Treatment lotion application device and lotion application method

Abstract

To provide a treatment lotion application device and lotion application method applicable to skin treatment in particular as a device and a method for applying the lotion and blowing air almost simultaneously to a prescribed location and capable of compatibly achieving suppression of the lotion loss and maintenance of a sufficient air volume.SOLUTION: A treatment lotion application device comprises an energized roller, an applicator for applying lotion to the energized roller, and an air blower for blowing air forward and backward in a travel direction of the energized roller, where the applicator includes a lotion supply rod and a detachable lotion container, and where an air flow generated by the air blower flows along the lotion container toward the energized roller. There is also provided a lotion application method using the lotion application device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a treatment lotion applicator and a lotion application method, and more particularly to a treatment lotion applicator and a lotion application method for performing skin treatment. [Background technology]

[0002] The technique of applying a predetermined lotion to a predetermined location is used in various fields, such as the technique of applying a lotion for surface treatment to the surface of industrial materials, and the technique of applying a lotion to the surface of human skin to maintain healthy skin (keep the skin beautiful).

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an aftertreatment roller for restoring the skin of a patient after hair removal, the roller comprising a gripping portion having a rod-shaped outer diameter, an aftertreatment roller portion attached to an arm portion protruding from the gripping portion and applying an electric current for aftertreatment while rollingly contacting the patient's skin, and an aftertreatment air blowing portion for blowing aftertreatment air and lotion onto the patient's skin. Patent Document 1 also describes that the aftertreatment roller calms the heat generated on the skin surface by the hair removal treatment, allowing the skin to recover. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-045373 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] As described in Patent Document 1, when blowing air and spraying lotion onto the surface of skin that has become heated during hair removal treatment, the air promotes evaporation of the applied lotion, making it possible to cool the skin, but there is a problem in that the sprayed lotion itself is scattered outside the designated area (skin). Here, if the air volume is reduced or the diameter of the lotion spray nozzle is shortened in order to prevent the sprayed lotion from scattering, it becomes difficult to sufficiently calm the feverish state of the skin. That is, in the past, with regard to devices and methods for applying lotion and blowing air to a predetermined location substantially simultaneously, it was difficult to simultaneously suppress lotion loss and maintain a sufficient air volume.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a treatment lotion application device and a lotion application method that are particularly applicable to skin treatments, as devices and methods that apply lotion and blow air to a specified area approximately simultaneously, and that can simultaneously suppress lotion loss and maintain a sufficient amount of air. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] As a result of extensive research into the above-mentioned problems, the inventors discovered that a treatment lotion application device and lotion application method that uses a so-called roll-on type treatment lotion application device in which the lotion is applied to a predetermined location not by spraying but by rotating a roller that is ready to supply the lotion can both reduce lotion loss and maintain a sufficient air volume, and thus completed the present invention. That is, the present invention provides a treatment lotion application device and a lotion application method characterized as follows.

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the treatment lotion application device of the present invention comprises a roller, an applicator for applying lotion to the roller, and an air blower, and is characterized in that the applicator is a roll-on type. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a treatment lotion application device and a lotion application method that are particularly applicable to skin treatments and that can apply lotion and blow air to a specified area approximately simultaneously, and that can simultaneously suppress lotion loss and maintain a sufficient amount of air.

[0009] Furthermore, one embodiment of the treatment lotion application device of the present invention comprises an energized roller, an applicator that applies lotion to the energized roller, and an air blowing unit that blows air in front of and behind the direction of travel of the energized roller, the applicator including a lotion supply rod and a detachable lotion container, and the air flow from the air blowing unit is directed along the lotion container toward the energized roller. According to the present invention, as a lotion application device that applies lotion to a predetermined location and blows air substantially simultaneously, lotion is applied (supplied) to an electric roller via a lotion container and a lotion supply rod, and in this state, lotion application and air blowing can be performed to a predetermined location (for example, skin, etc.). This makes it possible to prevent lotion from scattering outside the predetermined location and reduce lotion loss compared to spraying lotion and blowing air simultaneously. Furthermore, by blowing air along the lotion container in both directions in the direction of travel of the electric roller, a decrease in air volume due to the device structure is suppressed, making it easier to maintain and increase the air volume. Furthermore, the treatment lotion application device of the present invention is particularly suitable for use in skin treatments, and more specifically, is suitable for pre-treatment and post-treatment of skin that becomes locally heated due to hair removal treatments, etc.

[0010] Furthermore, one embodiment of the treatment lotion applicator of the present invention is characterized in that it comprises a container fixing part for fixing the lotion container, and the container fixing part and the air blowing part are integrated. According to the present invention, the lotion container can be easily attached and detached, and the lotion container can be easily fixed, and the air flow from the blower can be easily directed along the lotion container.

