FLEXIBLE COLOR SUBSTRATE

Abstract

FLEXIBLE COLOR SUBSTRATE A flexible substrate comprising a transparent release layer, a protective layer disposed on top of the transparent release layer, a color layer disposed on top of the protective layer, and a support layer disposed on top of the color layer, wherein the support layer is removably coupled to the flexible substrate and wherein the support layer prevents transfer of the color layer, wherein, when the support layer is removed and the flexible substrate is applied to a surface, pressure applied to the transparent release layer causes transfer of the protective layer and the color layer to the surface. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: FLEXIBLE COLOR SUBSTRATE

[0001] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in 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 or to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0002] In one aspect, a flexible substrate comprising a transparent release layer, a protective layer disposed atop the transparent release layer, a color layer disposed atop the protective layer, and a backing layer disposed atop the color layer, wherein the backing layer is removably coupled to the flexible substrate and wherein the backing layer prevents the color layer from transferring, wherein when the backing layer is removed and the flexible substrate is applied to a surface, pressure applied to the transparent release layer causes the protective layer to transfer and the color layer to the surface is disclosed.

[0003] In another aspect, a system comprising a flexible substrate comprising a clear release layer, a protective layer disposed atop the clear release layer, a color layer disposed atop the protective layer, and a backing layer disposed atop the color layer, wherein the backing layer is removably coupled to the color layer and wherein the backing layer prevents the color layer from transferring, wherein, when the backing layer is removed and the flexible substrate is applied to a surface, pressure applied to the clear release layer causes the protective layer and the color layer to transfer to one or more primed areas of the surface, and a primer, wherein the primer is configured to be applied to the surface to create one or more primed areas of the surface is disclosed.

[0004] In yet another aspect, a method of applying a cosmetic with the flexible substrate of claim 1, the method comprising removing the support layer from the flexible substrate of claim 1, applying the flexible substrate to a surface, applying pressure to the flexible substrate at one or more locations corresponding to one or more desired locations on the surface, transferring the color layer and the protective layer to the surface, and removing the clear release layer from the surface is disclosed.

[0005] The foregoing aspects and numerous related advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0006] [Fig.lA] [Fig.lA] is an example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0007] [Fig.lB] [Fig.lB] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0008] [Fig.2A] [Fig.2A] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0009] [Fig.2B] [Fig.2B] is an expanded view of the flexible substrate of [Fig.2A], in accordance with the present technology;

[0010] [Fig.3A] [Fig.3A] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0011] [Fig.3B] [Fig.3B] is an expanded view of the flexible substrate of [Fig.3A], in accordance with the present technology;

[0012] [Fig.4A] [Fig.4A] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0013] [Fig.4B] [Fig.4B] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0014] [Fig.5A] [Fig.5A] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0015] [Fig.5B] [Fig.5B] is another example of a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0016] [Fig.6A][Fig.6B][Fig.6C] Figures 6A-6C illustrate an exemplary method of using the flexible substrate of [Fig.2A], in accordance with the present technology;

[0017] [Fig.7A][Fig.7B][Fig.7C][Fig.7D] Figures S7A-7D illustrate an exemplary method of using a flexible substrate and a primer, in accordance with the present technology;

[0018] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] illustrates an exemplary method of applying a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology;

[0019] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] illustrates another example of a method of applying a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology; and

[0020] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] illustrates another example of a method of applying a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology.

[0021] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0022] Described herein is a flexible substrate comprising a color layer and a protective layer configured to be transferred to a surface. In some embodiments, the surface is skin, hair, or nails. In some embodiments, the surface is skin, hair, or nails. lization, the flexible substrate further comprises a support layer configured to protect the color layer and the protective layer which can be removed before application to a surface.

[0023] In one aspect, a flexible substrate comprising a transparent release layer, a protective layer disposed atop the transparent release layer, a color layer disposed atop the protective layer, and a support layer disposed atop the color layer, wherein the support layer is removably coupled to the flexible substrate and wherein the support layer prevents the color layer from transferring, wherein, when the support layer is removed and the flexible substrate is applied to a surface, pressure applied to the transparent release layer causes the protective layer and the color layer to transfer to the surface is disclosed.

