COSMETIC APPLICATOR WITH FLEXIBLE AND RIGID PARTS

Abstract

A cosmetic applicator for applying a product comprising a cosmetic, skincare, or pharmaceutical composition to a keratinous substrate such as skin, lips, under-eye circles, eyelids, cheeks, or any other part of the body. The cosmetic applicator includes an applicator head comprising an application element and a tail portion. The application element includes a stiffness-modifying portion to alter the application element's resistance to bending in a transverse direction. In one embodiment, the application element includes a first application face and a second application face. The stiffness-modifying portion includes a hinge formed between the tail portion and the application element.The hinge is limited to a single area within a circumference of the applicator head to impart flexibility to the application element, thus giving the user the sensation that the application element is very supple and resilient. In another embodiment, the application element comprises a planar spatula element with a first face and a second opposite face. The application element further comprises two convex bulges, a first convex bulge and a second convex bulge extending in opposite directions from the first and second faces of the spatula element, respectively; the bulges increase the rigidity of a portion of the application element. Figure for abbreviation: Fig. 4.

Description

Title of the invention: COSMETIC APPLICATOR WITH FLEXIBLE AND RIGID PORTIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 201911015486, filed on April 17, 2019, and from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 201911038894, filed on September 25, 2019. The invention of each of these applications is incorporated by reference in this document.

[0002] BACKGROUND - Field: The present invention relates, in general, to a cosmetic applicator for applying a product, including a cosmetic, skincare, or pharmaceutical product, to a keratinous substrate such as skin, lips, under-eye circles, eyebrows, eyelids, cheeks, nails, or other body parts. More particularly, this invention relates to an applicator for cosmetic products having ribbed and flexible applicator surfaces for applying the product to keratinous surfaces.

[0003] BACKGROUND - Description of related art: Devices exist for the dispensing of cosmetic or medical products. Such devices usually consist of a container holding the cosmetic or medical products, a dispensing mechanism for moving the cosmetic or medical products, and an applicator. For example, in the medical industry, applicators are used for applying medical products such as ointments to parts of the body.

[0004] Many cosmetic products, which, unlike lipsticks or eyebrow pencils, are liquid or of indefinite shape, are packaged and sold in a container that holds a body of the material from which the product is dispensed and applied to the user's skin by an applicator device. Cosmetic applicators such as dip or wand applicators are well-known in the cosmetics industry. Cosmetic packaging often includes such applicators for dispensing a particular cosmetic product contained within the packaging's reservoir.

[0005] The cosmetic applicator generally comprises a rod with a cap at one end and an applicator head in the form of a brush, spatula or other applicator structure designed to apply a cosmetic or care product including viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyeliner, lip gloss, hair coloring, wound treatment, skin care, under-eye cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the like. Typically, the cap is placed on top of and closes the mouth or opening of the container, with the cosmetic applicator immersed in the container of cosmetic material when the cap is in the closed position. The cap serves as a handle for the user when the applicator, containing a quantity of cosmetic material, is removed from the container and applied to the skin.

[0006] Cosmetic applicators are designed to provide the user with the perception that the applicator is soft to the touch on the skin. Various flexible materials are used to achieve flexibility in the applicator head in order to obtain a soft feel on the user's skin. For example, latex foam or any other foam is used as a flexible material, the soft feel being achieved through the resilience of the foam.

[0007] To avoid using high-cost materials, flexible zones or regions are created in the structure of the cosmetic applicator to achieve the desired flexibility. Such a cosmetic unit is described in US Patent No. 5716150 A for the application of a product with a paste or powder consistency. The cosmetic applicator comprises a rod having a first free end connected to an applicator end fitting that comes into contact with the product and is designed for applying this product to a surface to be treated. A second end of the rod is connected to a gripping element, in which the applicator end fitting includes a flexible central core in at least a portion near its end.

[0008] Another applicator is described in US Patent No. 6227737 B1 for applying a correction fluid to a surface. The fluid applicator comprises a cap, a generally rigid stem extending from the cap, a connecting portion at one end of the extended stem, and a porous, absorbent applicator tip connected to one end of the stem by the connecting portion. The connecting portion defines a flexible zone between said stem and one end of said applicator tip, said connecting portion being capable of resiliently bending when the applicator tip touches a paper surface, thereby allowing the applicator tip to be bent from a normal position, in which the applicator tip is generally aligned with the stem, to a position generally perpendicular to the normal position.

[0009] Another disadvantage of conventional cosmetic applicators is that they may be configured to apply only one type of composition, for example, only a makeup product or a skincare product. An applicator designed to perform only one task may be impractical to use.

[0010] The surface of a conventional applicator for applying such products is usually fixed. This means that the applicator surface is generally either flexible or rigid. When the applicator surface is rigid, it may not conform to the surface during use. For example, when the applicator is moved across the skin, differences in the shape of the user's face and changes in the pressure applied to a portion of the applicator surface may not deform the applicator. This can result in an uneven distribution of the product on the target surface. On the other hand, a flexible applicator may deposit a uniform layer of product onto a user's skin, but if the user also needs to rub the product in to ensure absorption, such a flexible cosmetic applicator may not meet this requirement.

[0011] When the user needs to perform multiple tasks, such as rubbing a product into the skin and distributing it evenly, a simple conventional applicator may not be suitable. For example, cosmetic or pharmaceutical formulas containing additive beads may require a cosmetic applicator that includes both a hard area to break the beads and release the additives into the main formula, and a soft / flexible area that allows for even coating of the product on the user's skin.

[0012] There is therefore always a need for an applicator for the application of a cosmetic product on human skin or on a keratinous substrate, which allows flexing of the applicator when the product is applied to the application surface and which allows a single applicator to have both flexible and relatively rigid areas.

[0013] SUMMARY: The present invention relates to a system for applying a substance to a keratinous surface comprising: a container for containing the substance; an applicator comprising a rod and an applicator head arranged along a longitudinal axis, the applicator head comprising: a tail connecting a proximal portion of the applicator head with a distal portion of the rod; a base connected to a distal end of the tail extending in the distal direction from the tail; a stiffness-modifying portion having a selected cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and a spatula connected to the base and the stiffness-modifying portion, the spatula extending along the longitudinal axis and being adapted to retain and apply the substance to the keratinous surface, wherein the selected cross-section provides a selected resistance to bending of the spatula away from the longitudinal axis.

