SPIRAL COSMETIC APPLICATOR WITH DOWNWARDLY DIRECTED MICRO-COMBS

Abstract

Spiral cosmetic applicator with downward-facing micro-combs. The invention relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to eyelashes and / or eyebrows. The applicator includes a core extending along a longitudinal axis X, and one or more elongated bands having a flat top surface with a plurality of hairs extending from it. The one or more elongated bands are wound in a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core. Each of the plurality of hairs has a latitudinal hair axis Y and one or more branches extending at a downward angle θ from the latitudinal hair axis Y. Figure for the abstract: 1

Description

Title of the invention: SPIRAL COSMETIC APPLICATOR WITH DOWNWARDLY DIRECTED MICRO-COMBS Summary

[0001] The invention relates to spiral cosmetic applicators having downward-facing micro-combs / branchings, and methods for manufacturing them. Downward-facing micro-combs are formed in one piece with bristles arranged spirally on a central core, serving as "hooks" to capture a user's eyelashes and cause the lashes to extend downwards into the core of the brush as the lashes pass through the downward-facing branches and along the bristles.

[0002] According to one aspect, the invention relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising a core extending along a longitudinal axis X and one or more elongated bands having a flat top surface with a plurality of hairs extending from it. The one or more elongated bands are wound in a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core. Each of the plurality of hairs has a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprises one or more branches extending at a downward angle θ from the latitudinal hair axis Y. Preferably, the downward angle θ is less than 90 degrees. Alternatively, the downward angle θ varies from approximately 45 degrees to approximately 80 degrees.

[0003] In one embodiment, the one or more branches comprise at least three branches; preferably at least four branches. Another embodiment provides that the one or more branches are linear. Preferably, the one or more branches are curved to form brackets.

[0004] In one embodiment, the one or more branches are uniform and located only on one side of each of the plurality of hairs. Preferably, the one or more branches are opposite each other in the same direction. In another embodiment, the one or more branches alternate opposite directions along adjacent helical rows forming the helical pattern.

[0005] In one embodiment, each of the hairs in the plurality of hairs has a diameter ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm.

[0006] In one embodiment, the one or more branches have a cross-sectional length extending from the hair varying from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0007] In one embodiment, the one or more branches have a thickness varying from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm.

[0008] Preferably, although not necessarily, the one or more elongated bands are a single elongated band.

[0009] In one embodiment, the one or more elongated bands, the bristles, and the branches are made of a single material. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the one or more elongated bands, the bristles, and the branches are made of two or more materials. Two or more materials having different suppleness or flexibility properties may be used in the manufacture of the applicator of the invention.

[0010] In one embodiment, the plurality of hairs extend each from the top flat surface of one or more elongated bands at an angle ¢) between the latitudinal axis of hair Y and the top flat surface.

[0011] In yet another embodiment, a helical spacing extends along the longitudinal axis X formed alternately with the rows of hairs.

[0012] In one embodiment, one or more components of the applicator are manufactured using 3D printing technology. One or more portions / one or more components of the applicator may be a combination of 3D printing and elastomeric.

[0013] In one embodiment, one or more components of the applicator are manufactured by one of injection molding and / or bi-injection molding, and combinations thereof.

[0014] In one embodiment, the hairs are inclined towards the Z axis passing through the core at the base of the hair at an angle a, preferably varying between 45° and 90°.

[0015] Another embodiment relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising a core extending along a longitudinal axis X and one or more discs having a flat lateral wall surface with a plurality of hairs extending from this surface in a circle stacked one on top of the other around the longitudinal axis X of the core. Each of the plurality of hairs has a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprises one or more branches extending at a downward angle O from the latitudinal hair axis Y.

[0016] An embodiment relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising a core extending along a longitudinal axis X, and a plurality of hairs extending from it having a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprising one or more branches extending at a downward angle 0 from the latitudinal hair axis Y.

[0017] Yet another embodiment relates to a method for manufacturing an applicator for applying a cosmetic product to eyelashes and / or eyebrows, including the steps, in no particular order, of forming a core extending along a longitudinal axis X, forming one or more elongated bands having a flat top surface with a plurality of hairs extending from it, each of the plurality of hairs having a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprising one or more ramifications extending at a downward angle 0 from the latitudinal hair axis Y, and wrapping the one or more elongated bands in a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core.

