Device for treating human keratin substances

Abstract

A device for treating a keratinous substance (K) in contact with a fluid (C), in particular a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one ultrasonic transducer (4) having an emission surface (S) for emitting acoustic waves into the fluid in order to generate in the fluid said bubbles having a mechanical action when bursting on said keratinous substance, the emission surface having a relief (420) along the longitudinal axis (X) of the transducer at which bubbles can occur at different levels.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the cleaning of human keratinous substances, and more particularly, but not limited to, the treatment of skin, scalp, and / or hair, especially dyed hair.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an ultrasonic cleaning device for cleaning silicon wafers, mask substrates, etc. This device includes an ultrasonic transducer attached to a nozzle through which a cleaning liquid passes, and means for introducing gas to generate bubbles in the cleaning liquid.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a device for cleaning a surface, which on the one hand includes a chamber supplied with a liquid and communicating with an outlet duct opening onto the surface to be cleaned, and an ultrasonic transducer for transmitting acoustic energy to the liquid contained in the chamber and the outlet duct, and on the other hand includes a bubble generator for generating gas bubbles in the outlet duct. The bubble generator may be an electrochemical generator, and the liquid contains a salt such as potassium chloride to make the liquid conductive. A surfactant may be added to prevent the coalescence of the bubbles while they move to the surface to be treated in the outlet duct and ensure that they have the required size when they reach the surface to be treated.

[0004] It is contemplated to apply this device to the cleaning of skin, especially the skin under a surgeon's fingernail, and further to the washing of hands.

[0005] This application mentions adding a surfactant in some cases to affect the size of the generated bubbles. The application of cosmetics for treating facial skin or hair is not disclosed.

[0006] Patent Document 3 discloses a device for cleaning a surface, which comprises a sonotrode that generates ultrasonic waves near a cleaning solution present on the surface and enables removal of dirt from the surface by cavitation.

[0007] Patent Document 4 describes a device for treating the surface of a semiconductor wafer, which comprises a resonator for supplying ultrasonic energy to a treatment fluid containing gas bubbles.

[0008] Patent Document 5 describes a method for cleaning equipment, which comprises applying a sound field to a liquid containing bubbles.

[0009] Patent Document 6 describes a device for cleaning the skin, which comprises a vacuum pump and is intended to be used near a liquid containing microbubbles on the skin.

[0010] Patent Documents 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 disclose a method for treating the skin with cosmetics, particularly a method for cleaning the skin, which uses an ultrasonic device for generating microbubbles in a cosmetic composition applied to the skin to be cleaned.

[0011] Similar devices are disclosed in Patent Documents 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16.

[0012] Patent Document 17 discloses a medical device for cleaning wounds, which comprises a removable cleaning nozzle and an ultrasonic transducer.

[0013] Some devices require a significant amount of water and a new composition each time they are used.

[0014] The environmentally friendly design of products, which promotes the sustainable use of resources, is an essential factor for minimizing the environmental impact of products. Producers are becoming responsible and are being encouraged to design the manufacturing processes and packaging of products to be environmentally friendly, while paying attention to optimizing industrial processes and managing production waste, due to changes in consumer habits. Thus, a vicious cycle has been established. Similarly, helping consumers reduce waste contributes to this global movement where everyone takes responsibility.

[0015] Therefore, there is a need for products with a reduced environmental footprint that can meet the increasingly realistic expectations of consumers.

[0016] Furthermore, when it is desirable to apply a dyeing treatment to already dyed hair, it may be desirable to first decolorize the hair as described above, and such a decolorization treatment should ideally be carried out without damaging the hair fibers.

[0017] Here, decolorization is currently carried out using compounds having a chemical action on the hair, such as oxidizing agents, which may have an impact on the environment, and it is desirable to avoid using them or reduce their amount. In addition, these compounds may have a relatively irritating effect on the hair fibers.

[0018] In fact, processes involving hair dyeing or decolorization are generally carried out using oxidizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide, potassium salts, sodium salts, ammonium salts, perborates or percarbonates, persulfates or percarbamide in an alkaline solution. The oxidizing agents used in these hair treatments generally cause the breakage of disulfide bonds linking the keratin chains. Therefore, repeated treatment with oxidizing agents often makes the hair weak and brittle and loses its luster.

[0019] After rinsing a composition containing an oxidizing agent, it has been proposed to apply a conditioning agent such as silicone, a cationic surfactant, or a cationic polymer to the hair.

[0020] These conditioning agents form a protective film, thereby enabling the reduction of damage caused to the hair by improving the feel of the hair, but do not prevent premature breakage of the hair that can be caused by continuous oxidative treatment. Furthermore, these conditioning agents have a significant impact on the environment.

[0021] Numerous solutions have been proposed to address this problem.

[0022] Accordingly, Patent Document 18 discloses a hair dye composition containing a metal chelate complex that enables shortening the time the hair is exposed to the oxidizing composition, and thus reducing the damage caused by the oxidizing agent. Patent Document 19 discloses a composition for treating hair against chemical damage and photo damage. Patent Document 20 discloses the use of specific compounds to reduce the damage caused to the hair during hair bleaching or hair dyeing. Patent Documents 21 and 22 disclose other protective compounds. Patent Document 23 discloses a method for removing exogenous metal ions adhering to the hair, which includes the step of contacting the hair with a mixture of chelating agents. Patent Document 24 discloses a hair dye composition containing a whitening additive having a low pH for reducing the damage caused to the hair.