[0024] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises a pattern layer, wherein when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer, the pattern layer transfers to the surface. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises a stencil layer having one or more apertures, wherein when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer, color is transferred through one or more apertures of the stencil layer, and the stencil layer is not transferred to the surface.

[0025] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises one or more additive layers, wherein, when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer, the additive layer transfers to the surface. In some embodiments, one or more additive layers are selected from: a UV protective layer, a moisturizing layer, a fragrance layer, a cooling layer, and a heating layer.

[0026] In some embodiments, the surface is the skin. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises an adhesive layer configured to adhere the color layer and the protective layer to the surface, where the adhesive layer is disposed on top of the color layer. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises a top layer, where the top layer is configured to provide a particular finish to the surface when transferred.

[0027] In another aspect, a system comprising a flexible substrate with a transparent release layer, a protective layer disposed atop the transparent release layer, a color layer disposed atop the protective layer, and a backing layer disposed atop the color layer, wherein the backing layer is removably coupled to the color layer and wherein the backing layer prevents the color layer from transferring, wherein, when the layer is removed and the flexible substrate is applied to a surface, pressure applied to the clear release layer results in the transfer of the protective layer and the color layer to one or more primed areas of the surface, and a primer, wherein the primer is configured to be applied to the surface to create one or more primed areas of the surface, is disclosed.

[0028] In some embodiments, the primer is a high solids emulsion adhesive.

[0029] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises a pattern layer disposed beneath the color layer, wherein when pressure is applied to the clear release layer, the pattern layer transfers to one or more primed areas of the surface. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises a stencil layer comprising one or more apertures, wherein the stencil layer is on top of the color layer, and wherein when pressure is applied to the clear release layer, color is transferred through one or more apertures of the stencil layer, and the stencil layer is not transferred to one or more primed areas of the surface.In some embodiments, the flexible substrate further comprises one or more additive layers, wherein when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer, the structure layer transfers to one or more primed areas of the surface. In some embodiments, one or more additive layers are selected from a UV protective layer, a moisturizing layer, a fragrance layer, a cooling layer, and a heating layer.

[0030] In yet another aspect, a method of applying a cosmetic with the flexible substrate of claim 1, the method comprising removing the support layer from the flexible substrate as described herein, applying the flexible substrate to a surface, applying pressure to the flexible substrate at one or more locations corresponding to one or more desired locations on the surface, transferring the color layer and the protective layer to the surface, and removing the clear release layer from the surface is disclosed.

[0031] In some embodiments, the method further includes applying a primer to the one or more desired locations of the surface prior to application of the flexible substrate, where the primer is configured to bond to the color layer and the protective layer.

[0032] In some embodiments, the method further comprises applying the flexible substrate to the surface, wherein the flexible substrate further comprises a stencil layer comprising a plurality of apertures, applying pressure to the flexible substrate at one or more locations corresponding to one or more desired locations on the surface, transferring the color layer and the protective layer through one or more apertures, and removing the stencil layer from the surface. In some embodiments, the method further comprises applying a stencil layer to the surface before applying the flexible substrate to the surface, wherein the stencil layer comprises a plurality of apertures, applying pressure to the flexible substrate at one or more locations corresponding to one or more desired locations of the surface, transferring the color layer and the protective layer through one or more apertures, and removing the stencil layer from the surface.

[0033] In some embodiments, the method further comprises transferring a pattern layer of the flexible substrate to the surface. In some embodiments, the method further comprises transferring one or more additive layers of the flexible substrate to the surface.

[0034] [Fig. 1A] is an example of a flexible substrate 100, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 includes a transparent release layer 105, a color layer 110, and a support layer 115. While the flexible substrate 100 is illustrated as a rectangle, the flexible substrate 100 may take any shape. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 is shaped or sized to conform to a particular surface. In one example, the flexible substrate 100 may take the shape of an upper and lower lip.