[0018] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0019] The foregoing aspects and advantages of the inventive technology will be more readily appreciated through a better understanding thereof by reference to the following detailed description, taken together with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] shows a top plan view of an application device and packaging according to the invention;

[0021] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a top side view of the spiral applicator according to the invention;

[0022] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an exploded cross-sectional view of the applicator of [Fig.2] taken from cross-section level J showing a top plan view of the applicator according to the invention;

[0023] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a top view of the spiral applicator of [Fig.2];

[0024] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is an exploded cross-sectional view of the applicator of [Fig. 3], taken at cross-section level G;

[0025] [Fig. 6a] [Fig. 6a] illustrates a view of one embodiment of the strip or band elongated which is designed to helically envelop the heart of the [Fig.2];

[0026] [Fig.6b] [Fig.6b] illustrates a top plan view of the strip or elongated strip of the [Fig.6a];

[0027] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] shows an embodiment of ZX / XY / YZ orientations with a downward angle orientation of one or more branches, and shows branches formed as hooks / hook-type;

[0028] [Fig.8a] [Fig.8a] illustrates an elongated spiral or coiled band of the object the invention before application of the hairs;

[0029] [Fig.8b] [Fig.8b] illustrates one embodiment of a core of the object of the invention before wrapping within the elongated strip;

[0030] [Fig.9a] [Fig.9a] illustrates one embodiment of the applicator which is the object of the invention formed as discs;

[0031] [Fig.9b] [Fig.9b] illustrates a disk of [Fig.9a]. Detailed description

[0032] The application and performance of mascara are closely linked to the bristle arrangement and the applicator device configuration. Traditional bristles are typically conical or cylindrical with a smooth surface. Other bristles generally feature protrusions or pointed or branched bristles; however, these configurations frequently cause unwanted pulling and movement of the eyelashes and fail to increase mascara deposit when the eyelash passes over the tips or branches of the protrusions.

[0033] The spiral applicator of the invention for applying a cosmetic product to eyelashes and / or eyebrows includes a core extending along a longitudinal axis X, and one or more elongated bands having a flat top surface with a plurality of hairs extending from it. The one or more elongated bands are wound in a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core. Each of the plurality of hairs has a latitudinal hair axis Y and one or more branches extending at a downward angle O from the latitudinal hair axis Y.

[0034] This unique elongated band technology, the shape of the hairs, and the downward orientation of the multiple branches on each individual hair, aligned longitudinally along the core, provides space for the mascara to be deposited on the lashes, while also providing a means to separate clumps. The combination of the downward orientation of the branches and the branching arrangement on the hair has been found to result in lash lengthening and full surface contact along the length of each lash without tangling or pulling.

[0035] It has been discovered that a downward orientation of the micro-combs or branches of the hairs of the spiral applicator of the invention results in an increased deposit of mascara, while improving the combing effect along the eyelashes.

[0036] For the purposes of nomenclature, where the X-axis is the brush body / horizontal or longitudinal central axis, where the Y-axis is vertical or latitudinal, and where the Z-axis intersects the y-axis and the x-axis at the origin from front to back (three-dimensional). While traditional brushes can generally only be formed at angles and in shapes substantially along the XY plane, or at limited angles along the XY plane, the applicator of the invention allows bristle configurations on the YZ plane, rather than the XY plane. This is important because the bristles enter the brush in a relatively perpendicular to the XY plane. When individual hairs are on the XY plane, they collide with the lashes rather than allowing them to enter. However, when the hairs are formed on the YZ plane, as is the case with the applicator of the invention, the XY plane is free of any obstruction, which facilitates the entry of the lashes, resulting in improved deposition with a longer lash / hair surface contact time since the lash extends along its entire length through the hair and / or branches.

[0037] The hairs preferably have a diameter ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm. The hairs may have a hair base (distal end) which has a larger diameter above (proximal end) the hair.

[0038] Preferably, the branches of the invention have an orientation < 90 degrees / perpendicular to the central axis of the hair. It has been discovered that an angular setting of the micro-comb / branch > 90 degrees, or even parallel to the central axis of the hair, results in reduced deposition since the cilia do not completely cross the branches.