[0023] All of these solutions are based on the use of specific compounds and do not address the need to improve the environmental footprint of the processes for dyeing and / or bleaching the hair or washing the hair so as to be completely satisfactory. Furthermore, these solutions do not always completely prevent the damage caused to the hair by the action of bleaching agents such as oxidizing agents.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0024] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-311756 [Patent Document 2] Specification of U.S. Patent Application No. 2012 / 0227761 [Patent Document 3] Specification of Spanish Patent Application Publication No. 2708149 [Patent Document 4] Specification of U.S. Patent No. 8486199 [Patent Document 5] Specification of European Patent Application Publication No. 1645342 [Patent Document 6] Korean Patent Application Publication No. 101152920 [Patent Document 7] Specification of U.S. Patent Application No. 20170080257 [Patent Document 8] Korean Patent Application Publication No. 20200102956 [Patent Document 9] Specification of U.S. Patent Application No. 2009 / 318853 [Patent Document 10] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016214424 [Patent Document 11] International Publication No. 2020 / 029429 [Patent Document 12] Specification of U.S. Patent Application No. 2011 / 21328 [Patent Document 13] Specification of U.S. Patent Application No. 2010 / 010420 [Patent Document 14] Specification of European Patent Application Publication No. 3634643 [Patent Document 15] Specification of Chinese Patent Application No. 206995178 [Patent Document 16] Specification of European Patent Application Publication No. 2470310 [Patent Document 17] Specification of European Patent Application Publication No. 3542740 [Patent Document 18] Specification of U.S. Patent No. 5100436

Patent Document 19

Patent Document 20

Patent Document 21

Patent Document 22

Patent Document 23

Patent Document 24

Patent Document 25

Non-Patent Document

[0025]

Non-Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Document 2

Non-Patent Document 3

Non-Patent Document 4

Non-Patent Document 5

Non-Patent Document 6

Non-Patent Document 7

Non-Patent Document 8

Non-Patent Document 9

Non-Patent Document 10

Non - Patent Document 11

Non - Patent Document 12

Non - Patent Document 13

Non - Patent Document 14

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0026] The object of the present invention is to provide a method for cleaning human keratinous substances, particularly facial skin, scalp, or hair, which enables effective cleaning of the above keratinous substances and conforms to a responsible and sustainable development approach by reducing the carbon footprint.

[0027] The object of the present invention is also to provide a device and method for treating human hair, which minimize the use of chemical products for hair bleaching, limit the consumption of water and / or active agents, eliminate substances harmful to the environment, reduce the risk associated with repeated exposure of hair and scalp to irritating substances and treatments, and enable easy treatment of hair bleaching and dyeing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0028] Accordingly, one subject of the present invention according to a first aspect of the embodiments of the present invention is a method for treating a human keratinous substance, comprising applying the surface of the above keratinous substance to an acoustic wave emitted by at least one ultrasonic transducer excited by a pulsed or non-pulsed electrical signal and a cosmetic composition containing at least one surfactant, wherein the pulsed or non-pulsed electrical signal has at least one frequency component of 20 kHz to 100 kHz, the duty cycle Ton / Toff when the signal is pulsed is preferably 20% to 100%, the pulse duration Ton when the signal is pulsed is preferably 0.01 s to 1 s, and the acoustic intensity Isata on the above surface is preferably at least 0.1 W / cm 2 is a method.

[0029] Thereby, it is possible to generate bubbles in the vicinity of the surface of the keratinous substance to be cleaned in the cosmetic composition and rupture the above bubbles.

[0030] This method is preferably a cosmetic method for non-therapeutic purposes.

[0031] "Cosmetic composition" refers to a composition containing at least one cosmetic active agent as defined in the Cosmetics Regulation 76 / 768 / EEC. The cosmetic composition may in particular be an active agent which contributes to the cleaning and / or the depigmentation of the hair, as will be explained below. According to the invention, mineral water or tap water does not form part of the cosmetic composition.

[0032] "Human keratinous substances" refer to the skin and its appendages, in particular external keratinous substances such as hair and nails, as well as internal keratinous substances such as gums or other mucous membranes. The treatment can in particular be carried out on the surface layer of the skin. The area of the skin treated according to the invention may be the skin of the face, the torso, the back, the arms, the legs, the hands and / or the feet, the skin on the scalp. The method according to the invention is particularly very suitable for removing make-up and / or cleaning the skin of the face, in particular the forehead, the cheeks, the chin, the neck, the nose, the scalp.

[0033] The method according to the invention may also be suitable for the care of the skin or the hair, or for cleaning and / or preparing the skin, the hair or the scalp, in particular for preparing the hair for a dyeing or depigmentation treatment.

[0034] "At least one frequency component" means, for a periodic signal whose spectrum comprises a single line, for example a sine wave, the frequency in the conventional sense, and for a periodic signal whose spectrum comprises a plurality of lines, the frequency of at least one line, in particular the frequency having the highest amplitude.

[0035] Acoustic intensity I SATA is the value obtained by dividing the average acoustic power over the surface area on which the acoustic wave is applied by the said surface area, I SATA = P moy / S and may be defined as, The average acoustic power is obtained from the activation voltage of the transducer and, when the electrical signal is pulsed, from the duty cycle.

[0036] Acoustic intensity I SATA is preferably from 0.1 W / cm 2 ~ 10 W / cm2 and more preferably, 1 W / cm 2 ~5 W / cm 2 and more preferably, 2.5 W / cm 2 ~5 W / cm 2 and more preferably, 3 W / cm 2 ~4 W / cm 2 .

[0037] The method according to the invention makes it possible to remove or effectively process both extrinsic impurities and intrinsic impurities or defects by means of the above-mentioned parameter ranges for the signal, in particular the minimum acoustic intensity I SATA .

[0038] In some cases, among the unwanted stains present on the keratinous substance (surface stains and / or stains more deeply fixed by the pores of the skin), it is possible to distinguish between extrinsic impurities such as cosmetics, environmental pollution, dust, microorganisms, etc. and intrinsic impurities or defects such as excess sebum, sweat, dead cells, dead skin, dandruff, blackheads, small wounds, and / or acne, scars, etc.

[0039] The acoustic waves obtained using the above-mentioned parameter ranges for the signal can cause complete cavitation of the bubbles in the composition in order to produce a mechanical effect on the keratinous substance to be cleaned.

[0040] "Complete cavitation" is here understood to mean both the generation and rupture of bubbles at the origin of mechanical shocks on nearby surfaces. The cosmetic composition may or may not already contain bubbles inside before the acoustic waves are applied.

[0041] The generated and / or existing bubbles can also contribute to the release of chemical species such as free radicals that contribute to the cleaning of the keratinous substance.

[0042] Surfactant The composition preferably has a total surfactant concentration by weight relative to the total mass of the composition of from 0.01% to 20%, more preferably from 0.01% to 5%, even more preferably from 0.1% to 1.5%. Thus, the composition can also have a cleaning action in the absence of bubble rupture by acoustic waves.