[0011] The lotion application method of the present invention for solving the above problems is characterized by using the treatment lotion application device. According to the present invention, by applying lotion using the above-mentioned treatment lotion application device, it is possible to apply lotion while simultaneously suppressing lotion loss and maintaining a sufficient air volume. Furthermore, the lotion application method of the present invention is particularly suitable for use in skin treatments, and more specifically, is suitable for use in pre-treatment and post-treatment of skin that becomes locally heated due to hair removal treatment or the like. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a treatment lotion application device and a lotion application method that are particularly applicable to skin treatments and that can apply lotion and blow air to a specified area approximately simultaneously, and that can simultaneously suppress lotion loss and maintain a sufficient amount of air. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram (front view) of a treatment lotion application device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a treatment lotion applicator according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the roller side with the roller and lotion container removed (top view of FIG. 1). [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the structure of a blower unit and a container fixing unit in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of applying a treatment lotion application device according to an embodiment of the present invention to a predetermined area (skin). [Figure 5]This is a thermographic image showing the temperature approximately 3 minutes after the start of use when using a treatment lotion application device according to an embodiment of the present invention (Example) and when using a lotion application device that sprays lotion (Comparative Example). [Figure 6] This is a graph showing the change in surface temperature over time on the recipient's arm when using a treatment lotion application device according to an embodiment of the present invention (Example) and when using a lotion application device that sprays lotion (Comparative Example). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a treatment lotion applicator and a lotion application method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method described as embodiments are merely examples used to explain the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method of the present invention, and are not limited to these.

[0015] The treatment lotion application device and lotion application method according to the present invention relate to a device and method for applying lotion and blowing air to a predetermined area substantially simultaneously. Furthermore, the treatment lotion applicator and lotion application method according to the present invention are particularly suitable for use in skin treatment, and more specifically, are suitable for use in pre-treatment and post-treatment of skin that becomes locally heated due to hair removal treatment, etc. In other words, the treatment lotion applicator and lotion application method according to the present invention are suitable for use on skin that requires treatment due to the application of a predetermined treatment.

[0016] Here, a hair removal treatment, which is one of the treatments performed on the skin, will be described. Due to the recent increase in awareness of beauty, demand for body hair removal has been increasing among both men and women, including older people. The areas where hair removal is performed have also expanded from arms, legs, and armpits to include the face and delicate areas. Therefore, there is a growing need for treatments that can be used on areas with thin (or sensitive) skin and for those with hard body hair.

[0017] Hair removal treatments include temporary hair removal (depilation) using a razor, shaver, depilatory cream, wax, etc. to remove body hair from the skin surface, as well as permanent hair removal, which involves destroying the hair root tissue.

[0018] In particular, electrolysis (cosmetic electrolysis), a type of permanent hair removal, involves inserting an electrode probe into a hair follicle and passing a high-frequency current and / or a direct current through the probe into the hair follicle, thereby heating and / or denaturing the hair root. Electrolysis allows precise control of the hair removal area, and has the advantage that it is a "final hair removal" method in which no further treatment is required after a predetermined number of treatments.

[0019] In this type of electrolysis treatment, after treatment, a temporary burn-like condition may occur inside the pores due to burns caused by high-frequency heating or alkali caused by alkaline denaturation, leaving the skin red and swollen. This skin condition differs from a typical burn that damages the entire skin, but is a partial heat state occurring on the skin surface, i.e., in the pores scattered in the epidermis and on the skin surface. It is desirable to perform post-treatment (treatment) to calm the heat state and restore the skin.

[0020] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in general hair removal treatments, a wide range of subjects (skin types, body hair types, etc.) are treated, so it is desirable to perform pre-treatments not only after hair removal treatment but also before the treatment to improve hair removal efficiency and protect the skin.

[0021] In other words, the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method of the present invention are particularly suitable for use as pre-treatment and / or post-treatment for skin undergoing electrical hair removal treatment, which involves localized heat generation.

[0022] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method of the present invention will be described mainly as being applied to treatments before and after hair removal treatment on a person receiving hair removal treatment, but are not limited to this.

[0023] [Treatment lotion applicator] A treatment lotion application device 1 (hereinafter simply referred to as "lotion application device 1") according to an embodiment of the present invention is a device for applying lotion and blowing air to a specified area of ​​skin at approximately the same time, thereby treating the skin before and after hair removal processing.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram (front view) showing an example of the structure of a lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment. 1, the lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment includes a roller 10, an applicator 20 that applies lotion S to the roller 10, and an air blower 30, with the applicator 20 including a lotion supply rod 21 and a lotion container 22. The lotion applicator 1 also includes the applicator 20 that includes a container fixing part 40 that fixes the lotion container 22, a grip part 50, and an arm part 60.

