Skin treatment device

Abstract

This presentation relates to an assembly for cosmetic skin treatment (100) of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation, the assembly comprising: a device (1) for cosmetic skin treatment (100) of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation, the device (1) being intended to be applied to the user's skin (100) and comprising: a support (2); a main electrode (22); a counter electrode (23); and a current generator (24); and a non-woven textile film (41) separate from the device (1). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 8

Description

Title of the invention: Skin treatment device Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of skin treatment. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to the treatment of the skin, in particular by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation, preferably in a non-therapeutic manner, for example in a cosmetic manner. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Iontophoresis, electroporation and / or electrostimulation allow the skin to be treated using electric current. In this regard, skin treatment devices, such as facial care masks, are designed to deliver an electric current to the skin of a user.

[0003] These devices are generally single-use, so they are discarded by the user once the treatment has been carried out, which is likely to result in a waste of material and may prove harmful to the environment.

[0004] Furthermore, some of these devices promote the absorption of substances through the skin. To do this, the substance is first applied to the device by the user, and then the device is placed in contact with the skin. However, the amount of substance applied by the user is rarely optimized taking into account the properties of the treatment and / or the characteristics of the device. As a result, the substance may be wasted or spread in unwanted places. GENERAL STATEMENT

[0005] An aim of the present disclosure is to improve the operation of devices for treating the skin by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation, in particular to improve their effectiveness.

[0006] Another aim of the present disclosure is to make the use of devices for treating the skin by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation easier and more accessible to all.

[0007] Another aim of the present disclosure is to improve the storage and durability of devices for treating the skin by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation.

[0008] Another aim of the present disclosure is to propose a skin treatment device which is particularly ergonomic and intuitive to use.

[0009] Another aim of the present disclosure is to propose devices for treating the skin by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation which are, in whole or in part, reusable.

[0010] For this purpose, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a set for cosmetic treatment of the skin of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation, the set comprising: a device for the cosmetic treatment of a user's skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation, the device being intended to be applied to the user's skin and comprising: a support having an active face intended to face the user's skin during cosmetic treatment; a main electrode extending projecting from the active face of the support; a counter electrode extending projecting from the active face of the support; and a current generator extending projecting from the support and being electrically connected to the main electrode and the counter electrode; and a non-woven textile film separate from the device, the non-woven textile film being impregnated with a cosmetic substance and configured to be positioned on the main electrode during the cosmetic treatment so as to associate the cosmetic substance with the main electrode.

[0011] The non-woven fabric film can completely cover the main electrode when positioned on the main electrode.

[0012] The assembly may further comprise a casing in which the nonwoven textile film is arranged, the casing being configured to be ruptured in order to position the nonwoven textile film on the main electrode.

[0013] The assembly may further comprise an additional non-woven textile film impregnated with an electrically conductive substance and configured to be positioned on the counter electrode during the cosmetic treatment so as to improve the electrical conductivity of the counter electrode.

[0014] The current generator may include at least one galvanic couple consisting of an anode and a cathode. The current generator may include a plurality of galvanic couples electrically connected in series, each of the plurality of galvanic couples consisting of an anode and a cathode. The assembly may further include a plurality of conductive elements, each of the plurality of conductive elements electrically connecting two of the plurality of galvanic couples in series. One of the plurality of conductive elements may electrically connect one of the anode and the cathode of a first galvanic couple of the plurality of galvanic couples to the other of the anode and the cathode of a second galvanic couple of the plurality of galvanic couples, so as to electrically connect the first galvanic couple and the second galvanic couple in series.The assembly may further comprise an additional non-woven textile film impregnated with an electrically conductive substance. conductive and configured to be positioned on the at least one galvanic couple during the cosmetic treatment so as to electrically connect the anode and the cathode. One of the anode and the cathode comprises silver and the other of the anode and the cathode comprises zinc.

[0015] The assembly may further comprise an adhesive element extending projecting from the active face of the support and configured to fix the support to the skin of the user during the cosmetic treatment. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0016] Other characteristics, aims and advantages will emerge from the following description, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting, and which must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings in which:

[0017] [Fig.l] is a schematic bottom view of a device for skin treatment.

[0018] [Fig.2] is a schematic bottom view of a device for skin treatment.

[0019] [Fig.3] is a schematic bottom view of a device for skin treatment.

[0020] [Fig.4] is a schematic sectional view of a portion of a galvanic couple current generator.

[0021] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a current generator with galvanic couples.

[0022] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a current generator with galvanic couples.

[0023] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a current generator with galvanic couples.

[0024] [Fig.8] is a schematic sectional view of a device for the treatment of skin.

[0025] Throughout the figures, similar elements bear identical references. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Device

[0027] A device 1 for treating the skin 100 of a user, by iontophoresis (or ionophoresis) and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation, is intended to be applied to the skin 100 of the user. The device 1 can be applied to any dermal part of the user's body. Preferably, the device 1 is intended to be applied to the user's face. In fact, the device 1 is remarkably well suited for particular areas of the face, which are often the subject of a user's desire to treat.

[0028] The device 1 may have different shapes depending on the area of ​​the user's skin 100 on which it is designed to be applied. For example, in one embodiment, the device 1 may be intended to be applied to the temple and thus have a general drop shape. Thus, the contours of the device 1 are rounded and a first portion of the device 1, seen from above, is wider than a second portion of the device 1. In one embodiment, the device 1 may be intended to be applied to the cheekbone and thus have a circular shape. Thus, seen from above, the device 1 forms a disc. In one embodiment, the device 1 may be intended to be applied to the forehead and thus have a triangular shape. Thus, each area of ​​the face may have a device 1 particularly well adapted to the shape of the area in question, which makes it possible to increase the comfort of use, the ergonomics and the effectiveness of the treatment. Other shapes are of course conceivable, for example which would be adapted to other areas of the face or other dermal areas of the body, such as the tops of the hands, the décolleté, etc.