[0043] The surfactant can contribute to the formation and / or stabilization of bubbles and is selected from, for example, anionic polyoxyalkylated alkyl (amide) ether carboxylic acid surfactants, anionic surfactants other than the above-mentioned polyoxyalkylated alkyl (amide) ether carboxylic acids, nonionic surfactants, amphoteric and zwitterionic surfactants, and foaming surfactants such as mixtures thereof, and / or is selected from compounds present in conventional makeup removal compositions such as alkyl polysaccharides, fatty alcohol polyethylene glycols, oils, and mixtures thereof. Any surfactant capable of generating micelles in the medium can be used.

[0044] Acoustic waves Acoustic waves can be generated by a single transducer or, in a variant form, by at least two transducers.

[0045] When acoustic waves are emitted by a plurality of transducers, these acoustic waves are, for example, all directed towards the area to be treated, for example, the longitudinal axis converges on that area. Where applicable, it is possible to use two transducers arranged facing each other to treat the hair tufts of the inserted hair. This makes it possible to treat both sides of the hair tuft simultaneously. It is also possible to treat a larger area with transducers arranged side by side, and the areas treated by each transducer may or may not overlap.

[0046] Each transducer comprises one or more electroactive elements for converting an electric current into a mechanical vibration, and these one or more electroactive elements are based on a piezoelectric material, for example, as described below.

[0047] One or more of these electroactive elements can be coupled to a sonotrode that can be initiated into mechanical resonance by one or more of the electroactive elements and serves to define an emission surface for emitting acoustic waves towards a surface or a target volume.

[0048] The acoustic waves can be generated continuously immediately after the processing device is activated, or, in a variant form, for example, when there is a composition in contact with the sonotrode and / or when there is a device in contact with the area to be processed, and / or when the device detects that the area contains dirt, etc., are generated only when certain operating conditions are met.

[0049] In a variant form, the acoustic waves are generated only when the amount of the composition in contact with the surface to be cleaned is sufficient, or otherwise can be generated when certain conditions for generating cavitation are detected, such as contact between the emission surface of the sonotrode and the surface to be processed, a minimum composition height, a composition temperature or a transducer temperature within a given range.

[0050] The acoustic waves can be generated by a pulsed electrical signal or a continuous electrical signal, preferably a pulsed electrical signal.

[0051] The acoustic waves can be generated by a sinusoidal electrical signal or a signal having a more complex waveform with, for example, frequency modulation or amplitude modulation. The acoustic waves are preferably emitted at a single frequency, thereby making it possible to more accurately focus the acoustic waves on a given area, but in a variant form can be emitted at a plurality of different frequencies.

[0052] The above frequency is preferably from 30 kHz to 100 kHz, particularly from 30 kHz to 45 kHz. Such a frequency enables both sufficient generation and bursting of bubbles within the composition and enables bursting of only any bubbles already present in the medium within the composition. The acoustic wave is generated, for example, by a transducer having a nominal frequency of about 34 kHz.

[0053] The nominal frequency may vary, for example, by about 34 kHz, e.g., 34 kHz + / - 5 kHz.

[0054] The electrical signal exciting one or more transducers may preferably be pulsed using a pulse duration of 0.01 s to 0.1 s, more preferably 0.02 s to 0.08 s.

[0055] The duty cycle when the signal is pulsed is preferably approximately equal to 20% to 100%, more preferably 50% to 70%, e.g., 50% + / - 10%, 58.3% + / - 10%, or 66.7% + / - 10%.

[0056] Some variations with respect to the nominal values may, where applicable, be obtained, for example, from the temperature rise of the transducer by exciting the ceramics forming the piezoelectric electroactive element. These variations may also be obtained from the temperature rise of the liquid in which cavitation occurs.

[0057] This method may include the step of detecting the presence of the cosmetic composition in contact with the sonotrode and, conditional on this detection, performing the operation of the transducer.

[0058] Thus, this avoids emitting acoustic waves when the composition is absent or when the device is not in a situation of treating a keratinous substance.

[0059] Preferably, the acoustic wave is emitted without the emission surface of the sonotrode contacting the surface to be treated. The distance between the transducer and the surface to be treated is, for example, 1 mm to 30 mm, more specifically 3 mm to 5 mm, thereby limiting the acoustic energy emitted to the keratinous material and enabling the cavitation of bubbles in the composition to be promoted.

[0060] The "distance between the transducer and the surface to be treated" should be understood as the distance between the emission surface of the sonotrode and the surface to be treated.

[0061] With the continuous operation of one or more transducers, or as a variant, with the pulsed operation of one or more transducers, it is possible to continuously flow the composition in contact with the sonotrode. The composition may be supplied in pulses. Advantageously, it is intermittently supplied to the region where the acoustic wave is applied. For example, there is a supply period to a region where no acoustic wave is generated, and then the acoustic wave is applied to the composition present in the region, and thus there is a period during which the composition is not replenished while being exposed to the acoustic wave. This can make it possible to avoid the presence of bubbles in the composition, and the bubbles are repelled by the acoustic wave present in the above region before flowing into the above region.

[0062] Therefore, it is possible to subordinate the supply of the composition to the treatment region to the operation of one or more transducers for generating the acoustic wave, or vice versa, or to subordinate the operation of the transducer to the supply of the composition, and to have a pulsed operation of one or more transducers and / or the supply of the composition. In other words, it is possible to delay the supply of the composition in time with respect to the emission period of the acoustic wave to the region where the composition is supplied.

[0063] The propagation of acoustic waves is facilitated by the presence of a liquid in the composition. Therefore, the gas / liquid weight ratio within the composition can be advantageous by not being overly high, and the composition can preferably contain a thickening agent as described below, or can contain any other compound for enhancing the temporary stability of bubbles.

[0064] Preferably, to obtain a peak acoustic intensity I of 5 W / cm 2 or more, an activation voltage is delivered to the transducer. The peak intensity I is preferably 5 W / cm 2 ~10 W / cm 2 , more preferably 6 W / cm 2 ~7.5 W / cm 2 .

[0065] The surface to be treated is preferably exposed to acoustic waves for a duration of 0.2 s to 10 s, more preferably 2 s to 5 s, for example, 4 s + / - 0.4 s. Such an "effective" application duration of the acoustic waves enables effective cleaning and limits the discomfort of the user. This duration corresponds to the measured time from the start of excitation of the transducer for treating a given surface to the end of excitation of the transducer in the treatment of the above surface. This time can be applied in a single operation or in multiple additional operations.

