Skin treatment device

Abstract

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 (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 at least one galvanic couple, the galvanic couple being 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 primary free space (243);- an impregnation layer (4) comprising at least one main impregnation film (400), the main impregnation film (400) connecting, by exclusively covering, a part of the first conducting pole (241), a part of the primary free space (243) and a part of the second conducting pole (242). Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 3.;

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 or electrostimulation can be used to treat the skin using electrical currents. We know of skin treatment devices such as facial masks designed to deliver an electrical current to the user's face. These devices typically include a polymer support matrix on which current generators are placed. 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. As a result, the electrical currents are not delivered correctly to the user's skin, either in terms of intensity or location. Iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation treatment is therefore not optimal, and the effectiveness of known devices proves disappointing. Furthermore, these devices can cause irritation and redness. In addition, 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: - a support layer comprising at least one support film and comprising a main electrode, a counter electrode and a current generator electrically connected to the main electrode on one side and to the counter electrode on the other, the current generator comprising at least one galvanic couple, the galvanic couple being formed of a first conducting pole forming cathode and a second conducting pole forming anode separated from each other by a primary free space; - an impregnation layer comprising at least one main impregnation film, the main impregnation film connecting, by exclusively covering, a portion of the first conductive pole, a portion of the primary free space, and a portion of the second conductive pole. The device allows for the generation of a sustained electric current insofar as the main impregnation film acts as a reservoir for the activation agent when impregnated with said agent. Furthermore, the device is gentler on the user's skin.

[0009] According to advantageous and non-limiting features, taken alone or in any combination:

[0010] - The impregnation layer comprises a first impregnation film covering The device consists of a primary electrode and / or a second impregnation film covering the counter electrode, with the primary and secondary impregnation films being separate from the primary impregnation film. This makes the device particularly effective, allowing for longer use when the impregnation films are infused with an activation agent. Furthermore, the device is gentle on the user's skin.

[0011] - The support layer comprises a first impregnation film forming the electrode The device consists of a primary and / or secondary impregnation film forming the counter electrode, with the primary and secondary impregnation films being separate from the primary impregnation film. This makes the device more environmentally friendly as it contains less metal. Furthermore, the device is more easily recyclable because the electrodes can be readily detached from the support layer. In addition, the device is skin-friendly and prevents metal migration to the skin from the electrodes.

[0012] - The current generator comprises a plurality of galvanic couples exhibiting each a first conducting pole and a second conducting pole separated by a primary free space, the impregnation layer comprising a plurality of primary impregnation films, each primary impregnation film connecting, by exclusively covering, a part of the first conducting pole, a part of the primary free space and a part of the second conducting pole.

[0013] - The main electrode is electrically connected to the current generator via a The first electrical connector and the counter electrode are electrically connected to the The current is generated via a final electrical connector, the support layer comprising the first and last electrical connectors, with at least a portion of each of the first and last electrical connectors not covered by an impregnation film. This allows the flow of an electric current when the device is operating while preventing short circuits.

[0014] - The main electrode is intended to be electrically connected to a first a conducting pole, or to a second conducting pole, of a first galvanic couple and the counter electrode is intended to be electrically connected to a second conducting pole, or to a first conducting pole, of a last galvanic couple, the main electrode being separated from the first conducting pole, or from the second conducting pole, of the first galvanic couple by a first secondary free space of the support layer and the counter electrode being separated from the second conducting pole, or from the first conducting pole, of the last galvanic couple by a last secondary free space of the support layer, the device comprising a third impregnation film and a fourth impregnation film, distinct from each other, the third impregnation film connecting, by exclusively covering, a part of the main electrode, a part of the first secondary free space and a part of the first conducting pole, or of the second conducting pole,of the first galvanic couple and the fourth impregnation film connecting, by exclusively covering, a portion of the counter electrode, a portion of the last secondary free space, and a portion of the second conductive pole, or the first conductive pole, of the last galvanic couple. Less metal is therefore used to manufacture the device. The device is thus more environmentally friendly and more easily recyclable. In addition, the device is gentler on the skin and prevents metal migration to the skin.

[0015] - The current generator comprises a plurality of connected galvanic couples In a series configuration, two adjacent galvanic pairs are connected by a third electrical connector. The support layer, comprising the third electrical connector(s), has at least a portion of each third electrical connector(s) not covered by an impregnation film. The flow of electric current during operation is facilitated while limiting the occurrence of short circuits.

[0016] - The current generator comprises a plurality of connected galvanic couples in series, two adjacent galvanic pairs intended to be electrically connected to each other and separated by a second secondary free space, the device comprising at least a fifth impregnation film connecting, and exclusively covering, a portion of the second secondary free space, a portion of the first conducting pole of a galvanic pair and a portion of the second pole conductor of an adjacent galvanic couple. The flow of electric current, when the device is in operation, is promoted while limiting the occurrence of short circuits. In addition, the device is gentler on the skin and more environmentally friendly as less metal is used in its manufacture.

