Cosmetic method using microneedle sheet

Abstract

To provide a cosmetic method for bringing about a perpetual and uniform coloring effect on a keratin material of the skin, the lip, etc.SOLUTION: A cosmetic method for a keratin material of the skin, the lip, or the like includes: a process for applying at least one kind of composition including at least one kind of coloring agent onto a keratin material; and a process for applying a microneedle sheet having a base material sheet and a plurality of microneedles on the base material sheet onto the keratin material onto which the composition is applied, and causing the microneedles to penetrate into the keratin material. The microneedles penetrating into the keratin material can bring about a perpetual and uniform coloring effect on the keratin material.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the use of a microneedle sheet comprising a plurality of microneedles for the cosmetic treatment of keratinous materials such as the skin and lips. [Background technology]

[0002] Topical application of colorants, such as dyes or pigments, on the skin by applying a formulation containing the colorant is well known. For example, the surface of the skin or lips is often colored or stained with makeup products, such as foundations and lipsticks. These makeup products are widely used to color or stain the skin, especially the skin of the face, and the lips.

[0003] However, the coloring or dyeing of makeup cosmetics is temporary and is easily removed from the skin and lips by, for example, sebum, sweat and rain. Therefore, users of makeup cosmetics need to color their skin and / or lips every day. Therefore, there is a need to provide a permanent coloring effect.

[0004] One of the possible options for achieving a lasting coloring effect is to deliver coloring agent inside the skin or lips.However, topical application of a formulation containing coloring agent cannot bring about sufficient penetration of coloring agent into the skin or lips.The thin layer of stratum corneum of the skin or lips is the main barrier for substances to penetrate into the skin or lips.Therefore, the most important point for delivering coloring agent inside the skin or lips is to pass through the stratum corneum.In addition, the uniform distribution of coloring agent inside the skin or lips is also important. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] EP-A-542669 [Patent Document 2] EP-A-787730 [Patent Document 3] EP-A-787731 [Patent Document 4] WO-A- 96 / 08537 [Patent Document 5] WO95 / 15144 [Patent Document 6] WO95 / 01772 [Patent Document 7] EP714954 [Patent Document 8] French Patent No. 2189006 [Patent Document 9] French Patent No. 2285851 [Patent Document 10] French Patent No. 2140205 [Patent Document 11] EP1378544 [Patent Document 12] EP1674073 [Patent Document 13] French Patent No. 2830189 [Patent Document 14] U.S. Patent No. 6,219,574 [Patent Document 15] Canadian Patent Application No. 2226718 [Patent Document 16] U.S. Patent No. 6,652,478 [Patent Document 17] WO2011 / 115602 [Non-patent literature]

[0006] [Non-Patent Document 1] Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, published 2004, 7th edition, "Fluorescent Dyes" chapter [Non-Patent Document 2] Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry (2002), "Optical Brighteners" [Non-Patent Document 3] Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1995): "Fluorescent Whitening Agents" Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic method capable of producing a long-lasting and uniform coloring effect on keratinous materials such as the skin and lips. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic method for keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, comprising: applying at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent onto a keratinous material; applying a base sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the base sheet onto the keratinous material to which the composition has been applied, so that the microneedles penetrate into the keratinous material; This can be achieved by a method comprising:

[0009] The microneedles may have a height of 10 to 500 microns, preferably 30 to 300 microns, more preferably 50 to 150 microns.

[0010] The microneedles may be in the shape of a pyramid.

[0011] The bottom surface of the microneedle may have a width of 10 to 500 microns, preferably 10 to 300 microns, and more preferably 10 to 100 microns.

[0012] The ratio of (height of pyramid) / (width of base of pyramid) of the microneedle may be 1 or more, preferably 1.5 or more, and more preferably 2.0 or more.

[0013] The microneedles may be made from an inorganic material, preferably a metal or non-metal, more preferably silicon.

[0014] The microneedles may be capable of repeatedly penetrating into the keratinous material, which may be based on vibration or beating of the microneedle sheet.

[0015] The colorant may be selected from dyes, pigments, and mixtures thereof.

[0016] The amount of the colorant may be from 0.001% to 20% by mass, preferably from 0.01% to 15% by mass, and more preferably from 0.1% to 10% by mass, relative to the total mass of the composition.

[0017] The microneedle sheet may be applied onto the keratinous material without the step of drying the composition on the keratinous material.

[0018] The present invention also provides A base sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the base sheet; a device for applying the microneedle sheet onto a keratinous material to allow the microneedles to penetrate into the keratinous material; A composition comprising at least one colorant; The present invention relates to a kit for coloring keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, comprising:

[0019] The device in the kit may be capable of repeatedly applying the microneedle sheet.

[0020] The device in the kit may include at least one element capable of vibrating or beating the microneedle sheet.

[0021] The present invention also relates to the use of at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent in combination with a substrate sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the substrate sheet, for imparting a durable and uniform color to keratinous materials such as the skin or lips. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device preferably used in the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 shows an example of how the present invention can be used on the lips. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 shows an example of how the present invention can be used around the eyes. [Figure 4] Photographs of the skin surface used in Example 1 and the control. [Diagram 5] Photographs of cross sections of skin used in Example 2 and controls. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] As a result of intensive research, the present inventors have discovered that it is possible to provide a cosmetic method capable of providing a long-lasting and uniform coloring effect to keratinous materials such as the skin and lips.

[0024] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is a cosmetic method for keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, comprising: applying at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent onto a keratinous material; applying a base sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the base sheet onto the keratinous material to which the composition has been applied, so that the microneedles penetrate into the keratinous material; The method includes:

[0025] According to the present invention, the microneedles are capable of penetrating into the keratinous material to provide a durable and uniform color effect to the keratinous material.

[0026] Specifically, the microneedle can puncture the surface of the skin or lips to create a fine hole or passage through which the coloring agent can enter the skin or lips. Therefore, the coloring agent can penetrate into the skin or lips through the fine hole or passage, so that the coloring agent can enter the stratum corneum and / or the coloring agent can reach the bottom of the stratum corneum. Furthermore, the coloring agent can pass through the stratum corneum and reach any one of the lower layers of the epidermis, such as the stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum and stratum basalis. Therefore, the coloring agent can remain in the skin or lips for a long time. This can provide a permanent coloring effect.