[0025] 1, a specific structure of the lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment includes a cylindrical gripping portion 50 provided with a container fixing portion 40 (container fixing portion 40A) that fixes the bottom of a lotion container 22 and an arm portion 60, and a roller 10 attached to the tip of the arm portion 60 via an axis R. In addition, of the applicator 20, the lotion container 22 is detachably fixed to the axis line of the central axis C of the gripping portion 50 via the container fixing portion 40, and further, the positional relationship between the lotion supply rod 21 inserted into the lotion container 22 and the roller 10 attached to the tip side of the arm portion 60 is such that the lotion S contained in the lotion container 22 can be applied (supplied) to the roller 10 via the lotion supply rod 21. The air blowing portion 30 blows air in front of and behind the roller 10 in the traveling direction, and is provided so as to form an air flow along the lotion container 22 toward the roller 10. As a result, in this embodiment, the lotion application device 1 is configured so that the practitioner (which may be the same person as the person being treated) holds the gripping portion 50 and moves the roller 10 back and forth while in contact with the skin of the person being treated, thereby applying lotion to the skin and blowing air almost simultaneously, thereby enabling skin treatment. Each component of the lotion applicator 1 will be described in detail below.

[0026] <Laura> The roller 10 comes into contact with a predetermined location (the skin of the person to be treated in this embodiment) and is driven to rotate in response to a reciprocating operation. Lotion S is applied to the roller 10 from an applicator 20, which will be described later, and as the roller 10 is driven to rotate, the lotion S is applied to a predetermined region (predetermined area) at the predetermined location.

[0027] The shape of roller 10 is not limited to a cylindrical shape as shown in Fig. 1, but may be an ellipsoid or spherical shape. When roller 10 is cylindrical or ellipsoidal, lotion application can be easily performed by linear reciprocating operation. On the other hand, when roller 10 is spherical, there is an effect that the degree of freedom in the direction of movement of roller 10 can be increased. In this case, the structure for rotationally driving roller 10 is not particularly limited, but for example, as shown in Fig. 1, an axis R provided on arm section 60 (arm section 60A) described later can be used as the rotation axis, and a hole can be provided in roller 10 for inserting or passing through this axis R. Another example is to provide a fitting portion that fits into the contact surfaces of arm section 60 and roller 10, and to design this fitting portion into a shape that allows rotational driving after arm section 60 and roller 10 are fitted together, or to use a mechanism that does not restrict the rotation direction of roller 10 itself when roller 10 is spherical.

[0028] Furthermore, it is preferable that the material of the roller 10 has a certain degree of durability and does not excessively absorb the lotion S. This allows the lotion applicator 1 to be used repeatedly, and also allows the lotion S to be smoothly applied to a predetermined area (such as the skin) via the roller 10, i.e., by roll-on. Furthermore, it is preferable that the material of the roller 10 is conductive. That is, it is particularly preferable that the roller 10 in this embodiment is an electrically conductive roller. This makes it possible to apply the lotion S via the roller 10 and also to pass an electric current through the skin. Details regarding the effect of passing an electric current through the skin will be described later.

[0029] Suitable examples of the material for the roller 10 in this embodiment include conductive polymer resins and metals. In particular, when using metal as the material for the roller 10 in this embodiment, it is preferable to use titanium. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of metal allergies on the skin when using the lotion applicator 1.

[0030] <Applicator> The applicator 20 applies (supplies) lotion S to the roller 10, and includes a lotion supply rod 21 and a lotion container 22, as shown in FIG. In the lotion applicator 1 of this embodiment, by providing the applicator 20, when applying the lotion S to a predetermined location, the lotion S can be applied via the roller 10, that is, by a so-called roll-on method, rather than by spraying the lotion S. This prevents the lotion S from scattering outside the predetermined location (or the predetermined area where lotion application is required) due to air blown from the air blower 30, which will be described later, and makes it possible to reduce lotion loss. Furthermore, with the applicator 20 in this embodiment, the lotion S contained in the lotion container 22 is supplied in accordance with the rotational drive of the roller 10, and the lotion S is applied directly to the predetermined location. Therefore, compared to using a roller 10 impregnated with lotion S, the time that the lotion S is retained on the roller 10 is shorter, and there is also the effect that the lotion S is less likely to evaporate or deteriorate before being applied to the predetermined location.

[0031] The lotion supply rod 21 is a member that is inserted into the lotion container 22 and that applies (supplies) the lotion S in the lotion container 22 to the roller 10. The lotion supply rod 21 in this embodiment may be any material that can suck up the lotion S in the lotion container 22 and apply the lotion S to the roller 10, and may be, for example, a rod-shaped member made of a porous material or a fibrous material. In particular, the material of the lotion supply rod 21 is preferably a fibrous material that causes capillary action. This regulates the direction of movement of the lotion S to a certain extent when the lotion S is sucked up and applied to the roller 10 (leaking of the lotion S from the outer peripheral surface of the lotion supply rod 21 is unlikely to occur), so dripping of the lotion S can be suppressed, and loss of lotion can be further suppressed.