[0017] - The device includes a stencil layer covering the impregnation layer and comprising at least one stencil film, the stencil layer including at least one permeable zone adapted to allow an electrically conductive activator to pass through only at least one predefined area of ​​the impregnation layer, referred to as the free zone, the free zone being intended to be covered with the activator, at least one permeable zone being located opposite at least one impregnation film. The application of the activator is therefore targeted and facilitated.

[0018] - A permeable zone includes an openwork zone.

[0019] - The device includes an adhesive layer disposed between the layer The impregnation layer and the stencil layer, the adhesive layer comprising at least one adhesive film, the adhesive layer comprising at least one permeable zone adapted to allow an electrically conductive activator to pass through only at least one predefined area of ​​the impregnation layer, referred to as the free zone, the adhesive layer having an external adhesive surface intended to come into contact with the user's skin. This ensures that the device remains in place on the user's skin when applied.

[0020] - The impregnation films are made of non-woven material. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0021] 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: - [Fig. 1] illustrates a skin treatment device; - Figure [Fig. 2] illustrates a support layer of a skin treatment device according to a first embodiment; - [Fig.3] schematically illustrates the operation of the device, according to a cross-sectional view, when applied to the skin of a user; - Fig. 4 illustrates a skin treatment device, according to a cross-sectional view; - [Fig.5] illustrates a support layer of a skin treatment device according to a second embodiment; - Figure [Fig. 6] illustrates another skin treatment device, according to a view in cut ; - [Fig.7] illustrates the skin treatment device of [Fig.6] from a top view; - Fig. 8 illustrates another skin treatment device, according to a cross-sectional view; - [Fig.9] illustrates the skin treatment device of [Fig.8], from a top view; - [Fig. 10] illustrates a skin treatment device comprising an adhesive layer and a stencil layer, according to a cross-sectional view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Device

[0022] 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.

[0023] Device 1 is adapted to be activated, that is, brought into operating condition, by an electrically conductive activating agent. In other words, the generation of electrical currents is triggered by the application of the agent to at least certain areas of Device 1. Device 1 is therefore inactive in the absence of the activating agent and only becomes active when the activating agent 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 agent, 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 life of the current generator, as will be detailed later.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The device 1 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 transport 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 treatment by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. The activation product may also be a therapeutic product such as a burn cream.

[0026] 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.

[0027] Support layer

[0028] With reference to [Fig.2], the device 1 includes a support layer 2. By support layer we mean any layer serving as a support for other layers, in this case the impregnation and stencil layers which will be detailed later.

[0029] With reference to [Fig. 2], 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The support layer 2 comprises at least one main electrode 22, at least one counter electrode 23 and at least one current generator 24.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] The electrodes 22, 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] Consequently, the electrodes 22, 23, particularly the main electrode 22, advantageously have a size larger than that of a conducting pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24 (the galvanic couples 240 will be detailed later). Preferably also, the main electrode 22 has a size larger than that of the current generator 24. This maximizes the contact area (direct or indirect) between the electrodes 22, 23 and the skin, thus allowing the device 1 to circulate more of the active agent of the activation product into the skin. This also implies that the size of the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 can be adapted to that of the area of ​​the human or animal body to be treated.

[0038] The device 1 is in its so-called "operating" state when it is applied to the skin of a user and when the current generator 24 is activated so as to generate a electric current. We will subsequently use the expression "in operation" to designate a situation in which device 1 is in operation, that is to say that it generates a potential differential between the electrodes, then an electric current when the device is applied to the skin.

[0039] 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. 3], the electric current flows through the current generator 24 to the main electrode 22, then penetrates the user's PE skin to reach the counter electrode 23. The current can also flow in the opposite direction to that illustrated.

[0040] 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.).

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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 it is desired to use 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.

[0043] 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 preferably have essentially a main electrode 22 forming an anode.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are made of carbon. Carbon is conductive and only slightly oxidizable.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] According to an alternative embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 4], the main electrode 22 is formed by a first impregnation film 401 and the counter electrode 23 is formed by a second impregnation film 402. The impregnation films 401 and 402 are preferably 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 placed in contact with a user's skin without risk of skin reaction.

[0053] In addition, a non-woven textile has the advantage of being very flexible and therefore does not limit the flexibility of device 1. Moreover, a non-woven textile is less expensive than metals such as silver or silver chloride.

[0054] The current generator 24 comprises at least one galvanic couple 240. The galvanic couple 240 is formed of a first conducting pole 241 forming cathode and a second conducting pole 242 forming anode separated from each other by a primary free space 243.

