Skin treatment device

Abstract

A device (1) for treating a user's skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the user's skin, the device (1) comprising: - a support layer (2) comprising at least one support film (21) and comprising a main electrode, a counter electrode and a current generator electrically connected to the main electrode on the one hand and to the counter electrode on the other hand, the current generator comprising a plurality of galvanic couples connected in series, each galvanic couple being formed of a first conductive pole forming a cathode and a second conductive pole forming an anode separated from each other by a free space, the first conductive pole and the second conductive pole being intended to be electrically connected by an electrically conductive activating product, and in which the galvanic couples are adjacent in pairs and electrically connected in pairs via a couple connector,the first conducting pole of one of the galvanic couples being electrically connected to the second conducting pole of an adjacent galvanic couple, - an impregnation layer (4) comprising an impregnation film (41), preferably monolithic, covering at least the main electrode, the counter electrode and the current generator, the impregnation film (41) comprising a first primary non-impregnable zone (46a) positioned between the main electrode and the current generator to separate them and / or a second primary non-impregnable zone (46b) positioned between the counter electrode and the current generator to separate them. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 11.

Description

Title of the invention: Skin treatment device FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of skin treatment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device for skin treatment, particularly by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation, preferably non-therapeutic. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Iontophoresis, electroporation, and electrostimulation allow for the treatment of skin using electrical currents. Skin treatment devices such as facial masks designed to deliver an electrical current to the user's face are known. These devices typically comprise a polymer support matrix on which current generators are arranged. However, the effectiveness of these masks is limited, even very low, primarily due to short circuits that can occur between the current generators and the matrix and / or between the current generators and the skin. Consequently, the electrical currents are not properly delivered to the user's skin, either in terms of intensity and / or location. Therefore, treatment by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation is not optimal, and the effectiveness of known devices proves disappointing.Furthermore, these well-known devices can cause irritation and redness. Moreover, these masks are generally difficult to use. Description of the invention

[0003] One object of the invention is to improve the functioning of skin treatment devices by iontophoresis or electrostimulation, in particular to improve their effectiveness.

[0004] Another object of the invention is to make the use of skin treatment devices by iontophoresis or electrostimulation easier and more accessible to all.

[0005] Another object of the invention is to improve the storage and durability of skin treatment devices by iontophoresis or electrostimulation.

[0006] Another object of the invention is to provide a skin treatment device that is particularly ergonomic and intuitive to use.

[0007] Another object of the invention is to provide a skin treatment device that is particularly safe, painless and reliable.

[0008] According to a first aspect, a device is proposed for treating a user's skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the user's skin, the device comprising:

[0009] According to advantageous and non-limiting features, taken alone or in a any combination: DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0010] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment. This description will be given with reference to the accompanying figures, including:

[0011] Fig. 1 illustrates a teardrop-shaped skin treatment device;

[0012] [Fig.2] illustrates a circular-shaped skin treatment device;

[0013] [Fig.3] illustrates a support layer of a teardrop-shaped skin treatment device;

[0014] [Fig.4] illustrates a support layer of a circular-shaped skin treatment device;

[0015] [Fig.5] illustrates a support layer of a triangular-shaped skin treatment device;

[0016] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates the operation of the device, according to a cross-sectional view, when applied to the skin of a user;

[0017] [Fig.7] schematically shows an enlarged view of part of a support layer of a device, according to a cross-sectional view;

[0018] [Fig.8] illustrates a current generator of a device according to a first embodiment;

[0019] [Fig.9] illustrates a current generator of a device according to a second embodiment;

[0020] Figure 10 illustrates a current generator of a device according to a third embodiment;

[0021] [Fig.1 1] illustrates a support layer and an impregnation layer according to a first embodiment;

[0022] [Fig. 12] illustrates a support layer and an impregnation layer according to a second embodiment;

[0023] [Fig. 13] illustrates the support layer of [Fig. 11];

[0024] [Fig. 14] illustrates the support layer of [Fig. 12];

[0025] [Fig. 15] represents the steps of a method of using the device;

[0026] [Fig. 16] represents the steps of a manufacturing process for the device;

[0027] [Fig. 17] represents the support layer of [Fig. 11] following a first step of the manufacturing process of the support layer;

[0028] [Fig. 18] represents the support layer of [Fig. 14] following a second step in the manufacturing process of the support layer;

[0029] [Fig. 19] represents the layer of [Fig. 15] following a third step in the manufacturing process of the support layer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Device

[0030] With reference to [Fig. 1], a device 1 for treating a user's skin by iontophoresis (also called iontophoresis) and / or electrostimulation is proposed in a first aspect. The device 1 is intended to be applied to the user's skin, particularly and preferably to the face. The device 1 could be applied to any dermal part of the user's body. However, as will be detailed later, the invention proposes different device shapes that are remarkably well-suited for specific areas of the face that users often wish to treat. The device 1 advantageously allows for cosmetic skin treatment, for example, by activating a cosmetic substance and / or by optimizing and / or improving its effectiveness.Various methods can be used to achieve this, typically the generation of microcurrents, for example iontophoresis and / or electroporation. By activation, optimization and / or improvement of the efficacy of a cosmetic substance, it is understood that at least one active agent contained in the cosmetic substance is likely to be activated or to have its efficacy optimized and / or improved by device 1, in order to increase the effectiveness of the cosmetic skin treatment.

[0031] Device 1 is adapted to be activated, that is, brought into operating condition, by an electrically conductive activator. In other words, the generation of electric currents is triggered by the application of a product to at least certain areas of Device 1. Device 1 is therefore inactive in the absence of the activator and only becomes active when the activator comes into contact with at least one predefined area, as will be detailed later. This makes it possible to control the activation time of the product, and in particular to match this time with the actual use of Device 1 by the user. Thus, during the storage (or transport) phase of Device 1, it is not activated, thereby preserving its lifespan, and in particular the lifespan of the current generator, as will be detailed later.

[0032] The activation product may include an active agent for skin treatment. This active agent enables cosmetic skin treatment, preferably non-therapeutic, the effectiveness of which is enhanced by the device 1, thanks to the current it generates, as will be detailed later. Preferably, said 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.

[0033] Device 1, the object of the invention, will improve the diffusion of the active agent into the skin, thanks to the principle of iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. These principles, which use electric current to deliver an active ingredient into the skin, are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in further detail. The activation product may, for example, be a cosmetic product, preferably non-therapeutic, such as a cosmetic cream or serum, containing an active ingredient such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or any other active ingredient beneficial to the skin and compatible with iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation treatment. The activation product may also be a therapeutic product such as a burn cream.

[0034] 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, muscle pain, muscle cramps, joint stiffness, etc. To this end, device 1 can then improve the diffusion of an analgesic through the principles stated above.

[0035] With reference to Figures 1, 2, and 5, the device 1 can therefore have different shapes depending on the area to which it is designed to be applied. For example, a device 1a intended for application to the temple may have a general teardrop shape. Thus, the contours of the device are rounded, and one portion of the device, viewed from above, is wider than a second portion. A device 1b intended for application to the cheekbone may have a circular shape. Thus, viewed from above, the device forms a disc. A device intended for application to the forehead may have a triangular shape, with [Fig. 5] illustrating a layer 2c of this device.Thus, thanks to the various shapes offered by the invention, each area of ​​the face traditionally treated with skincare products (cheekbone, forehead, temple) has a device particularly well-suited to the shape of the area in question, thereby increasing user comfort, ergonomics, and treatment effectiveness. However, other shapes could be imagined, without departing from the scope of the invention, that would be adapted to other areas of the face or other dermal areas of the body, such as the backs of the hands, the décolleté, etc.

[0036] Support layer

[0037] With reference to Figures 3 to 5, the device 1 comprises a support layer 2. By support layer is meant any layer serving as a substrate for other layers, in this case the impregnation and stencil layers which will be detailed later. [Fig. 3] illustrates the support layer 2a of a teardrop-shaped device 1a. [Fig. 4] illustrates the support layer 2b of a circular device 1b. [Fig. 5] illustrates the support layer 2c of a triangular device.