[0032] Furthermore, the structure of lotion supply rod 21 need only have a shape and length that allows it to be inserted into lotion container 22 and come into contact with roller 10. When using lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment, lotion container 22, which will be described later, is tilted so that the opening side is lower than the bottom side of the container body. Therefore, the length of lotion supply rod 21 does not need to extend all the way to the bottom of the container body of lotion container 22, and it is sufficient that it is at least long enough to enter inside lotion container 22. The shape of the lotion supply rod 21 is not limited to a rod-like (cylindrical) member, but may also be a rod-like member with grooves on the surface. These grooves act as air holes, making it possible to make the movement of the lotion S via the lotion supply rod 21 (the supply of lotion from the lotion container 22 to the roller 10) uniform and smooth.

[0033] Furthermore, the shape and material of lotion supply rod 21 may be selected so as to facilitate insertion into lotion container 22 while preventing lotion supply rod 21 from falling off during use. For example, by selecting a material that swells when it draws up (absorbs) lotion S, it is possible to increase the adhesion between lotion supply rod 21 and the opening of lotion container 22, or by making the outer periphery of lotion supply rod 21 a shape of connected semicircles or polygons (a shape with projections and recesses), it is possible to reduce resistance when inserting lotion supply rod 21 into lotion container 22 and make it less likely to fall off.

[0034] The lotion container 22 is a container that stores lotion S and is detachably attached to the lotion applicator 1. The structure of the lotion container 22 in this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it allows for the storage of lotion S and the insertion of the lotion supply rod 21, but from the viewpoint of structurally and operationally simplifying the fastening and detachment using the container fastening part 40 described below, a preferred example is one having a structure in which two cylinders of different diameters are stacked on top of each other, as shown in Fig. 1. In the description of the lotion container 22 in this embodiment, the cylinder with the larger diameter will be referred to as the container body, and the cylinder with the smaller diameter will be referred to as the neck, with an opening provided on the neck side. In this case, since the opening (inner and outer circumference) of the lotion container 22 and the outer circumference of the container body are circular, the shapes of the lotion supply rod 21 and the container fixing part 40 can be designed or set to match this circular shape (circumference). The structure of the lotion container 22 is not limited to a cylinder, but may be a cylindrical member with a polygonal neck (opening) and container body (bottom), or a sphere with a spherical container body.

[0035] The lotion container 22 in this embodiment is fixed by a container fixing part 40 described below, and is detachable from the lotion applicator 1, but rather than being fixed by the structure and configuration of the container fixing part 40, the lotion container 22 itself may be provided with a mechanism (member) that allows it to be fixed to and detachable from the lotion applicator 1. For example, a fitting part or locking part may be provided on the side of the lotion container 22, which allows it to fit with the lotion applicator 1 (arm part 60).

[0036] The opening of lotion container 22 may be shaped to facilitate insertion of lotion supply rod 21 while preventing lotion supply rod 21 from falling off during use. Alternatively, a structure may be provided within the opening of lotion container 22 to facilitate insertion of lotion supply rod 21 and prevent it from falling off. Specifically, for example, the inner periphery of the opening of lotion container 22 may be formed into a shape of a series of semicircles or polygons (a shape with projections and recesses), or a structure may be provided on the inner periphery of the opening of lotion container 22 that does not hinder the movement of lotion supply rod 21 in the insertion direction but hinders the movement of lotion supply rod 21 in the removal direction, thereby reducing the resistance when lotion supply rod 21 is inserted into lotion container 22 and making it less likely for lotion supply rod 21 to fall off from lotion container 22.

[0037] The material of the lotion container 22 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that the material has chemical resistance (water resistance), a predetermined strength, and is lightweight so that it can store the lotion S and be detachable from the lotion applicator 1. More specifically, it may be made of polymer resin (PE, PP, PET, etc.), lightweight metal (aluminum, etc.), or a composite material such as metal-resin or resin-resin. It should be noted that the lotion container 22 in this embodiment may be replaced with a new lotion container 22 after the lotion S contained therein has been used up, or the lotion container 22 itself may be reused by supplying lotion S to the removed used lotion container 22. Therefore, when the used lotion container 22 is to be discarded, it is preferable to use an inexpensive material, and when the used lotion container 22 is to be reused, it is preferable to use a material that has high chemical resistance (water resistance) and excellent strength so that it can withstand repeated use.

[0038] The lotion S contained in the lotion container 22 is not particularly limited as long as it is a liquid, and may be water alone. The lotion S may also contain predetermined ingredients that exert beneficial effects when applied to a predetermined area. The ingredients are selected appropriately depending on the desired effect. For example, if the designated area to which the lotion application device 1 is applied is the skin and the desired effect is to reduce the burden on the patient before and after the hair removal treatment and to cool (recover) locally heated skin, examples of ingredients that may be contained in the lotion S include, for example, ingredients with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative effects, ingredients with antibacterial, bacteriostatic, disinfecting, bactericidal, and disinfecting effects, ingredients with anesthetic effects, and ingredients with whitening effects.

[0039] In addition, if the specified location to which the lotion application device 1 is applied is an industrial material and the desired effect is to add functionality to the industrial material, examples of the lotion S include a surface treatment agent, a coating agent (paint), etc.