[0055] The primary 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 primary free space 243 consists of an area of ​​the support film 21 on which no material is printed.

[0056] Alternatively, an insulating material could be disposed on the support film 21 at the level of the primary free space 243.

[0057] 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 primary 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.

[0058] The primary 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 so as to allow a redox reaction between said poles. An electrochemical cell is formed.

[0061] 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. 3], 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.

[0062] 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.).

[0063] The constituent materials of the first conducting pole 241 and the second conducting pole 242 advantageously comprise conductive materials, typically metals.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] The galvanic couples 240 may include other materials. For example, These couples can be formed from: zinc-copper, zinc-copper / copper halide, zinc-copper / copper oxide, magnesium-copper, magnesium-copper / copper halide, zinc-silver, zinc-silver-oxide-silver, zinc-silver-halide, zinc-silver-silver chloride, zinc-silver-silver bromide, zinc-silver-silver iodide, zinc-silver-silver fluoride, zinc-gold, magnesium-gold, aluminium-gold, magnesium-silver, magnesium-silver-silver halide, magnesium-silver-silver chloride, magnesium-silver-silver bromide, magnesium-silver-silver iodide, magnesium-silver-silver fluoride, magnesium-gold, aluminium-copper, aluminium-silver, aluminium-silver oxide-silver, aluminium-silver / silver halide, aluminium-silver / silver chloride, aluminium-silver / silver bromide. aluminium silver iodide / silver, aluminium silver fluoride / silver, copper silver halide / silver, copper silver chloride / silver,copper-silver bromide / silver, copper-silver iodide / silver, copper-silver fluoride / 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.

[0069] The galvanic couples 240 and the couple comprising the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may also include alloys.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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 couple galvanic 240, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are connected to a conducting pole 241, 242 of this same galvanic couple 240.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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 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. Preferably, the last connector 245 is also made of carbon.

[0083] According to an embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 2], 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. Imprinting 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.

[0084] Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.2], 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.

[0085] Alternatively, the electrode 22 could be in direct contact with the second conductive pole 242 and there would be no additional connector.

[0086] Alternatively, the electrodes 22, 23 are not connected to the current generator by connectors as described above. The main electrode 22 is separated from the conducting pole 241, 242 to which it is intended to be connected by a first secondary free space 248a. Similarly, the counter electrode 23 is separated from the conducting pole 241, 242 to which it is intended to be connected by a final secondary free space 248d. In the example of support layer 2 illustrated in [Fig. 5], the main electrode 22 is intended to be electrically connected to the second conducting pole 242a of the first galvanic couple 240a and the counter electrode 23 is intended to be electrically connected to the first conducting pole 241d of the final galvanic couple 240d.The main electrode 22 is separated from the second conducting pole 242a of the first galvanic couple 240a by a first secondary free space 248a of the support layer 2 and the counter electrode 23 is separated from the first conducting pole 241d of the last galvanic couple 240d by a last secondary free space 248d of the support layer 2. .

[0087] As detailed further later in the section concerning the impregnation layer 4, the electrodes 22, 23 are coupled to conducting poles 241, 242 by impregnation films 403 so as to electrically connect the electrodes 22, 23 to the current generator 24 when said impregnation films 403 are impregnated with activation product.

[0088] In the case where the electrodes 22, 23 are themselves formed by impregnation films, it will be said that they are coupled to conducting poles 241, 242 so as to be electrically connected to the current generator 24 when said electrodes 22, 23 are impregnated with activation product.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] Advantageously, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are electrically connected via a third connector (246), called a "couple connector 246," advantageously comprising carbon. Preferably, the couple connector 246 is made of carbon. The couple connectors 246 allow an electric current to flow 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, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], carbon couple connectors 246 are preferred for their low cost, ease of implementation, and skin safety.

[0094] Preferably, with reference to [Fig. 2], 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.

[0095] Preferably, the torque connector 246 comprises a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface area of ​​a conducting pole 241, 242. Advantageously, the couple connector 246 includes a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface area of ​​a second conducting pole 242. This improves 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, it has a solid, substantially square area and a tail (or thin area), the solid area extending below the surface of a second conducting pole 242 while the tail is uncovered. Such an arrangement optimizes the current flow between two adjacent galvanic couples 240 without impacting the redox reaction, or even optimizing it.

[0096] Indeed, in the case, for example, of a carbon couple connector 246 and a second zinc conducting 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 couple connector 246 has a solid area under a conducting pole 241, 242.

[0097] 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. 2], 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.