[0029] The device 1 advantageously allows a cosmetic treatment of the skin 100, for example by activating a cosmetic substance and / or by optimizing and / or improving its effectiveness, that is to say so that at least one active agent contained in the cosmetic substance is capable of being activated or of having its effectiveness optimized and / or improved by the device 1, in order to increase the effectiveness of the cosmetic treatment of the skin 100. The device 1 can also be used to eliminate or reduce various types of pain or other sensory discomfort, including, but not limited to, back pain, joint pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, tingling or numbness of the skin 100, muscle pain, muscle cramps, joint stiffness, etc. To this end, the device 1 can then make it possible to improve the diffusion of an analgesic through the skin 100.Different methods are possible to do this, typically the generation of microcurrents, for example iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation.

[0030] In one embodiment, the device 1 is adapted to be activated, i.e. placed in operating conditions, by an activation product which is electrically conductive. In other words, the generation of electric currents is triggered by the application of the activation product to certain areas of the device 1. The device 1 is therefore inactive in the absence of the activation product, and only becomes active when the activation product is in contact with at least one predefined area of ​​the device 1. This makes it possible to control the moment of activation of the product, and in particular to match this moment to the actual use of the device 1 by the user. Thus, during the storage or transport phase, the device 1 is not activated, thus preserving its lifespan.

[0031] The activation product may comprise the active agent for the treatment of the skin 100, which allows a cosmetic treatment of the skin 100, preferably not therapeutic, and the effectiveness of which is increased by the device 1, thanks to the electric currents that it generates. The activation product may, for example, comprise a cosmetic product, preferably non-therapeutic, such as a cosmetic cream, a serum, comprising an active agent such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or any other active ingredient beneficial for the skin 100 and compatible with treatment by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. The activation product may also be a therapeutic product such as a cream for treating burns. Preferably, the active agent is ionized at the pH of the activation product, for example between 4 and 10, and substantially equal to 7, in order to obtain an electromigration mechanism.

[0032] Support

[0033] The device 1 comprises a support 2, preferably in the form of a layer, which has the same shape as the device 1, for example being a drop-shaped support 2a, a circular-shaped support 2b or a triangular-shaped support 2c.

[0034] The support 2 has an active face 200 intended to face the skin 100 of the user during the treatment, and a passive face 201 opposite the active face 200. The passive face 201 is intended to face the environment outside the skin 100 of the user during the treatment.

[0035] The support 2 comprises at least one support film 21. The support film 21 and, consequently, the device 1 are sufficiently flexible to be able to adapt to the shapes and reliefs of the skin 100 of the area to be treated, and in particular to the cheekbones, the temple, and the forehead. The support film 21 is preferably electrically insulating, that is to say that it does not allow the passage of electric current. This makes it possible to avoid any risk of short circuit within the device 1, by preventing an electric current from circulating in the support film 21.

[0036] The support film 21 is, for example, made of a flexible plastic such as polyurethane (PU) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Preferably, the support film 21 has a thickness greater than or equal to 20 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 40 μm, and less than or equal to 90 μm, for example substantially equal to 50 μm or 80 μm. Indeed, such thicknesses allow the support film 21, and therefore the device 1, to conform well to the skin area 100 on which it is intended to be placed.

[0037] The device 1 may comprise a plurality of support films 21 assembled together, for example by gluing. Alternatively, the support film 21 may be monolithic, i.e. formed from a single film.

[0038] Electrodes

[0039] The device 1 comprises at least one main electrode 22 and at least one counter-electrode 23, each of the electrodes 22 extending in projection from the active face 200 of support 2.

[0040] The electrodes 22, 23 are intended to be applied opposite the skin 100 of the user and are adapted to allow the circulation of an electric current in the skin 100 of the user, when the device 1 is placed in contact with the skin 100 of the user. Indeed, the skin 100 of the user behaves as a consumer of electric current, like an electrical resistor in particular. To this end, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are formed at least of one metal, a good electrical conductor.

[0041] The electrodes 22, 23 are intended to be in contact, directly or indirectly, with the skin 100. During indirect contact, an element, such as an activation product, an absorbent layer and / or a non-woven textile film, is typically interposed between the electrode 22, 23 and the skin 100.

[0042] In certain cases, the main electrode 22 is called a “treatment electrode”. In other words, advantageously, the main electrode 22 can specifically allow the improvement of the absorption of an active agent when the main electrode 22 covers a portion of the user’s skin 100 to which substance containing the agent is applied. In operation, the active agent is thus specifically absorbed by the skin 100 at the main electrode 22, the shape of which can then advantageously be chosen to correspond as precisely as possible with the area to be treated. Thus, the main electrode 22 can advantageously have the same shape as the general shape of the device 1. This makes it possible to position the main electrode 22 as close and as precisely as possible opposite the specific area to be treated (cheekbone, temple, forehead, etc.).

[0043] The main electrode 22 may be a cathode or an anode and, correspondingly and inversely, the counter electrode 23 may be an anode or a cathode.

[0044] Preferably, the nature of the main electrode 22 (cathode or anode), and therefore of the counter-electrode 23, is adapted according to the type of substance used in combination with the device 1. In particular, the main electrode 22 is adapted to be an anode for certain types of products such as a vitamin C-based cream while the main electrode 22 is adapted to be a cathode for certain other types of products.

[0045] More specifically, the substance associated with the main electrode 22 may comprise molecules that are positively or negatively charged at a given pH. If the main electrode 22 has the same polarity as the polarity of the molecules, the molecules are repelled by the main electrode 22 and thus pushed towards the skin 100 of the user. For example, vitamin C molecules are negatively charged for a pH between 5 and 7. A device 1 aimed at improving the absorption by the skin 100 of vitamin C molecules contained in a product therefore preferably has a main electrode 22 forming an anode.