[0035] In some embodiments, the transparent release layer 105 is configured to be detachable from the other layers (i.e., the color layer 110 and the support layer 115). In some embodiments, the transparent release layer 105 is made of plastic. In some embodiments, the transparent release layer 105 is selected from polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or combinations thereof.

[0036] In some embodiments, a color layer 110 is disposed on the transparent release layer 105. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 is a cosmetic. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 is a lipstick, such as a lipstick or lip tint, an eyeshadow, a blush, or an eyeliner. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 is not the same size as the flexible substrate. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 does not cover the entire flexible substrate. For example, the color layer 110 may be discontinuous, such as patterned, polka dotted, or striped. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 may include more than one color. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 may include a finish, such as glitter, shimmer, shine, or matte.In some embodiments, the color layer 110 may . include one or more moisturizing ingredients, such as petrolatum, shea butter, lanolin, beeswax, zinc oxide, menthol, cocoa butter, sesame oil, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 may include a fragrance or aroma.

[0037] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 includes a support layer 115. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is disposed on top of the color layer 110. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is configured to peel off the color layer 110 without transferring the color layer 110 to the support layer 115. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is configured to prevent transfer of the color layer 110. In some embodiments, the support layer is configured to protect the color layer 110 from drying, particles, contamination, etc. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 includes more than one support layer 115, located between transferable layers (such as the color layer 110) to allow a user to transfer each transferable layer separately.In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is a silicon release layer. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is made of a specialized non-woven material. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is larger than the flexible substrate 100, such that a portion of the support layer 115 hangs from the flexible substrate 100. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 includes a tab to assist in removing the support layer 115 from the flexible substrate.

[0038] In operation, the support layer 115 is removed from the flexible substrate 100. In some embodiments, the support layer 115 is removed from the flexible substrate 100. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 is then placed on a surface, with the color layer 115 facing the surface, as illustrated in Figures 6A-6C. In some embodiments, pressure is applied to the clear release layer 105. In some embodiments, the color layer is transferred to the surface where the pressure is applied. In some embodiments, after the color layer is transferred, the clear release layer is removed from the surface. In some embodiments, the surface is the skin. In some embodiments, the surface is the lips, eyelids, cheeks, or nose.

[0039] [Fig. 1B] is another example of a flexible substrate 100, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 further comprises a protective layer 120. In some embodiments, the protective layer 120 is a wax, such as beeswax, candelilla wax, a polyolefin wax, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments lization, the protective layer 120 is configured to prevent the color layer 110 from smearing, smearing, or migrating upon wiping throughout the day. In some embodiments, the protective layer 120 prevents further transfer of the color layer 110 once applied to a surface. In some embodiments, the protective layer 120 is a powder, such as setting powder, translucent powder, talcum powder, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the protective layer is an oil such as mineral oil, castor oil, lanolin oil, silicone oil, vegetable oil, or a combination thereof.

[0040] In operation, when the flexible substrate 100 is applied to the surface, the color layer 110 and the protective layer 120 are transferred simultaneously to the surface. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 100 may include more than one support layer 115, so that the color layer 110 and the protective layer 120 may be applied sequentially. In some embodiments, when the protective layer 120 is transferred, it is transferred on top of the color layer 110. In this manner, the protective layer 120 prevents the color layer 110 from transferring further. The protective layer 120 may also prevent wrinkling, bleeding, fouling, or wipe-off migration of the color layer 110 from the surface, once transferred.

[0041] In some embodiments, before the flexible substrate 100 is applied to the surface, a primer is applied, as shown in Figures 7A-7D. In some embodiments, the primer is an adhesive. In some embodiments, the primer is a high solids emulsion adhesive. In some embodiments, the color layer 110 is configured to bond to the primer but not to the surface. In this manner, when pressure is applied to the flexible substrate 100, the color layer 110 transfers only to the locations where the primer has been applied.