[0098] Alternatively, according to an embodiment not shown, two adjacent galvanic pairs 240 are electrically connected by direct contact between the second conducting pole 242 of one galvanic pair 240 and the first conducting pole 241 of an adjacent galvanic pair 240. This makes it possible to connect said plurality of galvanic pairs 240 in series, without the need for any other material.

[0099] Alternatively, two adjacent galvanic couples 240, which are therefore intended to be electrically connected to each other, are not connected by a couple connector 246. The two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are separated by a second secondary free space 248b. As will be detailed later in the part concerning the impregnation layer 4, the two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are coupled by an impregnation film 404 which electrically connects the two adjacent galvanic couples 240 when it (i.e. the impregnation film 404) is impregnated with activation product.

[0100] Arranging a plurality of galvanic couples 240 in series allows for When device 1 is in operation, it generates a voltage (measured between the main electrode 2 and the counter electrode 23) greater than the voltage generated by a single galvanic couple 240. This is because 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 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 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. 2] comprises five galvanic pairs 240. Empirically, this current generator 24 generates a voltage of 5.5 V (1.1 multiplied by 5).

[0101] 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).

[0102] However, due to current losses (for example, at the contact point between the skin and the electrodes 22, 23), the measured effective current is lower than the theoretical current. Thus, for example, a current generator 24 comprising one galvanic couple 240 generates a current with an intensity of up to 100 pA. A current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 generates a current with an intensity of up to 150 pA. The current generator 24 of the teardrop-shaped support layer 2 illustrated in [Fig. 2] generates a current with an intensity of up to 300 pA.

[0103] The performance of the current generator 24 is thus improved. As a result, more current flows through the user's skin, which will increase ion-therapy. Tophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. The performance and effectiveness of 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.

[0104] 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 example illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0105] According to the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.2], the current generator 24 comprises five galvanic couples 240.

[0106] 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).

[0107] Impregnation layer

[0108] The device 1 further comprises an impregnation layer 4 comprising at least one main impregnation film 400. As illustrated in Figures 3 and 6, a main impregnation film 400 connects, by exclusively covering, within a galvanic couple 240, a portion of the first conducting pole 241, a portion of the primary free space 243, and a portion of the second conducting pole 242. In other words, the impregnation film 400 extends from a first conducting pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 to a second conducting pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240. Put another way, the impregnation film 400 covers at least a portion of a primary free space 243 by extending from the first conducting pole 241 to the second conducting pole 242 without extending beyond these elements.The impregnation film 400 is arranged opposite a part of the first conductive pole 241, a part of the primary free space 243 and a part of the second conductive pole 242. By "exclusively cover", it is understood that the main impregnation film 400 covers only an area of ​​the support layer 2 comprising a part of the first conductive pole 241, a part of the primary free space 243 and a part of the second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240.

[0109] Indeed, in order to operate the device 1, it is desired that the activation product be impregnated at the level of zones 42 of the impregnation layer 4, called "activation zones 42".

[0110] First, it is necessary to activate the current generator 24 and therefore its Galvanic couples 240. To achieve this, the conducting poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240 must be connected together so that a redox reaction occurs, as explained previously. This can be implemented through the presence of the activation product in the primary free spaces 243 between the conducting poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240. Thus, it is desirable that some activation product be present in the primary free spaces 243 and that some activation product remain in these primary free spaces 243 for a certain duration of operation of the device 1. A main impregnation film 400 acts in particular as a reservoir of the activation product and thus allows the activation of a galvanic couple 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 main impregnation films 401, that is to say the areas of the impregnation layer 4 located at the level of the primary 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 primary free spaces 243.

[0111] Each main impregnation film 400, i.e., each first activation zone 42a, is positioned opposite a portion of a first conductive pole 241, a portion of the primary free space 243, and a portion of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. Thus, when an activation agent is applied to the first activation zone 42, the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of each galvanic couple 240 are correctly connected to allow a redox reaction. More specifically, at the time of activation (when the device is switched on), the activation agent will electrically connect the first and second conductive poles 241, 242 by filling the initially insulating primary free space 243.

[0112] According to a certain embodiment, for a galvanic couple 240, a main impregnation film 400 is located opposite (i.e. covers) the whole of the galvanic couple 240 namely its first conducting pole 241, its second conducting pole 242 and its primary free space 243.

[0113] Advantageously, the impregnation layer 4 comprises a plurality of main impregnation films 400, one main impregnation film 400 being arranged opposite the primary free space 243 of each galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24. In other words, each galvanic couple 240 is intended to be activated by means of a corresponding main impregnation film 400.