[0014] According to several features of the system of the invention: - the applicator head further comprises a flocked surface, the flocked surface covering at least one portion of the head; - the stiffness-modifying portion includes a notch, in which the notch reduces the dimension of the stiffness-modifying portion along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and in which the notch reduces the flexural resistance of the spatula along the transverse axis; - the spatula includes a first face aligned with the notch and a second face opposite the first face on the other side of the longitudinal axis, the first face comprising a concave surface extending distally from the notch, the second face comprising a lower convex surface extending distally from the base and a upper flat surface extending distally from a distal end of the lower convex surface, a distal end of the concave surface of the first face and a distal end of the flat surface of the second face forming a point at a distal end of the spatula;- the notch comprises an upper notch surface and a lower notch surface, the lower notch surface being in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the upper notch surface meeting the lower notch surface at an oblique angle; - the flexural strength of the spatula is reduced in one direction along the transverse axis and, when the spatula is flexed, the upper notch surface is displaced in the direction of the lower notch surface; - the second face further comprising a bulbous area adjacent to the base and located opposite the notch along the transverse axis; - the spatula is generally planar and extends distally from the base along the longitudinal axis, the portion modifying the stiffness comprising bulges connected to the base and arranged on opposite faces of the spatula;- the spatula further comprises curvilinear edges extending from the base and in which the curvilinear edges meet at a distal end of the spatula to form a point, the point being offset from the longitudinal axis. ;

[0015] The present invention also relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic, this applicator comprising: a rod having a longitudinal axis; and an applicator head connected to a distal end of the rod and extending in a distal direction, in which the applicator head comprises: a base at a proximal end; a spatula connected to the base and extending in the distal direction; and a notched portion between the base and the spatula,

[0016] in which the spatula comprises

[0017] a first distal face of the notched portion, the first face being concave and adapted to retain a quantity of cosmetic and a second face opposite the first face, the second face comprising a lower convex portion extending distally from the base and an upper flat portion extending distally from a distal end of the lower convex portion, in which The notched portion allows the spatula to bend preferentially along a transverse axis.

[0018] According to several features of the applicator of the invention: - the applicator has an unflexed configuration when no force is applied along the transverse axis and the notch comprises an upper notch surface and a lower notch surface, the lower notch surface being in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and, in the unflexed configuration, the upper notch surface is in a plane which intersects the lower notch surface at an oblique angle; - the applicator has a flexed configuration when a force is applied along the transverse axis and, in the flexed configuration, the upper notch surface comes into contact with the lower notch surface; - the spatula further comprises a flocked surface along at least a portion of a surface of the spatula.

[0019] The present invention also relates to an applicator for the application of a cosmetic, this applicator comprising: a rod having a longitudinal axis; and an applicator head connected to a distal end of the rod and extending in a distal direction, in which the applicator head comprises: a base at a proximal end; a spatula connected to the base and extending in the distal direction;and a notched portion between the base and the spatula, wherein the spatula comprises a first distal face of the notched portion extending towards a distal tip of the spatula, the first face being generally flat and a second face opposite the first face, the second face having a lower convex portion extending distally from the base, a concave portion extending distally from a distal end of the lower convex portion, and a upper convex portion extending distally from a distal end of the concave portion, wherein a distal end of the upper convex portion joins the first face at the level of the distal tip of the spatula, wherein the notched portion enables the spatula to flex preferentially along a transverse axis.

[0020] According to several features of the applicator of the invention: - the lower convex portion of the second face includes a bulbous area; - the spatula further includes a flocked surface along at least a portion of a surface of the spatula.

[0021] The present invention also relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic product, this applicator comprising: a rod having a longitudinal axis; and an applicator head connected to a distal end of the rod and extending in a distal direction, wherein the applicator head comprises:

[0022] a base at the level of a proximal end;

[0023] a spatula connected to the base and extending in the distal direction, wherein the spatula is globally planar; and two bulges connected to the base and bulges extending distally partially through the opposite faces of the spatula, wherein the spatula comprises a first peripheral edge including a first proximal end connected to the base and extending in the distal direction towards a distal end of the spatula; and a second peripheral edge including a second proximal end connected to the base and extending in the distal direction towards the distal end of the spatula, wherein the first and second peripheral edges form a point at the distal end of the spatula.

[0024] According to several features of the applicator of the invention: - the tip is offset from the longitudinal axis; - the bulges each comprise a proximal end of bulge connected to the base and a tip of bulge at a distal end of the bulge; - the distal tip of bulge of each bulge is offset from the longitudinal axis.

[0025] The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic packaging which can be easily configured to contain a cosmetic product and applicator.

[0026] The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic packaging comprising a cosmetic applicator with which a large quantity of a cosmetic product can be applied without having to dip the cosmetic applicator intermittently into the cosmetic container.

[0027] The present invention provides embodiments of an applicator which has a relatively large surface area, is very simple to use, economical to manufacture and aesthetically pleasing.

[0028] The present invention provides embodiments of cosmetic packaging comprising separable components that assemble securely to form a unit package.

[0029] The present invention provides embodiments of a cosmetic applicator that is comfortable and easy to use.

[0030] Therefore, cosmetic packaging is provided, comprising a receptacle and a cosmetic applicator. The receptacle is designed to contain a product comprising a cosmetic, skincare, or pharmaceutical product. The cosmetic, skincare, or pharmaceutical product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair coloring, blush, skin care products, under-eye concealers, pharmaceuticals, and similar products. In alternative embodiments, the receptacle may include a separate internal reservoir for holding a volume of the product to be dispensed.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the cosmetic packaging has an elongated cylindrical shape. In alternative embodiments, the cosmetic packaging may have a square, elongated polygonal, oval, triangular, heart-shaped, or any other shape known in the trade.

[0032] A scraper is provided inside the neck of the container for scraping excess cosmetic product from the cosmetic applicator. In one embodiment, the scraper includes an annular ridge on its external surface, which allows it to fit into a corresponding annular groove formed on an internal surface of the container neck. The scraper includes a scraping orifice sized to fit with the applicator.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the receptacle and the closure may be made of a rigid material such as glass, metal, a hard plastic, or any other material known in the trade. In alternative embodiments, the receptacle and the closure are made of a flexible material, for example, a flexible polymer material or any other material known in the trade.

