Spatula device for applying a cosmetic product

The spatula device addresses space and hygiene issues of conventional lipsticks by providing a compact, single-use design for applying cosmetic products, ensuring easy application and reduced environmental impact.

DE102023116474B4Active Publication Date: 2026-03-12BAUR LISA-MARIE
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-06-22
Publication Date
2026-03-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional lipsticks occupy significant space, pose hygiene issues, and are costly, making it difficult to try out different colors without risking contamination or disposal.

Method used

A spatula device with a spatula-shaped base body having a grip area and an application area, designed for easy application of cosmetic products to lips, which can be single-use and requires minimal space, featuring a lubricating layer and optional protective packaging.

Benefits of technology

The spatula device allows for easy application and storage of cosmetic products, reduces hygiene concerns, and enables trying out different colors without waste, promoting environmental sustainability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Spatula device (1) for applying a cosmetic product (31) to the human lip (50), comprising a spatula-shaped base body (11), wherein the ratio of the longitudinal extent to the transverse extent of the base body (11) is at least 2:1, preferably 3:1 to 8:1, wherein the base body (11) comprises a grip area (2) and, offset in the longitudinal direction to the grip area (2), an application area (3), wherein the cosmetic product (31) is applied to two opposite sides of the application area (2).
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product, a use of a spatula device and a set of spatula devices.

[0002] In the prior art, lipsticks are used to apply cosmetic products to the lips, in particular to color the lips. Lipsticks generally consist of a tube and a solid, stick-like block of the color-containing cosmetic product, which is arranged in the tube and can be twisted out as needed.

[0003] A disadvantage of these well-known lipsticks is that, despite their compact form, they still take up a relatively large amount of space. Because of this, carrying a wide selection of different colors around every day isn't always easy. Conventional lipsticks also pose hygiene problems, as repeated use and transport over a longer period can lead to dirt particles, and especially pathogens or other potentially harmful particles, getting onto the lipstick. These hygienic drawbacks, combined with the often quite high price of a lipstick, mean that if someone doesn't like it after just a few uses, it's not really suitable for passing on and may therefore have to be thrown away, potentially resulting in a financial loss.In particular, trying out different lip colors is made more difficult by these circumstances, as this either involves passing on the lipstick in a hygienically questionable manner or disposing of the lipstick after a single use.

[0004] DE 697 12 851 T2 describes an applicator for makeup products, in particular for applying lipstick. The applicator contains at least one elastically deformable element, at least one side of which has an application surface for a removable product.

[0005] DE 10 2021 126 674 A1 describes an applicator for applying a flowable product with a container having a receptacle for receiving the flowable product.

[0006] DE 697 03 817 T2 describes a device for applying makeup or caring for a user's lips, comprising an elastically deformable carrier, at least one area of ​​which can be impregnated with a product. The carrier has a flattened shape and at least one application surface that can come into contact with at least one of the user's lips.

[0007] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a product that eliminates at least some of the aforementioned disadvantages of a lipstick.

[0008] This problem is solved by a spatula device according to claim 1, by using a spatula device according to claim 10, by using a set of spatula devices according to claim 11, and by using a set of spatula devices according to claim 12. Further features, advantages, and embodiments will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the figures.

[0009] According to the invention, a spatula device is provided for applying a cosmetic product to the human lip. The spatula device comprises a spatula-shaped base body, wherein the ratio of its longitudinal extent (length) to its transverse extent (width) is at least 2:1, preferably 3:1 to 8:1. The base body has a grip area and, offset longitudinally therefrom, an application area, with the cosmetic product applied to two opposite sides of the application area. Advantageously, the spatula device generally requires less space for storage and transport than conventional lipsticks. Due to the design according to the invention, the spatula device can also be particularly suitable for offering product samples. The spatula device can be designed as a single-use product.In particular, the spatula device can be designed so that the cosmetic product largely detaches from the application area after a single application.