[0040] <Blower section> The air blowing section 30 blows air in front of and behind the direction of travel of the roller 10. The air blowing section 30 is also provided so as to form an air flow along the lotion container 22 toward the roller 10. This prevents factors that cause a decrease in air volume (such as air blockage or turbulence) due to the structure of lotion applicator 1 from occurring when blowing air to a predetermined location, making it easier to maintain a sufficient air volume.

[0041] The specific configuration of the blower 30 is not particularly limited as long as it satisfies the above-mentioned blowing requirements (blow direction and formed air flow). For example, one example of the air blowing unit 30 is one in which multiple spray nozzles are attached to the gripping unit 50 or the arm unit 60, and air is blown through these spray nozzles from an air blowing mechanism such as a fan or air tube so as to satisfy the above-mentioned air blowing requirements. Another example of the air blower 30 is one that is integrated with the container fixing part 40, allowing air to be blown from a blowing mechanism via the structural body of the container fixing part 40. In this case, it is particularly preferable to integrate the air blower 30 with the container fixing part 40A that fixes the bottom side of the container body of the lotion container 22, as shown in Fig. 1. This makes it possible to easily form an air flow that follows the lotion container 22. A specific example of the blower 30 will be described together with a specific example of the container fixing unit 40.

[0042] <Container fixing part> The container fixing part 40 fixes the lotion container 22 and also has a function of enabling the lotion container 22 to be attached to and detached from the lotion applicator 1. 1, there may be mentioned a container fixing part 40 that has a structure that enables the fixing and detachment of lotion container 22, and that includes container fixing part 40A that fixes the bottom of the container body of lotion container 22 and container fixing part 40B that fixes the vicinity of the opening of lotion container 22 (the neck part or the upper part of the container body of lotion container 22). In this case, container fixing part 40A is arranged so as to join with the tip of grip part 50, and container fixing part 40B is arranged so as to join with arm part 60.

[0043] Here, the structure of container fixing parts 40A and 40B is not limited, but it is preferable that they enable stable fixing of lotion container 22 and allow easy attachment and detachment operations. For example, one of container fixing part 40A and container fixing part 40B may be a structure that fits in so as to cover the entire outer periphery of the part to be fixed (the bottom or neck of the container body) on lotion container 22, and the other may be a structure that engages or fits with a portion of the outer periphery of the part to be fixed on lotion container 22. In particular, from the viewpoint of stability in fixing lotion container 22, it is preferable that container fixing part 40A be a structure that fits in so as to cover the entire bottom of the container body of lotion container 22, and container fixing part 40B be a structure that engages or fits with a portion of the neck of lotion container 22.

[0044] Specific examples of the structures of the blower unit 30 and the container fixing unit 40 in this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. Figure 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram of the lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment, viewed from the roller 10 side with the roller 10 and lotion container 22 removed, and corresponds to a top view of the lotion applicator 1 shown in Figure 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the structure of the blower 30 and the container fixing part 40 (container fixing part 40A) in this embodiment.

[0045] 2, an example of the air blower 30 in this embodiment includes an air blower 31 consisting of two holes provided on the container fixing part 40 (container fixing part 40A), and the air blower 31 is arranged so as to be symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis (axis R) of the roller 10. As a result, the air blown out from the air blower 31 is sent in the up and down directions of the roller 10 (front and back directions in the direction of travel of the roller 10). The number of locations where the air outlets 31 are provided may be any number that can at least send the air jetting out in the up and down directions of the roller 10 (front and back in the direction of movement of the roller 10), and three or more may be provided. For example, if the shape of the roller 10 is spherical rather than cylindrical, two more air outlets 31 may be provided at equal intervals in addition to the two air outlets 31 shown in Fig. 2, for a total of four air outlets 31. This makes it possible to send air in the front and back directions of the direction of movement of the roller 10 even if the movement direction of the roller 10 is not linear. The shape of the air outlet 31 is not limited to a circular hole as shown in Fig. 2, and may be a slit-shaped or elliptical hole. Furthermore, a nozzle-shaped structure may be provided as the air outlet 31, which allows for precise control of the properties of the blown air (wind pressure, wind direction, etc.).

[0046] 2, an example of container fixing part 40 in this embodiment includes container fixing part 40A having fitting part 41A that fits with the bottom of the container body of lotion container 22, and container fixing part 40B having fitting part 41B that fits with a portion of the outer periphery of the neck of lotion container 22. Note that the specific structures of fitting part 41A and fitting part 41B are not particularly limited, but for example, fitting part 41A can be a recessed structure into which the entire bottom of the container body of lotion container 22 is fitted, and fitting part 41B can be a semicircular (Ω-shaped) structure that sandwiches a portion of the outer periphery of the neck of lotion container 22. This allows container fixing part 40A to firmly fix the bottom of the container body of lotion container 22. Meanwhile, container fixing part 40B is fixed by fitting the neck of lotion container 22 into fitting part 41B, and lotion container 22 can be removed from fitting part 41B by applying force in the direction opposite to the direction in which lotion container 22 is fitted. In other words, this allows for stable fixation of lotion container 22 and also makes it possible to easily perform operations related to attachment and detachment.