[0114] Preferably, during operation, it is preferable that the activation product be This is also 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 also helps to limit the risk of skin redness upon contact with the electrodes 22, 23 and to increase 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 the electrodes 22, 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 in the activation product) at at least one of the electrodes 22, 23 (preferably the main electrode 22).Therefore, the purpose of the impregnation layer 4 at electrodes 22 and 23 becomes clear, as it also acts as a reservoir for the activation product, more precisely 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 Figures 1, 6, and 7, for example. A third activation zone 42c corresponds to the area of ​​the impregnation layer 4 located at the counter electrode 23.

[0115] By "at the level", it is understood that the second and third 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.

[0116] With reference to Figures 1, 3, 6 and 7, the impregnation layer 4 therefore preferably comprises a first impregnation film 401 covering the main electrode 22 and a second impregnation film 402 covering the counter electrode 23, the first impregnation film 401 and the second impregnation film 402 being distinct from the main impregnation film 400. It is understood that the first impregnation film 401 corresponds to the second activation zone 42b and the second impregnation film 402 corresponds to the third activation zone 42c. By "distinct", it is understood that the first impregnation film 401 is physically independent of the main impregnation film 400 and that the second impregnation film 402 is physically independent of the main impregnation film 400. Preferably also, the first impregnation film 401 is physically independent of the second impregnation film 402.This prevents the activation product, when it impregnates the impregnation films, from spreading onto unwanted areas of support layer 2 and creating short circuits.

[0117] It should be noted that the embodiment of [Fig. 4] can be combined with those of Figures 6 to 9. In other words, one of the electrodes 22, 23 can be formed by an impregnation film 401, 401 and the other of the electrodes 22, 23 can be formed of metal and covered by an impregnation film 401, 401.

[0118] According to a certain embodiment introduced previously and illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the electrodes 22, 23 are not connected to the current generator 24 via connectors 244, 245. The main electrode 22 is separated from the conducting pole 241, 242 to which it is intended to be connected by a first secondary free space 248a. Similarly, the counter electrode 23 is separated from the conducting pole 241, 242 to which it is intended to be connected by a final secondary free space 248d. In this case, the impregnation layer 4 comprises a third impregnation film 403 and a fourth impregnation film 404. The third impregnation film 403 and the fourth impregnation film 404 are distinct from each other, i.e., they are physically independent.The third impregnation film 403 connects, by exclusively covering, a portion of the main electrode 22, a portion of the first secondary free space 248a, and a portion of the first conducting pole 241, or the second conducting pole 242, of the first galvanic couple 240a. In other words, the third impregnation film 403 covers only a portion of the main electrode 22, a portion of the first secondary free space 248a, and a portion of the conducting pole 241, 242 to which the main electrode 22 is connected. Similarly, the fourth impregnation film 404 connects, by exclusively covering, a portion of the counter electrode 23, a portion of the last secondary free space 248d, and a portion of the second conducting pole 242, or the first conducting pole 241, of the last galvanic couple 240d.It is understood that the impregnation layer 4 therefore includes a fourth activation zone 42d corresponding to the zone of the impregnation layer 4 located at the level of the first secondary free space 248a and a fifth activation zone 42e corresponding to the zone of the impregnation layer 4 located at the level of the last secondary free space 248d.

[0119] Preferably, the third impregnation film 403 has a shape similar to that of the main electrode 22 and the fourth impregnation film 404 has a shape similar to that of the counter electrode 23.

[0120] In the example illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the third impregnation film 403 covers a portion of the main electrode 22, a portion of the first secondary free space 248a, and a portion of the second conducting pole 242a of the first galvanic couple 240a. The fourth impregnation film 404 covers a portion of the counter electrode 23, a portion of the last secondary free space 248d, and a portion of the first conducting pole 24 Id of the last galvanic couple 240d.

[0121] The third impregnation film 403 thus couples the main electrode 22 to the current generator 24. Therefore, when the third impregnation film 403 is impregnated with the activation product, it is current-conducting and the main electrode 22 is electrically connected to the current generator 24. Similarly, The fourth impregnation film 404 couples the counter electrode 23 to the current generator 24. Therefore, when the fourth impregnation film 404 is impregnated with the activation agent, it conducts current, and the counter electrode 23 is electrically connected to the current generator 24. Furthermore, when the third impregnation film 403 and the fourth impregnation film 404 are impregnated with the activation agent, their separation prevents the activation agent from expanding beyond either of the third impregnation film 403 and the fourth impregnation film 404. The activation agent remains confined to each of the third impregnation film 403 and the fourth impregnation film 404, thus limiting the occurrence of short circuits.Furthermore, when device 1 is applied to the user's skin, it is impregnating films that come into contact with the skin and not directly the support layer 2, which can help limit potential skin reactions such as redness.