[0010] The cosmetic product can be applied to the lips, in particular, by placing the application area between the lips and moving it back and forth while gently pressing the lips together. Because the cosmetic product is present on both sides of the application area, it can be evenly distributed over the lips in this way. This also makes the use of the spatula device according to the invention very simple.

[0011] The cosmetic product is preferably a decorative cosmetic product. In particular, the cosmetic product may contain a dye and be suitable for application as a lip color. Alternatively, the cosmetic product may also be a lip care product, i.e., a product that primarily serves to care for the lips. A lip care product may also contain dyes, but these are generally intended to achieve only a light tint or no tinting of the lips. The cosmetic product may also contain a combination of decorative and care cosmetic components. The cosmetic product is preferably designed as a cream-like substance.

[0012] The spatula-shaped base body can be defined by a longitudinal and a transverse direction. The longitudinal extent (length) of the base body is greater than the transverse extent (width). The thickness of the base body or the spatula device is measured in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal and transverse directions. A length-to-width ratio of at least 2:1 has the advantage that the spatula device can be gripped securely and that the application area can be easily moved back and forth between the lips. This allows for particularly good application of the cosmetic product. A ratio of 3:1 to 20:1 can be especially advantageous with regard to handling. The width is, for example, 2 mm to 20 mm, preferably 5 mm to 12 mm. The length is, for example, 30 to 80 mm.The grip area is located on one side of the base body, particularly when viewed longitudinally. The grip area can essentially consist of a portion of the base body. Optionally, the grip area can include a grip coating or engraving. This can improve grip security. The application area is located longitudinally offset from the grip area. Specifically, the application area can be located on the opposite side of the base body when viewed longitudinally. The opposite sides of the application area are to be understood as opposite, particularly in the direction of the thickness of the spatula device.

[0013] The cosmetic product is applied to the application area in a way that allows it to be removed. "Removable" in this context means that the cosmetic product can be transferred from the application area, at least partially, to a lip through friction and / or adhesion. The cosmetic product can be applied to the application area in a flat, double-sided coating. Alternatively, the cosmetic product can be applied to the application area in a slightly curved shape. The longitudinal extent of the application area is preferably 15 to 70 percent, and more preferably 30 to 50 percent, of the longitudinal extent of the base body. The application area and the grip area preferably adjoin each other, although an intermediate area may be provided between them. Preferably, the base body has a rounded end region on the side of the application area (especially when viewed longitudinally).A rounded shape allows for a gentler application of the cosmetic product to the lips.

[0014] Preferably, the spatula device comprises a removable, flexible outer packaging, in particular a film, that surrounds the application area. The outer packaging can, for example, be attached to the base body. Preferably, the outer packaging can be attached to the base body in such a way that it can be removed with minimal manual force. The outer packaging can be made of paper. Preferably, the film is made of a compostable material, or alternatively, of plastic film. The film can be an adhesive film designed to stick to the base body. An outer packaging, in particular a film, can advantageously protect the application area from contamination and prevent premature wear of the cosmetic product. Optionally, the outer packaging can be designed to completely surround the spatula device.

[0015] According to the invention, the base body is coated with a lubricating layer, at least in the application area, and the cosmetic product is applied over a surface area onto this lubricating layer. The lubricating layer can have the advantage of making the cosmetic product easier to remove. Furthermore, the lubricating layer allows for a greater freedom in the choice of base body material, as it can at least partially prevent direct interaction between the base body and the cosmetic product, as well as between the base body and the lips. The lubricating layer can also facilitate smoother gliding over the lips. This, in particular, simplifies the application of the cosmetic product to the lips.

[0016] Preferably, the lubricating layer is a paraffin coating. Within the scope of the invention, it was found that a paraffin coating can be particularly advantageous with regard to lip compatibility and can also enable good solubility of the cosmetic product.

[0017] Preferably, the base body is made of a plastic-free material, in particular wood or fiberboard. A plastic-free material can be advantageous for environmental protection, especially by preventing plastic waste. Preferably, the base body can be made of a recyclable material.