[0047] It is preferable that the container fixing part 40A is integrated with the blower part 30. As shown in Fig. 3, a specific example of integrating the container fixing part 40 and the air blowing part 30 is to form, in the structure of the container fixing part 40A having the fitting part 41A, an air blowing port 31 that blows air along the side surface of the lotion container 22, and an air blowing path 32 that communicates so as to send air from an air blowing mechanism such as a fan or air tube (hereinafter referred to as "air blowing mechanism 33") to the air blowing port 31. Note that the arrows in Fig. 3 indicate the flow of air. This makes it possible to reduce the number of parts in the lotion applicator 1 as a whole, and also makes it easier for the air blower 30 to form an air flow along the lotion container 22.

[0048] <Grip part> The gripping portion 50 is the part that is gripped by the practitioner when using the lotion applicator 1. Furthermore, the gripping portion 50 in this embodiment directly or indirectly houses the devices and mechanisms required for use as the lotion applicator 1. More specifically, the gripping portion 50 in this embodiment directly or indirectly houses a device that applies current to the roller 10 (current-carrying roller) and the air blowing mechanism 33 in the air blowing portion 30.

[0049] The shape of gripping portion 50 may be any shape that places little strain on the practitioner holding it, and a cylindrical shape is a preferred example. Furthermore, gripping portion 50 is assumed to have a space formed therein for accommodating devices and mechanisms (such as a device for applying current to roller 10 (current-carrying roller) and air blowing mechanism 33 in air blower 30) that are required for use as lotion applicator 1, and gripping portion 50 is preferably provided with a structure (such as a lid or window) that enables checking the status of the space and replacing parts of the devices and mechanisms accommodated therein as necessary.

[0050] There are no particular limitations on the means for accommodating the various devices and mechanisms required for use as lotion applicator 1 in grip portion 50. For example, a current generator may be built into the gripping portion 50, and this current generator may be connected to the roller 10 via a conductor, thereby enabling use as a current-carrying roller. Alternatively, a conductor connected to a current generator provided outside the lotion applicator 1 may be passed through the gripping portion 50 and connected to the roller 10. It is preferable that the conductor wire that is pulled out from the gripping portion 50 and connected to the roller 10 is arranged in a covered state along the inside of the arm portion 60, or is housed inside the arm portion 60. This makes it possible to prevent the practitioner using the lotion applicator 1 from accidentally touching the conductor wire.

[0051] As another example, for example, a blower such as a fan and a drive device for the blower may be built into gripping portion 50 as blowing mechanism 33, and air generated within gripping portion 50 may be blown through air passage 32 and air outlet 31. Alternatively, a device for blowing air through an air tube may be provided outside lotion applicator 1 as blowing mechanism 33, and this air tube may be passed through gripping portion 50 to blow air through blowing portion 30 (air passage 32 and air outlet 31).

[0052] When the current generator and the air blowing mechanism 33 are directly housed inside the grip portion 50, the lotion applicator 1 can be made smaller in size, which has the advantage of making it easier to carry. On the other hand, when a current generating device or part of the air blowing mechanism 33 provided outside the holding portion 50 is passed through the holding portion 50 (when indirect storage is performed), it is easy to increase the output from each device / mechanism, and this has the advantage of being suitable for continuous use.

[0053] <Arm section> The arm portion 60 extends from the gripping portion 50 and is intended to support the roller 10. More specifically, the arm portion 60 is intended to support the roller 10 so that it can be stably rotated. In addition, the arm portion 60 in this embodiment supports the container fixing portion 40B.

[0054] 1, the arm unit 60 in this embodiment includes an arm unit 60A provided with an axis R that serves as the rotation axis of the roller 10, and an arm unit 60B having a structure that prevents the roller 10 from falling off and allows the roller 10 to be attached and detached from the axis R. This allows the roller 10 to be stably rotated and also allows the roller 10 itself to be attached and detached, facilitating tasks such as cleaning and disinfecting the roller 10, and making it possible to improve the efficiency of work related to applying lotion to multiple recipients.

[0055] Note that, since the arm portion 60 is only required to be able to support at least the roller 10, a mechanism that prevents the roller 10 from falling off and enables it to be attached and detached may be provided on the shaft R itself, and the structure corresponding to the arm portion 60B may be omitted. In this case, the container fixing portion 40B is designed to have a structure that can be supported by only one arm portion 60 (arm portion 60A).