[0034] In some embodiments, the cosmetic applicator comprises an applicator head, a stem, and a cap. The applicator head is held at a distal end of the stem for applying the cosmetic product, and the cap is held at a proximal end of the stem. In one embodiment, the cap of the cosmetic applicator has threads on its inner surface, which can be screwed onto threads formed on an outer surface of a neck of the receptacle. In alternative embodiments, the cap snaps onto the neck of the receptacle, or any other type of mechanism can be used to couple the cap to the receptacle.

[0035] The applicator head comprises an application element and a tail portion. The tail portion is designed to be housed inside the cavity of the stem. The application element comprises an elongated support body extending along a longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rod may have a longitudinal axis that is rectilinear. In alternative embodiments, the rod is curved.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rod has a circular cross-section. According to other embodiments, the cross-section of the rod has another shape, including oval, elliptical, or polygonal, for example, square, triangular, or rectangular. The rod may be solid, as shown, or alternatively, it may be hollow.

[0038] When the stem does not have a circular cross-section, the closure can be fixed to the receptacle by snap-fit ​​or by other means without rotation. report audit receptacle. According to these embodiments, the scraper may have a non-circular scraper orifice which is complementary to the cross-section of the rod.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head is made, at least in part, of a material that is more flexible than a material from which the stem is made.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head and the rod are assembled by snap-fitting. In alternative embodiments, the applicator head and the rod are assembled by friction, bonding, crimping, magnetic connection, and the like.

[0041] According to certain embodiments, the distal end of the rod includes an internal longitudinal cavity for housing and retaining the applicator head. The applicator head comprises said application element at its distal portion and a tail element at its proximal portion. The tail element is designed to be housed and retained within the internal longitudinal cavity of the rod.

[0042] Generally, the use of the terms "distal" and "proximal" in this document is assumed to mean that the distal side / end is the side / end that faces the inside of the storage receptacle, while the proximal side or proximal end is the side or end that faces the receptacle's retrieval opening.

[0043] According to a first embodiment of the invention, the application element comprises at least two application faces, a first application face and a second application face. The first application face has a concave surface extending from a proximal end of the application element to a distal end. The concave surface creates a volume reservoir. This volume reservoir serves as a reservoir for the cosmetic product. A significant amount of the cosmetic product can be contained in said volume reservoir, which is then available for application to the user's skin or to a keratinous substrate.

[0044] The second application face has a convex surface followed by an inclined flat surface. The convex surface is located at a proximal portion of the application element, and the inclined flat surface is located at a distal portion of the application element. More specifically, the convex surface extends from the proximal end to half the length of the application element. The inclined flat surface extends from half the length of the application element to a distal end of the application element. A pointed tip is formed at the distal end of the application element. The inclined flat surface allows for precise deposition of the cosmetic product when applying the cosmetic product to the skin. the user or on a keratinous substrate. For example, when the cosmetic product is applied to the edge of the user's lips, the tip can be used to form a perfect cupid's bow, that is, a facial feature whereby the double curve of the human upper lip is said to resemble the bow of Cupid, the Roman god of erotic love.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present embodiment, a hinge is formed between the proximal end of the application element and a distal end of the tail portion. The hinge reduces the cross-section of the application element and modifies the rigidity of the applicator head relative to the tail, which is attached to the shaft. The hinge is formed by the intersection of two intersecting planes, one of which is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator, or, in other words, one of the planes is parallel to a transverse axis of the cosmetic applicator. Furthermore, the hinge is present only on one side of the applicator head. More specifically, there is a single hinge in the applicator head, limited to a single area within a circumference of the applicator head between the tail portion and the application element.More specifically, the hinge is located on the side of the applicator head where the first application face of the application element is situated. In alternative embodiments, the hinge is located on the side of the applicator head where the second application face of the application element is situated. The location and dimensions of the hinge determine the stiffness of the applicator head with respect to forces applied to the first and / or second application face. For example, when the hinge is located on the side where the first application face is situated, the stiffness will be reduced with respect to forces applied to the opposite second application face, in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hinge provides flexibility to the application element that rests against the tail portion of the applicator head when it is flexed. The flexibility provided by the hinge gives the user the feeling that the cosmetic applicator is very supple and resilient.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the application element flexes from a non-flexed state to a fully flexed state. In the fully flexed state, the application element flexes completely along a single axis, this single axis being a pivot axis of the hinge, while resisting flexing along all other axes. This orientation gives the user maximum flexibility and control of the cosmetic applicator.

[0048] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head comprises an application element and a tail portion. The application element comprises at least two application faces, a first application face and a second application face. The first application face is opposite the second application face. The first application face has a generally flat surface extending from a proximal to a distal end of the application element. The second application face has a first convex surface near a proximal portion, a concave surface in a central portion, and a second convex surface near a distal end of the application element. The second application surface, viewed from the outside, proximal to the distal end of the application element, comprises the first convex surface, followed by the concave surface, which is itself followed by the second convex surface.

[0049] According to one aspect of the second embodiment, the first convex surface of the second application face forms a bulbous portion on the second application face. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is a considerable decrease in the thickness of the application element after the bulbous portion of the application element. In other words, the thickness of the application element decreases from the proximal portion to the central portion of the application element.

[0050] According to one aspect of the present embodiment, the thickness of the proximal portion is at least twice the thickness of the central or distal portion of the application element. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a concave zone is created by the reduction in thickness between the proximal and distal ends of the application element. More particularly, the concave zone is formed between the proximal and central portions of the application element on the second application face. The concave zone creates a volume reservoir. This volume reservoir serves as a reservoir for the cosmetic product. A significant amount of the cosmetic product can be contained in said volume reservoir, which is then ready to be applied to the user's skin or to a keratinous substrate.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a hinge is formed in a manner similar to that explained for the first embodiment.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head may be made, at least in part, of a material that is more flexible than the material from which the stem is made. According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least part and, preferably, all of the applicator head may be manufactured by molding, for example by injection molding, using a material selected from thermoplastic materials; elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers; a thermoplastic polymer polyester such as HYTREL®; nitrile rubber; silicone rubber; ethylene-propylene terpolymer rubber (EPDM); styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS); styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS); the polyurethane (PU); ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA); polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polypropylene (PP) and similar materials.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the application element is covered with an application element which, in this case, is made of flocked fibers. In short, the flocking fibers, which may be made of a commonly used material, such as nylon, polyester, or any natural fiber, are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy adhesive, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish on the surface of the application element can be carried out using any known technique chosen appropriately, such as electrostatic flocking. The application element, before being flocked, is smooth over its entire surface. This means that the application element, before being flocked, has no surface texture, such as a wrinkled or matte finish, over its entire surface. In other words, the application element, before being flocked, is smooth and slippery.