[0038] With reference to [Fig. 3], the support layer 2 comprises at least one support film 21. The support film 21, and consequently the device 1 of the invention, is sufficiently flexible to adapt to the shapes and contours of the skin in the area to be treated, and in particular to the cheekbones, temples, and forehead, as explained previously. The support film 21 is preferably insulating, that is, it does not allow current to pass through it. This prevents any risk of short circuit within the device by preventing current from flowing through the support film 21.

[0039] 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 on which it is intended to be placed.

[0040] The device 1 may comprise a plurality of support films 21 assembled together, for example by gluing. Conversely, the support film may be monolithic, that is to say formed of a single film.

[0041] The support layer 2 comprises at least one main electrode 22, at least one counter electrode 23 and at least one current generator 24.

[0042] The current generator 24 is electrically connected to the main electrode 22 on one side and to the counter electrode 23 on the other, so as to create an electrical potential differential between the latter.

[0043] The electrodes 22, 23 are separate from the current generator 24. In other words, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are separate elements of the current generator 24.

[0044] The electrodes 22 and 23 are intended to be applied to the user's skin and are adapted to allow the flow of an electric current through the user's skin when the device 1 is in contact with the user's skin. Indeed, the user's skin behaves as a current consumer, specifically as a resistance. Mammalian skin, particularly human skin, typically behaves as a resistance of 10 kΩ. To this end, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are made of at least one principal metal that is a good electrical conductor.

[0045] The electrodes 22, 23 are intended to be in direct or indirect contact with the skin. By indirect contact, it is understood that an element is placed between the electrode 22, 23 and the skin such as an activation product, an absorbent layer and / or a fabric, etc.

[0046] Consequently, the electrodes 22, 23, in particular the main electrode 22, advantageously have a size greater than that of a conducting pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24 (galvanic couples 240 will be detailed later). Preferably, the main electrode 22 is also larger than the current generator 24. This maximizes the contact area (direct or indirect) between the electrodes 22, 23 and the skin, thus allowing more of the active agent of the activator to circulate through the skin. This also means that the size of the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 can be adapted to the size of the area of ​​the human or animal body to be treated.

[0047] The device 1 is in its "operating" state when it is applied to a user's skin and when the current generator 24 is activated so as to generate an electric current. The expression "operating" will be used hereafter to refer to a situation in which the device 1 is operating, that is, when it generates a potential difference between the electrodes and then an electric current when the device is applied to the skin.

[0048] During operation, the electric current generated by the current generator 24 flows between the electrodes 22, 23 and into the user's skin. As illustrated in [Fig. 6], the electric current flows through the current generator 24 to the main electrode 22, then penetrates the user's skin to reach the counter electrode 23. The current can also flow in the opposite direction to that illustrated.

[0049] In certain cases, the main electrode 22 is referred to as the "treatment electrode." In other words, advantageously, the main electrode 22 can specifically enhance the absorption of an activating agent when it covers a portion of the user's skin to which the activating agent containing a particular active ingredient is applied. During operation, the activating agent is thus specifically absorbed by the skin at the level of the main electrode 22, the shape of which can then advantageously be chosen to correspond as precisely as possible to the area to be treated. Thus, the main electrode 22 of the device can advantageously have the same shape as the general shape of the device 1, as defined and explained previously.This allows the main electrode 22 to be placed as close and as precisely as possible to the specific area to be treated (cheekbone, temple, forehead, etc.).

[0050] The main electrode 22 can be a cathode or an anode and, correspondingly and inversely, the counter electrode 23 can be an anode or a cathode.

[0051] 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 activation product that is to be used in combination with the device 1. In particular, the main electrode 22 will be adapted to be an anode for certain types of activation products such as a vitamin C-based cream, while the main electrode 22 will be adapted to be a cathode for certain other types of activation products.

[0052] More specifically, the activation product may comprise molecules that are positively or negatively charged at a given pH. If the main electrode 22 has the same polarity as the molecules, the molecules are repelled by the main electrode 22 and thus pushed towards the user's skin. For example, vitamin C molecules are negatively charged at a pH between 5 and 7. A device 1 designed to improve the absorption by the skin of vitamin C molecules present in an activation product will therefore preferentially have a main electrode 22 forming an anode.

[0053] As can be seen in the various figures, the main electrode 22 preferably comprises carbon, advantageously in the form of a plurality of carbon dots, for example arranged under the main metal constituting the main electrode. This provides the user with a visual indication of the main electrode 22 (or active electrode as explained previously) to help them correctly position it on the area of ​​skin they wish to treat, without degrading the electrical conductivity of the main electrode 22.

[0054] The counter electrode 23 has a polarity opposite to that of the main electrode 22. The counter electrode 23 is therefore a cathode if the main electrode 22 is an anode and the counter electrode 23 is therefore an anode if the main electrode 22 is a cathode.

[0055] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are made of conductive materials, typically metals. Preferably, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 comprise the same material. This allows for a particularly simple construction of the device while minimizing the number of different materials in contact with the skin, and therefore the risk of adverse skin reactions. Advantageously, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are made of the same material or set of materials.

[0056] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 preferably comprise silver and / or silver chloride. Even 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 interacting well with the skin. In addition, silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being good conductors of electricity. Silver chloride is less prone to oxidation than silver, so that, combined with silver, it helps to limit oxidation and thus improve the durability of the electrodes 22, 23.

[0057] Preferably, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are made of silver and silver chloride. More specifically, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are each composed of 55% silver and 45% silver chloride.

[0058] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are made of carbon. Carbon is conductive and only slightly oxidizable.

[0059] As explained previously, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are separate from the current generator 24. Therefore, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 may comprise different materials from the materials included in the current generator 24. The main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 may thus be particularly suitable for skin contact in that they may comprise skin-friendly materials.

[0060] Advantageously, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are printed onto 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 onto the support film 21 by screen printing.

[0061] The current generator 24 comprises at least one galvanic couple 240. The galvanic couple 240 is formed of a first conducting pole 241 forming a cathode and a second conducting pole 242 forming an anode separated from each other by a free space 243.

[0062] The free space 243 is preferably insulating, that is to say, 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.

[0063] Alternatively, an insulating material could be disposed on the support film 21 at the level of the free space 243.

[0064] Preferably, the first conducting pole of a galvanic couple and the second conducting pole of a galvanic couple are separated by a distance of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example equal to 2 mm. In other words, the free space 243 has a length of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example equal to 2 mm.

[0065] The free space 243 is intended to be filled, at the time of activation (start-up) of the device 1, by an electrically conductive activation product to connect the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

[0066] The first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240 are adapted so that, when connected by the activation product, they allow the flow of electrons between them. The electrons are generated by the difference between the standard redox potentials of the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242.

[0067] A galvanic couple 240 is thus adapted to generate an electric current when The first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 are connected in such a way as to allow a redox reaction between said poles. An electrochemical cell is formed.

[0068] More specifically, when the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240 are connected by the activation product, upon contact with the activation product, constituent atoms of the second conducting pole 242 (forming the anode) are oxidized and electrons are released. The electrons then flow via the activation product to the second conducting pole 242. As illustrated in [Fig. 6], the activation product PA between the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 allows the flow of electrons and the generation of an electrical circuit.

[0069] Thus, in operation, the device 1 is traversed by an electric current without requiring an external battery or any other external power source to the device 1. This results in a remarkably limited size of the device 1, and remarkable freedom of use (no need for a power outlet, external battery, etc.).

[0070] The constituent materials of the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 advantageously comprise conductive materials, typically metals.

[0071] The first conducting pole 241 (forming the cathode) advantageously comprises silver and / or silver chloride. Preferably, the first conducting pole 241 is made of silver and / or silver chloride.

[0072] The second conductive pole 242 (forming the anode) advantageously comprises zinc. Preferably, the second conductive pole 242 is made of zinc. In this case, the zinc is the reducing agent in the redox reaction, and the second conductive pole 242 (the zinc ink in this instance) will be consumed during the use of the device 1.

[0073] Thus, advantageously, when the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting 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.