[0027] Furthermore, the coloring agent that penetrates the stratum corneum can diffuse relatively easily onto or within the epidermis and be uniformly distributed within the skin or lips, which can therefore provide a uniform coloring effect.

[0028] Since microneedles do not cause any pain, the cosmetic method according to the present invention can provide a cosmetic treatment without pain.

[0029] In addition, the cosmetic method according to the present invention can be carried out in a relatively short time.

[0030] Therefore, the present invention is advantageous for cosmetic or non-therapeutic treatments.

[0031] Hereinafter, the cosmetic method, kit, etc. according to the present invention will be described in detail.

[0032] [Beauty method] The cosmetic method according to the invention for keratinous materials such as the skin and lips comprises: applying at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent onto a keratinous material; applying a substrate sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the substrate sheet onto the keratinous material to allow the microneedles to penetrate into the keratinous material; Includes.

[0033] The step of applying at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent onto the keratinous materials can be carried out by using any applicator, such as a brush.

[0034] For good contact of the composition with the keratinous material and good coloring on the desired areas of the keratinous material, it may be preferred that the composition containing at least one coloring agent is applied onto the keratinous material in combination with at least one porous sheet, such as a woven or nonwoven fabric.

[0035] The porous sheet can absorb and retain the composition including at least one coloring agent. Therefore, applying the porous sheet can facilitate the composition to contact well with the keratinous material, which can contribute to good coloring of the keratinous material.

[0036] The above combination type is not limited. Therefore, the porous sheet can be applied onto the keratinous material before the composition is applied onto the keratinous material. Alternatively, the porous sheet can be applied onto the keratinous material after the composition is applied onto the keratinous material.

[0037] The step of applying the microneedle sheet onto the keratinous material is preferably carried out for the desired area on the keratinous material. For example, it is preferable that the application site of the microneedle sheet can be moved on the surface of the keratinous material, provided that the microneedles can penetrate into the desired area on the keratinous material.

[0038] It is preferred that the microneedle sheet can be applied onto the keratinous material without a step of drying the composition on the keratinous material, in other words, it is preferred that the microneedle sheet is applied onto the keratinous material such that the microneedles penetrate into the keratinous material before the composition dries or while the keratinous material is wet.

[0039] The cosmetic method according to the present invention may further comprise the step of removing the microneedles from the surface of the keratin material.

[0040] After the step of removing the microneedles from the surface of the keratinous material, the composition comprising at least one coloring agent may be removed from the surface of the keratinous material.

[0041] It is preferable that the cosmetic method according to the present invention further comprises a step of maintaining or leaving a composition comprising at least one coloring agent on the keratinous substance after the step of removing the microneedles from the surface of the keratinous substance and before the step of removing the composition from the surface of the keratinous substance, because the composition can effectively penetrate into the keratinous substance through the holes formed by the microneedles on and in the keratinous substance.

[0042] The cosmetic method according to the invention may be intended for the cosmetic treatment of keratinous materials such as the skin or lips, preferably the skin, more preferably the facial skin.

[0043] The cosmetic method according to the invention can be used to improve the aesthetic appearance of keratinous materials, for example by colouring the keratinous materials.

[0044] The cosmetic method according to the invention can provide a long-lasting and uniform color effect on keratinous materials, so that, for example, the makeup effect provided by the cosmetic method according to the invention can be maintained for a long time, even on a face that is, for example, covered with oil, sweat and rain.

[0045] However, the cosmetic method according to the invention does not correspond to a skin tattoo, which is a semi-permanent coloring, because a skin tattoo is painful. Furthermore, the cosmetic method according to the invention colors the superficial layers of keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, and therefore the color imparted by the cosmetic method according to the invention can last for example only for a few weeks, which does not correspond to a semi-permanent coloring.

[0046] Hereinafter, the composition, microneedle sheet, etc. used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention, and examples of how to carry out the cosmetic method according to the present invention will be described in detail.

[0047] {composition} The composition used for the cosmetic method according to the invention comprises at least one colorant.

[0048] The composition may be used as a pre-treatment composition for keratinous materials.

[0049] (Coloring agent) For purposes of the present invention, "colorant" includes any synthetic or natural, organic or inorganic, pigment, dye or lake, as well as any other colorant approved by the CTFA and FDA.

[0050] In one embodiment, the colorant may be selected from dyes, pigments, and mixtures thereof.

[0051] In the present invention, the colorant may be water-soluble or water-dispersible, or oil-soluble or oil-dispersible, or only marginally soluble in water.

[0052] In one embodiment, the colorant may be selected from color pigments.

[0053] The term "color pigment" should be understood to mean particles of any shape, white or colored, inorganic or organic, that are insoluble and intended to color or stain the skin or lips.

[0054] The pigments can be white or colored, inorganic and / or organic.

[0055] Among the inorganic pigments that may be used, mention may be made, but is not limited to, titanium dioxide, zirconium oxide or cerium oxide, optionally surface-treated, as well as zinc oxide, iron oxide or chromium oxide (black, yellow or red), manganese violet, ultramarine blue, chromium hydrate and ferric blue, or metal powders, such as aluminum powder or copper powder. The pigments may also be chosen from nanopigments formed from metal oxides, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, iron oxide, zirconium oxide and cerium oxide, and mixtures thereof. The term "nanopigments" is understood to mean pigments having an average particle size in the range of 1 nm to 500 nm, for example a particle size in the range of 10 nm to 100 nm.

[0056] Among the organic pigments that can be used, mention may be made, but is not limited to, carbon black, D&C type pigments, and lakes, such as cochineal carmine-based lakes, and barium, strontium, calcium, or aluminum-based lakes.For example, Red 33 (disodium 5-amino-4-hydroxy-3-(phenylazo)-naphthalene-2,7-disulfonate) and Red 202 (calcium bis[2-(3-carboxy-2-hydroxynephthylazo)-5-methylbenzenesulfonate]) can be used as D&C type pigments.

[0057] The organic pigment may also be a diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) pigment such as those described in EP-A-542669, EP-A-787730, EP-A-787731 and WO-A-96 / 08537.

[0058] The organic pigments may be selected from biological pigments such as BioChromaDerm® or BioChromaEyes® available from Biotic Phocea, France.