[0056] <Other configurations> In addition to the above-described configurations, the lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment is preferably provided with a mechanism (hereinafter referred to as a "contact state maintaining mechanism") that maintains an appropriate state of contact between the roller 10 and the lotion supply rod 21 when the lotion applicator 1 is in use, and that easily continues to apply (supply) the lotion S appropriately to the roller 10. This makes it possible to smoothly apply the lotion S continuously when the lotion applicator 1 is in use, and improves the operability of the lotion application.

[0057] An example of a contact state maintaining mechanism is to provide a mechanism for pressing lotion container 22, into which lotion supply rod 21 is inserted, toward roller 10. More specifically, an elastic body may be provided in container fixing part 40A to press attached lotion container 22 toward roller 10, or in a structure in which container fixing part 40A and blower part 30 are integrated, a hole communicating with air passage 32 may be provided in part of fitting part 41A of container fixing part 40A, and wind pressure generated by air blown from blower mechanism 33 may be used to press lotion container 22 toward roller 10.

[0058] Another example of a contact state maintaining mechanism is to maintain an appropriate contact state between the roller 10 and the lotion supply rod 21 by designing each of the above-mentioned components, rather than providing a new component. More specifically, this can be achieved by providing a gap (allowing play) between roller 10 and shaft R, which is the rotation shaft, or by allowing shaft R to move (allowing play) at the attachment portion between shaft R and arm portion 60 (arm portion 60A). As a result, when roller 10 is pressed against a predetermined location, the force applied from the predetermined location to roller 10 presses roller 10 toward lotion supply rod 21, making it possible to maintain an appropriate state of contact between roller 10 and lotion supply rod 21. Furthermore, when fixing lotion container 22 with container fixing part 40B, the structure of container fixing part 40B can be designed to provide a dimensional allowance (play) rather than completely fixing lotion container 22. As a result, when lotion applicator 1 is used, if lotion container 22 tilts, lotion container 22 moves toward roller 10 by the dimensional allowance (play), making it possible to maintain an appropriate state of contact between roller 10 and lotion supply rod 21.

[0059] [How to use the treatment lotion applicator (lotion application method)] Next, a method of using the lotion applicator 1 according to this embodiment (a method of applying lotion) will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram relating to the operation when lotion applicator 1 in this embodiment is applied to a predetermined location (skin). Fig. 4A is a schematic explanatory diagram of lotion applicator 1 at the start of use (outward movement), and Fig. 4B is a schematic explanatory diagram of lotion applicator 1 during the course of use (return movement). In addition, the following description will be given assuming that the skin at a specific location is in a partially heated state after electrical hair removal treatment, but this is an example of how to use the lotion application device 1 and is not limited to this.

[0060] First, as shown in FIG. 4A, a practitioner holding gripper 50 brings roller 10 into contact with a predetermined location on the skin (skin surface) of a person to be treated, and moves lotion applicator 1 in the pulling direction (from left to right in FIG. 4). At this time, lotion S in lotion container 22 is applied to roller 10 via lotion supply rod 21. Here, lotion S is applied along the rotation direction of roller 10. That is, in FIG. 4A, roller 10 rotates clockwise, so lotion S is applied to the right side of roller 10, and further, this lotion S is applied to a predetermined location on the rear side of the traveling direction of lotion applicator 1. The air blowing unit 30 blows air in front of and behind the traveling direction of the lotion applicator 1, so that the air blowing can cool areas near the traveling direction of the lotion applicator 1. In particular, in the area where the lotion S has been applied, the evaporation of the lotion S is promoted, thereby achieving an even greater cooling effect. This effectively calms the heat generated in the skin at a specific location and makes it possible to shrink enlarged pores.

[0061] At this time, it is preferable to apply an electric current to the predetermined location, that is, the surface of the skin, via the roller 10. It is known that in electrolysis, a negative direct current is passed through the skin surface of the patient, causing the skin surface to become alkaline. Therefore, by passing a positive direct current through the roller 10 (conductive roller), neutralization occurs on the skin surface, effectively suppressing inflammation such as redness and fever that occurs in the area subjected to electrolysis, as well as dilated pores. In addition, by passing a direct current through the skin surface, it is possible to utilize the effects of so-called iontophoresis (ion introduction) and allow the ingredients in Lotion S to penetrate deep into the skin. In particular, when Lotion S contains a local anesthetic, it is possible to enhance the effect of drug administration by transdermal administration and quickly reduce the burden on the patient.

[0062] Then, the lotion application device 1 continues to be moved in the pulling direction by the practitioner, and moves to the end of a predetermined range (predetermined area) where lotion application is required at a predetermined location (forward movement).

[0063] Next, as shown in FIG. 4B, the practitioner holds the grip portion 50 and moves the lotion application device 1 in the pushing direction (from right to left in FIG. 4) while keeping the roller 10 in contact (returning movement). At this time, in Fig. 4B, the roller 10 rotates counterclockwise, so that the lotion S is applied to the left side of the roller 10, and this lotion S is then applied to a predetermined location on the rear side in the traveling direction of the lotion applicator 1. That is, in the return movement shown in Fig. 4B, a further lotion S is applied over the lotion S that was applied in the forward movement shown in Fig. 4A.