[0074] Electrons will flow from the first conducting pole 241 to the second conducting pole 242. This is possible because the standard 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 results in a 1.56 V battery.

[0075] The galvanic couples 240 may include other materials. For example, these couples may be formed from: zinc-copper, zinc halide-copper / copper, zinc-copper oxide / copper, magnesium-copper, magnesium-copper halide / copper, zinc-silver, zinc-silver oxide / silver, zinc-silver halide / silver, zinc-silver chloride / silver, zinc-silver iodide / silver, zinc-silver fluoride / silver, zinc-gold, magnesium-gold, aluminum-gold, magnesium-silver, magnesium-silver oxide / silver, magnesium-silver halide / silver, magnesium-silver chloride / silver, magnesium-silver bromide / silver, magnesium-silver iodide / silver, magnesium-silver fluoride / silver -silver / silver, copper chloride-silver / silver, copper bromide-silver / silver, copper iodide-silver / silver, copper fluoride-silver / silver,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.

[0076] The galvanic couples 240 and the couple comprising the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may also include alloys.

[0077] As explained previously, 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.

[0078] More specifically, the main electrode 22 is electrically connected to a first conducting pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 or to a second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240.

[0079] 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 conducting pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 and a second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240.

[0080] For example, if the main electrode 22 is an anode, it will be connected to a second conducting pole 242 since the latter forms the anode. Generally speaking, each of the main electrode 22 and counter electrode 23 has the same polarity as the first or second conducting pole 241, 242.

[0081] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 can be connected to a conducting 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 can be connected to a conducting pole 241, 242 via connectors 244, 245 advantageously comprising carbon, and preferably made of carbon. A connector 244, 245 comprising carbon, hereinafter referred to as a carbon connector 244, 245, allows the flow of an electric current.

[0085] A carbon connector 244, 245 is advantageously a carbon strip. A carbon connector 244, 245 preferably has a length less than 5 mm and greater than 1 mm and a width of approximately 2 mm. The length of a carbon connector 244, 245 is preferably less than 5 mm to allow for good current conductivity, as a carbon connector that is too long presents significant resistance. If a connector is required over a longer distance, particularly greater than 5 mm, it is preferable to use another material with better conductivity, preferably the material used for the main electrode 22 or the counter electrode 23.

[0086] Preferably, a connector 244, 245 is printed onto the support film 21 using a conductive ink comprising carbon, preferably by screen printing. A carbon connector 244, 245 comprises carbon but may also comprise other materials, preferably conductive materials.

[0087] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 can 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.

[0088] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 can be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 by direct contact between an electrode 22, 23 and a conductive pole 241, 242.

[0089] According to an embodiment not shown, the first connector 244 comprises a material identical to a material included in the electrode 22, 23. Preferably, the first conductive pole 241 and the electrode 22, 23 to which the first is connected The conductive pole 241 includes silver and / or silver chloride, and the first connector 244 includes silver and / or silver chloride. Preferably, the last connector 245 is also made of carbon.

[0090] According to an embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], 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, which connects the counter electrode 23 and the first conductive pole 241, is also 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 the first connector 244 onto the support film 21 is thus facilitated and does not require a different material for the first connector 244.

[0091] Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.3], 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.

[0092] Alternatively, the electrode 22 could be in direct contact with the second conductive pole 242 and there would be no additional connector.

[0093] Advantageously, the current generator 24 comprises a plurality of galvanic couples 240. It is understood that the main electrode 22 is connected to a conducting pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240a different from the galvanic couple 240d, a conducting pole 241, 242 of which is connected to the counter electrode 23. More precisely, a conducting pole 241, 242 of a first galvanic couple 240a is electrically connected to the main electrode 22 and a conducting pole 241, 242 of a last galvanic couple 240d is electrically connected to the counter electrode 23.

[0094] The current generator 24 comprises a plurality of galvanic pairs 240 connected in series. The galvanic pairs 240 are thus adjacent in pairs and are electrically connected in pairs. This makes it possible to connect said plurality of galvanic pairs 240 in series, and therefore to increase the voltage potential, as will be detailed later.

[0095] Preferably, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are separated by a distance equal to the distance that separates the two conducting poles 241, 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

[0096] More specifically, two adjacent galvanic couples 240b, 240c are connected by connecting the second conducting pole 242b of one galvanic couple 240b and the first conducting pole 241c of the other galvanic couple 240c.

[0097] Advantageously, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are electrically connected The connection is made via a coupler 246, advantageously comprising carbon. Preferably, the coupler 246 is made of carbon. Couplers 246 allow an electric current to flow from one galvanic couple 240 to another adjacent galvanic couple 240. Alternatively, the coupler 246 may comprise other materials, such as electrically conductive metals. However, as illustrated in the various figures, carbon couplers 246 are preferred due to their low cost, ease of implementation, and skin safety.

[0098] Preferably, with reference to Figures 3 and 7, the torque connector 246 extends below at least one conductive pole 241, 242 that it connects. In other words, at least one conductive pole 241, 242 partially covers the torque connector 246.

[0099] Preferably, the coupler 246 includes a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface area of ​​a conductive pole 241, 242. Advantageously, the coupler 246 includes a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface area of ​​a second conductive pole 242. This improves the electrical conductivity between two adjacent galvanic couples 240. Advantageously, each coupler 246 has, in top view, a p-shaped (or symmetrically q-shaped) form, that is, it has a solid, substantially square area and a tail (or thin area), the solid area extending below the surface of a second conductive pole 242 while the tail is uncovered. 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.

[0100] Indeed, in the case, for example, of a carbon coupler 246 and a second zinc conductive pole 242, the conductivity is improved because carbon is more conductive than zinc. It has been measured that the conductivity can be doubled when the coupler 246 has a solid area under a conductive pole 241, 242.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the solid area of ​​the torque connector 246 corresponds to 100% of the surface area of ​​a second conductive pole 242. In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], for example, the surface area of ​​a second conductive pole 242 is greater than the solid area of ​​the torque connector 246; that is, the second conductive pole 242 (in this case zinc) covers the torque connector 246 (in this case carbon) and extends beyond said torque connector 246. This ensures that, despite manufacturing tolerances, the second conductive pole 242 (in this case zinc) will completely cover the torque connector 246 (in this case carbon), in particular to guarantee a good aesthetic appearance of the device 1.

[0102] Alternatively, according to an embodiment not illustrated, two galvanic couples Adjacent 240s are electrically connected by direct contact between the second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240 and the first conducting pole 241 of an adjacent galvanic couple 240. This allows the series connection of said plurality of galvanic couples 240, without the need for any other material.

[0103] 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 2 and the counter electrode 23) greater than the voltage generated by a single galvanic couple 240. Indeed, the voltages generated by each galvanic couple 240 in a series of galvanic couples 240 are cumulative. For example, theoretically, a zinc-silver galvanic couple 240 generates a voltage of 1.56 V. Consequently, theoretically, a current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 will generate a voltage of 3.12 V (1.56 V multiplied by 2) and a current generator 24 comprising three galvanic couples 240 will generate a voltage of 4.68 V (1.56 V multiplied by 3). Empirically, it has been measured that a 24 current generator comprising a 240 zinc-silver galvanic couple generates a voltage of 1.1 V.Thus, empirically, a current generator 24 comprising two galvanic pairs 240 generates a voltage of 2.2 V (1.1 V multiplied by 2) and a current generator 24 comprising three galvanic pairs 240 generates a voltage of 3.3 V (1.1 V multiplied by 3). The current generator 240 of support layer 2 illustrated in [Fig. 3] comprises five galvanic pairs 240. Empirically, this current generator 24 generates a voltage of 5.5 V (1.1 multiplied by 5).

[0104] 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, since the resistance of the skin (which will consume the current) remains the same, increasing the voltage compared to prior art devices, by connecting said plurality of galvanic couples 240 in series, necessarily increases the current (Ohm's law) that will flow through the skin when the device 1 of the invention is activated and placed on the skin. It should be noted that the skin behaves on average as a resistance of 10 kΩ (10,000 Ω). Thus, theoretically, a current generator 24 comprising a single galvanic couple 240 will generate a current of 110 pA (1.1 V / 10,000 Ω). Similarly, a 24 current generator comprising five 240 galvanic couples will generate a current of 550 pA (5.5 V / 10,000 Q).