[0046] The main electrode 22 preferably comprises carbon, advantageously in the form of a plurality of carbon points, for example arranged under the main metal constituting the main electrode 22. This makes it possible to give the user a visual indication of the main electrode 22 to help him position the latter correctly on the area of ​​the skin 100 that he wishes to treat, without however degrading the electrical conductivity of the main electrode 22.

[0047] The counter-electrode 23 is designed to have a polarity opposite to that of the main electrode 22 during operation of the device 1, i.e. when current flows through the skin 100, via the electrodes 22, 23. The counter-electrode 23 is therefore a cathode if the main electrode 22 is an anode, and the counter-electrode 23 is an anode if the main electrode 22 is a cathode.

[0048] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 preferably comprise silver and / or silver chloride. More preferably, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are made of silver and / or silver chloride. Silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being hypoallergenic and of interacting well with the skin 100. In addition, silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being good conductors of electricity. Silver chloride is less subject to oxidation than silver, so that, combined with silver, it helps to limit oxidation and therefore to improve the durability of the electrodes 22, 23.

[0049] Preferably, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are each composed of 55% silver and 45% silver chloride.

[0050] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are made of carbon. Carbon is conductive and not very oxidizable.

[0051] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may also comprise alloys.

[0052] Advantageously, the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are printed on the support 2, typically on the support film 21, using conductive inks, and preferably metallic inks. In particular, the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are preferably printed on the support film 21 by screen printing.

[0053] Current generator

[0054] The device 2 further comprises at least one current generator 24 extending projecting from the support 2, from its active face or its passive face. The current generator 24 is electrically connected to the main electrode 22 on the one hand and to the counter-electrode 23 on the other hand, so as to create an electrical potential differential between the latter.

[0055] The device 1 is in working condition when it is applied to the skin 100 of a user and when the current generator 24 generates an electric current. Thus, in operation, the device 1 generates a potential differential between the electrodes 22, 23, then an electric current when the device 1 is applied to the skin 100.

[0056] In operation, the electric current generated by the current generator 24 flows between the electrodes 22, 23 and in the skin 100 of the user. More precisely, the electric current flows via the current generator 24 to the main electrode 22, then penetrates the skin 100 of the user to reach the counter-electrode 23. The current can also flow in a reverse direction.

[0057] The current generator 24 can be of any nature, typically being an external rechargeable battery, or a cell.

[0058] In one embodiment, the current generator 24 comprises at least one galvanic couple 240. The galvanic couple 240 is formed of a first conductive pole 241 forming a cathode and a second conductive pole 242 forming an anode separated from each other by a free space 243.

[0059] The free space 243 is preferably insulating, i.e. it does not allow the passage of electric current. This can for example be made possible by the fact that the support film 21 is insulating and that the free space 243 consists of an area of ​​the support film 21 on which no material is printed.

[0060] Alternatively, an insulating material could be arranged on the support film 21 at the level of the free space 243.

[0061] Preferably, the first conductive pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 and the second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240 are separated by a distance of between 0.5 mm and 5.0 mm, preferably between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm, for example equal to 2.0 mm. In other words, the free space 243 has a length of between 0.5 mm and 5.0 mm, preferably between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm, for example equal to 2.0 mm.

[0062] The free space 243 is intended to be filled, at the time of activation, that is to say of putting into operation, of the device 1, by an electrically conductive activation product to connect together the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

[0063] The first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240 are adapted to, when connected by the activation product, allow the circulation of electrons between them. The electrons are generated by the difference between the standard electrical redox potentials of the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242.

[0064] A galvanic couple 240 is thus adapted to generate an electric current when the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 are connected in so as to allow an oxidation-reduction reaction between the said poles. An electrochemical cell is, in fact, thus formed.

[0065] More precisely, when the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240 are connected by the activation product, in contact with the activation product, atoms constituting the second conductive pole 242, forming an anode, oxidize and electrons are released. The electrons then circulate via the activation product towards the first conductive pole 241. In fact, the activation product between the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 allows the circulation of electrons and the formation of an electrical circuit.

[0066] Thus, in operation, the device 1 is traversed by an electric current without requiring an external battery or any other source of electrical power external to the device 1. This results in a remarkably limited size of the device 1, and remarkable freedom of use, since there is no longer any need for a power outlet, external battery, etc.

[0067] The materials constituting the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 advantageously comprise electrically conductive materials, typically metals.

[0068] The first conductive pole 241, forming a cathode, advantageously comprises silver and / or silver chloride. Preferably, the first conductive pole 241 is made of silver and / or silver chloride.

[0069] The second conductive pole 242, forming an anode, advantageously comprises zinc. Preferably, the second conductive pole 242 is made of zinc. In this case, the zinc is the reducing agent of the chemical oxidation-reduction reaction and the second conductive pole 242, the zinc ink in this case, is intended to be consumed during use of the device 1.

[0070] Thus, advantageously, when the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 are connected by an activation product, the zinc atoms are oxidized and therefore release electrons according to the following reaction: Zn —> Zn2+ + 2e-.

[0071] The electrons flow from the second conductive pole 242 to the first conductive pole 241. This is made possible by the fact that the standard electrical redox potentials of zinc and silver are different. In this case, the theoretical standard electrical potential of zinc is -0.76 V and that of silver is +0.80 V. Thus, each galvanic couple 240 formed of zinc and silver theoretically makes it possible to produce a 1.56 V battery.