[0064] As with the forward movement, in the return movement, the air blowing section 30 blows air in front of and behind the traveling direction of the lotion applicator 1, so that cooling by the air blowing can be achieved in the vicinity of the traveling direction of the lotion applicator 1. In particular, at the rear side in the traveling direction of the lotion applicator 1 (the area where lotion S has been newly applied), the evaporation of lotion S is promoted, thereby achieving an even greater cooling effect. Therefore, by repeatedly moving the lotion applicator 1 back and forth, it is possible to effectively calm the heat generated in the skin at a predetermined location and to shrink enlarged pores.

[0065] As in the forward movement, it is also preferable to apply an electric current to the skin surface, which is a predetermined location, via the roller 10 during the backward movement. This allows the ingredients in Lotion S to repeatedly penetrate deep into the skin, increasing the concentration of ingredients in Lotion S administered deep into the skin and making it easier to fully exert the beneficial effects of each ingredient. [Example]

[0066] In the following examples, the arm of a person to be treated was used as a predetermined location, and lotion was applied to the arm of the person to be treated and air was blown onto the arm using the above-described lotion application device 1. Note that the lotion S used was an aqueous solution containing a component that exhibits a sedative effect. As a comparative example, instead of the applicator 20 in the lotion application device 1 described above, a means for spraying lotion S was provided, and the air blowing section 30 had one air outlet 31 that blew air to the rear of the roll 10 in the direction of travel, and lotion was similarly applied to the arm of the person being treated and air was blown thereto. Then, the temperature change at the predetermined location (change in the surface temperature of the arm of the patient) was measured, and the results are shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0067] Figure 5 is a thermographic image showing the temperature approximately 3 minutes after starting use when using lotion application device 1 on the patient's arm (Example) and when using a lotion application device that sprays lotion (Comparative Example).

[0068] As shown in Figure 5, in the example, the temperature of the area where lotion was applied and air was blown was lower than the surrounding area, indicating effective cooling. On the other hand, in the comparative example, the temperature reduction effect was smaller than in the example, and it was found that some of the lotion was scattered outside the designated area (outside the arm of the patient). Therefore, in the example, it was shown that in addition to effective cooling, loss of lotion was also suppressed.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a graph showing the change in surface temperature over time on the recipient's arm when lotion application device 1 is used on the recipient's arm (Example) and when a lotion application device using lotion spraying is used on the recipient's arm (Comparative Example).

[0070] As shown in Figure 6, it can be seen that the surface temperature of the Example decreases in a shorter time than that of the Comparative Example. It can also be seen that the absolute value of the decrease in surface temperature of the Example is smaller than that of the Comparative Example. Therefore, in combination with the results of Figure 5, it can be seen that the Example exhibits a sufficient cooling effect on a specified location.

[0071] The above-described embodiment is merely an example. The treatment lotion application device and lotion application method according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method according to the above-described embodiment may be modified within the scope of the gist of the claims.

[0072] In the above-described embodiment, the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method have been described as being primarily related to application to skin treatment, but for example, the lotion may be an industrial chemical liquid such as paint, the predetermined location to which the lotion is applied may be an industrial material, and the chemical liquid application device and chemical liquid application method may be applied in which the application process of the industrial chemical liquid by roll-on and the drying process by blowing air proceed approximately simultaneously. [Industrial Applicability]

[0073] The treatment lotion application device and lotion application method of the present invention can be suitably used as a device and method for applying lotion and blowing air to a predetermined location substantially simultaneously. Furthermore, the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method of the present invention are preferably used as a device and method for treating skin, and are particularly preferably used as a device and method for pre-treatment and post-treatment of skin that becomes locally heated due to hair removal treatment, etc.

[0074] Furthermore, the treatment lotion application device and lotion application method of the present invention can also be suitably used as a chemical liquid application device and chemical liquid application method for applying industrial chemical liquid to industrial materials. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 1 Treatment lotion application device, 10 Roller, 20 Applicator, 21 Lotion supply rod, 22 Lotion container, 30 Air blowing section, 31 Air blowing port, 32 Air blowing path, 33 Air blowing mechanism, 40, 40A, 40B Container fixing section, 41A, 41B Fitting section, 50 Grip section, 60, 60A, 60B Arm section, C Central axis, R Axis, S Lotion

Claims

1. An energized roller; an applicator for applying lotion to the conductive roller; a blower that blows air in front of and behind the energizing roller in the direction of travel, the applicator includes a lotion supply rod and a detachable lotion container; A treatment lotion applicator, characterized in that the air flow from the air blowing unit is directed along the lotion container toward the conductive roller.

2. a container fixing part for fixing the lotion container, The treatment lotion applicator according to claim 1, wherein the container fixing part and the air blowing part are integrated.

3. A lotion application method, comprising using the treatment lotion application device according to claim 1 or 2.

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