[0122] According to another embodiment illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the electrodes 22, 23 are connected to the current generator 24 via connectors 244, 245. In this case, the first and last electrical connectors 244, 245 are not covered by an impregnation film. In other words, the impregnation layer 4 does not include a third impregnation film 403 and a fourth impregnation film 404. Indeed, the electrical connection between the electrodes 22, 23 and the current generator 24 is implemented by the connectors 244, 245, and it is not desirable for impregnation films to cover them because this could cause short circuits.

[0123] According to a certain embodiment introduced previously and illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the current generator 24 comprises a plurality of galvanic pairs 240 connected in series. Two adjacent galvanic pairs 240 are intended to be electrically connected to each other and are separated by a second secondary free space 248b. In other words, two adjacent galvanic pairs 240 are not connected by a pair connector 246. In this case, the device 1 comprises at least a fifth impregnation film 405 which connects, and exclusively covers, a portion of the second secondary free space 248b, a portion of the first conducting pole 241 of a galvanic pair 240, and a portion of the second conducting pole 242 of an adjacent galvanic pair 240. As illustrated in [Fig.[9] A fifth impregnation film 405 covers part of the second secondary free space 248b, part of the first conducting pole 241 of the second galvanic couple 240b, and part of the second conducting pole 242 of the third galvanic couple 240c, adjacent to the second galvanic couple 240b. According to this embodiment, there is no couple connector 246, which allows for savings in metals such as carbon. Two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are coupled to each other by a fifth impregnation film 405 and are electrically connected. when the fifth impregnation film 405 is impregnated with activation product. It is understood in this case that the impregnation layer 4 includes a sixth activation zone 42f corresponding to the area of ​​the impregnation layer 4 located at the level of the second secondary free space 248b.

[0124] According to another embodiment illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, two adjacent galvanic pairs 240 are connected to each other via couple connectors 246. In this case, the couple connectors 246 are not covered by an impregnation film. In other words, the impregnation layer 4 does not include a fifth impregnation film 405. Indeed, the electrical connection between two adjacent galvanic pairs is implemented by couple connectors 246, and it is not desirable for impregnation films to cover them because this could cause short circuits.

[0125] The impregnation films of the impregnation layer 4 are intended, in particular, to be impregnated with an activation product advantageously comprising an active agent intended to be diffused into the skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation. The impregnation films are therefore made from at least one porous material, that is to say, a material that absorbs the activation product.

[0126] Preferably, the impregnation films are 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 placed in contact with a user's skin without risk of skin reaction.

[0127] In addition, a non-woven textile has the advantage of being very flexible and therefore does not limit the flexibility of device 1.

[0128] The impregnation films, 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 films, and consequently of the impregnation layer 4, will be chosen in particular according to the desired absorption capacity of the impregnation layer 4.

[0129] The impregnation films 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 films 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 flowing out of the device 1 (for example, 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 a gel), it would be desirable for the impregnation films to be made of a low-viscosity material. absorbent to allow the impregnation films to become sufficiently impregnated.

[0130] It should be noted that different activation products could be used depending on the different activation zones 42. Therefore, the impregnation films could each be made of materials adapted to the viscosity of the activation product they are intended to receive.

[0131] Preferably, at least one impregnating film is not pre-impregnated. Pre-impregnation may allow the device 1 to be used by a user without any prior step other than applying the device 1 to the skin.

[0132] 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.

[0133] It is therefore preferable that the impregnation film(s) 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 241, 242, 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.

[0134] Stencil layer

[0135] With reference to [Fig.1], the device 1 comprises a stencil layer 6 covering at least partially the impregnation layer 4. The stencil layer 6 comprises at least one stencil film 61.

[0136] 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".

[0137] 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 which the permeable zone 62 is located. "At" means "opposite," "above," and / or "on." The free zone 44 has the same surface and shape as the permeable zone 62. The permeable zone 62 makes the free zone 44 accessible to an activation product that would be applied to the permeable zone 62.

[0138] The stencil layer 6 has the particular role of allowing activation only of the activation zones 42, and of protecting 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 allows the designers of the device 1 to determine which areas will or will not come into contact with the activation product, regardless of the user's handling and skill level. The result is great ease of use and high reliability of the device 1.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] Each free zone 44 comprises at least a portion of an activation zone 42. A free zone 44 typically has a surface area smaller than or the same as that of a corresponding activation zone 42. In other words, a free zone 44 typically has a surface area smaller than or the same as that of an impregnation film 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405 (each impregnation film 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405 corresponding to an activation zone 42a, 42b, 42c, 42d, 42e, 42f) as illustrated in [Fig.10].