[0105] However, due to current losses (for example, at the point of contact between the skin and the electrodes 22, 23), the actual measured current is lower than the theoretical current. Thus, for example, the current generator 24 illustrated in [Fig. 8], comprising a galvanic couple 240, generates a current with an intensity of up to 100 pA. The current generator 24 illustrated in [Fig. 9], comprising two Galvanic couples 240 generate a current with an intensity of up to 150 pA. The current generator 24 of the teardrop-shaped support layer 2 shown in [Fig. 3] generates a current with an intensity of up to 300 pA. The current generator 24 of the circular support layer 2 shown in [Fig. 4] generates a current with an intensity of up to 180 pA.

[0106] The performance of the current generator 24 is thus improved. More current flows through the user's skin, thereby enhancing 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, for better diffusion of an active agent of an activating product into the user's skin.

[0107] Advantageously, the current generator 24 comprises at least three galvanic couples 240. Preferably, the current generator 24 comprises at least four galvanic couples 240 as in the examples illustrated in figures 3 to 5.

[0108] According to the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.3], the current generator 24 comprises five galvanic couples 240.

[0109] According to a certain embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 10], the current generator 24 comprises at least two current generation sets 247 each comprising a plurality of galvanic couples 240 connected in series and the two current generation sets 247 are connected in parallel.

[0110] Arranging the current generation units 247 in parallel allows the intensities of the electric currents generated by each current generation unit 247 to be combined. Thus, the intensity of the electric current generated by the current generator 24 is increased. Indeed, the particular arrangement illustrated in [Fig. 10] makes it possible, for example, to generate a current of up to 200 pA.

[0111] Preferably, the printed elements on the support film 21 (electrodes 22, 23, current generator 24, and connectors 244, 245, 246) have a thickness of between 10 µm and 20 µm. The support film 21, as already mentioned, has a thickness of between 20 µm and 90 µm, or between 40 µm and 90 µm. Consequently, the support layer 2 preferably has a thickness of between 30 µm and 110 µm, or between 50 µm and 110 µm. The support layer 2 thus offers a remarkable compromise between electrical conductivity, flexibility, and service life (particularly for the zinc ink, which is consumed during processing as explained previously).

[0112] Impregnation layer

[0113] The device 1 further includes an impregnation layer 4 comprising at least one impregnation film 4L. The impregnation layer 4 covers at least the main electrode 22, the counter electrode 23 and the current generator 24.

[0114] Indeed, in order for the device 1 to function, it is desired that the activation product be impregnated at the level of zones 42 of the impregnation layer 4, called "Activation zones 42".

[0115] First of all, it is necessary to activate the current generator 24 and therefore its galvanic couples 240. For this, it is necessary to connect together the conducting poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240 so that an oxidation-reduction reaction takes place, as explained previously. This can be achieved through the presence of the activation agent in the free spaces 243 between the conducting poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240. Thus, it is desired that the activation agent be present in the free spaces 243 and that the activation agent remain in the free spaces 243 for a certain duration of operation of the device 1. The impregnation layer 4 in the current generator 24 acts in particular as a reservoir of the activation agent and thus allows the activation of the galvanic couples 240 of the current generator 24 for a certain period of time.Thus, current is generated for a certain period of time, preferably for the duration necessary to treat the area of ​​the face to be treated. The first activation zones 42a therefore correspond to the areas of the impregnation layer 4 located at the level of the free spaces 243. By "at the level", it is understood that the first activation zones 42a therefore correspond to the areas of the impregnation layer 4 located opposite and / or on and / or above the free spaces 243.

[0116] Preferably, each first activation zone 42a extends from the first conducting pole 241 to the second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. Even more preferably, each first activation zone 42a is arranged opposite a portion of a first conducting pole 241, a portion of the free space 243 and a portion of a second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. In such a way, when activation product is applied to the first activation zone 42, the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 of each galvanic couple 240 are properly connected to allow a redox reaction. More specifically, at the time of activation (when the device is switched on), the activation product will allow the first and second conductive poles 241, 242 to be electrically connected by filling the free space 243, which is initially insulating.

[0117] According to a certain embodiment, for a galvanic couple 240, a first activation zone 42a comprises a zone of the impregnation layer 4 located opposite (i.e. covering) the whole of the galvanic couple 240 namely its first conducting pole 241, its second conducting pole 242 and its free space 243.

[0118] Preferably, during operation, it is preferable that some activating product also be present between each electrode 22, 23 and the user's skin to facilitate the flow of electrical current between the device 1 and the skin. This allows This also limits the risk of skin redness upon contact with electrodes 22 and 23 and increases user comfort. Furthermore, if the activation product contains an active agent for skin treatment, it is necessary to apply the activation product between the skin and at least one of electrodes 22 and 23, preferably between the main electrode 22 and the skin, to ensure proper absorption of the activation product (more precisely, of an active ingredient contained within the activation product) at at least one of electrodes 22 and 23 (preferably the main electrode 22). Therefore, the benefit of the impregnation layer 4 at electrodes 22 and 23 is clear; it also acts as a reservoir for the activation product, more specifically the active agent, for a certain period of time.Thus, a second activation zone 42b corresponds to the area of ​​the impregnation layer 4 located at the main electrode 22, as can be seen in [Fig. 1] for example. A third activation zone 42c corresponds to the area of ​​the impregnation layer 4 located at the counter electrode 23.

[0119] By "at the level", it is understood that the third and second activation zones 42b, 42c correspond respectively to the zones of the impregnation layer 4 arranged opposite and / or on and / or above the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23.

[0120] Thus, the impregnation film 41 of the impregnation layer 4 has, in particular, the role of being impregnated with an activation product advantageously comprising an active agent intended to be diffused into the skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation. The impregnation film 41 is therefore made from at least one porous material, that is to say, a material that absorbs the activation product.

[0121] 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 a user's skin without risk of skin reaction.

[0122] In addition, a non-woven textile has the advantage of being very flexible and therefore does not limit the flexibility of device 1.

[0123] 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 mm. The thickness of the impregnation film 41, and consequently of the impregnation layer 4, will be chosen in particular according to the desired absorption capacity of the impregnation layer 4.

[0124] The impregnation film 41 can be made from materials adapted to the viscosity of the activation product. For example, if the activation product is very low in viscosity and therefore very liquid (as would be the case, for example, with physiological saline or a saline solution), it would be desirable for the impregnation film 41 to be made of a highly absorbent material to prevent the activation product from spreading (by capillary action) unintentionally within the device 1 or from running off the device 1 (e.g., onto the ground) when it is applied to the device 1. Conversely, if the activation product is very viscous (as would be the case, for example, with a cosmetic cream or gel), it would be desirable for the impregnation film 41 to be made of a low-absorbency material to allow the impregnation film 41 to become sufficiently saturated.

[0125] The impregnation layer 4 preferably comprises a single impregnation film 41 which covers the assembly comprising the main electrode 22, the counter electrode 23 and the current generator 24. In this case, the impregnation layer 4 is said to be monolithic.

[0126] The impregnation layer 4 comprises at least two capillary-limiting devices, hereinafter referred to as "non-impregnable zones 46," which are advantageously hydrophobic zones. Such devices allow capillary pathways to be cut off within the impregnation layer 4, thereby locally limiting the diffusion of the activation product within the impregnation layer 4 by capillary action. It is thus possible to control the diffusion of the activation product within the impregnation layer 4. This allows the use of a relatively fluid activation product while simplifying the manufacturing process of the device 1.

[0127] More specifically, as illustrated in [Fig. 11], the impregnation film 41 comprises a first primary non-impregnable zone 46a positioned between the main electrode 22 and the current generator 24 to separate them. Alternatively, or furthermore, the impregnation film 41 comprises a second primary non-impregnable zone 46b positioned between the counter electrode 23 and the current generator 24 to separate them.