[0059] Preferably, the color pigments may be selected from metal oxides such as titanium dioxide, zirconium oxide, cerium oxide, zinc oxide, iron oxide and chromium oxide, manganese violet, Prussian blue, ultramarine blue, chromium hydrate, ferric blue, aluminum powder, copper powder, carbon black, D&C type pigments, lakes, pearlescent pigments, and mixtures thereof.

[0060] The term "pearlescent pigment" should be understood to mean iridescent particles of any shape, such as particles, produced in the shells of certain mollusks, or otherwise synthesized.

[0061] The pearlescent agents may be selected from white pearlescent agents, such as mica coated with titanium dioxide or with bismuth oxychloride; colored pearlescent agents, such as titanium dioxide coated mica coated with iron oxide, titanium dioxide coated mica coated with ferric blue or chromium oxide, or titanium dioxide coated mica coated with organic pigments of the types mentioned above; as well as bismuth oxychloride based pearlescent agents.

[0062] In one embodiment, the microneedles can contain particles that modify the path of light, such as high refractive index particles, interference particles, reflective particles and light absorbing particles, in particular non-transparent particles or color pigments that block reflections. Such particles can allow coloring or dermal pigmentation of the skin or lips, depending on the optical properties of the particles.

[0063] In another embodiment, the colorant may be selected from dyes. The dyes may be selected from natural direct dyes and synthetic direct dyes.

[0064] Direct dyes refer to coloring substances that do not require the use of an oxidizing agent to develop their color.

[0065] In one embodiment, the colorants may be selected from natural direct dyes.

[0066] The expression "natural direct dyes" is understood to mean any dye or dye precursor that occurs in nature and is produced by extraction, optionally purified, from plant matrices or from animals such as insects, optionally in the presence of natural compounds such as ash or ammonia.

[0067] Natural direct dyes include quinone dyes (e.g., lawsone and juglone), alizarin, purpurin, laccaic acid, carminic acid, kermesic acid, purpurogallin, protocatechualdehyde, indigoids such as indigo, sorghum, isatin, betanin, curcuminoids (e.g., curcumin), spinulosin, various types of chlorophyll and chlorophyllin, hematoxylin, hematein, brazilian, brazilian, safflower dyes (e.g., carthamin), flavonoids (e.g., rutin, quercetin, catechin, epicatechin, morin, apigenidin, and sandalwood), anthocyans (e.g., apigeninidin and apigenin), carotenoids, tannins, orcein, santalin, and cochineal carmine.

[0068] It is also possible to use extracts or decoctions containing natural direct dyes, in particular henna-based extracts, turmeric (curcuma longa) extracts, sorghum leaf sheath extracts, haematoxylon campechianum extracts, green tea extracts, pine bark extracts, cocoa extracts and logwood extracts.

[0069] Preferably, the natural direct dye is selected from the group consisting of curcuminoids, santalin, chlorophyllin, hematoxylin, hematein, brazilein, brazilian, sorghum, laccaic acid, lawsone, juglone, alizarin, purpurin, carminic acid, kermesic acid, purpurogallin, protocatechualdehyde, indigoids, isatin, spinulosin, apigenin, orcein, betanin, flavonoids, anthocyans, and extracts or decoctions containing these compounds.

[0070] Alternatively, the natural direct dyes may preferably be selected from, for example, hydroxylated quinones, indigoids, hydroxyflavones, santalin A and B, isatin and its derivatives, and brazilin and its hydroxylated derivatives.

[0071] The hydroxylated quinones are preferably benzoquinones, naphthoquinones, and mono- or polyhydroxylated anthraquinones, which are optionally substituted with groups such as alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, chloro, phenyl, hydroxyalkyl, and carboxyl.

[0072] The naphthoquinone is preferably lawsone, juglone, flaviolin, naphthazarin, naphthopurpurin, lapachol, plumbagin, chloroplumbagin, droserone, shikonin, 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone, 3,5-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, 2,5-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, 2-methoxy-5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, or 3-methoxy-5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone.

[0073] The benzoquinones are preferably spinulosin, atromentin, aurentiogliocladin, 2,5-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoquinone, 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-6-methoxybenzoquinone, 2,5-dihydroxy-3,6-diphenylbenzoquinone, 2,3-dimethyl-5-hydroxy-6-methoxybenzoquinone and 2,5-dihydroxy-6-isopropylbenzoquinone.

[0074] The anthraquinones are preferably alizarin, quinizarin, purpurin, carminic acid, chrysophanol, kermesic acid, rhein, aloe-emodin, pseudopurpurin, quinizarin carboxylic acid, frangula-emodin, 2-methylquinizarin, 1-hydroxyanthraquinone and 2-hydroxyanthraquinone.

[0075] The indigoids are preferably indigo, indirubin, isoindigo and Tyrian purple.

[0076] The hydroxyflavones are preferably quercetin and morin.

[0077] In another embodiment, the colorant may be selected from synthetic direct dyes.

[0078] The expression "synthetic direct dye" is understood to mean any dye or dye precursor produced by chemical synthesis.

[0079] The direct dyes may be selected from the group consisting of acid (anionic) direct dyes, basic (cationic) direct dyes, and neutral (non-ionic) direct dyes.

[0080] Non-limiting examples of synthetic dyes include (non-ionic) neutral, anionic (acidic), and cationic (basic) dyes, such as azo, methine, carbonyl, azine, nitro(hetero)aryl-type or tri(hetero)arylmethane direct dyes, porphyrins, and phthalocyanines, alone or in mixtures.

[0081] More particularly, the azo dye comprises an -N=N- functional group, the two nitrogen atoms of which are not simultaneously contained in a ring, although it is not excluded that one of the two nitrogen atoms of the -N=N- arrangement is contained in a ring.

[0082] Dyes of the methine family are more particularly compounds containing at least one sequence selected from >C=C< and -N=C<, where no two atoms of these sequences are simultaneously contained in a ring. It is provided, however, that one of the nitrogen or carbon atoms of these sequences may be contained in a ring. More particularly, dyes of this family result from the following types of compounds: pure methines (containing one or more of the above-mentioned -C=C-sequences), azomethines (containing at least one or more of the -C=N-sequences), such as azacarbocyanines and their isomers, diazacarbocyanines and their isomers, tetraazacarbocyanines, mono- and diarylmethanes, indoamines (or diphenylamines), indophenols, indoanilines.