[0018] Preferably, the cosmetic product contains a colorant, oil, wax, and emollients, and optionally titanium dioxide, particularly in a composition of 3 to 7 wt% colorant, 15 to 25 wt% wax, 20 to 30 wt% emollients, and optionally 5 to 15 wt% titanium dioxide, the remainder being oil, and possibly additives and impurities. According to a specific preferred embodiment, for example, 5 wt% colorant, 40 wt% oil, 20 wt% wax, 25 wt% emollients, and 10 wt% titanium dioxide may be provided. Titanium dioxide may optionally be replaced by an alternative. An alternative to titanium dioxide may, for example, be based on calcium sulfate, such as White Diamond. The colorant may, for example, comprise one or more from the following list: Insoluble and organic color pigments and iron oxides, pigments of plant, mineral, or animal origin, pearlescent substances, silicon dioxide, pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid. The oil may include, for example, one or more from the following list: mineral oil, paraffin, castor oil, petrolatum, silicone, vegetable oil, palm oil, cocoa oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, seed oil. The wax may include, for example, one or more from the following list: natural wax, beeswax, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, lanolin, phytosteryl macadamiate, shea butter. The emollients may be, for example, diethyl phthalate. In addition to the aforementioned ingredients, the cosmetic product may contain one or more additives. In particular, one or more additives from the following list may be included: preservatives, e.g., formaldehyde; fragrances, e.g., essential oils; sunscreens, e.g., UV filter material; antioxidants, e.g.,Vitamin C and / or E. The additives may each preferably be present in a concentration of less than 1 percent by weight. It has been found that these materials are particularly advantageous for application to the base and for spreading onto the lips.

[0019] Preferably, the application area is located at an end, particularly a rounded end, of the base body in the longitudinal direction. Providing the application area at the end can be a particularly material-saving design, as less base body material is required since the base body does not extend beyond the application area. A rounded end also has the advantage of making the application of the cosmetic product to the lips more comfortable.

[0020] Preferably, both opposite sides of the application area are completely covered with the cosmetic product. Complete coverage of the application area with the cosmetic product can enable particularly reliable and effective application of the cosmetic product to the lips.

[0021] Preferably, the base body, optionally including the sliding layer, has a thickness of a maximum of 2 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, and more preferably 0.2 mm to 1 mm. The thickness is measured particularly perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions of the base body or the spatula device. The base body may be thinner in the application area than in the handle area. The thickness according to this embodiment is particularly suitable for facilitating the transfer of the cosmetic product to the lips by moving the spatula device back and forth. Preferably, the thickness of the base body is significantly less than its length and width. For example, the thickness may be less than one-fifth of the width, preferably less than one-tenth of the width.

[0022] Preferably, the spatula applicator includes a reflective film. The reflective film is attached, for example, to the handle. Alternatively, the reflective film can be supplied separately with the spatula applicator. Another alternative is that the reflective film can be attached to the outer packaging. A reflective film has the advantage that a user applying the cosmetic product can directly check whether the application has been satisfactory by using the reflective film to view a reflection of the product-coated lips. This can be particularly useful when traveling or on the go, where a mirror may not be available.