[0072] The galvanic couples 240 may comprise other materials. For example, these couples may be formed from: zinc-copper, zinc-copper / copper halide, zinc-copper / copper oxide, magnesium-copper, magnesium-copper / copper halide, zinc-silver, zinc-silver-silver oxide, zinc- silver-silver, zinc-silver-silver chloride, zinc-silver-silver bromide, zinc-silver-silver iodide, zinc-silver-silver fluoride, zinc-gold, magnesium-gold, aluminum-gold, magnesium-silver, magnesium-silver-silver oxide, magnesium-silver-silver halide, magnesium-silver-silver chloride, magnesium-silver-silver bromide, magnesium-silver-silver iodide, magnesium-silver-silver fluoride, magnesium-gold, aluminum-copper, aluminum-silver, aluminum-silver-silver oxide, aluminum-silver / silver halide, aluminum-silver / silver chloride, aluminum-silver / silver bromide, aluminum-silver / silver iodide, aluminum-silver / silver fluoride, copper-silver / silver halide, copper-silver / silver chloride, copper-silver / silver bromide, copper-silver / silver iodide, copper-silver / silver fluoride, iron-copper, iron-copper / copper oxide, iron-copper, iron-copper / copper oxide, iron-copper / copper halide, iron-silver, iron-silver / silver oxide,iron-silver / silver halide, iron-silver / silver chloride, iron-silver / silver bromide, iron-silver / silver iodide, iron-silver / silver fluoride, iron-gold, conductive iron-carbon, conductive zinc-carbon, conductive copper-carbon, magnesium-carbon and aluminum-carbon.

[0073] The galvanic couples 240 may also comprise alloys.

[0074] Depending on the nature of the main electrode 22 (anode or cathode), the main electrode 22 is electrically connected to one or the other of a first conductive pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 and a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240.

[0075] For example, if the main electrode 22 is an anode, it will be connected to a second conductive pole 242 since the latter forms an anode. Generally, each of the main electrode 22 and counter electrode 23 is of the same polarity as the first or second conductive pole 241, 242.

[0076] The main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 can be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of the same galvanic couple 240 or of different galvanic couples 240. In the case where the current generator 24 comprises a single galvanic couple 240, the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of this same galvanic couple 240.

[0077] Connector

[0078] One of the electrodes 22, 23 is electrically connected to a first conductive pole 241 by a first connector 244. The other of the electrodes 22, 23 is electrically connected to a second conductive pole by a last connector 245. In other words, the first conductive pole 241 connected to an electrode 22, 23 is connected to the electrode 22, 23 via the first connector 244. The second conductive pole 242 connected to an electrode 22, 23 is connected to the electrode 22, 23 via the last connector 245.

[0079] The main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 can be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 via connectors 244, 245 advantageously comprising carbon, and preferably made of carbon. A carbon connector 244, 245 comprises carbon but can additionally comprise other materials, preferably conductive materials. A connector 244, 245 comprising carbon allows the flow of an electric current. A carbon connector 244, 245 is advantageously a carbon strip. A carbon connector 244, 245 preferably has a length of less than 5.0 mm and greater than 1.0 mm and a width of the order of 2.0 mm. The length of a carbon connector 244, 245 is preferably less than 5.0 mm to allow good conductivity of the current, a carbon connector that is too long having significant resistance.In case a connector is required over a longer distance, in particular greater than 5.0 mm, another, better conducting material is instead used, preferably the material used for the main electrode 22 or the counter electrode 23.

[0080] Preferably, a connector 244, 245 is printed on the support 2, preferably on the support film 21, using a conductive ink comprising carbon, preferably by screen printing.

[0081] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 via connectors 244, 245 comprising other electrically conductive materials. For example, a connector 244, 245 may comprise the same material as a material included in the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23.

[0082] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 by direct contact between an electrode 22, 23 and a conductive pole 241, 242.

[0083] In one embodiment, the first connector 244 comprises a material identical to a material comprised in the electrode 22, 23. Preferably, the first conductive pole 241 and the electrode 22, 23 to which the first conductive pole 241 is connected comprise silver and / or silver chloride and the first connector 244 comprises silver and / or silver chloride. Also preferably, the last connector 245 is made of carbon.

[0084] In one embodiment, the counter electrode 23 is connected to the first conductive pole 241, the counter electrode 23 and the first conductive pole 241 are made of silver and / or silver chloride, and the first connector 244 that connects the counter electrode 23 and the first conductive pole 241 is made of silver and / or silver chloride. Since the counter electrode 23 and the first conductive pole 241 are made of the same material, they can be continuously connected by a first connector 244 of the same material. Printing the counter electrode 23, the first conductive pole 241 and first connector 244 on the support film 21 is thus facilitated and does not require a different material for the first connector 244.

[0085] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the main electrode 22 is connected to the second conductive pole 242, the electrode 22 is made of silver and / or silver chloride, the second conductive pole 242 is made of zinc and the last connector 245 which connects the electrode 22 and the second conductive pole 242 is made of carbon.

[0086] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 may be in direct contact with the second conductive pole 242 and there would be no additional connector.

[0087] Advantageously, the current generator 24 comprises a plurality of galvanic couples 240. The main electrode 22 is then connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240a different from the galvanic couple 240d of which a conductive pole 241, 242 is connected to the counter-electrode 23. More precisely, a conductive pole 241, 242 of a first galvanic couple 240a is electrically connected to the main electrode 22 and a conductive pole 241, 242 of a last galvanic couple 240d is electrically connected to the counter-electrode 23.

[0088] The current generator 24 may comprise a plurality of galvanic couples 240 connected in series. The galvanic couples 240 are thus adjacent two by two and are electrically connected two by two. This makes it possible to make a series connection of said plurality of galvanic couples 240, and therefore to increase the voltage potential.

[0089] Preferably, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are separated by a distance equal to the distance which separates the two conductive poles 241, 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

[0090] More precisely, two adjacent galvanic couples 240b, 240c are connected by connecting the second conductive pole 242b of one galvanic couple 240b and the first conductive pole 241c of the other galvanic couple 240c.

[0091] Advantageously, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are electrically connected via a couple connector 246 advantageously comprising carbon. Preferably, the couple connector 246 is made of carbon. The couple connectors 246 make it possible to circulate an electric current from one galvanic couple 240 to another adjacent galvanic couple 240. Alternatively, the couple connector 246 may comprise other materials, such as electrically conductive metals. However, it is preferable to use carbon couple connectors 246 for its low cost, its ease of implementation and its harmlessness to the skin 100.