[0066] The surface to be treated is exposed to acoustic waves for a duration equal to, for example, 4 s + / - 0.4 s, and the peak acoustic intensity is equal to 6.2 + / - 0.6 W / cm 2 . - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.8% to 1.5%, a pulse duration Ton of 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and a duty cycle of 50 to 67%, or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.5% to -0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is 0.025 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is 50% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 52% to 65%.

[0067] As a modified form, for example, acoustic waves are applied to the surface for a duration equal to 4 s + / - 0.4 s, and the peak acoustic intensity is 6.8 W / cm 2 + / - 0.7 W / cm 2 equal to - The total concentration of the surfactant in the composition is 0.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.027 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 50% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 52% to 67%, or or - The total concentration of the surfactant in the composition is 0.8% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.030 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 50% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 52% to 67%, or or - The total concentration of the surfactant in the composition is 1.0% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.035 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 50% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 52.5% to 67%, or or - The total concentration of the surfactant in the composition is 1.2% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.035 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 51.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 54% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.038 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 54% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 57.5% to 67%.

[0068] As a variant, acoustic waves are applied to the surface to be treated for a duration equal to, for example, 4 s + / - 0.4 s, and the peak acoustic intensity is 7.2 W / cm 2 + / - 0.7 W / cm 2 equal to - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.5 + / - 0.1%, the pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 50% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.8% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.030 s to 0.070 s, and the duty cycle is from 51% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 52.5% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.0% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.030 s to 0.070 s, and the duty cycle is from 52.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 55% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.2% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.025 s to 0.070 s, and the duty cycle is from 56% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 59% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.5 + / - 0.1%, the pulse duration Ton is from 0.028 s to 0.045 s, and the duty cycle is from 59% to 63%.

[0069] In a variant form, an acoustic wave is applied to the surface to be treated for a duration equal to, for example, 3 s + / - 0.3 s, and the peak acoustic intensity is 2 + / - 0.6 W / cm 2 equal to - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.070 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 54% to 60.5%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.055 s to 0.078 s, and the duty cycle is from 56% to 62%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.8% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.040 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 51% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 56% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.0% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.035 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 51.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 54% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.2% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.040 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 51.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 54% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.035 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 55% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 57% to 67%.

[0070] As a variant, an acoustic wave is applied to the surface to be treated for a duration equal to, for example, 3 s + / - 0.3 s, and the peak acoustic intensity is 6.8 W / cm 2 + / - 0.7 W / cm 2 equal to, - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.065 s, and the duty cycle is from 56% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.035 s to 0.075 s, and the duty cycle is from 53.5% to 64%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.8% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.030 s to 0.072 s, and the duty cycle is from 53% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 55% to 64.5%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.0% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.032 s to 0.070 s, and the duty cycle is from 54% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 56% to 64.5%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.2% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.032 s to 0.070 s, and the duty cycle is from 55.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 58% to 64%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.025 s to 0.063 s, and the duty cycle is from 61.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.030 s to 0.058 s, and the duty cycle is from 60% to 67%.

[0071] As a variant, an acoustic wave is applied to the surface to be treated for a duration equal to, for example, 3 s + / - 0.3 s, and the peak acoustic intensity is equal to 7.2 W / cm 2 + / - 0.7 W / cm 2 and - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.5% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 57% to 65%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.030 s to 0.065 s, and the duty cycle is from 55% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 0.8% + / - 0.1%, ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.080 s, and the duty cycle is from 58% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.068 s, and the duty cycle is from 55% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.0% + / - 0.1%, and ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.0725 s, and the duty cycle is from 58.5% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.0575 s, and the duty cycle is from 56% to 67%, or or - The composition has a total surfactant concentration of 1.2% + / - 0.1%, and ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.060 s, and the duty cycle is from 61% to 67%, or ○ The pulse duration Ton is from 0.020 s to 0.046 s, and the duty cycle is from 58.5% to 67%.

[0072] Gas bubbles Bubbles can be generated during the pressure drop of the composition and during the decrease in vapor pressure that causes the release of gas. Preferably, the bubbles are generated by acoustic waves, but as a variant form, they can also be additionally generated by a specific generator.

[0073] Among a number of candidates, the gas bubbles are air, CO2, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen bubbles, or a mixture of these gases.

[0074] All of the bubbles are bubbles of the same gas, or as a variant form, the composition may contain bubbles of a first gas and bubbles of a second gas different from the first gas.

[0075] The gas may be obtained through the decomposition of the composition, for example, through fermentation, or extracted from the composition, or as a variant form, introduced into the composition.

[0076] The diameter of the bubbles may be in the range of 50 nm to 700 μm, and more preferably in the range of 500 nm to 50 μm. Here, the size is the average size D by half 50 is shown.

[0077] This dimensionless coefficient is equal to the ratio d / R max where d is the distance from the geometric center of the bubble at the moment of maximum bubble expansion to the surface being cleaned, and R max is the maximum expansion diameter of the bubble, and is preferably less than 3.5, more preferably less than 1.1, so as to have the maximum effect, as described in Non-Patent Document 1.

[0078] The density of the medium formed by the cosmetic composition containing gas bubbles exposed to acoustic waves is (at 20 °C and atmospheric pressure) 0.1 g / cm 3 ~1 g / cm 3 and more preferably 0.5 g / cm 3 ~1 g / cm 3 and may be.

[0079] The small bubble size facilitates penetration into skin undulations and / or pockets such as hair follicles, cracks, wrinkles, wounds, splits, or folds, and thus can exert an effective cleaning action inside them. Therefore, it may be advantageous for the bubbles to have a size of 300 microns or less, more preferably 200 microns or less, for example 100 microns or less. In that case, the bubbles can penetrate into the vesicles before being activated by acoustic waves.

[0080] Additional generation of bubbles Preferably, the bubbles are generated only by acoustic waves in the cavitation phenomenon, obtained in particular via the minimum level of Isata and the other above-described parameters as explained above.

[0081] As a variant form, additional bubbles may be generated within the composition. These additional bubbles may be generated by any suitable means, such as mechanical, physical, chemical, or electrochemical means. The bubbles may in particular be generated by reducing the pressure of the liquid which makes it possible to lower the vapor pressure and cause the formation of gas in the form of bubbles.