[0023] According to a further aspect of the invention, the use of a spatula device, in particular a spatula device as described herein, is provided for applying a cosmetic product to a human lip. The application area of ​​the spatula device is held, in particular, between the lips and moved back and forth while the lips are pressed together. This back-and-forth movement is performed, in particular, along the border between the upper and lower lip. Optionally, tilting about this axis of movement is conceivable, especially to improve coverage of both the front and back of the lip. All the advantages and features of the spatula device can be transferred analogously to the use of a spatula device and vice versa.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the invention, a set of spatula devices as described herein is provided. In particular, at least two of the spatula devices in the set each contain a cosmetic product of a different color. Advantageously, a user can thus choose from a selection of lip colors, and the spatula shape of the different spatula devices in the set requires relatively little space. The set of spatula devices can, for example, be arranged in a container, such as a case. Preferably, the case is made of cardboard. All the advantages and features of the spatula device and its use can be applied analogously to the set of spatula devices, and vice versa.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the invention, a set of spatula devices as described herein is used to apply cosmetic products to a human lip. At least two spatula devices with different cosmetic products of different colors are used to create a shade on the lip by mixing the cosmetic products, resulting in a shade that differs from the shade of the individual cosmetic products. In particular, it is possible to apply the at least two spatula devices to the lip sequentially. For example, mixing with at least two different spatula devices from a set of five spatula devices can produce at least ten new shades. The cosmetic product from a first spatula device can be applied to the lips first, followed by the cosmetic product from a second spatula device.Optionally, one or more additional cosmetic products can then be applied to the lips using additional spatula devices.

[0026] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures. Individual features disclosed in the embodiments shown may also be used in other embodiments, unless this has been expressly excluded. The figures show: Fig. 1 a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product to the human lip according to an embodiment of the invention in a top view; Fig. 2 a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product to the human lip according to an embodiment of the invention in a side view; Fig. 3 a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product to the human lip according to a further embodiment of the invention in a side view; Fig. 4. Use of a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product to a human lip according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 5 a set of spatula devices according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6 a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product to the human lip according to a further embodiment of the invention in a side view and Fig. 7 a spatula device for applying a cosmetic product to the human lip according to a further embodiment of the invention in a side view.

[0027] In Fig. Figure 1 is a spatula device 1 for applying a cosmetic product 31 to the human lip 50 according to an embodiment of the invention, shown in a top view. The spatula device 1 comprises a spatula-shaped base body 11. Preferably, the base body is made of a plastic-free material. For example, the base body can be made of wood or fiberboard. In this embodiment, the ratio of the longitudinal extent L of the base body 11 to its transverse extent Q is approximately 3.5:1. The base body 11 comprises a grip area 2 and, offset in the longitudinal direction L from the grip area 11, an application area 3. The application area 3 is provided at a rounded end region 110 of the base body 11.The cosmetic product 31 is applied to two opposite sides of the application area 3, although only one of the opposite sides of the application area 3 is shown in this illustration. Preferably, the cosmetic product comprises a dye, in particular lip color.

[0028] In Fig. Figure 2 shows a spatula device 1 for applying a cosmetic product 31 to the human lip 50 according to an embodiment of the invention in a side view. The viewing direction of this view is, in particular, in the transverse direction of the base body 11 or the spatula device 1. The spatula device 1 comprises a spatula-shaped base body 11. The base body 11 includes a handle area 2 and, offset in the longitudinal direction L from the handle area 11, an application area 3. The cosmetic product 31 is applied to two opposite sides of the application area 3. For this purpose, the base body 11 is coated in the application area 3 with a sliding layer 32, and the cosmetic product 31 is applied over the entire surface of the sliding layer 32. The sliding layer 32 can, for example, be a paraffin coating. Preferably, the two opposite sides of the application area 3 are completely covered with the cosmetic product 31.Preferably the base body 11 including the sliding layer 32 has a thickness D of a maximum of 2 mm.

[0029] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a spatula device 1 for applying a cosmetic product 31 to the human lip 50 according to a further embodiment of the invention in a side view. The viewing direction of this view is, in particular, in the transverse direction of the base body 11 or the spatula device 1. The spatula device 1 comprises a spatula-shaped base body 11. The base body 11 comprises a handle area 2 and, offset in the longitudinal direction L from the handle area 11, an application area 3. The cosmetic product 31 is applied to two opposite sides of the application area 3. For this purpose, the base body 11 is coated in the application area 3 with a sliding layer 32, and the cosmetic product 31 is applied over the surface of the sliding layer 32. The sliding layer 32 can, for example, be a paraffin coating.Preferably, the two opposite sides of the application area 3 are completely covered with the cosmetic product 31. In contrast to the one in . Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the spatula device 1 of this embodiment has a removable outer packaging 15. The outer packaging 15 can, in particular, be a film. The outer packaging 15 is attached to the base body 11 of the spatula device 1. Alternatively, the outer packaging 15 can be arranged such that it is arranged around the entire spatula device 1, or that it completely surrounds the spatula device 1. This is shown in Figure 2. Fig. 6 shown. A corresponding outer packaging 15 can optionally also be used for the embodiment shown. Fig. 2 is planned. This is in Fig. 7 shown.