[0092] Preferably, the torque connector 246 extends below at least one conductive pole 241, 242 that it connects. In other words, the at least one conductive pole 241, 242 partially covers the torque connector 246, the connector of couple 246 extending between the support 2 and the at least one conductive pole 241, 242.

[0093] More preferably, the couple connector 246 comprises a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface of a conductive pole 241, 242. Advantageously, the couple connector 246 comprises a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface of a second conductive pole 242. This makes it possible to improve the electrical conductivity between two adjacent galvanic couples 240. Advantageously, each couple connector 246 has, in top view, a p-shape (or symmetrically a q-shape), that is to say that it has a solid, substantially square area and a tail (or thin area), the solid area extending under the surface of a second conductive pole 242 while the tail is not covered.Such an arrangement makes it possible to optimize the passage of current between two adjacent galvanic couples 240 without impacting the redox reaction, or even by optimizing it.

[0094] Indeed, in the case, for example, of a couple connector 246 made of carbon and a second conductive pole 242 made of zinc, the conductivity is improved because carbon is more conductive than zinc. It has been measured that the conductivity could be multiplied by two when the couple connector 246 has a solid area under a conductive pole 241, 242.

[0095] In one embodiment, the solid area of ​​the torque connector 246 corresponds to 100% of the surface area of ​​a second conductive pole 242. In one embodiment, the surface area of ​​a second conductive pole 242 is greater than the solid area of ​​the torque connector 246, i.e. the second conductive pole 242, for example made of zinc, covers the torque connector 246, for example made of carbon, and protrudes from the torque connector 246. This makes it possible to ensure that, despite manufacturing tolerances, the second conductive pole 242, for example made of zinc, completely covers the torque connector 246, for example made of carbon, in particular in order to guarantee a good aesthetic appearance of the device 1.

[0096] Alternatively, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are electrically connected by direct contact between the second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240 and the first conductive pole 241 of an adjacent galvanic couple 240. This makes it possible to achieve the series connection of said plurality of galvanic couples 240, without having to use another material.

[0097] Arranging a plurality of galvanic couples 240 in series makes it possible to generate, when the device 1 is in operation, a voltage measured between the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 which is greater than the voltage generated by a single galvanic couple 240. Indeed, the voltages generated by each galvanic couple 240 of a series of galvanic couples 240 are cumulative. For example, theoretically, a zinc-silver galvanic couple 240 generates a voltage of 1.56 V. Accordingly, theoretically, a current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 will generate a voltage of 3.12 V, and a current generator 24 comprising three galvanic couples 240 will generate a voltage of 4.68 V. Empirically, it has been measured that a current generator 24 comprising a zinc-silver galvanic couple 240 generates a voltage of 1.1 V. Thus, empirically, a current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 generates a voltage of 2.2 V and a current generator 24 comprising three galvanic couples 240 generates a voltage of 3.3 V. In one embodiment, the current generator 240 comprises five galvanic couples 240 and generates, empirically, a voltage of 5.5 V.

[0098] Consequently, in operation, the intensity of the electric current generated by the plurality of galvanic couples 240 in series is greater than the electric current generated by a single galvanic couple 240. Indeed, the resistance of the skin 100, which will consume the current, remaining identical, by increasing the voltage, thanks to the series connection of a plurality of galvanic couples 240, the current which circulates in the skin 100 is necessarily increased when the device 1 is activated and placed on the skin 100. The skin 100 behaves on average like a resistance of 10 kΩ (10,000 Ω). Thus, theoretically, a current generator 24 comprising a single galvanic couple 240 generates a current of 110 pA. Similarly, a current generator 24 comprising five galvanic couples 240 generates a current of 550 pA.

[0099] However, due to current losses, for example at the contact between the skin 100 and the electrodes 22, 23, the actual current measured is lower than the theoretical current. Thus, for example, the current generator 24 comprising a galvanic couple 240 generates a current with an intensity of up to 100 pA. The current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 generates a current with an intensity of up to 150 pA. Other current generators 24, such as those used for a drop-shaped support 2a, generate a current with an intensity of up to 300 pA, and such as those used for a circular-shaped support 2b generate a current with an intensity of up to 180 pA.

[0100] The performance of the current generator 24 is thus improved. Thus, more current flows in the skin 100 of the user, which increases the treatment by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. The performance and effectiveness of the device 1 are therefore improved. This allows, among other things, better diffusion of an active agent in the skin 100 of the user.

[0101] Advantageously, the current generator 24 comprises at least three galvanic couples 240. Preferably, the current generator 24 comprises at least four galvanic couples 240.

[0102] In one embodiment, the current generator 24 comprises at least two current generation assemblies 247 each comprising a plurality of galvanic couples 240 connected in series and the two current generation assemblies 247 are connected in parallel.

[0103] Arranging the current generation assemblies 247 in parallel makes it possible to combine the intensities of the electric currents generated by each current generation assembly 247. Thus, the intensity of the electric current generated by the current generator 24 is increased. Typically, this makes it possible, for example, to generate a current of up to 200 pA.

[0104] Preferably, the elements printed on the support film 21, i.e. the electrodes 22, 23, the current generator 24 and the connectors 244, 245, 246, have a thickness of between 10 μm and 20 μm. The support film 21 having a thickness of between 20 μm and 90 μm, or 40 μm and 90 μm, the layer forming the support 2 preferably has a thickness of between 30 μm and 110 μm, or between 50 μm and 110 μm. The support 2 thus offers a remarkable compromise between electrical conductivity, flexibility, and duration of use, in particular for the zinc ink which is consumed during treatment.

[0105] Impregnation layer

[0106] To operate the current generator 24, when it has galvanic couples 240, it is necessary to activate its galvanic couples 240. To do this, the conductive poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240 must be connected together so that an oxidation-reduction reaction takes place. This can be implemented due to the presence of the activation product at the free spaces 243 between the conductive poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240. Thus, it is desired that activation product be placed at the free spaces 243 and that activation product remain during a certain operating time of the device 1 at the free spaces 243.