[0042] [Fig. 2A] is another example of a flexible substrate 200, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate comprises a transparent release layer 205, a protective layer 220, a pattern layer 225, a color layer 210, and a support layer 215.

[0043] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate may also include a pattern layer 225. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is a second color layer that is smaller than or different in shape than the color layer 110. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is a printed pattern layer, which includes a binder and a pigment. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is discontinuous, i.e., polka dots, stripes, houndstooth, etc. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 may be an image. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 may be made of a polymer, such as synthetic rubber, nylon, silicon, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 may be a tiled image or a repeating pattern. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 may include a glitter, sparkle, glossy, or matte finish. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is a single color, but in other embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is multi-colored. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is henna. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 includes a fragrance. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 includes a flavoring.

[0044] In operation, the pattern layer 225 is transferred to the surface with the color layer 110. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 225 is transferred on top of the color layer 110, such that the color layer 110 is visible beneath the pattern layer 225. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate may include a plurality of pattern layers 225 configured to be transferred onto one another to create additional patterns. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate may include a plurality of pattern layers 225, each with a corresponding carrier layer 215, to prevent transfer between the plurality of pattern layers 225. In these embodiments, a user may select one or more pattern layers 225 to apply by removing the associated carrier layer 215 to expose the desired pattern layers 225.

[0045] [Fig. 2B] is an expanded view of the flexible substrate 200 of [Fig. 2A], in accordance with the present technology. As depicted in [Fig. 2A], in some embodiments, the flexible substrate comprises a transparent release layer 205, a protective layer 220, a pattern layer 225, a color layer 210, and a support layer 215.

[0046] [Fig. 3A] is another example of a flexible substrate 300, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 300 includes a transparent release layer 305, a protective layer 320, a color layer 310, a stencil layer 330, and a support layer 315. While the support layer 315 is illustrated as transparent, the support layer 315 may also be opaque.

[0047] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 300 comprises a stencil layer 330. In some embodiments, the stencil layer 330 comprises a plurality of apertures 350A, 350B, 350C. In some embodiments, the stencil layer 330 is made of the same material as the transparent release layer 305. In some embodiments, the stencil layer 330 is made of the same material as the support layer. In some embodiments, the plurality of apertures 350A, 350B, 350C form a pattern or image. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 300 may have a plurality of stencil layers 330, such that multiple stencil layers 330 are applied simultaneously. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 300 may include multiple stencil layers 330 so that a user can select one or more stencil layers from the plurality of stencil layers 330 to apply. In this embodiment, the plurality of stencil layers may be secured to the removable substrate with an adhesive covering only one edge of the stencil, such that a user can flip the plurality of stencils and select one or more desired stencils from the plurality of stencils. In some embodiments, the stencil layers 330 are removable, such as with a perforated edge.In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 300 is reusable and the user may select a different stencil layer for each application. In some embodiments, one or more stencil layers 330 may be removed and placed on the surface before applying the flexible substrate to the surface.

[0048] In operation, when the flexible substrate 300 is applied to a surface and pressure is applied to the transparent release layer 305, the color layer 310 and the protective layer 320 are transferred to the surface through the plurality of openings on the stencil layer 330.

[0049] [Fig. 3B] is an expanded view of the flexible substrate of [Fig. 3A], in accordance with the present technology. As depicted in [Fig. 3A], the flexible substrate 300 includes a transparent release layer 305, a protective layer 320, a color layer 310, a stencil layer 330, and a support layer 315. While the support layer 315 is illustrated as transparent, the support layer 315 may also be opaque.

[0050] [Fig.4A] is another example of a flexible substrate 400, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate comprises a support layer 405, a protective layer 420, a color layer 410, an adhesive layer 435, and a backing layer 415.

[0051] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 400 includes an adhesive layer 415, disposed on top of the color layer 110. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 415 is a primer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 415 is a skin adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 415 is an acrylic or acetate adhesive. In some embodiments, the color layer 410 is formulated such that the color layer 410 adheres to the adhesive layer 415 but not to the surface.