[0054] Preferably, the flocking process takes place in an electrostatic field, which allows for the proper orientation of the fibers. Flocking onto the application element produces a layer that can retain a small amount of cosmetic product, suitable for one or two applications. In alternative embodiments, the application element may comprise injection-molded fibers, protrusions, or grooves capable of retaining the cosmetic product.

[0055] According to a third embodiment, a cosmetic applicator is provided that includes an application element comprising at least one rigid zone and at least one flexible zone on the application element. The at least one rigid zone provides resistance to bending during application and forms a suitable surface that allows the product to be rubbed in order to penetrate the user's skin. The at least one flexible zone of the application element flexes to adapt to the contour of the application surface during application, thus allowing for a smooth and even application of the product. The rigid zone is connected to the flexible zone and to a tail of the application element that connects the application element to the stem.The rigid zone increases the cross-section of the application element near the tail and modifies the rigidity of the application element, making the application element more rigid and allowing the user to apply greater force when applying substances, for example cosmetics, containing crushable beads.

[0056] According to one aspect of the present invention, cosmetic packaging is provided for the storage of a product of a liquid or viscous nature, with or without beads of additive. The cosmetic packaging includes a receptacle to hold the product and the cosmetic applicator.

[0057] According to one aspect of the present invention, the application element is elongated around a central longitudinal axis of the applicator head. Furthermore, the application element comprises a spatula element which is generally a planar structure in the form of a thin plate. The spatula element has two principal application faces opposite each other, a first face and a second face.

[0058] The application element further comprises two convex bulges, a first convex bulge and a second convex bulge extending in opposite directions from the first and second faces of the spatula element, respectively. Each of the first and second bulges extends along a longitudinal direction from a portion of the base of the application element to at least half a length of the first and second faces, respectively. The bulges modify the rigidity of the application element.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an external surface of the application element is covered with an application element which, in this case, is made of flocked fibers. In short, the flocking fibers, which can be made of any commonly used material such as nylon, polyester, or any natural fiber, are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy adhesive, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish on the external surface of the application element can be carried out using a suitable known technique such as electrostatic flocking. The application element can be flocked over virtually its entire visible surface. Alternatively, at least one and the second convex bulges of the application element can be flocked.In yet another variant, a portion of the spatula element, free from the first and second convex bulges, which is used to apply the composition, can be flocked.

[0060] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first and second convex bulges define the rigid area on the application element, which provides resistance to bending during application and forms a suitable surface that allows the product to be rubbed in so that it penetrates the user's skin. The portion of the spatula element that is free of the first and second convex bulges defines a flexible area that is sufficiently flexible to flex and adapt to the contour of the application surface, thus allowing for a smooth and even application of the product.

[0061] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the spatula element comprises two lateral edges, a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, which converge towards each other to form a pointed tip off-center at one end distal to the application element relative to the central longitudinal axis of the applicator head. The first and second lateral edges are curved outwards convexly, in which the curvature of the convex curve of the lateral edge is different from the curvature of the convex curve of the lateral edge.

[0062] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, each of the first and second convex bulges has a distal end that is off-center with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the applicator head.

[0063] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, each of the first convex bulge and the second convex bulge is spaced from the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge of the spatula element.

[0064] According to another aspect of the present invention, the off-center pointed end of the spatula element and the off-center distal ends of the convex bulges are located on sides / in opposite directions from the central longitudinal axis, viewed from the front or the rear of the application element.

[0065] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first and second convex bulges are asymmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of the application element. The first and second convex bulges may have identical shapes and dimensions and extend parallel to each other along their entire length. In alternative embodiments, the first and second convex bulges may not have identical shapes and dimensions and may extend in parallel directions.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the maximum thickness of each of the first and second convex bulges is approximately 100 to 200% greater than the thickness in the spatula element. Preferably, each of the first and second convex bulges has a thickness that varies along the longitudinal axis of the application element. Preferably, the thickness of the first and second convex bulges increases from its proximal end to a maximum approximately at mid-length and then decreases towards its distal end.

[0067] According to the present invention, the first and second convex bulges extend perpendicularly from the first and second faces of the spatula element, respectively, and each has a maximum thickness on average of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm, more particularly from approximately 1 mm to approximately 2 mm. Preferably, the spatula element has an average thickness of at least approximately 0.5 mm and more particularly not exceeding approximately 2 mm, more particularly in the range of approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 1 mm.

[0068] Preferably, the length of each of the first and second convex bulges represents approximately at least 60% of a total length of the spatula element but less than 90% of the length of the spatula element.

[0069] Preferably, the total length of each of the first and second convex bulges is greater than its width, for example several times the width of the convexity, i.e. more than 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 times its width.

[0070] Viewed from a proximal end towards the distal end of the application element, the width of the convex bulges initially increases, reaches a maximum, and then decreases. Viewed from a proximal end towards the distal end of the application element, the width of the spatula element initially increases, reaches a maximum, and then decreases.

[0071] The first and second convex bulges may have any geometric cross-section, and may have, for example, a rounded, rectangular, triangular, square or irregular cross-section.

[0072] According to another aspect of the present invention, the spatula element is sufficiently flexible to flex during application along the contours of the skin of a human face or lips so as to achieve even application of the cosmetic product. Furthermore, the pointed tip at the distal end allows the user to draw precise lines during application. According to another aspect of the present invention, the application element collects a generous amount of product near one base of the first and second convex bulges, thus reducing the need to re-dip the applicator when applying a cosmetic product.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least part and preferably all of the applicator head can be manufactured by molding, for example by injection molding using a suitable material. Such a material can be selected from thermoplastic materials; elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers; a thermoplastic polymer polyester such as HYTREL®; nitrile rubber; silicone rubber; ethylene-propylene terpolymer rubber (EPDM); styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS); styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS); polyurethane (PU); ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA); polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polypropylene (PP) and the like.