[0030] In Fig. Figure 4 illustrates the use of a spatula device 1 for applying cosmetic product 31 to a human lip according to one embodiment of the invention. The spatula device 1 is held by a handle 2, and the application area 3 of the spatula device 1 is guided between the lips 50 and moved back and forth while the lips 50 are pressed together. The movement is indicated by a double arrow. During this back-and-forth movement, the cosmetic product is at least partially released from the application area 3 and adheres to the lips 50.

[0031] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a set of spatula devices 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. In this example, the set consists of four spatula devices 1, which are stored in a container 25. The container 25 can preferably be sealable. It is conceivable that both the container 25 and an outer packaging 15, in particular film, such as in Fig. Figure 3 shows the intended arrangement. It is possible within the scope of the invention to provide a different number of spatula devices 1 than four in the set. In this embodiment, the spatula devices 1 each have a cosmetic product 31 of different colors. This is illustrated here by the different hatching of the application areas 3. In this embodiment, the sides of the application area 3 are completely covered with the cosmetic product. Reference symbol list: 1 spatula device 2 Grip area 3 Application area 11 Basic shapes 12 mirror foil 15 Outer packaging 25 containers 31 cosmetic product 32 Sliding layer 50 lips 110 End range L Longitudinal direction Q transverse direction Thickness

Claims

[1] Spatula device (1) for applying a cosmetic product (31) to the human lip (50), comprising a spatula-shaped base body (11), wherein the ratio of the longitudinal extent to the transverse extent of the base body (11) is at least 2:1, preferably 3:1 to 8:1, wherein the base body (11) comprises a grip area (2) and, offset in the longitudinal direction to the grip area (2), an application area (3), wherein the cosmetic product (31) is applied to two opposite sides of the application area (2), wherein the base body (11) is coated with a sliding layer (32) at least in the application area (3), wherein the cosmetic product (31) is applied over a surface on the sliding layer (32). [2] Spatula device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the spatula device (1) comprises a peelable film (15) surrounding the application area (3). [3] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sliding layer (32) is a paraffin coating. [4] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (11) is made of a plastic-free material, in particular wood or fiberboard. [5] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cosmetic product (31) comprises dye, oil, wax and emollients, and optionally titanium dioxide, in particular with a composition of 3 to 7 wt.% dye, 15 to 25 wt.% wax, 20 to 30 wt.% emollients, and optionally 5 to 15 wt.% titanium dioxide, remainder oil and optionally additives. [6] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the application area (3) is provided on a rounded end area (110) of the base body (11). [7] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two opposite sides of the application area (3) are completely covered with the cosmetic product (31). [8] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (11), optionally including the sliding layer (32), has a thickness of a maximum of 2 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.2 mm to 1 mm. [9] Spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spatula device (1) comprises a mirror film (12) which is attached to the handle area (2). [10] Use of a spatula device (1) according to one of the preceding claims for applying cosmetic product (31) to a human lip (50), wherein the application area (3) of the spatula device (1) is held in particular between the lips (50) and moved back and forth while pressing the lips (50) together. [11] Set of spatula devices (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least two of the spatula devices (1) of the set each have a cosmetic product (31) of a different color. [12] Use of a set of spatula devices according to claim 11 for applying cosmetic product (31) to a human lip (50), wherein at least two spatula devices with different cosmetic products (31) of different colors are used to create a color by mixing the cosmetic products on the lip (50) that differs from the color of the cosmetic products (31).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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