[0144] The free zones 44 are adapted to allow impregnation with the activating product at the activation zones 42. By applying the activating product to a permeable zone 62, and therefore to a corresponding free zone 44, the activating product is expected to 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, the activating product, having reached the free zone 44, is expected to spread (by capillary action) beyond the free zone 44 and impregnate 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, the activation product, having reached the free zone 44, is not expected to spread beyond the free zone 44, so it is preferable that the free zone 44 correspond substantially to the activation zone 42. In any event, the fact that the device 1 comprises separate impregnation films prevents the activation product from spreading beyond each impregnation film and creating short circuits. This also allows the use of a liquid, or even very liquid (with a viscosity of less than 5000 centipoise), activation product, as the product will remain trapped within the impregnation film to which it has been applied.

[0145] Preferably, at least one free zone 44, referred to as the "first free zone 44a", includes at least a part 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 part of the first activation zone 42a, i.e., of a main impregnation film 400. Thus, at least one first permeable zone 62 is located opposite at least a part of the primary free space 243 of a galvanic couple 240.

[0146] Advantageously, a first permeable zone 62a, and therefore a corresponding first free zone 44a, is located opposite each primary 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.

[0147] According to one embodiment, a first permeable zone 62a, and therefore a corresponding first free zone 44a, is only arranged opposite a portion of a primary 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 primary 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, for example, suitable when a product The activation agent 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 agent to a first free zone 44a corresponding to a small part of the first activation zone 42a, because the activation agent will spread in such a way as to impregnate at least the first activation zone 42a with the impregnation layer 4.

[0148] According to another embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], a first permeable zone 62a is arranged opposite at least 20% of the total surface area of ​​the first activation zone 42a. The corresponding first free zone 44a therefore has a surface area of ​​at least 20% of the total surface area of ​​the first activation zone 42a. In other words, the first permeable zone 62a, and therefore also the first free zone 44a, is arranged 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 arranged 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 primary free space 243 and a portion of a second conducting pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. This case 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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 primary 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.

[0151] Advantageously, the stencil layer 6 further comprises permeable zones 62 arranged opposite the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23. The impregnation layer 4 therefore includes corresponding free areas 44.

[0152] Preferably, a second permeable zone 62b is disposed opposite the second activation zone 42b which is disposed at the main electrode 22. The second permeable zone 62b is therefore disposed opposite the first impregnation film 401. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises at least a second free zone 44b corresponding to the second permeable zone 62b located opposite said second free zone 44b.

[0153] Preferably also, a third permeable zone 62c is disposed opposite the third activation zone 42c which is disposed at the counter electrode 23. The third permeable zone 62c is therefore disposed opposite the second impregnation film 402. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises at least a third free zone 44c corresponding to the third permeable zone 62c located opposite said third free zone 44c.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] According to the embodiment in which the electrodes 22, 23 are not connected to the current generator 24 via connectors 244, 245 but are coupled to the current generator 24 via the third impregnation film 403 and the fourth impregnation film 404, the stencil layer 6 advantageously comprises a fourth permeable zone 62d and a fifth permeable zone 62e as illustrated in [Fig. 10]. The fourth permeable zone 62d is arranged opposite the fourth activation zone 42d, i.e. the third impregnation film 403, which is located at the level of the first secondary free space 248a that separates the main electrode 22 from the conducting pole 241, 242 to which the main electrode 22 is connected. The fifth permeable zone 62e is positioned opposite the fifth activation zone 42e, i.e.the fourth impregnation film 404, which is disposed at the level of the last secondary free space 248d which separates the counter electrode 23 from the conducting pole 241, 242 to which. The counter electrode 23 is connected. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises at least a fourth free zone 44d corresponding to the fourth permeable zone 62d located opposite said fourth free zone 44d. In addition, the impregnation layer 4 comprises at least a fifth free zone 44e corresponding to the fifth permeable zone 62e located opposite said fifth free zone 44e.

[0157] Furthermore, according to the embodiment in which two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are not connected by a couple connector 246 but are coupled by a fifth impregnation film 405, the stencil layer 6 advantageously comprises a sixth permeable zone 62f as illustrated in [Fig. 10]. The sixth permeable zone 62f is disposed opposite the sixth activation zone 42f, i.e., the fifth impregnation film 405, which is disposed at the level of the second secondary free space 248b that separates two conducting poles 241, 242 of adjacent galvanic couples 240. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises at least one sixth free zone 44f corresponding to the sixth permeable zone 62f located opposite said sixth free zone 44f.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] This can in particular 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.

[0162] Furthermore, this allows only the activation product to remain on device 1 necessary for the operation of device 1 and not of the activation product which 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 when using device 1.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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 primary 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.

[0165] Means of contact

[0166] 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.).

[0167] 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.

[0168] Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 10], 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] The adhesive layer 5 preferably has a shape similar to the stencil layer 6.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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 that the stencil layer 6 remains in place until the user removes it during the actual use of the device 1.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] 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

[0179] According to a second aspect, a method for using device 1 will be described. Initially, the user obtains device 1. He also obtains an electrically conductive activation product.

