formulation and application area were the same as those in Additional Example 3 above.

[0145] As is clear from the figure, the ratio of the estimated SPF to the indicated SPF is higher when applied by finger than when applied with a cosmetic puff, and it can be seen that, even though the formulation is the same, there is a difference in effectiveness depending on the application method (tool). Based on this information, it is possible to present information on the application method (tool) that is suitable for users who want UV protection effects.

[0146] In addition, when comparing the suitability (UV protection effect) of different formulations to the skin as in Additional Examples 1 and 2, and when comparing the suitability of the same formulation between different parts of the body or between tools as in Additional Examples 3 and 4, the threshold value for classifying the suitability into evaluation values ​​(levels) such as A to E may be different. [Explanation of symbols]

[0147] 10. Skin 20. Skin care products with sunscreen properties 30. Ultraviolet Camera 50 Lighting Department 70 Detection unit 100 Information processing device 130 Acquisition Department 150 Estimation section 160 Evaluation Department 170 Input section 180 Display section 200 Evaluation Device 300 Information processing device 330 Acquisition Department 350 Estimation Department 360 Evaluation Department 370 Input section 380 Display 400 Rating System

Claims

1. UV light is irradiated onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and the reflected light of the irradiated UV light is acquired; An evaluation method for evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation based on the reflected light.

2. estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value of the skin topical preparation for the user's skin based on the reflected light; The evaluation method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of evaluating compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation using the UV protection value.

3. The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the compatibility includes uniformity of a coating film of the topical skin preparation formed on the user's skin when the topical skin preparation is applied to the user.

4. The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the compatibility includes whether the topical skin preparation can be easily applied evenly to the user's skin.

5. There are a plurality of types of the topical skin preparations, and the topical skin preparations are applied to the user's skin one by one; Obtaining reflected light of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the user's skin for each of the external skin preparations applied to the user's skin; estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value for the skin of the user caused by the topical skin preparation for each of the topical skin preparations based on the reflected light; The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an evaluation is performed to extract the topical skin preparation having a high compatibility using the estimated UV protection values ​​of a plurality of types of skin preparations.

6. There are a plurality of types of the topical skin preparations, and the plurality of types of the topical skin preparations are applied to different areas of the user's skin, Obtaining reflected light of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the user's skin for each of the external skin preparations applied to the user's skin; estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value for the skin of the user caused by the topical skin preparation for each of the topical skin preparations based on the reflected light; The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an evaluation is performed to extract the topical skin preparation having a high compatibility using the estimated UV protection values ​​of a plurality of types of skin preparations.

7. The skin topical agent has a publicly-published UV protection value, estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value of the skin topical preparation for the user's skin based on the reflected light; 3. The evaluation method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of evaluating compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation using the estimated UV protection value and the published UV protection value.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the topical skin preparation has a publicly-published UV protection value, and the publicly-published UV protection value is SPF 40 or higher.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the topical skin preparation has a publicly-published UV protection value, and the publicly-published UV protection value is less than SPF 40.

10. Obtaining reflected light of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the user's skin to which the plurality of types of topical skin preparations have been applied; The plurality of types of skin topical preparations each have a publicly-published UV protection value, The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the published UV protection values ​​for at least some of the multiple types of topical skin preparations are the same.

11. providing a plurality of application patterns based on the amount of the topical skin preparation applied to the bare skin of the user; Obtaining reflected light of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the skin of the user for each application pattern; The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising estimating an ultraviolet protection value of the topical skin preparation for the user's skin for each application pattern based on the reflected light.

12. The user answers the questionnaire items, estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value of the skin topical preparation for the user's skin based on the reflected light; The evaluation method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of evaluating compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation using the UV protection value and the answer.

13. Outputting information indicating the evaluated suitability The evaluation method according to claim 1 or 2.

14. Transmitting information to the user that recommends an external skin preparation evaluated to be highly compatible with the user's skin or information that does not recommend an external skin preparation evaluated to be poorly compatible with the user's skin to the user to the user's information processing terminal The evaluation method according to claim 13.

15. classifying the user into a plurality of skin types based on compatibility of a plurality of topical skin preparations with the skin of the user; According to the skin type, information recommending the skin topical agent to the user or information not recommending the skin topical agent to the user is transmitted to the information processing terminal of the user. The evaluation method according to claim 13.

16. The suitability of an external skin preparation other than the multiple external skin preparations used for classifying the skin types to the skin of the user is evaluated for each user of the skin type, and based on the evaluation results, information recommending the external skin preparation to other users or information not recommending the external skin preparation to the user is transmitted to the information processing terminal of the user. The evaluation method according to claim 15.

17. The larger the value obtained by subtracting the published UV protection value from the estimated UV protection value, or the larger the ratio of the estimated UV protection value to the published UV protection value, the higher the compatibility between the user's skin and the skin topical preparation is evaluated; Based on the value or ratio, information recommending to the user an external skin preparation evaluated to be highly compatible with the user's skin or information not recommending to the user an external skin preparation evaluated to be poorly compatible with the user's skin is transmitted to the user's information processing terminal. The evaluation method according to claim 7.

18. An acquisition means for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquiring reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light; and an evaluation means for evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect, using the reflected light.

19. The device further includes an estimation unit for estimating an ultraviolet ray protection value of the skin topical preparation for the user's skin based on the reflected light, The evaluation device according to claim 13 , wherein the UV protection value is used to evaluate compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation.

20. The device further includes an input unit for inputting answers to the questionnaire items, 15. The evaluation device according to claim 14, wherein the evaluation means evaluates the compatibility using the ultraviolet protection value and the answer input by the input means.

21. A program for operating an evaluation device that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and evaluates compatibility between the skin of the user and the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect using reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, the program comprising: an acquisition step of irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquiring reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light; and a step of evaluating compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect using the reflected light.

22. A storage medium storing a program for operating an evaluation device that irradiates ultraviolet light onto a user's skin to which a skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and evaluates compatibility between the user's skin and the skin topical preparation having a sunscreen effect using reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light, the evaluation device comprising: A step of irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied, and acquiring reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light; A storage medium storing a program for executing a step of evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect using the reflected light.

23. An ultraviolet light irradiation means for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the skin of a user to which a skin topical agent having a sunscreen effect has been applied; A detection means for detecting reflected light of the irradiated ultraviolet light; an acquisition means for acquiring the reflected light of the detected ultraviolet light; and an evaluation means for evaluating the compatibility between the user's skin and the topical skin preparation having a sunscreen effect, using the reflected light.

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