[0074] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. It should be interpreted as presenting a variety of options. A person skilled in the art may modify, combine, or replace elements of the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, a person skilled in the art may change or modify the described embodiments based on these specifications. Such changes or modifications also belong to the scope of the present invention, as will be seen in the following description.

[0075] It is understood that the foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention and that various modifications may be made by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, the shapes and / or dimensions of various components may differ from the shapes and sizes described herein. To give another example, the material used for various components may differ from those specifically mentioned herein.

[0076] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES: A more complete appreciation of the present invention and several of the advantages associated therewith will be obtained when it is better understood with reference to the following detailed description, considered in conjunction with the accompanying figures, which show: [Fig.1] a front view of a cosmetic packaging in the closed position according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Fig.2] a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic packaging from [Fig.1]. [Fig.3] a front view of an applicator head from the cosmetic packaging of [Fig.2], [Fig.4] a side view of the applicator head of [Fig.3]. [Fig.5A] an application element of the applicator head of [Fig.4] in an unflexed state. [Fig. 5B] a fully flexed state of the application element of [Fig. 5A]. [Fig. 6A] a front view of an applicator head according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Fig.6B] a side view of the applicator head of [Fig.6A]. [Fig.7] a cross-sectional view of a cosmetic packaging equipped with a cosmetic applicator according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Fig.8] a perspective view of an applicator head of the cosmetic applicator of [Fig.7]. [Fig.9] a front view of the applicator head of [Fig.8]. [Fig. 10] a rear view of the applicator head of [Fig. 8]. [Fig.1 1] a side view of the applicator head of the [Fig.8]. [Fig. 12] a perspective view of the applicator head of [Fig.8] with an application element of the applicator head with flocking.

[0077] DETAILED DESCRIPTION: As shown in the figures, similar reference numerals denote similar or corresponding features. Although representative embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above, it is understood that these are exemplary of the invention and do not These descriptions should not be considered limiting. Additions, deletions, substitutions, or other modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be considered limited by the foregoing description.

[0078] Throughout this specification, the terms "includes", "comprising" and the like are intended to mean, consistently, that a set of objects is not limited to the objects specifically mentioned.

[0079] Figure 1 shows a cosmetic package 1 in the closed position according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cosmetic package 1 of Figure 1. The cosmetic package 1 comprises a receptacle 200 and a cosmetic applicator 100. The receptacle 200 is designed to contain a product (not shown) comprising a cosmetic, skincare, or pharmaceutical product. The cosmetic, skincare, or pharmaceutical product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair coloring, blush, skincare products, under-eye cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and the like.

[0080] Generally, the use of the terms "distal" and "proximal" here is assumed to mean that the distal side / end is the side / end that faces the inside of the storage receptacle 200, while the proximal side or proximal end is the side or end that faces the retrieval opening of the receptacle 200.

[0081] According to one embodiment and as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cosmetic packaging 1 has an elongated cylindrical shape. However, in alternative embodiments, the cosmetic packaging 1 may have a square, polygonal, oval, triangular, heart-shaped, or any other shape known in the trade.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the receptacle 200 may be made of a rigid material such as glass, metal, a hard plastic, or any other material known in the trade. In alternative embodiments, the receptacle 200 is made of a flexible material such as a flexible polymer material or any other material known in the trade.

[0083] As shown in [Fig. 2], the cosmetic applicator 100 comprises an applicator head 10, a stem 20, and a cap 30. In one embodiment, the cap 30 of the cosmetic applicator 100 has threads 32 on its inner surface, which can be screwed onto threads 202 formed on an outer surface of a neck 204 of the receptacle 200. In alternative embodiments, the cap 30 snaps onto the neck 204 of the receptacle 200, or any other type of mechanism can be used to couple the cap 30 to the receptacle 200.

[0084] A scraper 206, for scraping excess cosmetic product from the cosmetic applicator 100, is inserted into the neck 204 of the receptacle 200. The scraper 206 also includes an annular bead 208 on its external surface for fitting into a corresponding annular groove 210, formed on an internal surface of the neck 204 of the receptacle 200.

[0085] The cosmetic applicator 100 includes the applicator head 10 held at a distal end 21 of the stem 20 for the application of the cosmetic product; and the cap 30 is held at a proximal end 23 of the stem 20. The distal end 21 of the stem 20 includes an internal longitudinal cavity 22 for housing and holding the applicator head 10.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head 10 and the rod 20 are assembled by snap-fitting. In alternative embodiments, the applicator head 10 and the rod 20 are assembled by friction, bonding, crimping, magnetic connection, and the like.

[0087] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rod 20 may have a longitudinal axis XX that is rectilinear, as shown. In alternative embodiments, the rod may be curved.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rod 20 has a circular cross-section, but it is not beyond the scope of the present invention for it to be otherwise, particularly when the cross-section of the rod 20 is oval, elliptical, or polygonal, for example, square, triangular, or rectangular. The rod 20 may be solid, as shown, or, alternatively, it may be hollow. When the rod 20 does not have a circular cross-section, the cap 30 may optionally be attached to the receptacle 200 by snap-fitting or other means, without rotation relative to said receptacle 200. The scraper 206 may thus have a scraper orifice with a non-circular cross-section that is complementary to the cross-section of the rod 20.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head 10 may be made, at least in part, of a material that is more flexible than a material from which the stem 20 is made. According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least part, and preferably all, of the applicator head 10 may be manufactured by molding, for example, by injection molding or other techniques known to those skilled in the art. The applicator head may be made of materials suitable for molding, including injection molding. The materials suitable for manufacturing the applicator head are left to the discretion of those skilled in the art and include thermoplastic materials; elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers; a thermoplastic polymer polyester such as HYTREL®; nitrile rubber; silicone rubber; and ethylene-propylene terpolymer rubber. (EPDM); styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS); styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS); polyurethane (PU); ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA); polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polypropylene (PP) and similar materials.