[0083] As regards the carbonyl family of dyes, mention may be made, for example, of synthetic dyes selected from acridone, benzoquinone, anthraquinone, naphthoquinone, benzanthrone, anthranthrone, pyranthrone, pyrazolanthrone, pyrimidinoanthrone, flavanthrone, indanthrone, flavone, (iso)violanthrone, isoindolinone, benzimidazolone, isoquinolinone, anthrapyridone, pyrazoloquinazolone, perinone, quinacridone, quinophthalone, naphthalimide, anthrapyrimidine, diketopyrrolopyrrole or coumarin dyes.

[0084] As regards the dyes of the cyclic azine family, mention may in particular be made of azine, xanthene, thioxanthene, fluorindine, acridine, (di)oxazine, (di)thiazine or pyronine dyes.

[0085] The nitro(hetero)aromatic dyes are more particularly nitrobenzene or nitropyridine direct dyes.

[0086] For dyes of the porphyrin or phthalocyanine type, cationic or non-cationic compounds can be used, optionally containing one or more metals or metal ions, such as alkali and alkaline earth metals, zinc, silicon, and the like.

[0087] As examples of synthetic direct dyes which are particularly suitable, mention may be made of nitrobenzene dyes, azo, azomethine or methine direct dyes, azacarbocyanines, such as tetraazacarbocyanines (tetraazapentamethines), quinone, especially anthraquinone, naphthoquinone or benzoquinone direct dyes, or azine, xanthene, triarylmethane, indoamine, phthalocyanine and porphyrin direct dyes, either alone or in mixtures. Even more preferably, these synthetic direct dyes are selected from nitrobenzene dyes, azo, azomethine or methine direct dyes and tetraazacarbocyanines (tetraazapentamethines), either alone or in mixtures.

[0088] Among the azo, azomethine, methine or tetraazapentamethine direct dyes which may be used according to the invention, mention may be made of the cationic dyes described in patent applications WO 95 / 15144, WO 95 / 01772 and EP 714954, in French patents FR 2 189 006, FR 2 285 851, FR 2 140 205, EP 1 378 544 and EP 1 674 073.

[0089] Mention may therefore be made very particularly of the cationic direct dyes which correspond to the following formula:

[0090] [ka]

[0091] [In the formula, D represents a nitrogen atom or a -CH group; R1 and R2 are identical or different and represent a hydrogen atom; a C1-C4 alkyl group which may be substituted with -CN, -OH or -NH2 groups, or together with the carbon atom of the benzene ring may form an optionally oxygen- or nitrogen-containing heterocycle, which may be substituted with one or more C1-C4 alkyl groups, or a 4'-aminophenyl group; R3 and R'3 are the same or different and each represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom selected from chlorine, bromine, iodine and fluorine, a cyano group, a C1-C4 alkyl group, a C1-C4 alkoxy group, or an acetyloxy group; X - represents an anion preferably selected from chloride, methylsulfate and acetate, A represents a group selected from the following structures:

[0092] [ka]

[0093] (Wherein, R4 represents a C1-C4 alkyl group which may be substituted with a hydroxyl group;

[0094] [ka]

[0095] (In the formula, R5 represents a hydrogen atom, a C1-C4 alkoxy group, or a halogen atom such as bromine, chlorine, iodine, or fluorine; R6 represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-C4 alkyl group or, together with the carbon atoms of the benzene ring, forms a heterocycle optionally containing oxygen and / or optionally substituted with one or more C1-C4 alkyl groups; R7 represents a hydrogen atom or a halogen atom, such as bromine, chlorine, iodine or fluorine; D1 and D2 are the same or different and represent a nitrogen atom or a -CH group; m=0 or 1; X - represents a cosmetically acceptable anion, preferably selected from chloride, methylsulfate and acetate, E represents a group selected from the following structures:

[0096] [ka]

[0097] (In the formula, R' represents a C1 to C4 alkyl group, When m=0 and D1 represents a nitrogen atom, E can also represent a group having the following structure:

[0098] [ka]

[0099] (wherein R' represents a C1 to C4 alkyl group)))).

[0100] The synthetic direct dyes may be selected from fluorescent dyes. Two or more types of fluorescent dyes may be used in combination.

[0101] The use of some fluorescent dyes may make it possible to obtain colors on dark hair that are more visible than those produced by conventional hydrophilic or hydrophobic direct dyes. Moreover, these fluorescent dyes, when applied to dark hair, may also make it possible to lighten the hair without damaging it.

[0102] As used herein, the term "fluorescent dye" is understood to mean fluorescent compounds and optical brighteners. In at least one embodiment, the fluorescent dye is soluble in the skin or lips.

[0103] Fluorescent dyes are fluorescent compounds that can absorb visible light, for example at wavelengths in the range of 400-800 nm, and re-emit the light in the higher wavelength visible range.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the fluorescent dyes useful in the present invention re-emit orange fluorescence, for example exhibiting a maximum re-emission wavelength in the range of 500-700 nm.

[0105] Non-limiting examples of fluorescent dyes include compounds known in the art, such as those described in the chapter "Fluorescent Dyes" in Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, 7th Edition, 2004.

[0106] The optical brighteners of the present disclosure, also known as "brighteners" or "fluorescent brighteners" or "fluorescent brightening agents" or "FWA" or "fluorescent whitening agents" or "skin whitening agents" or "fluorescent whiteners", are colorless and transparent chemical compounds because they do not absorb visible light, but only ultraviolet light (wavelengths in the range of 200-400 nanometers) and convert the absorbed energy into fluorescence of higher wavelengths emitted in the visible part of the spectrum, generally blue and / or green, i.e., wavelengths in the range of 400-550 nanometers.

[0107] Optical brighteners are known in the art; for example, they are described in Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry (2002): "Optical Brighteners", and Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1995): "Fluorescent Whitening Agents".

[0108] Fluorescent dyes which may be used in the present invention include compounds known from the art, such as those described in French Patent No. 2 830 189.