[0052] In operation, the support layer 415 is removed from the flexible substrate 400 and the flexible substrate 400 is applied to the surface. In this embodiment, it is not no need to apply a primer to the surface before applying the flexible substrate 400. The adhesive layer 415 transfers to the surface and bonds to the color layer 410 such that the color layer 410 is bonded to the surface.

[0053] [Fig.4B] is another example of a flexible substrate 400, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 400 may include both an adhesive layer 435 and a pattern layer 425. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 435 may bond to both the color layer 410 and the pattern layer 425. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 435 may be between the color layer 410 and the pattern layer 425. In some embodiments, the pattern layer 425 may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. In some embodiments, the pattern layer may be or include glitter, sparkle, rhinestones, stickers, appliqués, etc. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 435 is configured to bond specifically to the pattern layer 425.

[0054] [Fig.5A] is another example of a flexible substrate 500, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 500 comprises a transparent release layer 505, a first color layer 510, a second color layer 560, a lacquer layer 565, an adhesive layer 535, and a support layer 515.

[0055] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 500 includes both a first color layer 510 and a second color layer 560. While only a first color layer 510 and a second color layer 560 are illustrated, the flexible substrate 500 may include any number of color layers. In some embodiments, the first color layer 510 and the second color layer 560 are configured to blend together when applied. In some embodiments, the first color layer 510 and the second color layer 560 may be shaped or positioned separately, such that they are applied to different areas when pressure is applied to the flexible substrate 500.In some embodiments, the second color layer 560 is smaller than the first color layer 510, such that when pressure is applied to the flexible substrate 500, the second color layer 560 covers some, but not all, of the first color layer 510. In some embodiments, the second color layer 560 is thinner than the first color layer 510 such that the second color layer 560 transfers a pure or translucent color to the surface. In some embodiments, only a portion of the second color layer 560 is thinner than in some areas of the second color layer 560, such that only a portion of the transferred second color is pure or translucent. In this . manner, in some embodiments, applying pressure to the flexible substrate 500 results in a color gradient or shadow pattern when the first color layer 510 and the second color layer 560 interact. In some embodiments, the first color layer 510 and the second color layer 560 are multi-colored.

[0056] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 500 further comprises a lacquer layer. In some embodiments, a lacquer layer 565 is provided between the first color layer 510 and the second color layer 560. In some embodiments, the lacquer layer 565 is configured to prevent the first color layer 510 and the second color layer 560 from mixing during transfer. In some embodiments, a lacquer layer 565 is disposed beneath each color layer 510, 560. In some embodiments, the lacquer layer 565 provides a smooth, glossy finish to the surface. In some embodiments, the lacquer layer 565 is pigmented. In some embodiments, the lacquer layer 565 dries with a semi-matte finish. In some embodiments, the lacquer layer 560 includes a fragrance or flavoring.

[0057] [Fig.5B] is another example of a flexible substrate 500, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 500 comprises a clear release layer 505, a topcoat layer 575, a color layer 510, an additive layer 570, and a support layer 515.

[0058] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate comprises a topcoat 575. In some embodiments, the topcoat 575 is disposed beneath the color layer 510 on the flexible substrate 500. In some embodiments, the topcoat 575 is configured to impart a particular finish to the surface when transferred, such as glossy, matte, high gloss, frosted, satin, metallic, glitter, or sheer.

[0059] In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 500 includes one or more additive layers 570. In some embodiments, the additive layer 570 is selected from a UV protection layer, a moisturizing layer, a fragrance layer, a cooling layer, a heating layer, and an expansion layer. In some embodiments, the additive layer 570 is combined into the color layer 510, but in other embodiments, the additive layer 570 is separate from the color layer 510. In some embodiments, the additive layer 570 is disposed on top of the color layer 510 in the flexible substrate 500, for example, when the additive layer 570 provides a benefit to the surface (e.g., a moisturizing layer). In some embodiments, the additive layer 570 is disposed below the color layer 510 in the flexible substrate 500, for example when the additive layer 570 is a UV layer.