[0039] The spiral applicator of the invention provides an increased volume-to-separation ratio (i.e., a brush could have a larger volume but would not equal the level of separation). Existing constructions of elastomeric or fiber brushes generally fail to create uniquely shaped bristles facing the angle that is beneficial for mascara applications. Traditional brush bristles can usually only be formed along the XY plane. However, the spiral applicator of the invention uses elongated band technology to provide bristle configurations on the YZ plane, rather than the XY plane. Alternatively, disc technology can be used. This is important because the lashes enter the brush relatively perpendicular to the XY plane.While other hairs on the XY plane frequently collide with the eyelashes rather than allowing them to enter, the orientation of the hairs and the construction of the new spiral applicator, the subject of the invention, formed on the YZ plane, are free of any obstruction, thus facilitating the entry of the eyelashes.

[0040] The branches / hook portions are inclined substantially perpendicularly to the body length of the brush. Preferably, there are multiple branches / hooks facing downwards; more preferably, there are three or more branches. The bristle dimensions preferably range from about 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably from about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0041] Preferably, the spiral applicator of the invention is manufactured using a tape or elongated tape technology. Alternatively, the brush can be manufactured using a disc technology, and / or by 3D printing.

[0042] The one or more branches preferably have a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm. The distance between subsequent branches / hooks is preferably between 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm. The hooks will The brush extends from the main body of the bristle by a length of 0.2 mm to 1 mm. The number of hooks can be between 2 and 6, preferably between 3 and 4. The distance between subsequent hooks can then be between 0.8 mm and 2 mm. The brush of the invention can also be bi-injected to provide a different level of flexibility within each bristle, which helps ensure better mascara distribution. The one or more branches have a cross-sectional length extending from the bristle ranging from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0043] The bristles of the invention include one or more downward-facing micro-combs / one or more downward-facing branches forming "hook-like" appendages on the bristles in an inclined arrangement such that each eyelash passes through the downward-facing hook-like micro-comb. Branches are arranged at an angle from the center axis of the bristle, varying from a perpendicular orientation to an angle of + / - 20 degrees away from the brush body length. Preferably, there are at least two branches or hooks. The bristle may include a plurality of branches or hooks. Preferably, all branches or hooks face downwards and are aligned in the same orientation along the same side of each bristle.

[0044] Preferably, the spiral cosmetic applicator with downward-facing branches / micro-combs is manufactured using elongated band brush technology, wherein the plurality of bristles with downward-facing micro-combs are arranged on an elongated band / strip forming a molded bristle ribbon / strip which is spirally wound on a shaft or core to create a helical or spiral pattern brush.

[0045] Figure 1 shows a packaging and application device 1 designed for use with the applicator of the object of the invention, comprising an applicator 2 and an associated container 3 containing a product P to be applied to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, for example mascara or a skincare product. The container 3 comprises, in the example shown, a threaded neck 4, and the applicator 2 comprises a closure cap 5 designed to be attached to the neck 4 so as to seal the container 3 tightly when not in use, the closure cap 5 also constituting a gripping member for the applicator 2. The container 3 can also be produced in a different manner.

[0046] The container 3 also includes a wiping member 6, for example inserted into the neck 4. This wiping member 6, which can be any wiping member, includes, in the figure shown, a lip designed to wipe the stem 7 and the applicator member 8 when the applicator 8 is removed from the container 3. The lip defines a The wiping orifice 6a has a diameter adapted to that of the rod. The wiping element 6 may be made of elastomer. The wiping element 6 may include a wiping orifice 6a with a circular shape, optionally with slots. The diameter of the wiping orifice 6a of the wiping element 6 is, for example, between 2.5 and 6 mm, for example around 3.5 mm or 5 mm. The wiping element 6 may optionally have corrugations, allowing the wiping orifice to widen more easily when the applicator element 8 passes through it. The wiping element may also be adjustable, if applicable.