[0109] Soluble fluorescent compounds that may be mentioned in particular are those belonging to the following families: naphthalimides, coumarins, xanthenes, in particular xanthenodiquinolizines and azaxanthenes; naphtholactams, azlactones, oxazines, thiazines, dioxazines, azo compounds, azomethines, methines, pyrazines, stilbenes, ketopyrroles and pyrenes.

[0110] When present, fluorescent dyes are preferred, and more particularly those that re-fluoresce orange.

[0111] In terms of ionic nature, the direct dyes can be selected from the group consisting of acid direct dyes, basic direct dyes and neutral direct dyes, which includes all possible types of direct dyes, such as the so-called nitro dyes and HC dyes. Acid direct dyes have an anionic moiety in their chemical structure. Basic direct dyes have a cationic moiety in their chemical structure. Neutral direct dyes are non-ionic.

[0112] In one preferred embodiment, the coloring agent may be selected from dyes, preferably natural direct dyes, more preferably colored plant extracts.

[0113] By coloured plant extract is meant herein a plant extract capable of being coloured, which may include, in addition to those described above for the natural direct dyes, carrot extract, gardenia fruit extract, saffron extract, orange extract and tomato extract.

[0114] In particular, the colorant may be chosen from the following compounds and mixtures thereof:

[0115] [Table 1A]

[0116] [Table 1B]

[0117] The amount of colorant in the microneedles of the microneedle sheet according to the present invention is not limited.

[0118] The amount of the colorant in the composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention may be 0.001% by weight or more, preferably 0.01% by weight or more, more preferably 0.1% by weight or more, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0119] The amount of colorant in the composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention may be 20% by weight or less, preferably 15% by weight or less, more preferably 10% by weight or less, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0120] Therefore, the amount of colorant in the composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention may be in the range of 0.001% by mass to 20% by mass, preferably 0.01% by mass to 15% by mass, and more preferably 0.1% by mass to 10% by mass, relative to the total mass of the composition.

[0121] (Vehicle) The composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention may contain at least one vehicle.

[0122] The vehicle in the composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention is not limited.

[0123] For example, the vehicle can be selected from hydrophilic and hydrophobic media.

[0124] The hydrophilic medium may be an alcohol, particularly a monohydric alcohol such as ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, and phenylethyl alcohol; a diol such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and butylene glycol; other polyols such as glycerol, sugars, and sugar alcohols; and ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl, monoethyl, and monobutyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl, monoethyl, and monobutyl ether, and butylene glycol monomethyl, monoethyl, and monobutyl ether.

[0125] The hydrophobic medium may be selected from oils.

[0126] It may be preferred that the composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention comprises water.

[0127] The amount of vehicle in the composition used for the present invention may be 50% by weight or more, preferably 55% by weight or more, more preferably 60% by weight or more, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0128] The amount of vehicle in the composition used for the present invention may be up to 99% by weight, preferably up to 95% by weight, more preferably up to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0129] The amount of vehicle in the composition used for the present invention may be in the range of 50% by mass to 99% by mass, preferably 55% by mass to 95% by mass, and more preferably 60% by mass to 90% by mass, based on the total mass of the composition.

[0130] (Optional Ingredients) The composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention may contain, in addition to the above-mentioned components, components typically used in cosmetics, specifically surfactants or emulsifiers, hydrophilic or hydrophobic thickeners, natural extracts derived from animals or plants, waxes, etc., within ranges that do not impair the effects of the present invention.

[0131] The composition used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention may contain the above-mentioned optional additives in an amount of 0.01% by mass to 50% by mass, preferably 0.05% by mass to 30% by mass, and more preferably 0.1% by mass to 10% by mass, relative to the total mass of the composition.

[0132] (preparation) The composition used for the present invention can be prepared, as described above, by, for example, mixing the colorant and vehicle as essential components and, if necessary, optional components.

[0133] The method and means for mixing the above essential components and optional components are not limited. Any conventional method and means can be used to mix the above essential components and optional components to prepare the composition used in the present invention.

[0134] {Microneedle sheet} The microneedle sheet used for the method according to the present invention comprises a base sheet and a plurality of microneedles on the base sheet.

[0135] The microneedle sheet used for the present invention may be a cosmetic device, preferably a cosmetic device for keratinous materials, more preferably a cosmetic device for the skin, especially the facial skin, and the lips.

[0136] (Microneedle) The microneedle sheet used for the present invention comprises a plurality of microneedles.

[0137] The microneedles are present on the surface of the base sheet. The microneedles may be present on 50% or more, preferably 70% or more, more preferably 90% or more of the surface of the base sheet.

[0138] Preferably, the microneedles are present on one of the surfaces of the base sheet.

[0139] The microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention are preferably designed to penetrate or enter into the stratum corneum of the skin, particularly the skin of the face and the lips.

[0140] The microneedles may be of any size and shape suitable for piercing the stratum corneum. It may be preferred that the microneedles are designed to pierce and traverse the stratum corneum. The microneedles may be capable of creating an opening or passageway in the stratum corneum.

[0141] If necessary, the height of the microneedles may be adjusted to allow penetration into the epidermis and / or dermis of the skin, preferably into the epidermis, and more preferably into any one of the layers within the epidermis.

[0142] The shape of the microneedle is not limited as long as it is a "needle". It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the microneedle for the present invention can have any reasonable shape, including but not limited to pyramid, cone, rod and / or column. Therefore, the microneedle may have the same diameter at the tip as at the base, or the diameter may taper from the base to the tip.

[0143] For example, the shape of the microneedle may be in the form of a triangular pyramid, a square pyramid or a pentagonal pyramid. Alternatively, the microneedle may be in the form of a cylinder, preferably with a tip, which may be cut diagonally. The cross section of the microneedle may take any geometric shape, including circular, triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, regular or irregular shapes, etc. In one embodiment, the group of microneedles may take the form of hollow microcapillaries. However, for the present invention, solid (non-hollow) microneedles may be preferred.

[0144] Thus, reference is made to "microneedles" as the type of microprojection or microprotrusion utilized. In many cases, those skilled in the art will understand that the same inventive principles apply to the use of other microprojections or microprotrusions to penetrate the skin. Other microprojections or microprotrusions include, for example, microblades as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,219,574 and Canadian Patent Application No. 2,226,718, and edged microneedles as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,478.