[0082] Additional bubbles may be generated before, simultaneously with, or cyclically with respect to the emission of the acoustic wave.

[0083] The following techniques, among others, constitute exemplary techniques that can be implemented to generate bubbles in the present invention, as follows. - Depressurization of a liquid using a nozzle, for example, depressurization that may be performed after pressurization in some cases - In particular, generation of turbulent flow using a rotating blade, turbine, ejector, venturi, swirling air or liquid flow, fixed or rotating porous body, in particular a rotating disk, a generator described in Non-Patent Document 2, a venturi tube and a vortex, a venturi (Iona Shower) implemented by MEC Co., or shear force - Concentration or co-concentration of flow, for example, generation of laminar flow through a small opening using a porous membrane such as a porous membrane fluid oscillator described in Non-Patent Document 3, or an emulsification microchannel described in Non-Patent Document 4. These techniques for generating bubbles through laminar flow through a small opening are preferred over the previous techniques due to the stability of the generated bubbles.

[0084] - Supplying the following For example, light energy by irradiating a nanoporous gold-coated microfluidic channel as described in Non-Patent Document 5, light energy supply by laser irradiation as described in Non-Patent Document 6, light energy by laser irradiation on a carbon nanotube as described in Non-Patent Document 7, light energy by a tapered optical fiber, light energy by a plasmonic absorber in the near infrared as described in Non-Patent Document 8 For example, acoustic energy by ultrasonic waves as described in Non-Patent Document 9, acoustic activation of micrometer-sized air flow bubbles and microbubbles as described in Patent Document 25, acoustic energy due to the influence of ultrasonic treatment conditions on the efficiency of ultrasonic cleaning using ultrasonic waves in the presence of nucleation sites Electrical energy by the electrodynamic coaxial spraying method as described in Non-Patent Document 10, electrical energy by electrolysis, electrical energy by electroflotation, electrical energy by an electrolytic microgenerator as described in Non-Patent Document 11, electrical energy by electrostatic spraying as described in Non-Patent Document 12, electrical energy by an electrically heated carbon nanotube as described in Non-Patent Document 13, or electrical energy by a microplasma as described in Non-Patent Document 14.

[0085] Additional bubbles can be continuously generated immediately after the device is activated. As a variant, the bubbles can be generated intermittently, for example, only when the composition is dispersed or periodically at a predefined frequency so as to give time for the composition to disperse. A certain amount of bubbles may be present in the composition before the device is activated. As a variant, the bubbles may be generated in advance or generated without activating the device.

[0086] The generation intensity of the bubbles may be constant, variable, adjustable by the user if applicable, or automatically adjustable by the device according to the desired result or at least one operating parameter.

[0087] The bubbles can be generated by any one of the above-described techniques, in particular, by injecting a pressurized gas into the composition, by a pump, or for example by a compressed gas tank, by electrolysis of the cosmetic composition, by stirring the composition, by sucking a gas into the composition, or by evaporation of a liquefied gas mixed or dissolved in the composition. The bubbles can result from the reaction of two liquids or a liquid and at least one solid in the form of, for example, powder, granules, tablets, or any other form.

[0088] When the bubbles are generated upstream, the flow rate of the liquid containing the bubbles may be in the range of 0.01 mL / s to 10 mL / s.

[0089] Polishing This method may include polishing of the keratinous substance using polishing particles and / or polishing of the keratinous substance by contact of a part of the device with the keratinous substance.

[0090] This polishing can be carried out by a device other than a device that emits acoustic waves, by the device itself, or by a specific part mounted on the device, such as a grid, blade, scraper, or any other suitable accessory.

[0091] The part for carrying out the polishing is, for example, installed for carrying out the polishing and then removed during the time when the treatment is carried out by bubbles and acoustic waves, and is, for example, replaceable with a part of the device used for the treatment carried out by acoustic waves and bubbles.

[0092] The part for carrying out the polishing may also be present during the treatment using bubbles and acoustic waves, as described below. In that case, this part may have the form of a grid among a number of candidates.

[0093] The polishing can be carried out before the cosmetic composition and the bubbles are exposed to the acoustic waves, or, in a variant form, simultaneously with being exposed to the acoustic waves. When carried out in advance, the polishing can be carried out by any means, particularly by mechanical or chemical action.

[0094] The polishing of the keratinous substance is caused not only by the shock wave phenomenon occurring after the bubbles are exposed to the acoustic waves, but also at least partially by the action of the polishing particles coming into contact with the surface to be treated, and these polishing particles are, for example, present in the composition or on the surface of the device that contacts the external keratinous substance.

[0095] The abrasive particles present in the cosmetic composition may be insoluble in the medium of the composition or, in a modified form, may be soluble in the composition. Preferably, in that case, when the abrasive particles dissolve, they generate a gas which, in that case, serves to generate all or part of the bubbles to which the acoustic wave is applied. The abrasive particles can be formed by a precipitation reaction linked to a chemical reaction.

[0096] The abrasive particles can be selected from abrasive powders of materials having a Mohs hardness of 3 or more, for example, powdered alumina materials, powdered silica materials, powdered aluminosilicate materials, powdered carbonate materials, or powdered silica-coated materials, powdered alumina-coated materials, or powdered aluminosilicate-coated materials.

[0097] The abrasive particles can be powdered stone fruits, especially apricot seeds, wood cellulose, for example, carved bamboo poles, carved coconut shells, oyster shells, seashells, sand, silica, or synthetic materials such as polyamide, or mixed particles combining organic and inorganic compounds, and particles coated with the above compounds.

[0098] The abrasive particles may have a size of 0.1 micron to 500 microns, particularly 0.1 micron to 50 microns in the case of hair treatment, or 10 microns to 300 microns in the case of scalp or facial skin treatment.

[0099] The solid particles used to exert the abrasive action may have a flat shape, spherical shape, elongated shape, polygonal shape, or irregular shape.

[0100] The abrasive particles can be added to the device or the liquid during the treatment.

[0101] The device may include a chamber used specifically for the controlled storage and dispersion of the abrasive particles or of the compounds capable of forming these particles via reaction or precipitation.

[0102] Recycling Preferably, the cosmetic composition is brought into contact with the keratinous material so that it can be at least partially recovered for recycling.