[0128] According to a certain embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 12], the first primary non-impregnable zone 46a is formed of a plurality of distinct primary elementary non-impregnable zones 460a, each primary elementary non-impregnable zone 460a being positioned opposite a free space 243 of a galvanic couple 240. Here, "opposite" is understood opposite along the plane along which the device 1 extends when it is flat. In [Fig. 12], each primary elementary non-impregnable zone 460a is arranged above a free space 243 of a galvanic couple 240. "Above" is understood above along the vertical axis when viewing [Fig. 12], which is two-dimensional. For example, in [Fig. 12], the counter electrode 23 is arranged above the current generator 24 and the current generator 24 is arranged above the main electrode 22.

[0129] As explained previously, the first activation zones 42a (i.e. the zones of the impregnation layer 4, each covering at least part of a free space 243, are intended to be impregnated with activation agent. Similarly, the second activation zone 42b (i.e., a zone of the impregnation layer 4 covering at least part of the main electrode 22) is intended to be impregnated with activation agent. Therefore, the primary non-impregnable zones 460a are specifically designed to prevent activation agent from spreading and to prevent the first activation zones 42a from becoming electrically connected to the second activation zone 42b by activation agent, which would create short circuits.

[0130] Advantageously, the second primary non-impregnable zone 46b similarly comprises a plurality of primary elementary non-impregnable zones 460b.

[0131] Preferably, the impregnating film 41 comprises at least one third primary non-impregnable zone 46c positioned between two adjacent galvanic pairs 240. "Between" means that a third primary non-impregnable zone 46c is arranged opposite an area of ​​the support layer that is between two adjacent galvanic pairs 240. Therefore, a third primary non-impregnable zone 46c is arranged opposite the connection between two adjacent galvanic pairs 240, for example, a couple connector 246.

[0132] Advantageously, the impregnation film 41 comprises a plurality of primary non-impregnable third zones 46c and there is at least one primary non-impregnable third zone 46c arranged between each pair of adjacent galvanic couples 240 as illustrated in Figures 11 and 12.

[0133] As explained previously, the first activation zones 42a (arranged opposite the free spaces 243) are intended to be impregnated with the activation agent. However, it is desirable that adjacent first activation zones 42 (i.e., arranged opposite free spaces 243 of adjacent galvanic couples 240) not be electrically connected, as this would create short circuits. The third primary non-impregnable zones 46c ensure this by creating a physical barrier between two adjacent first activation zones 42a.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the primary non-impregnable areas 46 comprise one or more, or even are preferably, perforated areas. In other words, the impregnation film 41 is perforated.

[0135] According to another embodiment, the primary non-impregnable zones 46 result from an impression, advantageously thermal, on the impregnation film 41. In other words, the impregnation film 41 has been crushed, and possibly heated, or even melted, at the level of the primary non-impregnable zones 46. This makes it possible to saturate the fibers of the impregnation film 41 with the activation product, which cannot circulate at the level of a primary non-impregnable zone 46.

[0136] According to another embodiment, a product, for example a chemical, intended to make the impregnation film waterproof and therefore non-impregnable, is applied to the impregnation film 41 to create the primary non-impregnable zones 46.

[0137] According to another embodiment, the primary non-impregnable areas 46 are areas of the impregnation film 41 covered or filled with an impermeable material. By "filled," it is understood that the primary non-impregnable areas 46 result from a cut in the impregnation film 41 and then the insertion of a material at the cut. The impermeable material could, for example, be a silicone resin.

[0138] According to an advantageous embodiment, the impregnation layer 4 comprises non-impregnable areas 46 such that all areas of the impregnation layer 4 that are not at the level of, i.e. opposite, areas of the support layer 2 on which activation product must be applied for the proper functioning of the device 1 are non-impregnable areas 46. In other words, all areas of the impregnation layer 4 are non-impregnable areas 46 except for the areas located opposite the electrodes 22, 23 and the free spaces 243. According to this embodiment, a stencil layer 6 (which will be described later) is not necessarily required.

[0139] Preferably, for each primary non-impregnable area 46, the support layer 2 comprises at least one secondary non-impregnable area 47 arranged opposite the corresponding primary non-impregnable area 46. More specifically, for each primary non-impregnable area 46a, 46b, 46c, the support layer 2 comprises, respectively, at least one secondary non-impregnable area 47a, 47b, 47c arranged opposite the corresponding primary non-impregnable area 46a, 46b, 46c. In other words, the support layer 2, and more specifically the support film 21, comprises non-impregnable areas similar to those of the impregnation film 41 as illustrated in Figures 13 and 14. This further prevents the occurrence of short circuits.Advantageously, to the first primary non-impregnable zone 46a corresponds a first secondary non-impregnable zone 47a, to the second primary non-impregnable zone 46b corresponds a second secondary non-impregnable zone 47b and to each third primary non-impregnable zone 46c corresponds a third secondary non-impregnable zone 47c. .

[0140] Preferably, the primary non-impregnable zones 46a, 46b, 46c and the secondary non-impregnable zones 47a, 47b, 47c are perforated zones resulting from a cut through the assembly formed by the support layer 21 and the impregnation layer 4, such that the assembly formed by the primary non-impregnable zones 46a, 46b, 46c and the corresponding secondary non-impregnable zones 47a, 47b, 47c forms perforated zones traversing the assembly formed by the support layer 21 and the impregnation layer 4. Such a cut ensures that the secondary non-impregnable zones 47a, 47b, 47c are correctly positioned in relation to the primary non-impregnable zones 46a, 46b, 46c, i.e. opposite the primary non-impregnable zones 46a, 46b, 46c.

[0141] It should be noted that different activation products could be used depending on the different activation zones 42. Therefore, the impregnation film 41 comprises one or more materials adapted to the viscosity of the activation product it is intended to receive.

[0142] Preferably, the impregnation film 41 is not pre-impregnated. Pre-impregnation may allow the device 1 to be used by a user without any prior steps other than applying the device 1 to the skin.

[0143] However, pre-impregnation can reduce the operating time of device 1 for treating the user's skin. For example, it can lead to premature activation of the current generator 24 if the corresponding activation zone 42a is pre-impregnated. Thus, the current generator 24, and therefore device 1, would have a reduced operating time since the current generator 24 would have already been operating for a certain period before the user applied it to their skin.

[0144] It is therefore preferable that the impregnation film 41 not be pre-impregnated. Consequently, it is preferable that the user impregnate the activation zones 42 for the shortest possible time before applying the device 1 to their skin. Indeed, it is particularly advantageous that the first or second conductive pole 244, 245, comprising the reducing agent (in this case zinc), not be pre-impregnated so as not to trigger the redox reaction before the actual use of the device 1.

[0145] As can be seen in particular in Figures 11 to 14, the impregnation layer 4 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the device 1, and in particular to the drop, disc or triangle shapes described previously.

[0146] Stencil layer

[0147] The device 1 includes a stencil layer 6 covering at least partially the impregnation layer 4. The stencil layer 6 includes at least one stencil film 61.

[0148] The stencil layer 6 includes at least one permeable zone 62 adapted to allow the passage of electrically conductive activation product only at the level of predefined areas of the impregnation layer 4 called "free zones 44".

[0149] Preferably, the stencil layer 6 comprises a plurality of permeable zones 62, and each permeable zone 62 of the stencil layer 6 corresponds to a free zone 44 of the impregnation layer 4. In other words, the free zone 44 of a permeable zone 62 is the area of ​​the impregnation layer 4 at the level of the permeable zone 62. "At the level of" means "opposite," "above," and / or "on." The free zone 44 has the same surface and shape as the zone permeable 62. The permeable zone 62 makes the free zone 44 accessible to an activation product which would be applied to the permeable zone 62.

[0150] The stencil layer 6 serves, in particular, to allow activation only of the activation zones 42, and to protect the other zones from the activation product. The stencil layer 6 aims to prevent the application of the activation product to areas of the impregnation layer 4 that are not activation zones 42. This therefore allows the designers of the device 1 to determine which areas will or will not be in contact with the activation product, regardless of the user's handling and skill level. This results in great ease of use of the device 1 and high reliability.