[0107] In this regard, at least one impregnation layer 4, comprising at least one impregnation film 41, may be provided to cover the current generator 24 and in particular play the role of a reservoir of activation product, thus allowing the activation of the galvanic couples 240 of the current generator 24 for a certain period of time. The impregnation layer 4 is positioned on at least one of the galvanic couples 240 and covers it, or even covers all the galvanic couples 240. Alternatively, each galvanic couple 240 is covered by its own dedicated impregnation layer 4. Thus, current is generated for a certain period of time, preferably for the duration necessary for the treatment of the area of ​​the skin 100 to be treated.Activation zones therefore correspond to the zones of the impregnation layer 4 arranged at the level of the free spaces 243, that is to say that activation zones correspond to the zones of the impregnation layer 4 arranged. opposite and / or on and / or above the free spaces 243. The activation zones are electrically isolated from each other to prevent the occurrence of short circuits.

[0108] Preferably, each activation zone extends from the first conductive pole 241 to the second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. More preferably, each activation zone is arranged opposite a part of a first conductive pole 241, a part of the free space 243 and a part of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. In this way, when activation product is applied at the activation zone, the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of each galvanic couple 240 are correctly connected to allow an oxidation-reduction reaction. More precisely, at the time of activation, that is to say of putting into operation, of the device 1, the activation product will make it possible to put the first and second conductive poles 241, 242 into electrical contact by filling the free space 243, initially insulating.

[0109] In one embodiment, for a galvanic couple 240, an activation zone comprises a zone of the impregnation layer 4 located opposite, that is to say covering, the entire galvanic couple 240, namely its first conductive pole 241, its second conductive pole 242 and its free space 243.

[0110] Preferably, in operation, it is preferable for activation product to also be present between the counter-electrode 23 and the user's skin 100 to facilitate the flow of electric current between the device 1 and the skin 100, the activation product being electrically conductive. This also makes it possible to limit the risk of reddening of the skin 100 in contact with the counter-electrode and to increase the comfort of use. In this regard, at least one impregnation layer 4, comprising at least one impregnation film 41, may be provided to cover the counter-electrode 24 and in particular play the role of an activation product reservoir.

[0111] Furthermore, in the case where the treatment substance, preferably cosmetic and non-therapeutic, comprises both the activation product and the active agent for the treatment of the skin 100 which is intended to be diffused into the skin 100 by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation, it is necessary to apply the activation product between the main electrode 22 and the skin 100, to guarantee good absorption of the active agent.

[0112] Therefore, at least one impregnation layer 4, comprising at least one impregnation film 41, is configured to be positioned on the main electrode 22, so as to associate the treatment substance with the main electrode 22, acting as a reservoir of treatment substance, for a certain period of time. Preferably, when positioned on the main electrode 22, the impregnation film 41 covers the entire main electrode 22 in order to optimize the operation of the device 1.

[0113] Furthermore, the impregnation film 41 intended to cover the main electrode 22 is separate from the device 1 and intended to be assembled to the device 1 only when operating the latter. In other words, only the impregnation film 41 intended to cover the main electrode 22 is for single use, the device 1 being, moreover, reusable. In this way, a substantial saving of material is achieved, and the preservation of the environment is improved. What is more, the user is thus offered the possibility of carrying out several distinct types of treatment using the same device 1, by simply changing the impregnation film 41 intended to cover the main electrode 22. This greatly facilitates the use of the device 1 and improves its efficiency without this improvement occurring to the detriment of the environmental performance of the device 1.In this regard, an envelope may be provided for arranging the impregnation film 41 intended to cover the main electrode 22. The envelope forms a package intended for the safe and sterile transport of the impregnation film 41, which may however be broken by the user to associate the impregnation film 41 with the main electrode 22.

[0114] Thus, the impregnation film 41 of at least one, if not each, of the impregnation layers 4 has, in particular, the role of being impregnated with at least one of the treatment substance and the activation product. The impregnation film 41 is therefore manufactured from at least one porous material, that is to say a material which absorbs the activation product.

[0115] Preferably, the impregnation film 41 is made from a non-woven textile, for example non-woven cotton. A non-woven textile has the advantage of being absorbent and is generally hypoallergenic so that it can be brought into contact with the skin 100 of a user without risk of skin reaction.

[0116] Furthermore, a non-woven textile has the advantage of being very flexible and therefore does not limit the flexibility of the device 1.

[0117] The impregnation film 41, and consequently the impregnation layer 4, preferably have a thickness greater than or equal to 100 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 800 μm, and less than or equal to 2.0 mm. The thickness of the impregnation film 41, and consequently of the impregnation layer 4, is notably chosen as a function of the desired absorption capacity of the impregnation layer 4.

[0118] The impregnation film 41 may be made from materials adapted to the viscosity of the treatment substance and / or the activation product. For example, if the treatment substance and / or the activation product is very low in viscosity and therefore very liquid, as is for example the case with physiological serum or saline solution, the impregnation film 41 is made from a highly absorbent material to prevent, when one of the treatment substance and the activation product is applied to the device 1, the treatment substance and / or the activation product does not spread, by capillarity, in an undesirable manner in the device 1 or that it flows out of the device 1, for example to the ground. Conversely, if the treatment substance and / or the activation product is very viscous, as is for example the case with a cosmetic cream or a gel, the impregnation film 41 is made of a low-absorbency material to allow the impregnation film 41 to impregnate sufficiently.

[0119] The impregnation layer 4 may comprise a single impregnation film 41. In this case, the impregnation layer 4 is said to be monolithic. This embodiment, which is particularly simple and easy to implement during the manufacture of the device 1, is well suited in the case where the treatment substance and / or the activation product has a high viscosity, for example in the form of a cosmetic cream. Indeed, in this case, when the treatment substance and / or the activation product is applied to the activation zone of the impregnation layer 4, i.e. to all of this zone or to a part of this zone, the treatment substance and / or the activation product remains substantially on this activation zone and does not spread undesirably to other zones of the impregnation layer 4, in particular to zones which are not activation zones.