[0145] The height or length of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used in the present invention may be from 10 to 500 microns, preferably from 30 to 300 microns, and more preferably from 50 to 150 microns.

[0146] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the microneedle is in the form of a cone.

[0147] The cone may include a distal end, such as a tip, and a base. The shape of the base may be circular or elliptical.

[0148] The height or length of the cones of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention may be from 10 to 500 microns, preferably from 30 to 300 microns, more preferably from 50 to 150 microns.

[0149] The conical base of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention may have a diameter or width of 10 to 500 microns, preferably 10 to 300 microns, and more preferably 10 to 100 microns. When the conical base of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention is elliptical or oval in shape, the length of the main axis or width of the ellipse may be 10 to 500 microns, preferably 10 to 300 microns, and more preferably 10 to 100 microns.

[0150] The microneedles may have an aspect ratio (length / width at base) of at least about 3: 1, at least about 2: 1, or at least about 1: 1. The ratio of the (height of the cone) / (diameter of the base of the cone) of the microneedle may be 1 or greater, preferably 1.5 or greater, and more preferably 2.0 or greater.

[0151] According to another embodiment of the invention, the microneedles are in the form of pyramids, for example triangular or square pyramids.

[0152] The pyramid may include a distal end, such as a tip, and a base. The shape of the base may be triangular or square.

[0153] The height or length of the pyramids of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention may be from 10 to 500 microns, preferably from 30 to 300 microns, and more preferably from 50 to 150 microns.

[0154] The bases of the pyramids of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention may have a width of 10 to 500 microns, preferably 10 to 300 microns, and more preferably 10 to 100 microns. When the bases of the pyramids of the microneedles of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention are in the shape of a triangle or square, the side length or width of the triangle or square may be 10 to 500 microns, preferably 10 to 300 microns, and more preferably 10 to 100 microns.

[0155] The microneedles may have an aspect ratio (length / width at base) of at least about 3: 1, at least about 2: 1, or at least about 1: 1. The ratio of (height of pyramid) / (width of base of pyramid) of the microneedle may be 1 or greater, preferably 1.5 or greater, and more preferably 2.0 or greater.

[0156] It may be preferred that the microneedles are capable of penetrating into keratinous materials such as the skin and lips to a depth of 200 microns or less, preferably 180 microns or less, more preferably 160 microns or less.

[0157] A very narrow pitch of the microneedles cannot provide the microneedles with sufficient surface area, so that the microneedles cannot penetrate into the skin. On the other hand, a pitch that is too wide can also cause problems, that is, the individual microneedles cannot obtain sufficient pressure to penetrate. Therefore, it may be preferable that the pitch of the microneedle array is 400-700 microns, more preferably 400-500 microns.

[0158] The number of microneedles and the pitch between the microneedles depends on several factors, such as the desired color pattern and width of the microneedles. For example, if a color pattern with a width of 0.5 microns is desired, the use of a microneedle sheet having a microneedle array (2×2) with a 0.5 mm pitch may be most appropriate.

[0159] In one embodiment, the density of the microneedles is between 100 and 2000 microneedles / cm 2 , preferably 200 to 1000 microneedles / cm 2 , and even more preferably 200 to 500 microneedles / cm 2 It may be.

[0160] It is preferred that the microneedles are not soluble.

[0161] "Non-soluble" microneedles means that the microneedles cannot be destroyed or disintegrated within keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, for example by natural moisturizing agents or external moisture.

[0162] More preferably, the microneedles are not water soluble.

[0163] Microneedles can be made of organic or inorganic materials. Examples of organic materials include synthetic polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and photoresists, biodegradable plastics, cellulose derivatives, and mixtures thereof. Examples of inorganic materials include metals, including stainless steel, nonmetals, such as silicon, glass, and ceramics, and mixtures thereof. In addition, any other material that can be implanted into the skin or body can be used.

[0164] It is preferred that the microneedles are sterile or sterilized prior to use, it is more preferred that the microneedles are for single use only and therefore disposable.

[0165] It is preferred that the microneedles are made from an inorganic material, more preferably a metal or non-metal, even more preferably silicon (especially single crystal silicon).

[0166] It is also preferred that the microneedles are solid (non-hollow).

[0167] The microneedles themselves may have any color, however, it may be preferred that the microneedles do not contain any coloring agent for coloring the keratin material.

[0168] (Base sheet) The microneedle sheet according to the present invention comprises a substrate sheet on which the microneedles reside or are placed.

[0169] The base sheet and the microneedles may be separate or integrated.

[0170] For example, the base sheet and the microneedle may comprise at least one common material.Therefore, in one embodiment, the base sheet and the microneedle may be a single element that comprises at least one common material.Preferably, the single element may be prepared by using the same material.

[0171] On the other hand, the substrate sheet may be different or separate from the microneedles.For example, the substrate sheet and the microneedles may be made of different materials.In this case, the substrate sheet may be selected from, for example, masks, wipes, patches and generally all types of porous substrate sheets.Preferably, these substrate sheets have an oval structure, i.e., have a thickness smaller than the dimensions of the plane in which they are defined.

[0172] The substrate sheet may be cut to be in the form of a patch, disc, mask, towel, glove, pre-cut roll, or any other form suitable for cosmetic use.

[0173] (preparation) There is no limitation on how to prepare the microneedle sheet used for the present invention. The microneedle sheet used for the present invention can be prepared based on conventional techniques such as molding, 3D printing, metal processing, etc.

[0174] The shape of the microneedle sheet used for the present invention is not limited, and it may be any shape, such as a lip shape or a shape suitable for application under the eyes, depending on the target to which the microneedle sheet is applied.

[0175] {device} In the cosmetic method according to the present invention, the microneedle sheet is applied onto keratinous substances such as the skin and lips so that the microneedles can penetrate into the keratinous substances.

[0176] It is preferred that the microneedles are capable of repeated penetration into the keratinous material.

[0177] There is no limitation on how the microneedles are repeatedly penetrated into the keratinous material. For example, the repeated penetration can be performed by tapping the back surface of the substrate sheet of the microneedle sheet with a finger several times so that the microneedles on the front surface of the substrate sheet can repeatedly penetrate into the keratinous material.