[0103] The recovered composition can be filtered to remove solid debris or the particulate phase of the composition before being returned to the surface to be cleaned.

[0104] Preferably, the composition is recovered by suction or absorption using a porous medium or a suction system, in particular using a pump as described hereinafter.

[0105] Application of the cosmetic composition Generally, the composition may already contribute per se, due to its formulation, to the removal of impurities that it is desirable to remove via the action of applying acoustic waves to the bubbles. The action of applying acoustic waves to the bubbles speeds up or improves this process. The association combining the waves generated by bursting the bubbles with the action of the composition can thus have an effect greater than the effect of the waves alone or the effect of the composition alone, by a synergistic action.

[0106] The cosmetic composition can first be applied to the keratinous material, whether or not bubbles are already present in the cosmetic composition, and then, second, after being applied to the keratinous material, be exposed to acoustic waves to generate new bubbles and can produce shock waves after all the bubbles have burst.

[0107] For example, the user first applies the cosmetic composition, for example in the form of foam, to the area to be cleaned, for example by spraying the cosmetic composition onto the area described above, and then brings the treatment device into contact with the composition to apply acoustic waves to the cosmetic composition.

[0108] The cosmetic composition can also be applied in another way, in particular continuously, i.e. a flow of the composition in contact with the keratinous material to be treated is established, which flow occurs, for example, in a closed or open circuit.

[0109] When flow occurs in a closed circuit, the composition is at least partially recycled. To reduce losses, additional amounts of the composition can be introduced continuously or intermittently into the circuit.

[0110] At any time, the flow may be stopped to promote an extended static contact time of the composition on the surface being cleaned. The flow may occur in the absence of air bubbles and may be enabled, for example, by an initial contact with the keratinous material, to allow for preparation for cleaning.

[0111] In an open circuit, the composition is not recycled to carry out this method and is, for example, sucked up into a collection container or directly with the waste water.

[0112] The flow of the composition within the device occurs, for example, at a flow rate of from 0.01 mL per second to 15 mL per second.

[0113] Air bubbles can be formed under the action of acoustic waves and / or using a specific bubble generator of the device while the cosmetic composition is already in contact with the keratinous material and operates, for example, by electrolysis.

[0114] Selection of the area to be treated This method can be carried out on the face skin, scalp, or all or part of the body to clean them.

[0115] The area to be treated may in particular be an area of keratinous material covered with cosmetics such as, inter alia, foundation, lipstick, blush, mascara, eyeliner, powder, emulsion, oil, or sunscreen products, and the treatment may aim to remove this product.

[0116] This method can be carried out by moving the handpiece along the area to be treated so as to treat the entire area covered with the cosmetic or other substance that it is desired to remove.

[0117] This method can also be carried out to treat areas of skin not covered by cosmetics in order to perform a deep cleaning of those areas and to remove or treat exogenous impurities or endogenous impurities or defects, such as dead skin cells, traces of sebum or sweat, dandruff, bacteria, traces of dirt, blackheads, stains, small wounds, or acne marks. This method can be carried out to treat the scalp. This method can also be carried out on the nails to remove nail polish.

[0118] This method includes a step of detecting the area to be treated, and certain parameters such as acoustic intensity can be automatically adjusted according to the requirements regarding the cleaning or treatment of the detected area.

[0119] The device can be provided with a light detector for detecting the presence of compounds removed from the surface of the skin, such as foundation or sunscreen. The detector includes, for example, a light emitter and a sensor for detecting the reflected signal. The reflected signal is analyzed to detect the presence of the compound to be removed and, optionally, to determine the amount present. For example, the emission power of the acoustic wave is automatically adjusted according to the intensity absorbed at a predefined wavelength.

[0120] The detection can also be carried out in the liquid obtained from the treated area, especially when the above liquid is recycled. A high turbidity of this liquid may indicate the presence of a large number of particles removed from the surface. Therefore, the intensity of the acoustic wave can be automatically adjusted according to the transparency of the liquid. The intensity is automatically increased, for example, when the liquid is turbid because a large number of particles are removed by the treatment, and decreased when the liquid clears again. The clearing of the liquid is an indication that fewer particles are being removed by the treatment.

[0121] This method can also be carried out to wash the hair, especially for the purpose of at least partially removing a previously applied dye.

[0122] This method can also be performed on the hair to remove excess sebum or pathogenic or non-pathogenic biological agents and other substances such as dandruff.

[0123] Additional methods Before or after the method according to the invention, a beauty method such as a cosmetic or a massage can be performed.

[0124] For example, the skin, hair, or eyelashes are made up, and then, after a certain duration (for example, less than 24 hours), it is removed by the cleaning method according to the invention.

[0125] In another example, the skin is cleaned by performing the method according to the invention, and then care (for example, massage and / or application of a care composition) is performed on the cleaned area (for example, immediately or within less than 2 hours after cleaning).

[0126] Treatment kit Another subject of the invention is a treatment kit for performing the method according to the invention as defined above.

[0127] This kit comprises - a cosmetic composition in which bubbles are generated, and - a device for exposing the bubbles to acoustic waves in the vicinity of the surface to be treated.

[0128] The composition may or may not be packaged in the same package as the device.

[0129] The composition can be obtained by diluting a concentrated composition. This dilution can be carried out, for example, using a liquid or solid composition, preferably a liquid composition, in the form of tablets, bars, shavings, powders, containing all or part of the components (components in different ratios) of the concentrated composition.

[0130] When applicable, the composition is contained in a container designed to be mounted on the device, which container constitutes, for example, a cartridge designed to be fully or partially fixed in a corresponding recess of the device or to be connected to the device by means of a suitable link such as a tube.

[0131] Other compounds The composition may generally contain any compound conventionally found in cleaning and / or care formulations for human keratinous substances, which is adapted to produce sufficiently stable bubbles before the application of acoustic waves.

[0132] Device for treating keratinous substances Another subject of the invention according to another aspect of the aspects of the present invention is a device for treating a keratinous substance by bringing it into contact with a cosmetic composition containing at least one surfactant, in particular for implementing the method according to the first aspect of the present invention described above, the device comprising at least one ultrasonic transducer designed to emit acoustic waves in the vicinity of the keratinous substance to be treated, the transducer being powered by a current generator that delivers a pulsed or non-pulsed electrical signal to the transducer.