[0060] In some embodiments, additive layer 570 is a cooling layer, a heating layer, or both. In some embodiments, additive layer 570 comprises menthol, methyl salicylate, capsaicin, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, additive layer 570 comprises watermelon, yogurt, goji berries, aloe vera, mushroom, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, additive layer 570 comprises peppermint oil, vanillyl butyl ether (AC-VBE), spearmint oil, camphor, arnica, or a combination thereof.

[0061] Figures 6A-6C illustrate an exemplary method of using a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology.

[0062] [Fig. 6A] shows an example of a flexible substrate 600, comprising a transparent release layer 605, a protective layer 620, a pattern layer 625, a color layer 610, and a support layer 615. In some embodiments, the color layer 610 includes an adhesive. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate 600 has a separate adhesive layer (as shown in [Fig. 5A]).

[0063] The bottom image of [Fig.6A] shows an example of a flexible substrate 600, where the support layer 615 is being removed. In some embodiments, the support layer 615 may be peeled away from the flexible substrate 600 to expose the top layer of the flexible substrate 600 (illustrated here as the color layer 610).

[0064] [Fig. 6B] shows a user 1000 using the flexible substrate 600 on a surface (shown here as an upper and lower lip). In some embodiments, the surface is skin. In some embodiments, the surface is an upper and lower lip, but in other embodiments, the surface may be an eyelid, a cheek, only an upper lip, only a lower lip, an eyebrow, etc. In some embodiments, the user 1000 applies the flexible substrate 600 to the surface. The user 1000 may then apply pressure to the flexible substrate 600 by pressing the transparent release layer (shown at 605 in [Fig. 6A]).In some embodiments, the color layer 610, the pattern layer 625, the protective layer 620, and any additional layer(s) of the flexible substrate described herein (except the stencil layer 330) are transferred to the surface only when the user 1000 applies pressure.

[0065] [Fig.6C] shows a transfer 690 by the flexible substrate 600 onto the surface (illustrated as an upper and lower lip in [Fig.6C]). In some embodiments, after pressing the flexible substrate 600 onto the surface, one or more layers of the flexible substrate 600 are transferred onto the surface as a transfer 690.

[0066] Figures 7A-7D illustrate an example of using a flexible substrate 700 and a primer 7000, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the method includes applying a primer 7000 before applying the flexible substrate 700.

[0067] [Fig. 7A] shows a user 1000 applying the primer 7000. In some embodiments, the primer is an adhesive. In some embodiments, the primer is a high solids emulsion adhesive. In some embodiments, the primer 7000 is a cream or a liquid. In some embodiments, the primer 7000 is applied with a second flexible substrate, as illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B. In some embodiments, the primer 7000 is applied with an applicator, a wand, a compact, or a finger. In some embodiments, the primer 7000 is configured to bond to a plurality of layers (such as a color layer and a pattern layer) of the flexible substrate 700, as described herein.

[0068] In [Fig.7B], the primer 7000 is transferred to a surface, illustrated here as an upper and lower lip of the user 1000. The primer 7000 creates a primed surface 7500. In some embodiments, the surface is the skin. In some embodiments, the user can apply the primer 7000 to any portion(s) of the skin to create one or more primed surfaces 7500.

[0069] [Fig.7C] shows a user 1000 using the flexible substrate 700 on a surface (illustrated here as an upper and lower lip). In some embodiments, the surface is skin. In some embodiments, the surface is an upper and lower lip, but in other embodiments, the surface may be an eyelid, a cheek, only an upper lip, only a lower lip, an eyebrow, etc. In some embodiments, the user 1000 applies the flexible substrate 700 to the surface. The user 1000 may then apply pressure to the flexible substrate 700 by pressing the transparent release layer as described in [Fig.6B].In some embodiments, the color layer, pattern layer, protective layer, and any additional layer(s) of the flexible substrate described herein (except the stencil layer) are transferred to the surface only when the user 1000 applies pressure.