[0120] When the impregnation layer 4 is monolithic, it may comprise at least one capillary action limiting device, such as a groove, a throat or even a slot. Such a device makes it possible to cut capillary paths within the impregnation layer 4 and thus to locally limit the diffusion of the treatment substance and / or the activation product, by capillarity, within the impregnation layer 4. It is thus possible to control the diffusion of the treatment substance and / or the activation product within this monolithic impregnation layer 4. This makes it possible to envisage the use of a relatively fluid treatment substance and / or activation product while simplifying the manufacturing method of the device 1. Advantageously, the impregnation layer comprises two capillary action limiting devices, arranged on either side of the current generator 24.

[0121] According to another embodiment, at least one of the impregnation layers 4 comprises a plurality of impregnation films 4L. In other words, the impregnation layer 4 is then not monolithic but comprises at least two, preferably three, impregnation films 41 which are distinct and separated from each other.

[0122] In one embodiment, there are three impregnation films 41 of which a first impregnation film 41, distinct from the device 1, is provided to cover the main electrode 22, a second impregnation film 41, distinct or not from the device 1, is intended to cover the counter-electrode 23 and a third impregnation film 41, separate or not from the device 1, is provided to cover the current generator 24. Advantageously, the first, second and third impregnation films 41 are not in contact with each other during operation of the device 1. This embodiment is for example suitable in the case where the treatment substance and / or the activation product has a low viscosity, that is to say that it is liquid, or fluid, for example in the form of serum or solution. Indeed, in this case, the treatment substance and / or the activation product tends to spread. The fact that the impregnation films 41 are not in contact during operation of the device 1 makes it possible to prevent the treatment substance and / or the activation product from spreading in an undesirable manner, in particular on areas which are not activation areas.

[0123] In the case where the impregnation layer 4 comprises a plurality of impregnation films 41, the impregnation films 41 are not necessarily made of the same material. However, for reasons of simplicity and cost, three separate but identical films, i.e. in the same material, can be used.

[0124] Different activation products can be used depending on the different activation zones. Therefore, the impregnation films 41 can each be made of materials adapted to the viscosity of the activation product that they are intended to receive.

[0125] The impregnation film 41 intended to cover the main electrode 22 is pre-impregnated with treatment substance containing the active agent. The pre-impregnation allows the use of the device 1 by a user without any prior step except for positioning the impregnation film 41 on the main electrode 22 and applying the device 1 to the skin 100. The correct amount of treatment substance is thus used, which improves the effectiveness of the treatment, and reduces waste and improves the cleanliness of the use of the device 1 since there is no risk of the treatment substance spilling. Since the impregnation film 41 intended to cover the main electrode 22 is both reusable and pre-impregnated, it significantly improves the use of the device 1, by synergy effect.

[0126] Preferably, at least one impregnation film 41 intended to cover the counter-electrode 33 and / or the current generator 24 is not pre-impregnated with the activation product. In fact, the fact of pre-impregnation can reduce the operating time of the device 1 for the treatment of the user's skin 100. Indeed, for example, this can lead to the premature activation of the current generator 24 if the corresponding activation zone is pre-impregnated. Thus, the current generator 24, and therefore the device 1, would have a reduced operating time since the current generator 24 would already have been operating for a certain period of time before the user does not apply it to his skin 100.

[0127] Consequently, it is preferred that the user impregnates the activation zones intended to come opposite the counter-electrode 23 and / or the current generator 24 as little time as possible before applying the device 1 to his skin 100. Indeed, it is particularly advantageous that the first or second conductive pole 241, 242 comprising the reducing agent, for example zinc, is not pre-impregnated so as not to trigger the redox reaction before the actual use of the device 1.

[0128] Means of contact

[0129] Advantageously, the device 1 comprises contact and holding means to ensure contact between the device 1 and the skin 100 of the user and to hold the device 1 on the skin 100 despite possible external disturbances, such as wind, clothing, hair, etc.

[0130] The contact means typically comprise an elastic band. For example, in the case of a device 1 in the form of a face mask, the device 1 may comprise an elastic band that surrounds the head to press the device 1 against the face.

[0131] Preferably, the contact means comprise an adhesive element extending in projection from the active face of the support 2, preferably in the form of an adhesive layer 5. The adhesive layer 5 comprises at least one adhesive film 51.

[0132] The adhesive layer 5 preferably comprises at least one permeable zone adapted to allow a treatment substance to pass through, for example an activation product comprising an active agent, only at the level of at least one activation zone. The permeable zone is preferably perforated, for example by being formed by a hole, or an opening, made in the adhesive film 51. Preferably, the adhesive layer 5 covers those of the impregnation layers 4 which is located on the current generator 24. The adhesive layer 5 is arranged on and in contact with at least a part of the support 2 and / or the current generator 24, preferably the impregnation layer 4 covering the current generator 24 when it is with galvanic couples 240.The adhesive layer 5 does not cover the parts of those of the impregnation layers 4 located opposite the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23, in order to allow good current flow between the electrodes 22 and 23 and the skin 100.

[0133] Thus, the adhesive layer 5 ensures that the device 1 is held on the skin 100 while isolating the galvanic couples 240 from the skin 100. The galvanic couples 240 being isolated from the skin 100 by the adhesive layer 5, the risk of short-circuiting within the latter is eliminated and the risk of seeing redness appear on the skin 100 is reduced.

[0134] The adhesive layer 5 has an external adhesive surface intended to come into contact with the skin 100 of the user and to ensure the attachment of the device 1 to the skin 100 for the entire duration of the treatment.