[0151] Indeed, it is desirable to minimize short circuits within the device 1, to prevent the current generator 24 from discharging too quickly and to ensure that the current passes entirely through the skin (treatment efficacy). Typically, if an activator were applied to the entire surface of the impregnation layer 4, and therefore the entire surface of the support layer 2 were in contact with an activator, numerous short circuits would occur, as the current would preferentially pass through the activator (the "simplest" path) rather than through the skin. It is therefore desirable to precisely target the areas of the impregnation layer 4 on which the activator should be applied in order to minimize short circuits and to control and optimize the path of the electric current.

[0152] For this purpose, the stencil layer 6 includes permeable areas 62. The permeable areas 62 allow the circulation of activation product through the stencil layer 6, towards the impregnation layer 4 during an application of activation product on the stencil layer 6. The permeable areas 62 are for example made of a porous material.

[0153] The remainder of the stencil layer 6, i.e. the impermeable areas 63, are preferably made of a material which would prevent any circulation of activation product towards the impregnation layer 4 during an application of activation product on the stencil layer 6 at the level of these impermeable areas 63.

[0154] Advantageously, as can be seen in the various figures, the permeable zones 62 are perforated zones, preferably formed by holes (or openings or cutouts) made in the stencil film 61. In other words, the permeable zones 62 are empty zones. A stencil film 61 is therefore perforated, i.e., perforated, at the level of a permeable zone 62. In yet another way, the permeable zones 62 allow the free zones 44 of the impregnation layer 4 to be visible. The permeable zones 62 are thus, in terms of shape, complementary to the free zones 44.

[0155] Each free zone 44 comprises at least one activation zone 42. A free zone 44 typically has a surface area smaller than or equal to that of an activation zone corresponding activation 42.

[0156] The free zones 44 are adapted to allow impregnation with the activating product at the level of the activation zones 42. By applying the activating product to a permeable zone 62 and thus to a corresponding free zone 44, it is expected that the activating product will impregnate a corresponding activation zone 42. More precisely, the free zone 44 may be smaller than the activation zone 42 in the case of a liquid activating product. Indeed, in this case, it is expected that the activating product, having reached the free zone 44, will spread (by capillary action) beyond the free zone 44 and impregnate at least the corresponding activation zone 42. Furthermore, the free zone 44 may have a size substantially identical to that of the activation zone 42 in the case of a viscous activating product, such as, for example, a gel or a cosmetic cream.Indeed, in this case, it is not expected that the activation product having reached the free zone 44 will spread beyond the free zone 44, so it is preferred that the free zone 44 corresponds substantially to the activation zone 42.

[0157] Preferably, at least one free zone 44, referred to as the "first free zone 44a", includes at least a portion of the first activation zone 42a. In other words, a permeable zone 62, referred to as the "first permeable zone 62a", is located opposite at least a portion of the first activation zone 42a. Thus, at least one first permeable zone 62 is located opposite at least a portion of the free space 243 of a galvanic couple 240.

[0158] Advantageously, a first permeable zone 62a, and therefore a corresponding first free zone 44a, is located opposite each free space 243 of the support layer 2. In such a way, the stencil layer 6 is provided to allow the activation of each galvanic couple 240.

[0159] According to one embodiment, a first permeable zone 62a, and therefore a corresponding first free zone 44a, is located only opposite a portion of a free space 243, and the length of the first permeable zone 62 (and therefore also of the first free zone 44a) is less than the length of the free space 243. The surface area of ​​the first permeable zone 62a, and therefore of the first free zone 44a, is thus less than the surface area of ​​the first activation zone 42a. This configuration is suitable, for example, when an activation product is low in viscosity and therefore very liquid, such as physiological saline or a saline solution. Indeed, in this case, it is sufficient to initially apply the activation product to a first free zone 44a corresponding to a small part of the first activation zone 42a, because the activation product will spread in such a way as to impregnate at least the first activation zone 42a with the impregnation layer 4.

[0160] According to another embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], a first permeable zone 62a is positioned opposite at least 20% of the total area of ​​the first activation zone 42a. The corresponding first free zone 44a therefore has an area of ​​at least 20% of the total area of ​​the first activation zone 42a. In other words, the first permeable zone 62a, and therefore also the first free zone 44a, is positioned opposite a portion of a galvanic couple 240 extending from the first conducting pole 241 to the second conducting pole 242. The first permeable zone 62a can also be positioned opposite a portion of a galvanic couple 240 so as to be opposite a portion of a first conducting pole 241, a portion of the free space 243 and a portion of a second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. This configuration is, for example, suitable when an activation product is viscous.Indeed, in this case it is necessary to initially apply the activation product to the first free zone 44a, which has a surface area of ​​at least 20% of the surface area of ​​the first activation zone 42a, in order to impregnate at least the first activation zone 42a with the impregnation layer 4, because the activation product will spread very little.

[0161] It is thus understood that the sizing of the permeable zones 62 of the stencil layer 6 is correlated, in particular, with the viscosity of the activation product. Indeed, the more viscous, pasty, or thick the activation product, as would be the case, for example, with a cream or a gel, the less it will spread (diffused) into the impregnation layer 4; therefore, it is necessary to maximize the size of the permeable zones 62. Conversely, the more liquid or fluid the activation product, the more it will spread (diffused) into the impregnation layer 4, particularly by capillary action; therefore, it is necessary to minimize the size of the permeable zones 62.

[0162] In the example illustrated in [Fig. 1], the first permeable zones 62a are rectangular in shape. Each first permeable zone 62a has a length of approximately 7 mm and a width of approximately 2 mm. Each first permeable zone 62a is designed so that each corresponding first free zone 44a is arranged opposite a portion of a first conducting pole 241, a portion of the free space 243, and a portion of a second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240, each of these portions advantageously having a similar surface area.

[0163] Advantageously, the stencil layer 6 further comprises permeable areas 62 arranged opposite the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises corresponding free areas 44.

[0164] Preferably, a second permeable zone 62b is disposed opposite the second activation zone 42b which is disposed at the level of the main electrode 22. The impregnation layer 4 therefore includes at least a second free zone 44b corresponding to the second permeable zone 62b located opposite said second free zone 44b.

[0165] Preferably also, a third permeable zone 62c is disposed opposite the third activation zone 42c which is disposed at the counter electrode 23. The impregnation layer 4 therefore includes at least a third free zone 44c corresponding to the third permeable zone 62c located opposite said third free zone 44c.

[0166] Thus, an activation product can be applied to these permeable areas 62b, 62c so that the activation product impregnates the second free area 44b and third free area 44c and, consequently, impregnates the second activation area 42b and third activation area 42c to allow the flow of electric current through the electrodes 22, 23 when the device 1 is applied to the skin of a user.

[0167] Preferably, the second permeable zone 62b has a shape similar to that of the main electrode 22. The second free zone 44b therefore has a shape similar to that of the main electrode 22. Preferably also, the third permeable zone 62c has a shape similar to that of the counter electrode 23. The third free zone 44c therefore has a shape similar to that of the counter electrode 23.

[0168] The stencil layer 6 preferably comprises a stencil film 61. The stencil layer 6 may also comprise a plurality of stencil films 61, each of which may comprise one or more permeable areas 62.

[0169] Regardless of the embodiment of the stencil layer 6 detailed above, it is clear that this layer allows the user to apply the activation product to the entire device 1, on the stencil layer 6, without having to worry about which areas should be activated or not. Indeed, it is the permeable areas 62 and the impermeable areas 63 of the stencil layer 6 that allow the activation product to pass through to the activation zone(s) 42 or, conversely, prevent the activation product from reaching the other zones. In other words, the stencil layer 6 guides the activation product towards areas previously defined by the designers of the device 1, in this case, the activation zones 42.