[0090] Figures 3 and 4 show, respectively, a front view and a side view of the applicator head 10. The applicator head 10 comprises an application element or spatula 105 and a tail portion 107. The tail portion 107 is designed to be housed inside the cavity 22 of the shaft 20 (see [Fig. 2]). A base 8a is distal to the tail 107.

[0091] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the application element 105 is covered with an application element which, in this case, is made of flocked fibers (not shown). In short, the flocking fibers, which can be made of any commonly used material, such as nylon, polyester, or any natural fiber, are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy adhesive, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish on the surface of the application element 105 can be carried out using a suitablely chosen known technique, such as electrostatic flocking. The application element 105, before being flocked, is smooth over its entire surface. This means that the application element 105, before being flocked, does not have any surface textures, such as a wrinkled or matte finish, over its entire surface. In other words, the application element 105, before being flocked, is smooth and slippery.

[0092] Preferably, the flocking process takes place in an electrostatic field that allows for proper fiber orientation. Flocking on the application element 105 produces a layer that can retain a small amount of cosmetic product sufficient for one or two applications. In alternative embodiments, the application element 105 comprises injection-molded fibers, protrusions, or grooves capable of retaining the cosmetic product.

[0093] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the application element 105 comprises an elongated support body 15 extending along a longitudinal axis XX of the cosmetic applicator 100 (see [Fig. 2]). The application element 105 comprises at least two application faces, a first application face 42 and a second application face 44.

[0094] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the first application face 42 comprises a concave surface 46, wherein the concave surface 46 extends from a proximal end 41 of the application element 105 to the distal end 43 of the application element 105. The concave surface 46 creates a volume reservoir. This volume reservoir serves as a reservoir for the cosmetic product. A significant quantity of the cosmetic product can be contained within it. volume reservoir, which is available for application on a user's skin or a keratinous substrate.

[0095] As shown in [Fig. 4], the second application face 44 comprises a convex surface 47 followed by an inclined flat surface 48. The convex surface 47 is located at a proximal portion of the application element 105, and the inclined flat surface 48 is located at a distal portion of the application element 105. More specifically, the convex surface 47 extends from the proximal end 41 to the mid-length of the application element 105. The inclined flat surface 48 extends from the mid-length of the application element 105 to a distal end 43 of the application element 105. A pointed end 50, as seen in [Fig. 3], is formed at the distal end 43 of the application element 105.

[0096] The inclined flat surface 48 allows for precise deposition of the cosmetic product when applying it to the user's skin or a keratinous substrate. For example, when the cosmetic product is applied to the edge of the user's lip, the applicator can be used to form a perfect Cupid's bow, that is, a facial feature where the double curve of a human upper lip is said to resemble the bow of Cupid, the Roman god of erotic love.

[0097] According to another aspect of the present embodiment, a hinge 45 is formed between the proximal end 41 of the application element 105 and a base 8a at the distal end 106 of the tail portion 107. The hinge 45 is formed by the intersection of two planes, P1 and P2; wherein one of the two planes is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis XX of the cosmetic applicator 100 or, in other words, one of the planes is parallel to a transverse axis YY of the cosmetic applicator 100 (see [Fig. 2]). Furthermore, the hinge 45 is present on only one side of the applicator head 10. More specifically, there is a single hinge 45 in the applicator head 10, limited to a single area in a circumference of the applicator head 10 between the tail portion 107 and the application element 105. More specifically, as shown in the [Fig.4] ; the hinge 45 is located on the side of the applicator head 10 where the first application face 42 of the application element 105 is located. In alternative embodiments, the hinge 45 is located on the side of the applicator head 10 where the second application face 44 of the application element 105 is located. The location and dimensions of the hinge 45 are selected so as to modify the rigidity of the applicator head with respect to the forces exerted when the applicator is used to apply a substance, for example when the applicator is used to apply a cosmetic to a person's skin.

[0098] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hinge 45 shall provide flexibility, that is to say, modify the rigidity of the application element 105 which bears against the tail portion 107 of the applicator head 10 when it is flexed. The flexibility provided by the hinge 45 shall give the user the impression that the cosmetic applicator 100 is very supple and resilient.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the application element 105 flexes from an unflexed state to a fully flexed state. Figure 5A shows the application element 105 in an unflexed state. Figure 5B shows the fully flexed state of the application element 105. In the fully flexed state, the application element 105 flexes completely along a single axis, this single axis being a pivot axis of the hinge 45, while resisting flexing along the other axes. This orientation gives the user a feeling of flexibility and control over the cosmetic applicator 100.

[0100] Figures 6A and 6B respectively show a front view and a side view of an applicator head 201 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The applicator head 201 comprises an application element or spatula 205 and a tail portion 207. The application element 205 comprises at least two application faces, a first application face 242 and a second application face 244.

[0101] The first application face 242 is opposite the second application face 244. The first application face 242 has a generally flat surface 246 which extends from a proximal end 241 to a distal end 243 of the application element 205.

[0102] The second application face 244 has a first convex surface 248 near the proximal end 241, a concave surface 247 at a central portion 253 and a second convex surface 249 near the distal end 243 of the application element 205. The second application face 244, viewed from the proximal end 241 towards the distal end 243 of the application element 205, comprises the first convex surface 248 which is followed by the concave surface 247, which is itself followed by the second convex surface 249.

[0103] According to one aspect of the second embodiment, the first convex surface 248 of the second application face 244 forms a bulbous portion 254 on the second application face 244.

[0104] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is a significant decrease / increase in the thickness of the application element 205 after the bulbous portion 254 of the application element 205. In other words, the thickness of the application element decreases from the proximal end 241 towards the central portion 253 of the application element 205. According to one aspect of the present embodiment, a The thickness of the proximal end 241 represents at least twice the thickness of the central portion 253 or the distal end 243 of the application element 205.

[0105] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a concave zone 253 is created due to the reduced thickness between the proximal end 241 and the distal end 243 of the application element 205. More particularly, the concave zone 253 is formed between the proximal end 241 and the central zone 253 of the application element 205 on the second application face 244. The concave zone 253 creates a volume reservoir. This volume reservoir serves as a reservoir for the cosmetic product. A significant quantity of the cosmetic product can be contained in said volume reservoir, which is thus ready to be applied to the user's skin or to a keratinous substrate.