[0047] The applicator 2 comprises a rod 7 with longitudinal axis Y, which is attached at its upper end to the closure cap 5 and at its lower end to an applicator member 8. The latter comprises a core 10 bearing bristles 18 extending from and around the core 10. Preferably, as shown, the rod 7 has a circular cross-section, but it would not depart from the scope of the present invention if the rod 7 had a different cross-section, and it would then be possible to attach the cap 5 to the container 3 in a manner other than by screwing, if necessary. The wiping member 6 is adapted to the shape of the rod 7 and, where applicable, to that of the applicator member 8.

[0048] Preferably, the longitudinal axis Y of the rod 7 is straight and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the container 3 when the applicator 2 is in place on it, but it would not depart from the scope of the present invention if the rod 7 were not straight, forming, for example, a bend. The rod 7 may have an annular constriction at the portion positioned opposite the lip of the wiping element 6, so as not to exert excessive mechanical stress during storage.

[0049] The rod 7, to which the applicator member 8 is attached, may be at least partially, and in particular totally, flexible, especially in the vicinity of the applicator member. The applicator member 8 may be attached to the rod 7 by any means, and in particular by a press fit, a snap closure, an adhesive bond, welding, stapling or crimping, in a corresponding recess provided at the end of the rod 7.

[0050] As shown in [Fig. 2], the applicator member 8 may include a tip 9 for securing it in a corresponding recess in the shaft 7. An example of an applicator member according to the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 2 to 7. Referring to Figures 2 to 7, the applicator member 8 comprises a core 10 extending along a longitudinal axis X with one or more elongated bands 20 having a flat top surface 21 provided with a plurality of bristles 18 extending from it. The elongated band 20 is preferably a single elongated band, which may be made of a single material, or made of more than one material with identical or different physical properties. The elongated band 20 is wound in a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core 10.

[0051] Each of the plurality of hairs 18 has a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprises one or more branches 22 extending at a downward angle 0 from the latitudinal hair axis Y. Preferably, the downward angle 0 is < 90 degrees [+ / - 20 degrees]. Alternatively, the downward angle 0 varies from about 35 degrees to about 90 degrees.

[0052] The core 10 is elongated along a longitudinal axis X. The longitudinal axis X is straight but, alternatively, could have any other shape, in particular a curved shape. The longitudinal axis X is central, but this could be different. The length H of the core 10 is, for example, between 15 mm and 27 mm.

[0053] In the embodiment shown, the heart 10 is spirally wrapped by a band or elongated strip 20 having a proximal end 20a, a main body 20b, a distal end 20b, and a flat top surface 20'. Along at least a portion of the main body 20b extending towards the proximal end 20a, there is a row of hairs 18, extending laterally from the latter. The spiral winding of the band or elongated strip 20 produces a helical pattern extending substantially along the length of the heart 10.

[0054] The strip or elongated strip 20 describes a spiral or rotates around the longitudinal axis of the core 10, rotating around the X-axis in multiple turns, in particular in more than 20 turns, for example, preferably in more than 30 turns. The number of turns corresponds to the width of the top flat surface 20' of the strip or elongated strip 20 and the length of the core.

[0055] The distal end 20b of the band or elongated band 20 does not preferably include hairs or bristles 18, extending towards the tip 9.

[0056] Preferably, the core 10 is spirally wrapped by a single band or elongated band 20, which winds continuously around the core 10, and the axis X, at a constant pitch to form the helical pattern.

[0057] The hairs 18 extend around the core, each following the helical path of the band or elongated strip 20. The band or elongated strip 20 preferably has a constant width such that the rows of hairs 18 form spacings 18' between local helices that are substantially constant. Preferably, the proximal end 20a and the main body 20b of the band or elongated strip 20 have a constant width 'w', while the distal end 20b may have a different width.

[0058] Alternatively, the core 10 can be a solid cylinder and the band or elongated band 20 surrounds the core 10. Alternatively, the band or elongated band 20 can form the core 10, each helix attaching or bonding to the neighboring helix.

[0059] Each strip or elongated strip 20 preferably comprises between 90 and 200 hairs or hairs 18. More preferably, each strip or elongated strip 20 includes between 100 and 180 hairs or hairs 18. Most preferably, each elongated strip 20 includes between 110 and 150 hairs 10. The number of hairs 18 that produce each helical row depends on the diameter of the core 10 and the distance between the hairs 18 on the strip or elongated strip 20. The application hairs 18 are aligned with each other at their base along the strip or elongated strip 20, and opposite the corresponding helical row formed.