[0170] The stencil layer 6 is preferably designed to be removed from the device 1 before the device 1 is applied to a user's skin. In particular, the stencil layer 6 is intended to allow the application of an activation product to the free areas 44 of the impregnation layer 4, thereby enabling the impregnation of the activation zones 42. Once the user has applied the activation product to the stencil layer 6 and indirectly to the free areas 44 of the impregnation layer 4, the stencil layer 6 can be removed.

[0171] This can notably allow the discovery of the second and third activation zones 42b, 42c. Thus, according to one embodiment, the total surface area of ​​the electrodes 22, 23 can be applied in contact with the skin.

[0172] Furthermore, this allows only the activation product necessary for the operation of device 1 to remain on device 1, and not activation product that would have been applied to impermeable areas 63. Thus, it is guaranteed that no activation product remains on unwanted areas, which limits the risk of short circuits occurring during the use of device 1.

[0173] The stencil layer 6 is preferably flexible. The stencil layer 6 is, for example, made of a flexible plastic such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The stencil layer 6 preferably has a thickness of less than 50 µm. The thickness of the stencil layer 6 is typically greater than 30 µm, preferably approximately 40 µm.

[0174] Thus, the stencil layer 6 allows, thanks to a remarkable combination of permeable zones 62 and impermeable zones 63 judiciously dimensioned and positioned, to guide (i.e. to allow to pass) the activation product only towards the activation zones 42 comprising, in this case, a part of the free space 243, and preferably, a part of a first conductive pole 241, a part of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240, and advantageously the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23; and on the contrary, to preserve the other zones (other than the activation zones 42) from the activation product.

[0175] Means of contact

[0176] Advantageously, the device 1 includes contact and retention means to ensure contact between the device 1 and the user's skin and to maintain the device 1 on the skin despite possible external disturbances (wind, clothing, hair, etc.).

[0177] The contact means include, for example, an elastic band. For example, in the case of a device 1 in the form of a face mask, the device 1 may include an elastic band that would go around the head to press the device 1 against the face.

[0178] Preferably, the contact means comprise an adhesive layer 5. The adhesive layer 5 is preferably disposed between the impregnation layer 4 and the stencil layer 6. The adhesive layer 5 comprises at least one adhesive film 51.

[0179] The adhesive layer 5 preferably includes at least one permeable zone 52 adapted to allow an activation product to pass only at the level of at least one activation zone 42. The permeable zone 52 is preferably perforated, for example by being formed by a hole (or an opening) made in the adhesive film 51.

[0180] The adhesive layer 5 preferably has a shape similar to the stencil layer 6.

[0181] Preferably, the adhesive layer 5 covers the impregnation layer 4 located on the current generator 24 (except for the free areas 44). The adhesive layer 5 is disposed on and in contact with at least part of the impregnation layer 4. The adhesive layer 5 does not cover the parts of the impregnation layer 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.

[0182] Thus, the adhesive layer 5 ensures that the device 1 remains on the skin while isolating the galvanic couples 240 from the skin and allowing the activation of each galvanic couple 240 via the free areas 44. Since the galvanic couples 240 are isolated from the skin by the adhesive layer 5, the risk of short-circuiting within them is eliminated and the risk of redness appearing on the skin is reduced.

[0183] The adhesive layer 5 has an external adhesive surface 53 intended to come into contact with the user's skin and to ensure the fixation of the device 1 on the skin throughout the duration of the treatment.

[0184] Advantageously, the stencil layer 6 constitutes a cover for the adhesive layer 5. In other words, when the stencil layer 6 is removed from the device 1, the external adhesive surface 53 of the adhesive layer 5 is exposed and can then be glued to the user's skin.

[0185] The adhesive layer 5 therefore also remarkably allows the stencil layer 6 to remain on the device 1 before the stencil layer 6 is removed from the device 1. The stencil layer 6 and the adhesive layer 5 thus play a role of each other: the stencil layer 6 protects the outer adhesive surface 53 of the adhesive layer 5, in particular from dust, thus preserving its adhesive power, while the outer adhesive surface 53 ensures the retention of the stencil layer 6 until the user removes it during the actual use of the device 1.

[0186] The adhesive layer 5 advantageously also has an internal adhesive surface intended to come into contact with the impregnation layer 4, and thus ensure its adhesion 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 53 intended to be in contact with the skin and an internal adhesive surface intended to be in contact with the impregnation layer 4.

[0187] The adhesive layer 5 preferably has a thickness of less than 150 pm. The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, approximately 140 pm.

[0188] Consequently, the total thickness of device 1 (i.e., of the stack of layers described above) is less than 3 mm, preferably even less than 2 mm. Device 1 is thus flexible and can therefore conform to the shape of the area of ​​the body on which it will be placed. Method of use

[0189] According to a second aspect, a method of using device 1 will be described with reference to [Fig. 15]. Initially, the user obtains device 1. He also obtains an electrically conductive activation product.

[0190] In a step a), the user applies activation product to the device 1 so as to cover at least the permeable area(s) 62 of the stencil layer 6 and therefore the corresponding free area(s) 44 of the impregnation layer 4.

[0191] The activation product then impregnates the free areas 44 and, consequently, the activation areas 42 of the impregnation layer 4.

[0192] In a step b), the user removes the stencil layer 6 so that said stencil layer 6 no longer covers the impregnation layer 4.

[0193] In a step c), the device 1 is applied to the user's skin so that free areas 44, in particular the second and third free areas 44b and 44c, of the impregnation layer 4, are in contact with the user's skin.

[0194] The impregnation of the first activation zones 42a (located opposite the free spaces 243 of the galvanic couples 240) leads to a redox reaction within the galvanic couples 240. This allows the activation of the galvanic couples 240 and therefore of the current generator 24.

[0195] An electric current is generated and passes through the user's skin as illustrated for example in [Fig.6].

[0196] Preferably, the materials in contact with the user's skin comprise only non-woven fabric (areas of the impregnation layer 4), activator, and optionally an adhesive material from the outer adhesive surface 53 of the adhesive layer 5. Consequently, the user's skin is only in contact with skin-friendly materials (i.e., any allergic skin reaction is unlikely to occur). This therefore improves the user comfort of the device 1 and considerably limits, or even eliminates, any risk of redness appearing on the area treated with the device 1. Manufacturing process

[0197] According to a third aspect, with reference to [Fig. 16], a manufacturing method for device 1 is proposed. Preferably, a set of devices 1 is manufactured on the same support and each device 1 is then detailed by cutting out the set.

[0198] In a step a), preferably initial, at least one support layer 2 is formed. For this, at least one printed assembly comprising a main electrode 22, a counter electrode 23 and a current generator 24 on at least one support film 21 is printed from conductive inks, preferably by screen printing.

[0199] A plurality of sets can be printed on the same substrate to optimize manufacturing.

[0200] Step a) preferably comprises a step a1), preferably initial, of printed connectors, advantageously of carbon, as illustrated in [Fig. 17]. The printed carbon connectors preferably include couple connectors 246 for electrically connecting the galvanic couples 240 of a current generator 240. The printed carbon connectors also preferably include the first connector 244 or the last connector 245 for connecting at least one of the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 to one of a first conducting pole and a second conducting pole of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24. As can be seen in [Fig. 17], the couple connectors 246 and the last connector 245 have, in top view, a p-shaped (or symmetrically q-shaped) form, that is, they have a first solid, substantially square area and a tail (or thin area).

[0201] Step a1) may optionally also include the printing of a multitude of carbon dots intended to be arranged in the main electrode 22.

[0202] Preferably, the carbon ink is then heated with an annealing process at 110°C for 3 minutes. Annealing stabilizes the ink and gives the carbon the necessary electrical properties.

[0203] Step a) then preferably includes an intermediate step a2, preferably of printing, preferably in zinc, for each galvanic couple 240 of one of the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242, as illustrated in [Fig. 18].

[0204] Preferably, the zinc is deposited partially over the carbon connectors. Advantageously, as can be seen in [Fig. 18], the zinc ink covers the solid shape of the p or q formed by each of the couple connectors 246 and the last connector 245 without however covering the tail of the latter.

[0205] Preferably, the zinc is then heated with an annealing process at 110°C for 3 minutes. Annealing stabilizes the ink and gives the zinc the necessary electrical properties.