[0180] 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.

[0181] The activation product then impregnates the free areas 44 and, consequently, the activation areas 42 of the impregnation layer 4. In other words, the activation product impregnates the impregnation films 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405. Since the impregnation films 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405 are distinct, the activation product advantageously does not spread, for each impregnation film, beyond said impregnation films, which makes it possible to avoid short circuits.

[0182] In a step b), the user removes the stencil layer 6 so that said stencil layer 6 no longer covers the impregnation layer 4.

[0183] 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.

[0184] The impregnation of the first activation zones 42a (located opposite the primary 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.

[0185] An electric current is generated and passes through the user's skin as illustrated for example in [Fig.3].

[0186] 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.

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 at least one galvanic couple (240), the 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 primary free space (243);- an impregnation layer (4) comprising at least one main impregnation film (400), the main impregnation film (400) connecting, by exclusively covering, a part of the first conductive pole (241), a part of the primary free space (243) and a part of the second conductive pole (242).;

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the impregnation layer (4) comprises a first impregnation film (401) covering the main electrode (22) and / or a second impregnation film (402) covering the counter-electrode (23), the first impregnation film (401) and the second impregnation film (402) being distinct from the main impregnation film (400).

3. Device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, in which the support layer (2) comprises a first impregnation film (401) forming the main electrode (22) and / or a second impregnation film (402) forming the counter electrode (23), the first impregnation film (401) and the second impregnation film (402) being distinct from the main impregnation film (400).

4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the current generator (24) comprises a plurality of galvanic couples (240) each having a first conductive pole (241) and a second conductive pole (242) separated by a primary free space (243), the impregnation layer (4) comprising a plurality of main impregnation films (400), each main impregnation film (400) connecting, by covering exclusively, a part of the first conductive pole (241), a portion of the primary free space (243) and a portion of the second conductive pole (242).

5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main electrode (22) is electrically connected to the current generator (24) via a first electrical connector (244) and the counter electrode (23) is electrically connected to the current generator (24) via a last electrical connector (245), the support layer (2) comprising the first and last electrical connectors (244, 245), at least a portion of each of the first and last electrical connectors (244, 245) not being covered by an impregnation film.

6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main electrode (22) is intended to be electrically connected to a first conductive pole (241), or to a second conductive pole (242), of a first galvanic couple (240a) and the counter-electrode (23) is intended to be electrically connected to a second conductive pole (242), or to a first conductive pole (241), of a last galvanic couple (240d), the main electrode (22) being separated from the first conductive pole (241), or from the second conductive pole (242), of the first galvanic couple (240a) by a first secondary free space (248a) of the support layer (2) and the counter-electrode (23) being separated from the second conductive pole (242), or from the first conductive pole (241), of the last galvanic couple (240d) by a last secondary free space (248d) of the support layer (2),the device comprising a third impregnation film (403) and a fourth impregnation film (404), distinct from each other, the third impregnation film (403) connecting, by covering exclusively, a part of the main electrode (22), a part of the first secondary free space (248a) and a part of the first conductive pole (241), or of the second conductive pole (242), of the first galvanic couple (240a) and the fourth impregnation film (404) connecting, by covering exclusively, a part of the counter-electrode (23), a part of the last secondary free space (248d) and a part of the second conductive pole (242), or of the first conductive pole (241), of the last galvanic couple (240d).,

7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the current generator (24) comprises a plurality of galvanic couples (240) connected in series, two galvanic couples (240) adjacent being connected by a third electrical connector, the support layer (2) comprising the third electrical connectors, at least a portion of each of the third electrical connector(s) not being covered by an impregnation film.

8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the current generator (24) comprises a plurality of galvanic couples (240) connected in series, two adjacent galvanic couples (240) being intended to be electrically connected to each other and being separated by a second secondary free space (248b), the device comprising at least a fifth impregnation film (405) connecting, and exclusively covering, a part of the second secondary free space (248b), a part of the first conductive pole (241) of a galvanic couple (240) and a part of the second conductive pole (242) of an adjacent galvanic couple (240).

9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, 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 one impregnation film.

10. A device according to claim 9, wherein a permeable zone (62) comprises an openwork zone.

11. Device according to any one of claims 9 and 10, comprising an adhesive layer (5) arranged between the impregnation layer (4) and the stencil layer (6), the adhesive layer (5) comprising at least one adhesive film (51), the adhesive layer (5) comprising at least one permeable zone (52) 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 the free zone (44), the adhesive layer (5) having an adhesive external surface (53) intended to come into contact with the user's skin.

12. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in which the impregnation films (41) are made of non-woven fabric.

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