[0070] [Fig.7D] shows a transfer 790 by the flexible substrate 700 onto the surface (illustrated as an upper and lower lip in [Fig.7D]). In some embodiments, after pressing the flexible substrate 700 onto the surface, one or more layers of the flexible substrate 700 are transferred onto the surface as the transfer 790.

[0071] In some embodiments, the plurality of layers of the flexible substrate 700 (such as a color layer, a pattern layer, and a protective layer, as described herein) are formulated to bond to the primed surface 7500 and not to the surface.

[0072] [Fig. 8] illustrates an exemplary method 8000 of applying a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology. The method 8000 begins at block 8100. At block 8100, the support layer is removed from the flexible substrate.

[0073] In block 8200, the flexible substrate is applied to a surface. In some embodiments, the surface is skin, but in other embodiments, the surface may be hair or nails. In some embodiments, the surface is an upper and lower lip, an eyelid, a cheek, a face, an eyebrow, etc.

[0074] At block 8300, pressure is applied to one or more locations on the flexible substrate. A user, machine, or device may provide the pressure. The user, machine, or device presses the transparent release layer with the plurality of layers (such as the color layer, the protective layer, the adhesive layer, or the additive layer as described herein) opposite the surface.

[0075] At block 8400, the plurality of layers are transferred to one or more desired areas of the surface. By pressing only specific locations of the flexible substrate, the user, machine, or device can transfer the layers to one or more desired areas of the surface.

[0076] At block 8500, the transparent release layer is removed from the surface and a transfer (such as transfer 690) is left on the surface. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate may be reusable. In this embodiment, the flexible substrate may be applied multiple times to produce a plurality of transfers.

[0077] [Fig. 9] illustrates another exemplary method 9000 of applying a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology. The method 9000 begins at block 9100. At block 9100, a primer is applied to the surface. In some embodiments, the primer is applied with a second flexible substrate, as described in Figures 7A-7B. In some embodiments, the primer is applied to create one or more transfer zones, as shown in [Fig. 7B].

[0078] At block 9200, the support layer of the flexible substrate is removed.

[0079] In block 9300, the flexible substrate is applied to a surface. In some embodiments, the surface is skin, but in other embodiments, the surface may be hair or nails. In some embodiments, the surface is an upper and lower lip, an eyelid, a cheek, a face, an eyebrow, etc.

[0080] At block 9400, pressure is applied to one or more locations on the substrate. flexible. A user, machine, or device may provide the pressure. The user, machine, or device presses the transparent release layer (or release layer) with the plurality of layers (such as the color layer, protective layer, adhesive layer, or additive layer described herein) opposite the surface.

[0081] At block 9500, the plurality of layers are transferred to one or more desired areas of the surface. By pressing only specific locations on the flexible substrate, the user, machine, or device can transfer the layers to one or more desired areas of the surface. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers are formulated so that they adhere to one or more transfer areas, and not to the surface that has not been primed.

[0082] At block 9600, the transparent release layer (or release layer) is removed from the surface and a transfer (such as transfer 690) is left on the surface. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate may be reusable. In this embodiment, the flexible substrate may be applied multiple times to produce a plurality of transfers.

[0083] [Fig. 10] illustrates another example of a method 10000 of applying a flexible substrate, in accordance with the present technology, the method 10000 may begin at block 10100. In some embodiments, block 10100 is optional. At block 10100, a primer is applied to the surface. In some embodiments, the primer is applied with a second flexible substrate, as described in Figures 7A-7B. In some embodiments, the primer is applied to create one or more transfer zones, as shown in [Fig.7B].

[0084] At block 10200, the support layer of the flexible substrate is removed.

[0085] At block 10300, pressure is applied to one or more locations on the flexible substrate. A user, machine, or device may provide the pressure. The user, machine, or device presses the transparent release layer (or release layer) with the plurality of layers (such as the color layer, protective layer, adhesive layer, or additive layer described herein) opposite the surface.