[0133] The device may in particular comprise at least one ultrasonic transducer designed to emit acoustic waves into the fluid present in the vicinity of the keratinous substance to be cleaned, the transducer being powered by a current generator that delivers a pulsed or non-pulsed electrical signal to the transducer, which electrical signal preferably - has at least one frequency component between 20 kHz and 100 kHz, - a duty cycle Ton / Toff of 20% to 100% when the signal is pulsed, and / or - has a pulse duration Ton of 0.01 s to 1 s when the signal is pulsed, The acoustic intensity Isata on the surface of the keratinous substance described above is preferably 0.1 W / cm 2 equal to.

[0134] The features of the methods described above are applicable to the device either in combination with each other or independently.

[0135] A device for treating hair Another subject of the invention according to another aspect of the present invention is, in particular, a device for treating hair for the purpose of washing human hair, removing previous dyes, and / or decolorizing the above-mentioned hair, the device being intended to treat the hair while the hair is in contact with a fluid, in particular an aqueous fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, in which gas bubbles are present and / or generated inside, and the device being - at least one transducer having an emission surface for emitting acoustic waves in the vicinity of the hair to be treated in order to cause the rupture of the above-mentioned bubbles; - at least one guiding and / or combing member designed to move the hair close to the above-mentioned emission surface and / or to bring it into contact with the above-mentioned emission surface.

[0136] The acoustic waves emitted by the emission surface around the transducer form and rupture bubbles in the fluid, in particular by cavitation, and thus produce a mechanical effect on the hair that promotes the detachment of exogenous or endogenous elements, in particular making it possible to decolorize the above-mentioned hair.

[0137] The cosmetic composition may contain a very small amount of surfactant, for example less than 5% surfactant. This small amount of surfactant may prove particularly favorable for the action of acoustic waves on the fluid and the bubbles present in the fluid.

[0138] Among the undesirable impurities that may be present on the hair, it is possible to distinguish between exogenous impurities such as environmental pollution, dust, microorganisms, etc., and endogenous impurities or defects such as excess sebum, dead cells, etc.

[0139] The cosmetic composition may or may not already contain air bubbles inside before the acoustic wave is applied.

[0140] The generated and / or existing air bubbles can also contribute to the release of chemical species such as free radicals that contribute to the cleaning and / or decolorization of hair.

[0141] The device according to the invention is very suitable for the decolorization of hair, in particular hair that has already been dyed and has a color that is not the natural color of the hair.

[0142] The device may be able to decolorize only the outside of the hair tufts so as to provide a sweeping effect on the hair.

[0143] The device can also be used to decolorize specific regions of the hair, in particular specific regions of the hair tufts, through the intermittent emission of ultrasonic waves.

[0144] At least a part of the device, in particular the induction and / or combing member, can heat and / or diffuse light, thereby making it possible to activate certain compounds present in a fluid, in particular in the cosmetic composition.

[0145] Device having a pump and a tank The device according to the invention is preferably a system for dispersing and / or recovering the composition, comprising at least one composition tank and at least one pump, the pump being particularly electrically driven and designed to direct the composition within a fluid circuit between the tank and the keratinous material to be treated.

[0146] Therefore, another main subject of the present invention is a device for treating a keratinous material by bringing it into contact with a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, the device comprising - a handpiece comprising a treatment head arranged to come into contact with the keratinous material to be treated, - At least one transducer, which is carried by a handpiece and is designed to emit acoustic waves within the vicinity of the keratinous substance to be conveyed and processed, generating bubbles in a fluid, the bubbles being preferably generated exclusively by the transducer without an additional bubble generator, at least one transducer; - A system for dispersing and / or recovering a fluid, comprising at least one fluid tank and at least one pump, the pump being designed to flow the fluid within a fluid circuit between one or more tanks and the keratinous substance to be processed, a system.

[0147] Preferably, the device is intended for non-therapeutic use, in particular for the topical application of cosmetic compositions.

[0148] The device according to the invention enables effective treatment of both exogenous impurities and endogenous impurities or defects, and moreover meets certain environmental requirements and applicable safety standards.

[0149] The system for dispersing and / or recovering a fluid enables water and compound savings.

[0150] Preferably, the handpiece comprises a handle, which can be arranged non-coaxially with the treatment head. The handle can at least partially contain a system for dispersing and / or recovering a fluid. As a variant, the device comprises a base station connected to the handpiece by a cable, and the pump and / or one or more tanks can be arranged within the base station.

[0151] Pump The pump has any type of drive, in particular a manual or electric drive, and preferably can have an electric drive.

[0152] Pumps can be of various types. The pump can be, for example, a positive displacement pump or a centrifugal pump, in particular, a peristaltic pump, a diaphragm pump, a piston pump, or some combination of types.

[0153] The pump can be powered by DC or AC current. Preferably, the supply voltage of the pump is less than 50V, and for example, it is powered using a voltage in the range of 5V to 12V.

[0154] The pump preferably is compatible with liquids whose properties change, in particular, aqueous, oily, and mixed liquids, liquids containing particles or fillers in a suspended state, or in some cases, polymers.

[0155] When the pump is driven by an electric motor, the motor can be, for example, a brushed DC motor or a brushless DC motor, in particular, a brushed DC motor or a brushless DC motor having permanent magnets. These magnets can be based on ferrite or rare earth elements.

[0156] When the motor is used to drive the pump, for example, the rotational speed is from 1 rpm to 10000 rpm.

[0157] Such a speed can be fixed or variable, and the motor is driven, for example, by a variable speed drive that uses pulse width modulation and has (passive or active) resistance acting on the current or supply voltage, or is driven by a variable frequency drive.

[0158] The motor can be single-phase or three-phase.

[0159] The mechanism of the pump can be directly driven by the motor or can be driven using a speed reducer.

[0160] When the drive is manual, the device can include a handle that is actuated by the user to operate the pump.

[0161] Preferably, the pump is configured to provide a fluid flow rate of 0.01 mL to 15 mL per second.

[0162] The pump may or may not be removable. The pump can generate a negative pressure and / or a positive pressure on the fluid to allow the fluid to flow and come into contact with the skin. Also, the pump can be used for internal cleaning of all or part of the device.