[0060] The hairs 18 extending along the band or elongated band 20 have the same orientation, although the hairs 18 may alternate with different configurations.

[0061] The hairs 18 comprise a body 21 with at least one hair or micro-comb 22 extending downwards and laterally from the body 20. Preferably, the hair 18 includes two or more hairs or micro-combs 22. Even more preferably, the hair 18 includes at least three hairs or micro-combs 22, preferably among all four as shown.

[0062] The hairs 18 comprise a base 23 attached to the band or elongated band 20, extending towards a central portion 24, which in turn extends towards the tip 23. Preferably, the hairs 18 have a circular cross-section which may have a substantially constant diameter, or may rather have a larger diameter at the base 23 tapering towards the tip 23 to form a hair or hair 18 of conical shape.

[0063] The bristles 18 include a latitudinal bristle axis Y extending centrally and latitudinally (or substantially vertically) along the bristle 18 as best represented in [Fig. 7]. The bristles 18 may be inclined with respect to the flat top surface of the band or elongated band 20, or to the central core axis X. The X axis represents the horizontal or longitudinal brush body / central axis along the core; the Y axis is vertical or latitudinal depending on the length of each bristle; and the Z axis intersects the y and x axes at the origin from front to back (three-dimensional).

[0064] Along the XY plane, each of the plurality of hairs has a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprises one or more branches extending at a downward angle θ (along the Y' axis) from the latitudinal hair axis Y (XY Y' plane). The downward angle θ is < 90 degrees. Preferably, the downward angle θ varies between approximately 45 degrees and approximately 80 degrees. An angular adjustment of the ZX plane produces a hair angle with respect to the longitudinal axis X at the level of a hair base along a hair axis Z of an angle [3], which preferably varies between approximately 5 and 30°. The plurality of hairs each extend from the top surface of one or more elongated bands at an angle θ) between the latitudinal hair axis Y and the top surface (YZ plane). The hairs 18 are inclined with respect to the Z axis passing through the core at the base of the hair at an angle a, preferably varying between 5 and 90° (XY plane).

[0065] The branches or micro-combs 22 are preferably arched or curved. Preferably, the hair or micro-combs 22 have a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, a cross-sectional length extending from the hair ranging from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably from 1 mm to 1.5 mm; and a circular cross-section and / or a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm. It is noted that the branches may have a circular cross-section, but do not necessarily have one.

[0066] These axes and vertices form the ZX, XY, and YZ planes with respect to the applicator, allowing for a plethora of bristle configurations on each of these planes. This is important because the lashes enter the brush relatively perpendicular to the XY plane through the unobstructed gaps 18' (see [Fig. 3]), which facilitates the entry of the lashes between the bristles and branches inclined along the ZX and YZ planes. This results in improved deposition with superior lash / hair surface contact for a longer duration, as the lash extends along its entire length through the hair and / or branches.

[0067] Preferably, there are at least two hairs or micro-combs 22 on each hair 18. Preferably, there are three to four hairs or micro-combs 22. The hairs or micro-combs 22 are located on a first lateral wall 26 of each of the hairs 18, all aligned with each other. There are no hairs or micro-combs 22 that are preferably located only along the first lateral wall 26 in the aligned configuration.

[0068] The hairs or micro-combs 22 are preferably located on the central portion 24, and preferably extend from the tip 23, so that the hairs 18 form hook-type micro-combs aligned axially along the hair.

[0069] As shown, the hairs 22 are all of substantially identical shape, but this is not a requirement.

[0070] The hairs 22 extend from the body at the same height h and are symmetrical to each other, forming a sweeping rotation around the applicator (see [Fig. 4]). If the hairs comprise several hairs extending from the same side of the body, they can be identical and attached to the body at different heights h. In the example shown, the hairs 22 extending from the same side of the body of hair 18 are spaced between 0.05 and 3 mm apart.

[0071] Preferably, the hairs 18 comprise hairs 22 extending over the upper half of the hair so as to constitute product reserves at a height.

[0072] In the embodiment described above, the hairs 22 all have the same shape, but this is not mandatory. For example, the hairs 22 may have a different shape, particularly due to different orientations relative to the core.