[0106] Furthermore, as shown in [Fig. 6B], a hinge 245 is formed between the proximal end 241 of the application element 205 and a distal end 206 of the tail portion 207. The hinge 245 is formed by the intersection of two planes PI, P2, in which one of the two planes PI, P2 is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis XX of a cosmetic applicator 200 or, in other words, one of the two planes PI, P2 is parallel to a transverse axis of the cosmetic applicator 201. As seen in [Fig. 6B], P2 is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis XX of the application element 205.

[0107] Furthermore, the hinge 245 is present only on one side of the applicator head 201. More specifically, there is only one hinge 245 in the applicator head 201, limited to a single area within a circumference of the applicator head 201 between the tail portion 207 and the application element 205. More specifically, as shown in [Fig. 6B], the hinge 245 in the applicator head 201 is close to the first application face 242 of the application element 205. This location of the hinge reduces the rigidity of the application element 205 when a force is exerted on the second application face 244 in the direction of the longitudinal axis. In alternative embodiments, the hinge 245 in the applicator head 201 is close to the second application face 244 of the application element 205.

[0108] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hinge 45, 245 shall impart flexibility to the application element 105, 205 against the tail portion 107, 207 of the applicator head 10, 20. The flexibility imparted by the hinge 45, 245 shall give the user the feeling that the application element 205 is very flexible and resilient.

[0109] Figure 7 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a cosmetic packaging 1. The cosmetic packaging 1 is similar to that shown in Figure 1. The packaging 1 includes a receptacle 200 for holding a product (not shown). and a cosmetic applicator 100. The cosmetic applicator 100 comprises an applicator head 10, a shaft 20, and a cap 30. The cap 30 of the cosmetic applicator 100 has threads 32 that can be screwed onto threads 202 formed on a collar 204 of the receptacle 200. The applicator head 10 is held at a distal end of the shaft 20 for product application; and the cap is held at a proximal end of the shaft 20.

[0110] Furthermore, the distal end of the shaft 20 includes an internal longitudinal cavity 22 for housing and retaining the applicator head 10. A scraper 206, for scraping excess product from the applicator 100, is inserted into the neck 204 of the receptacle 200. In addition, the applicator head 10 of the cosmetic applicator 100 can be used to apply the product, including a cosmetic or skincare product. The cosmetic or skincare product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair coloring, skin care products, under-eye concealers, pharmaceuticals, and the like.

[0111] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the applicator head 10 comprises an application element 8 at its distal portion and a tail element 7 at its proximal portion. The tail element 7 is designed to be housed and retained within the cavity 22 of the shaft 20. According to an exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11, the application element 8 is elongated along a central longitudinal axis X of the applicator head 10.

[0112] As can be seen in Figures 7 and 9, the application element 8 has a longitudinal axis X which is aligned with a longitudinal axis Y of the rod 22. The application element 8 is elongated, that is to say, its extension in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X is greater than its greatest extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. More particularly, and preferably, this means that the greatest extension of the application element 8 in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X is at least 1.5 times greater, and preferably at least 2 times greater, than the greatest extension of the application element 8 in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0113] According to Figures 7 to 11, the application element 8 comprises a spatula element 6 which is overall a planar plate-type structure. The spatula element 6 has two principal application faces opposite each other, a first face 6a and a second face 6b. The application element 8 further comprises two convex bulges, a first convex bulge 5a and a second convex bulge 5b extending in opposite directions from the first face 6a and the second face 6b of the spatula element 6, respectively.

[0114] Each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b extends along a longitudinal direction from a portion of the base 8a of the application element 8 to at least half a length of the respective faces 6a, 6b.

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an external surface of the application element 8 is covered with an application element which, in this case, is made of flocked fibers, as shown in [Fig. 12]. In short, the flocking fibers, which can be made of any commonly used material, such as nylon, polyester, or any other natural fiber, are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy adhesive, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish on the external surface of the application element 8 can be carried out using a suitable known technique, such as electrostatic flocking. The application element 8 can be flocked over virtually its entire visible surface. Alternatively, at least one of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b of the application element 8 can be flocked.In another variant, a portion 4 of the spatula element 6, free from the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b, which is used to apply the composition, can be flocked.

[0116] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b define a rigid zone on the application element 8, which provides resistance to bending during application and forms a suitable surface that allows the product to be rubbed in so that it penetrates the user's skin. This means that the bulges 5a, 5b increase the cross-section of the application element 8 near the tail, thus modifying the rigidity, so that the rigidity of the application element 8 is increased. The portion 4 of the spatula element 6, which is free of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b, defines a flexible zone that is flexible enough to flex along the contour of the application surface, thus allowing for a smooth and even application of the product.

[0117] According to figures 9 and 10, the spatula element 6 comprises two lateral edges, a first lateral edge 9a and a second lateral edge 9b, which converge towards each other to form a pointed end 9c, at a distal end of the application element 8, off-center with respect to the central longitudinal axis X of the applicator head 10. The first and second lateral edges 9a, 9b are curved outwards in a convex manner, wherein the curvature of the convex curve of the lateral edge 9a is different from the curvature of the convex curve of the lateral edge 9b.

[0118] As can be seen in figures 9 and 10, each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b has a distal end 5c, offset from the central longitudinal axis X of the applicator head 10. Each of the first convex bulge 5a and the second convex bulge 5b is spaced from the first lateral edge 9a and the second lateral edge 9b of the spatula element 6.

[0119] According to another aspect of the present invention, the off-center pointed end 9e of the spatula element 6 and the off-center distal ends 5c of the convex bulges 5a, 5b are located on sides / in opposite directions of the central longitudinal axis X, viewed from the front or rear of the application element 8, as shown in Figures 9 and 10.

[0120] According to one aspect of the present invention, each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b is symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the application element 8. In an exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11, the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b have identical shapes and dimensions and extend parallel to each other along their entire length. However, in alternative embodiments, the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b may not have identical shapes and dimensions and may not extend in parallel directions.