[0206] Then, step a) preferably includes a step a3), subsequent to step a2), of silver and / or silver chloride printing for each galvanic couple 240 of the other among the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 (i.e., the conducting poles that are not those printed with zinc). Step a3) also preferably includes silver and / or silver chloride printing of the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23.

[0207] Step a3) leads to the final support layer 2 illustrated in [Fig.19].

[0208] The manufacturing process further includes a step b) of forming at least one impregnation layer 4 by disposing of at least one impregnation film 41 on at least one support layer 2.

[0209] Advantageously, step b) is implemented by heat sealing.

[0210] Then, in a step c), at least one primary non-impregnable zone 46a, 46b, 46c is formed in the impregnation layer 4.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the primary non-impregnable zone 46 is perforated and is formed by cutting at least one impregnation film 41.

[0212] According to a certain embodiment, the cut can simultaneously form the primary non-impregnable areas 46 and the secondary non-impregnable areas 47. In other words, step c) consists of making a cut through the assembly formed by the support layer 2 and the impregnation layer 4 in order to form any primary non-impregnable area 46 of the impregnation layer 4 and any secondary non-impregnable area 47 of the support layer 2 concomitantly.

[0213] Then, in a step d), at least one stencil layer 6 is formed by arranging at least one stencil film 61 on at least one impregnation layer 4. Step c) aims in particular to arrange the permeable areas 62 of a stencil layer 6 opposite the free areas 44 of the impregnation layer 4. It will be understood that the stencil film 61 can itself be produced by a manufacturing sub-process which may include in particular steps for forming permeable areas 62, for example by cutting, drilling, stamping, etc.

[0214] Preferably, at least one stencil film 61 is disposed on the impregnation layer 4 so that, for at least one printed assembly, at least one permeable area 62 of the at least one stencil film 61 is disposed opposite at least a part of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24 extending at least into a part of the free space 243 of the galvanic couple 240.

[0215] Advantageously, step d) consists of simultaneously forming the stencil layer 6 and the adhesive layer 5 by placing an assembled unit comprising the stencil layer 6 and the adhesive layer 5 on the impregnation layer 4. In this case, as explained previously, a double-sided adhesive film 51 can be used, one of the sides having a lid forming the stencil film 61.

[0216] The assembly of the stencil layer 6 to the impregnation layer 4 can for example be carried out by heat sealing.

[0217] The manufacturing process advantageously includes a step e) of obtaining a device 1 by cutting into the desired shapes (for example drop, circle and triangle) defined previously from the superposition of the support layers 2, impregnation layer 4 and stencil layer 6. Kit

[0218] According to a fourth aspect, a skin treatment kit for a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation is proposed, comprising: - a device 1; - an electrically conductive activation product intended to saturate the layer impregnation 4 and to activate the current generator 24.

[0219] Another kit for implementing device 1 will be described. The kit includes: - an assembly comprising a support layer 2 and an impregnation layer 4 and preferably a stencil layer 6 assembled; - possibly a separate stencil layer 6; - and an electrically conductive activation product.

[0220] The stencil layer 6 is possibly detached, separate from the device 1. It can then be envisaged that the stencil layer 6 is reusable and can therefore be used on different devices 1.

[0221] Preferably, the activation product has a pH between 4 and 10, in particular between 5 and 7, so as to be gentle on the user's skin and not cause irritation. Preferably, the pH of the activation product is adapted to the materials of the galvanic couples 240 so as to optimize the effectiveness of the device 1.

[0222] For example, in the case of a galvanic couple 240 whose second conducting pole 241 (forming the anode) is made of zinc, the more acidic the activation product, the more the zinc will oxidize and the better the redox reaction will be, and therefore the efficiency of the device 1. Thus, in some cases it will be preferable to use an activation product with a pH of around 5. In other cases, it may be preferable for the pH to be higher, i.e. for the activation product to have a pH of around 7.

[0223] The activation product may contain an active agent to be diffused into the skin for skin treatment, such as vitamin C.

[0224] To use the kit, the user positions the stencil layer 6 so that the permeable areas 62 are aligned with the free areas 44, if they are not already so. Markings could be drawn on the impregnation layer 4 to indicate the free areas 4. Furthermore, the stencil layer 6 could have the same shape as the impregnation layer 4 so that the user can correctly position the stencil layer 6 by overlapping the perimeter of the stencil layer 6 with the perimeter of the impregnation layer 4.

[0225] Then, the user can implement the usage process described above.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (1) for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin of the user, the device (1) comprising: - a support layer (2) comprising at least one support film (21) and comprising a main electrode (22), a counter-electrode (23) and a current generator (24) electrically connected to the main electrode (22) on the one hand and to the counter-electrode (23) on the other hand, the current generator (24) comprising a plurality of galvanic couples (240) connected in series, each galvanic couple (240) being 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), the first conductive pole (241) and the second conductive pole (242) being intended to be electrically connected by an electrically activated product driver,and wherein the galvanic couples (240) are adjacent two by two and electrically connected two by two via a couple connector, the first conductive pole (241) of one of the galvanic couples (240) being electrically connected to the second conductive pole (242) of an adjacent galvanic couple (240), - an impregnation layer (4) comprising an impregnation film (41), preferably monolithic, covering at least the main electrode (22), the counter-electrode (23) and the current generator (24), the impregnation film (41) comprising a first primary non-impregnable zone (46a) positioned between the main electrode (22) and the current generator (24) to separate them and / or a second primary non-impregnable zone (46b) positioned between the counter-electrode (23) and the current generator (24) to separate them.,

2. Device according to claim 1, in which the first primary non-impregnable zone (46a) is formed of a plurality of elementary non-impregnable zones (460a) distinct from one another, each elementary non-impregnable zone (460a) being positioned opposite a free space (243) of a galvanic couple (240).

3. Device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, in which the impregnation film (41) comprises at least a third primary non-impregnable zone (46c) positioned between two adjacent galvanic couples (240).

4. A device according to claim 3, wherein the impregnation film (41) comprises a plurality of third primary non-impregnable zones (46c), at least one third primary non-impregnable zone (46c) among the plurality of third primary non-impregnable zones (46c) being arranged between each pair of adjacent galvanic couples.

5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the primary non-impregnable zone(s) (46) comprise one or more openwork zones.

6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in which, for each primary non-impregnable zone (46), the support layer (2) comprises at least one secondary non-impregnable zone (47), preferably impermeable, arranged opposite the corresponding primary non-impregnable zone (46).

7. Device according to claim 6, in which the primary non-impregnable zones (46) and the secondary non-impregnable zones (47) result from a cut through the assembly formed by the support layer 21 and the impregnation layer 4 so that the assembly formed by primary non-impregnable zones (46) and corresponding secondary non-impregnable zones (47) forms non-impregnable zones passing through the assembly formed by the support layer (2) and the impregnation layer (4).

8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a stencil layer (6) covering the impregnation layer (4) and comprising at least one stencil film (61), the stencil layer (6) comprising at least one permeable zone (62) adapted to allow an electrically conductive activation product to pass only at the level of at least one predefined zone of the impregnation layer (4), called free zone (44), the free zone (44) being intended to be covered with the activation product, at least one permeable zone (62) being located opposite at least a part of the free space (243) of the galvanic couple (240).

9. A method of manufacturing a device according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprising steps of: a) forming at least one support layer (2) by printing from inks at least one printed assembly comprising a main electrode (22), a counter-electrode (23) and a current generator (24) on a support film (21); b) forming at least one impregnation layer (4) by arranging of at least one impregnation film (41) on the at least one support layer (2); c) formation of at least one non-impregnable zone (46) in the impregnation layer (4)

10. A method according to claim 9, wherein step c) is carried out by cutting the impregnation film (41).

11. A method according to claim 11, wherein step c) consists of making a cut through the assembly formed by the support layer (2) and the impregnation layer (4) in order to form any primary non-impregnable zone (46) of the impregnation layer (4) and any secondary non-impregnable zone (47) of the support layer (2) concomitantly.

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