[0073] Figure 8a illustrates a ribbon or strip 120 elongated in a spiral or coiled with the object of the invention before application of the hairs. The plurality of hairs can be molded within the elongated strip 120, or a strip of hairs can be bonded or made to adhere to the elongated strip 120. [Fig. 8b] illustrates an embodiment of a core 110 of the object of the invention before wrapping within the elongated strip 120.

[0074] Figure 9a illustrates an embodiment of the applicator that is the subject of the invention, formed as discs. [Fig. 9b] illustrates a disc of [Fig. 9a]. An applicator for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows is shown having a core 210 extending along a longitudinal axis X. One or more discs 230 having a flat lateral wall surface 231 with a plurality of hairs 238 extending from them in a circle are stacked one on top of the other around the longitudinal axis X of the core 10. Each of the plurality of hairs 238 has a latitudinal hair axis Y and includes one or more branches 222 extending at a downward angle 0 from the latitudinal hair axis Y (see [Fig. 7]).

[0075] The term “hair” refers to individual hairs, projections or protruding hairs intended to engage with the eyelashes and / or eyebrow.

[0076] The "longitudinal axis of the core" refers to the line connecting all the centers of mass of the Cross-sections of the core. The longitudinal axis may be a central axis, or even an axis of symmetry for the core, particularly when the core has a circular cross-section or a cross-section in the overall shape of a regular polygon. The longitudinal axis of the core may be straight or curved and may lie in a plane, which may be a plane of symmetry for some or all of the core's cross-sections. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the core is straight. Alternatively, this core may have one or more curves.

[0077] The applicator element can be made of a single thermoplastic material. Alternatively, the applicator element can comprise several materials, including parts made of different materials fused together at their junctions during production so as to form a single part. For example, the core comprises a center made of a flexible material covered with a coating of a more rigid material, the two materials being fused together at their junctions.

[0078] From the foregoing, it should be appreciated that specific embodiments of the technology have been described here for illustrative purposes, but that various modifications may be made without departing from the disclosure.

[0079] Furthermore, although various advantages and features associated with certain embodiments have been described above in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also have these advantages and / or features, and not all embodiments need necessarily have these advantages and / or features to fall within the scope of the technology.

[0080] Where processes are described, the processes may include more, fewer, or other steps. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in any appropriate order. Accordingly, the disclosure may encompass other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.

[0081] Although several embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that various changes can be made here without departing from the spirit and framework of the inventive technology.

Claims

Demands

1. Applicator (2,8) for applying a cosmetic product to the eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising: - a core (10) extending along a longitudinal axis X; - one or more elongated bands (20) having a flat top surface (21) having a plurality of hairs (18) extending from it wrapped in a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core, each of the plurality of hairs having a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprising one or more branches (22) extending at a downward angle 0 from the latitudinal hair axis Y; the hairs (18) being inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis X at the level of a hair base along an axis Z at an angle [3, varying between 5 and 30°, and the hairs being inclined towards the axis Z passing through the heart at the level of the hair base at an angle a, varying between 45° and 90°.

2. Applicator (2,8) according to claim 1, wherein the downward angle 0 is < 90 degrees.

3. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of bristles (18) has a diameter ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm.

4. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein one or more branches (22) have a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm.

5. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein the one or more elongated strips (20), the bristles (18) and the branches (22) are composed of two or more materials, optionally the two or more materials have different softness or flexibility properties.

6. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of bristles (18) each extend from the top flat surface (21) of one or more elongated strips (20) at an angle ¢) between the latitudinal axis of bristle Y and the top flat surface.

7. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein a helical gap (18') extends along the longitudinal axis X formed alternately with the rows of bristles (18).

8. A method for manufacturing an applicator (2,8) according to any one of the preceding claims for applying a cosmetic product to eyelashes and / or eyebrows, comprising the steps of: - forming a core (10) extending along a longitudinal axis X; - forming one or more elongated bands (20) having a flat top surface (21) having a plurality of hairs (18) extending from it, each of the plurality of hairs having a latitudinal hair axis Y and comprising one or more branches extending at a downward angle 0 from the latitudinal hair axis Y; - winding the one or more elongated bands into a helical pattern around the longitudinal axis X of the core.

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