[0178] Furthermore, repeated penetration of the microneedles is preferably performed by using vibrations towards keratinous materials such as the skin and lips.

[0179] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the microneedle sheet 1 can be connected to a vibrator 2 capable of generating vibrations toward the surface of the keratinous material, which vibrations correspond to the upward and downward directions in FIG. 1. The type of the vibrator 2 is not limited as long as it can generate vibrations. For example, the vibrator 2 may be composed of a piezoelectric element. Of course, any other actuator capable of repeatedly moving, preferably vibrating, toward the keratinous material can be used instead of the vibrator 2.

[0180] In FIG. 1, the microneedle sheet 1 can move up and down based on the vibration caused by the vibrator 2, so that the microneedles of the microneedle sheet 1 can repeatedly penetrate into keratinous materials such as the skin and lips.

[0181] It is preferable that the vibrator 2 is coupled to a head that can function as a receptor for the microneedle sheet 1, and that the base sheet of the microneedle sheet 1 is attached to the head. Therefore, the vibration caused by the vibrator 2 can be transmitted to the head. The microneedle sheet 1 can then also vibrate via the head.

[0182] It is preferable to use a device to vibrate the microneedle sheet 1. For example, the device may include a vibrator 2, a head coupled to the vibrator 2, and a battery such as a dry cell, and the battery can drive the vibrator 2 and a control means to control the frequency of the vibration caused by the vibrator 2. As an example, the device disclosed in WO2011 / 115602 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) can be used as the above device.

[0183] When using the above device, the microneedle sheet 1 may be mounted on the head of the device and applied onto keratinous materials such as the skin and lips so that the microneedles of the microneedle sheet 1 can repeatedly penetrate into the keratinous materials.

[0184] The frequency of vibration or beating is not limited. For example, the frequency may be 1000 to 10000 per minute, preferably 1000 to 8000 per minute, and more preferably 3000 to 6000 per minute.

[0185] It may be desirable to adjust the pressure used to penetrate the microneedles into the keratinous material, which may depend on several factors, such as the type of microneedle and the type of coloring.

[0186] The beating or vibrating penetration of the microneedles allows for continuous and consistent skin puncture and can reduce the force required to drive the microneedles into the keratinous material, which can further provide a massaging effect to the treated area of ​​the keratinous material, allowing for better diffusion or distribution of the coloring agent into the keratinous material.

[0187] {Example of how to carry out the beauty treatment} 2 and 3 show some examples of how to carry out the cosmetic method according to the invention.

[0188] Figure 2 illustrates several methods of permanent lip coloration. Figure 2(a) shows human lips. The width of each lip along the length of the figure is approximately 15 mm.

[0189] Figure 2(b) shows an example of lip coloring, where a composition containing at least one coloring agent is applied first, and then a microneedle sheet having an array of microneedles (2x2) is applied along the width of 0.4 mm on both ends of the lips. As shown in Figure 2(b), the edges of the lips can be colored.

[0190] Figure 2(c) shows another example of lip coloring, where a composition containing at least one coloring agent is applied first, and then a microneedle sheet having an array of microneedles (10x10) is applied onto the entire lips. As shown in Figure 2(c), the entire lips can be colored.

[0191] Figure 3 illustrates several methods of permanent under-eye coloration. Figure 3(a) shows a human eye. The shadow area is dark, referred to herein as the "eye bag", and has a width along the length of the figure of approximately 15 mm.

[0192] Figure 3(b) shows an example of under-eye coloring, where a composition containing at least one colorant (having a normal skin color) is applied first, and then a microneedle sheet with an array of microneedles (2x2) is applied along the width of 0.4 mm on both ends of the dark circles. As shown in Figure 3(b), both ends of the dark circles are covered by the colorant, and therefore the area of ​​the dark circles appears to be smaller.

[0193] Figure 3(c) shows another example of under-eye tinting, where first a composition containing at least one colorant (having a normal skin color) is applied, and then a microneedle sheet having an array of microneedles (10x10) is applied over the entire dark circle. As shown in Figure 3(c), the entire dark circle is covered by the colorant, and therefore it appears as if the dark circle does not exist.

[0194] Kits, Methods and Uses The present invention also provides A base sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the base sheet; a device for applying the microneedle sheet onto the keratinous material to allow the microneedles to penetrate into the keratinous material; A composition comprising at least one colorant; The present invention relates to a kit for coloring keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, comprising:

[0195] The above description of the microneedle sheet and composition for the cosmetic method according to the present invention can also be applied to the description of the kit according to the present invention. In addition, the description of the device that can be used for the cosmetic method according to the present invention can also be applied to the description of the kit according to the present invention.

[0196] The composition comprising at least one coloring agent may be contained in any container, such as a vessel normally used for cosmetic purposes.

[0197] The kit can preferably be used to carry out the cosmetic method according to the present invention.

[0198] It is preferred that the device in the kit according to the present invention can repeatedly apply the microneedle sheet. For example, the device may include at least one element that can vibrate or beat the microneedle sheet. This element may correspond to the back surface of the base sheet when finger tapping is used to repeatedly penetrate the microneedles into the keratinous material, and may correspond to the vibrator 2 described above when vibration is used to repeatedly penetrate the microneedles into the keratinous material.

[0199] The present invention also relates to the use of at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent in combination with a substrate sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the substrate sheet, for imparting a durable and uniform color to keratinous materials such as the skin or lips.

[0200] In particular, the use according to the invention comprises For imparting a long-lasting and uniform color to keratinous materials such as the skin or lips, a first application onto the keratinous material of at least one composition comprising at least one coloring agent; a second application of a substrate sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the substrate sheet onto the keratinous material to which the composition has been applied, such that the microneedles can penetrate into the keratinous material; may include.

[0201] Preferably, the microneedles are capable of repeatedly penetrating into the keratinous material. The repetition may be based on vibration or beating of the microneedle sheet.

[0202] Another aspect of the use according to the present invention may be a composition comprising at least one colorant for use in combination with a substrate sheet and a microneedle sheet having a plurality of microneedles on the substrate sheet in the permanent and uniform coloring of keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, the microneedles being capable of penetrating into the keratinous materials.