[0086] At block 10400, the plurality of layers are transferred to one or more desired areas of the surface. By pressing only specific locations on the flexible substrate, the user, machine, or device can transfer the layers to one or more desired areas of the surface. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers are formulated to adhere to one or more transfer areas, and not to the surface that has not been primed.

[0087] At block 10500, the clear release layer (or release layer) is removed from the surface and a transfer (such as transfer 690) is left on the surface. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate may be reusable. In this embodiment, the flexible substrate may be applied multiple times to produce a plurality of transfers.

[0088] The order in which some or all of the process blocks in methods 8000, 9000, and 10000 are executed should not be considered limiting. Rather, a person of ordinary skill in the art benefiting from the present disclosure will understand that certain process blocks may be executed in a variety of unillustrated orders, or even in parallel.

[0089] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the accompanying drawings, where like numerals refer to like elements, are intended to be a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Likewise, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or a substantially similar result.In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limiting, and the inventors contemplate other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure that may include structures and features of more than one specific embodiment shown in the figures and described in the specification.

[0090] In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without incorporating all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0091] The present application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "top" and "bottom", etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in describing and understanding the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0092] The present application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically indicated, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered as restrictive, but as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. In this respect also, the present application may use the term "plurality" to denote a quantity or number. In this respect, the term "plurality" means any number greater than one, e.g., two, three, four, five, etc. The term "about," "approximately," etc. means plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on."

[0093] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be understood that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of this publication. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as claimed.

Claims

Claims

1. A flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) comprising: a transparent release layer (105; 205; 305; 505; 605); a protective layer (120; 220; 320; 420; 620) disposed on top of the transparent release layer (105; 205; 305; 505; 605); a color layer (110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610) disposed on top of the protective layer (120; 220; 320; 420; 620); and a support layer (115; 215; 315; 415; 515; 615) disposed on top of the color layer (110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610), wherein the support layer (115; 215; 315; 415; 515; 615) is removably coupled to the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) and wherein the support layer (115; 215; 315; 415; 515; 615) prevents transfer of the color layer (110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610), wherein, when the support layer (115; 215; 315; 415; 515;615) is removed and the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) is applied to a surface, pressure applied to the transparent release layer (105; 205; 305; 505; 605) causes the protective layer (120; 220; 320; 420; 620) and the color layer (110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610) to transfer to the surface, wherein the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) further comprises a stencil layer (330) comprising one or more apertures (350A, 350B, 350C), wherein when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer (305), the color layer (310) and the protective layer (320) are transferred through one or more openings (350A, 350B, 350C) of the stencil layer (330), and the stencil layer (330) is not transferred to the surface.;

2. The flexible substrate of claim 1, wherein the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) further comprises a pattern layer (225; 425; 625), wherein when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer (105; 205; 305; 505; 605), the pattern layer (225; 425; 625) transfers to the surface.

3. The flexible substrate of claim 1, wherein the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) further comprises one or more additive layers (570), wherein, when pressure is applied to the transparent release layer (105; 205; 305; 505; 605), the additive layer (570) transfers to the surface.

4. The flexible substrate of claim 3, wherein the one or more additive layers (570) are selected from: a UV protection layer; a moisturizing layer; a fragrance layer; a cooling layer; and a heating layer.

5. A flexible substrate according to claim 1, wherein the surface is skin.

6. The flexible substrate of claim 1, wherein the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) further comprises an adhesive layer (435; 535) configured to adhere to the color layer (110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610) and the protective layer (120; 220; 320; 420; 620) on the surface, wherein the adhesive layer (435; 535) is disposed on top of the color layer (110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610).

7. The flexible substrate of claim 1, wherein the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) further comprises a topcoat (575), wherein the topcoat (575) is configured to impart a particular finish to the surface when transferred.

8. A system comprising: the flexible substrate (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700) of claim 1; and a primer (7000), wherein the primer (7000) is configured to be applied to the surface to create one or more primed areas of the surface.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the primer (7000) is a high solids emulsion adhesive.

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