[0121] According to [Fig. 1 1], a maximum thickness Tz of each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b is approximately 100 to 200% greater than a thickness in the spatula element 6. Preferably, each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b has a thickness that varies along the longitudinal axis X. Preferably, the thickness of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b increases from its proximal end to reach a maximum approximately at mid-length and then decreases towards its distal end.

[0122] According to the present embodiment, the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b extend perpendicularly from the first face 6a and the second face 6b, respectively, and each has a maximum thickness on average of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm, more particularly of approximately 1 mm to approximately 2 mm. Preferably, the spatula element 6 has an average thickness of at least approximately 0.5 mm and more particularly not exceeding approximately 2 mm, more particularly in the range of approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 1 mm.

[0123] A length L1 of each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b represents at least about 60% of a total length L2 of the spatula element 6 but less than 90% of the length of the spatula element 6, see [Fig. 9]. Preferably, the total length L1 of each of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b is greater than its width W, for example several times greater than the width of the convexity, i.e. more than 3, 3, 4, 5 or 6 times its width.

[0124] View from a proximal end towards the distal end of the application element 8, the width of the convex bulges increases first, reaches a maximum, then decreases.

[0125] View from a distal end towards the proximal end of the application element 8, the width of the spatula element 6 increases first, reaches a maximum, then decreases.

[0126] The first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b may have any geometric cross-section and may have, for example, a rounded, rectangular, triangular, square or irregular cross-section.

[0127] The spatula element 6 is flexible enough to flex during application along the contours of the human face or lips to achieve even application of the cosmetic product. Furthermore, the pointed tip 9c at the distal end allows the user to draw precise lines during application. The applicator element 8 collects a generous amount of product near a base 3 (see [Fig. 8]) of the first and second convex bulges 5a, 5b to reduce the need to intermittently re-dip the applicator during product application.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the container 10 and the cap 30 may be made of a rigid material such as glass, metal, a hard plastic, or any other material known in the trade. However, in alternative embodiments, the container 10 and the cap 30 may be made of a flexible material such as a flexible polymer material or any other material known in the trade.

[0129] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least part and preferably all of the applicator head 10 can be manufactured by molding, for example by injection molding. The applicator head can be made of suitable materials known to those skilled in the art, including thermoplastic materials; elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers; thermoplastic polyester elastomer such as HYTREL®, for example; nitrile rubber; silicone rubber; ethylene-propylene terpolymer rubber (EPDM); styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS); styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS); polyurethane (PU); ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA); polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polypropylene (PP) and the like.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rod 20 has a circular cross-section, but it is not beyond the scope of the present invention for it to be otherwise, particularly when the cross-section of the rod 20 is oval, elliptical, or polygonal, for example, square, triangular, or rectangular. The rod 20 may be solid, as shown, or, alternatively, it may be hollow.

[0131] When the rod 20 does not have a circular cross-section, the cap 30 can optionally be fixed to the receptacle 200 by snap-fitting or by other means, without rotation relative to said receptacle 200. The scraper 206 can thus have a scraper orifice of non-circular cross-section which is complementary to the cross-section of the rod 20.

[0132] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head 10 can be made, at least in part, of a material that is more flexible than a material from which the rod 20 is made.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the receptacle 200 and the cap 30 may be made of a rigid material such as glass, metal, a hard plastic, or any other material known in the trade. However, in alternative embodiments, the receptacle 200 and the cap 30 may be made of a flexible material such as a flexible polymer material or any other material known in the trade.

[0134] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the applicator head 10 and the rod 20 are assembled by snap-fitting. In alternative embodiments, the applicator head 10 and the rod 20 are assembled by friction, bonding, crimping, magnetic connection, and the like.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rod 20 may have a longitudinal axis XX that is rectilinear, as shown. In alternative embodiments, the rod may be curved.

[0136] It is understood that the foregoing illustrates only the principles of the invention and that various modifications may be made by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, the shapes and / or dimensions of various components may differ from the shapes and dimensions shown in this document. To give another example, the materials used for various components may differ from those specifically mentioned in this document.

Claims

Demands

1. Applicator (100) for the application of a cosmetic, said applicator comprising: a shaft (20) having a longitudinal axis; and an applicator head (10) connected to a distal end of the shaft and extending in a distal direction, in which the applicator head comprises: a base (8a) at a proximal end; a spatula (6) connected to the base and extending in the distal direction, in which the spatula is generally planar; and two bulges (5a, 5b) connected to the base and the bulges extending distally partially through opposite faces of the spatula, in which the spatula comprises a first peripheral edge (9a) comprising a first proximal end connected to the base and extending in the distal direction towards a distal end of the spatula;and a second peripheral edge (9b) comprising a second proximal end connected to the base and extending in the distal direction towards the distal end of the spatula, in which the first and second peripheral edges form a point (9e) at the distal end of the spatula.;

2. Applicator according to claim 1, wherein the tip (9e) is offset from the longitudinal axis in a first direction.

3. Applicator according to claim 2, wherein the bulges (5a, 5b) each comprise a proximal end of bulge connected to the base (8a) and a tip of bulge (5c) to a distal end of bulge.

4. Applicator according to claim 3, wherein the distal tip of the bulge (5c) of each bulge is offset from the longitudinal axis in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

5. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spatula (6) and the two bulges (5a, 5b) comprise an application element (8) elongated in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction, wherein the extension of the application element (8) in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) is greater than its greatest extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X).

6. Applicator according to claim 5, wherein the extension of the application element (8) in the direction parallel to the axis longitudinal (X) is preferably greater by a factor of at least 1.5, even more preferably is greater by a factor of at least 2 than the greatest extension in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X).

7. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each of the bulges (5a, 5b) has a thickness which varies along the longitudinal axis (X) and wherein a maximum thickness of each of the bulges (5a, 5b) is about 100% to 200% greater than a thickness of the spatula (6).

8. Applicator according to claim 7, wherein the spatula (6) has an average thickness of at least about 0.5 mm and less than about 2 mm

9. Applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the length (L1) of the bulges (5a, 5b) in the longitudinal direction is about at least 60% of a total length (L2) of the spatula (6) and less than 90% of the length of the spatula.

10. Applicator according to claim 9, wherein the length (Ll) of the bulges (5a, 5b) is greater than a width (W) of the bulges (5a, 5b) by a factor greater than 2.

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