[0203] According to the kit and use of the present invention, the microneedles of the microneedle sheet can deliver a coloring agent into keratinous materials such as skin and lips, and impart a permanent color to the keratinous materials. Furthermore, the kit and use of the present invention can impart a uniform color to keratinous materials such as skin and lips. EXAMPLES

[0204] The present invention will be described in more detail by examples. However, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. The following examples are presented as non-limiting examples in the technical field of the present invention.

[0205] Example 1 Ex vivo staining test 1 (Microneedle device) A square microneedle sheet having 7 x 7 microneedles on a substrate sheet was used. Each microneedle had a pyramidal shape with a length or height of 80 μm and a base width of 40 μm. The microneedles were made of single crystal silicon.

[0206] A microneedle device was prepared in which a square microneedle sheet was mounted on the head (first end) of the device (wherein the head can vibrate along the axis of the device) as shown in WO2011 / 115602, and the microneedle sheet can be applied onto the skin with a vibrating action towards the skin so that the microneedles can repeatedly penetrate into the keratinous material.

[0207] (composition) An aqueous solution of 0.1% by weight Red 33 was used.

[0208] (evaluation) First, human cadaver skin measuring 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm square was prepared.

[0209] Secondly, the above composition in the form of an aqueous solution having a concentration of Red 33 of 0.1% by weight was applied onto the skin site.

[0210] Third, a microneedle device was used to apply a microneedle sheet onto the skin site for 5 minutes with a vibration frequency of 5000 times per minute, such that the microneedles repeatedly penetrated into the skin site.

[0211] After application, the composition is left on the skin site and maintained for 15 minutes.The surface of the skin site is photographed immediately after the composition is wiped off from the skin site with a wet and dry cotton swab.After 24 hours, tape stripping is performed 20 times on the surface of the skin site to remove the stratum corneum of the skin site, and the surface of the skin site is photographed.

[0212] On the other hand, as a control, another area of ​​skin was subjected to tape stripping, where the above composition was not applied (no color treatment), and a photograph was taken of the surface of this skin area.

[0213] The above photograph is shown in Figure 4.

[0214] A slight red color was observed on the skin site without any staining treatment immediately after wiping the skin (see TO), as shown in "Control" in Figure 4. However, the color was no longer observed after the stratum corneum was removed by tape stripping, as shown in the micrograph "24 hours after 20 tape strips."

[0215] In contrast, as shown in "Example 1" in Figure 4, the skin site treated with coloring was successfully colored red on all treated areas. Moreover, as shown in the microscopic image of "T24 hours after 20 tape strips", even after removal of the stratum corneum, the red color was still evident and observed uniformly. These results clearly demonstrate the persistent coloring efficacy and uniform coloring of the epidermis in Example 1.

[0216] Example 2 Ex vivo staining test 2 (Microneedle device) A square microneedle sheet having 7 x 7 microneedles on a substrate sheet was used. Each microneedle had a pyramidal shape with a length or height of 80 μm and a base width of 40 μm. The microneedles were made of single crystal silicon.

[0217] A microneedle device was prepared in which a square microneedle sheet was mounted on the head (first end) of the device (wherein the head can vibrate along the axis of the device) as shown in WO2011 / 115602, and the microneedle sheet can be applied onto the skin with a vibrating action towards the skin so that the microneedles can repeatedly penetrate into the keratinous material.

[0218] (composition) An aqueous solution of 0.1% by weight Red 33 was used.

[0219] (evaluation) First, human cadaver skin measuring 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm square was prepared.

[0220] Secondly, the above composition in the form of an aqueous solution having a concentration of Red 33 of 0.1% by weight was applied onto the skin site.

[0221] Third, a microneedle device was used to apply a microneedle sheet onto the skin site for 5 minutes with a vibration frequency of 5000 times per minute, such that the microneedles repeatedly penetrated into the skin site.

[0222] After application, the composition was left to remain on the skin site for 15 minutes. The skin was then dissected, placed in OCT (optimum cutting temperature) compound (Sakura Finetech Japan Co., Ltd.), and frozen at -20°C to -80°C. Cross-sectional samples of the skin with thicknesses of 5 to 15 μm were prepared with a cryostat. The cross-sectional samples were observed under a microscope and photographed to evaluate the penetration depth of Red 33 along the cross-sectional direction.

[0223] Cross-sectional samples of skin on which no composition was applied were also prepared as controls, observed under a microscope, and photographed.

[0224] The above photograph is shown in Figure 5.

[0225] As shown in "Control" in Figure 5, without coloring treatment, Red 33 was unable to penetrate into the skin. In contrast, as shown in "Example 2" in Figure 5, the skin site treated with coloring was successfully colored red on the entire treatment area, and the penetration depth of Red 33 reached through the stratum corneum to the dermis (see arrow). These results also demonstrate the durable coloring efficacy and uniform coloring of the epidermis in Example 2. [Explanation of symbols]

[0226] 1. Microneedle sheet 2 Transducers

Claims

1. 1. A kit for colouring keratinous materials such as the skin and lips, comprising: A microneedle sheet having a base sheet and a plurality of microneedles on the base sheet; a device for applying the microneedle sheet onto keratinous material to allow the microneedles to penetrate into the keratinous material; A composition comprising at least one colorant; A kit equipped with

2. 2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the microneedles have a height of 10 to 500 microns.

3. 3. The kit of claim 1 or 2, wherein the microneedles are pyramidal in shape.

4. The kit of claim 3, wherein the base of the microneedle has a width of 10 to 500 microns.

5. The kit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the ratio of (height of pyramid) / (width of base of pyramid) of the microneedle is 1 or more.

6. 6. The kit of claim 1, wherein the microneedles are made of an inorganic material.

7. The kit of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the device is capable of repeatedly applying the microneedle sheet.

8. 8. The kit of claim 1, wherein the microneedles are capable of repeatedly penetrating into keratinous materials.

9. The kit according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the repetition is based on vibration or beating of the microneedle sheet.

10. The kit of claim 9, wherein the device comprises at least one element capable of vibrating or beating the microneedle sheet.

11. 11. The kit according to claim 1, wherein the colorant is selected from dyes, pigments and mixtures thereof.

12. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the amount of the colorant is from 0.01% to 15% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

13. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the keratinous material is wet.

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