[0135] The adhesive layer 5 advantageously also has an internal adhesive surface intended to come into contact with at least one of the impregnation layers 4 and / or the support 2, and thus to ensure its attachment to the latter. Preferably, the adhesive layer 5 is then formed by a double-sided adhesive film 51, that is to say a film having an external adhesive surface intended to be in contact with the skin 100 and an internal adhesive surface intended to be in contact with the impregnation layer 4.

[0136] The adhesive layer 5 preferably has a thickness of less than 150 μm. The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, approximately equal to 140 μm.

[0137] Consequently, the total thickness of the device 1, i.e. of the stack of its layers, is less than 3.0 mm, preferably even less than 2.0 mm. The device 1 is thus flexible and can therefore conform to the shape of the area of ​​the body on which it will be placed.

[0138] Use of the device

[0139] The use of the device 1 involves providing it and also providing a pre-impregnated and reusable impregnation film 41. The impregnation film 21 is pre-impregnated with the substance containing the active agent and, possibly, also containing the activation product. Since the impregnation film 41 is pre-impregnated, the user no longer has to apply the substance containing the active agent himself to the main electrode 22 or to his skin 100, which improves his comfort of use, reduces the risk of waste and leads to cleaner use by limiting the risks of the substance containing the active agent accidentally spilling. In addition, several pre-impregnated impregnation films 41 can be used successively, with the same substance, to reinforce the treatment in progress, or with different substances, to change treatment. The modularity of the device 1 is thus improved.

[0140] When the current generator 24 has galvanic couples 240, it may also be useful to provide an activation product, which is applied to the device 1, and this at the level of at least one of the galvanic couples 240 of the current generator 24, so as to cause an oxidation-reduction reaction between the conductive poles 241, 242 of the galvanic couple 240 and thus to activate it so that it is capable of generating electric current flowing between the conductive poles 241, 242, via the activation product. The activation product is also advantageously applied to the device 1, at the level of the counter-electrode 23, for example at the level of the activation zone of the impregnation layer 4 which is associated with the counter-electrode 23. Preferably, the activation product is applied at the level of each of the zones activation of the current generator 24, so as to fill the orifices 247 and activate the galvanic couples 240 of the current generator 24.

[0141] The device 1 is, finally, applied to the skin 100 of a user so that the electrodes 22, 23 are arranged opposite the skin 100 of the user, and more particularly so that the main electrode 22 is arranged opposite the area to be treated, in direct or indirect contact with the skin 100 of the user. Where appropriate, indirect contact is implemented taking into account the arrangement of the impregnation film 41 between the electrodes 22, 23 and the skin 100 of the user. Preferably, the materials in contact with the skin 100 of the user comprise only non-woven textile of the impregnation film 41, activation product and possibly an adhesive material of the adhesive layer 5.As a result, the user's skin 100 is only in contact with skin-friendly materials 100, which reduces the risk of allergic reaction, improves the comfort of use of the device 1 and considerably limits, or even eliminates, any risk of redness appearing on the area of ​​the skin 100 which is treated with the device 1.

[0142] Once contact has been established between the device 1 and the skin 100, electric current generated by the current generator 24 can flow through the skin 100, via the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23.

Claims

Claims

1. An assembly for cosmetic treatment of the skin (100) of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation, the assembly comprising: a device (1) for cosmetic treatment of the skin (100) of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation, the device (1) being intended to be applied to the skin (100) of the user and comprising: a support (2) having an active face (200) intended to face the skin (100) of the user during the cosmetic treatment; a main electrode (22) extending projecting from the active face (200) of the support (2); a counter-electrode (23) extending projecting from the active face (200) of the support (2); and a current generator (24) extending projecting from the support (2) and being electrically connected to the main electrode (22) and to the counter electrode (23);and a non-woven textile film (41) separate from the device (1), the non-woven textile film (41) being impregnated with a cosmetic substance and configured to be positioned on the main electrode (22) during the cosmetic treatment so as to associate the cosmetic substance with the main electrode (22).;

2. An assembly according to claim 1, wherein the non-woven fabric film (41) completely covers the main electrode (22) when positioned on the main electrode (22).

3. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 and 2, further comprising an envelope in which the non-woven fabric film (41) is arranged, the envelope being configured to be ruptured in order to position the non-woven fabric film (41) on the main electrode (22).

4. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an additional non-woven textile film (41) impregnated with an electrically conductive substance and configured to be positioned on the counter-electrode (23) during the cosmetic treatment so as to improve the electrical conductivity of the counter-electrode (23).

5. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the current generator (24) comprises at least one galvanic couple (240) consisting of an anode (242) and a cathode (241).

6. An assembly according to claim 5, wherein the current generator (24) comprises a plurality of galvanic couples (240) electrically connected in series, each of the plurality of galvanic couples (240) consisting of an anode (242) and a cathode (241).

7. The assembly of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of conductive elements (246), each conductive element (246) of the plurality of conductive elements (246) electrically connecting in series two galvanic couples (240) of the plurality of galvanic couples (240).

8. An assembly according to claim 7, wherein a conductive element (246) of the plurality of conductive elements (246) electrically connects one of the anode (242) and the cathode (241) of a first galvanic couple (240) of the plurality of galvanic couples (240) to the other of the anode (242) and the cathode (241) of a second galvanic couple (240) of the plurality of galvanic couples (240), so as to electrically connect in series the first galvanic couple (240) and the second galvanic couple (240).

9. An assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 8, further comprising an additional non-woven textile film (41) impregnated with an electrically conductive substance and configured to be positioned on the at least one galvanic couple (240) during the cosmetic treatment so as to electrically connect the anode (242) and the cathode (241).

10. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an adhesive element (5) extending projecting from the active face (200) of the support (2) and configured to fix the support (2) to the skin (100) of the user during the cosmetic treatment.

11. An assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein one of the anode (242) and the cathode (241) comprises silver and the other of the anode (242) and the cathode (241) comprises zinc.

Images