[0163] The pump may include a filter in one or more components. The pump may be mechanically or electrically insulated in the device, for example, for removal from the device for cleaning.

[0164] Tank The device may include one or more fluid tanks, and this fluid is preferably the aforementioned cosmetic composition.

[0165] One or more tanks may be disposed within the handpiece, particularly within its handle, or may be disposed at least partially outside the handpiece, for example, within a base station connected to the handpiece.

[0166] As a variant, one or more tanks may be arranged to protrude from the handpiece.

[0167] The device may include a plurality of separate tanks, for example, a tank for the fluid dispersed over the area to be treated and a tank for receiving the used fluid that is at least partially recovered after treatment.

[0168] One or more tanks may or may not be removable. One or more tanks may be, for example, single - use tanks and can be replaced when the fluid runs out or when the recovered fluid needs to be drained.

[0169] It is also possible to provide tanks of various volumes depending on the treatment carried out on the keratinous substance, and this device can be configured to allow the installation of a tank of a user-selected volume, selected by the user from a plurality of different respective volumes.

[0170] One or more tanks can be cleaned, filled, or emptied, for example, by being manually removed from the device from the outside in advance, or in other cases, when fluid is still present in the device, it can be cleaned, filled, or emptied directly, for example, using a pump and a fluid circuit.

[0171] In this case, the device comprises a selector that enables, for example, changing the fluid flow from a first configuration in which fluid flow occurs between the tank and the treatment area to a second configuration used to purge and / or fill the tank.

[0172] One or more tanks may comprise a plurality of compartments, in particular, a plurality of compartments incorporated in one and the same body and separated by walls, or, for example, a plurality of communicating compartments connected by tubes. One or more tanks may comprise a compartment containing a composition to be dispersed over the area to be treated and a compartment for collecting the used composition, for example, for recycling. The two compartments may communicate, for example, via a filter.

[0173] One or more tanks may also comprise a plurality of compartments in which different compositions can be stored. These compositions may be mixed when used, may in some cases be solids, and / or may be in the form of powders that dissolve rapidly.

[0174] For example, one tank may include a first compartment containing a solid composition in, for example, powder or crystalline form, and a second compartment containing a fluid composition, and the two compartments may be in communication such that the fluid composition solubilizes the solid composition during use.

[0175] The first compartment may contain a mixture of a suspended solid composition and a liquid in which the solid composition is insoluble, and the fluid composition within the second compartment solubilizes the mixture during use of the device.

[0176] One or more tanks may include one or more filters for filtering impurities in the recovered fluid before redispersing the recovered fluid across the area to be treated. The tank may also include a vent.

[0177] One or more tanks may include a device for heating or cooling the fluid, in particular an electrical resistor.

[0178] One or more tanks are preferably compatible with one or more liquids having various properties, in particular various types of miscible or immiscible compositions and various types of cleaning liquids.

[0179] One or more tanks are preferably at least partially transparent, thereby enabling the user to visually observe the filling level of the tank and / or the level of cleanliness of the fluid contained in the tank.

[0180] One or more tanks may be deformable or made of a highly rigid material, in particular glass or plastic. The tank may include removable parts and thus may have an adjustable volume as desired. One or more tanks may include a valve that enables separation of the tank from a housing that receives the tank without fluid loss.

[0181] One or more tanks may generally be cylindrical, or may be in the form of a cartridge having another shape, or may be in the form of a flexible pocket.

[0182] The capacity of one or more tanks is, for example, from 1 ml to 200 ml, and more preferably from 1 ml to 50 ml.

[0183] Fluid circuit The fluid circuit preferably comprises a plurality of ducts, which are suitably connected so as to generate a desired fluid flow, and are connected, for example, using end-to-end connections or parallel connections that are connected to each other by suitable connections.

[0184] The fluid circuit connects various components of devices involved in the fluid flow, such as a processing head, one or more pumps or one or more fluid tanks, to each other, together with one or more filters or other purification systems or disinfection systems or optionally an additional bubble generation system.

[0185] The fluid circuit may comprise one or more adjustable taps or valves, for example one or more manual valves or electrically controlled valves.

[0186] The pump may include a filter in one or more components.

[0187] The fluid circuit may comprise a water inlet for filling the fluid circuit with water and / or for cleaning the fluid circuit from an external network.

[0188] The fluid circuit may also be adjustable using removable sections, for example sections that are added when cleaning the circuit. For example, it is possible to add a section containing a cleaning powder that at least partially solubilizes when the liquid passes through the circuit. Thus, the added section is used only for cleaning and can then be removed, or left in place until the next cleaning operation and then replaced with a new section.

[0189] One or more tanks and a fluid circuit that enables fluid to flow can belong to the same assembly that forms a refillable that can be installed on and removed from the device without damage and operated integrally, thereby facilitating the replenishment of the product. Such a refillable may have a mechanical interface with a pump or other drive mechanism, if applicable, and can establish the flow of the product from the cartridge to the treatment area when actuated.

[0190] The assembly that forms the refillable can be arranged, for example, by snap - fitting, to be fastened to a handpiece within the same housing as another component of the device, for example, a housing containing a generator.

[0191] Treatment and purification unit for fluids The device according to the invention may comprise a system for at least partially recycling the fluid, the system comprising a duct opening near the area to be treated and communicating with a suction system, in particular a suction pump.

[0192] The suction system is preferably set to send the recovered fluid to a treatment and purification unit, and the fluid is returned to a tank at the output of the treatment and purification unit, for example, to be redispersed across the area to be treated.

[0193] The treatment and purification unit can be arranged inside the handpiece, in particular within its handle, or at least partially externally, for example, transferred to a base station connected to the handpiece by a cord.

[0194] The treatment and purification unit preferably comprises one or more removable parts. The treatment and purification unit is washable and fully or partially reusable.

[0195] The treatment and purification unit may comprise a filtration system capable of at least partially filtering any fluid flowing within the device, in particular the cosmetic composition used for treatment or any additional liquid used for cleaning the device.

[0196] Preferably, the filtration system comprises at least one filter, in particular a filter with a pore size of 50 microns or less.

[0197] The filter may be a non-woven fabric and may or may not have folds. The filter may include one or more elements selected from cloth, porous material, activated carbon particles, sand, silica, porous polymer, natural or synthetic foam.

[0198] The filter may be a filter with high capture capacity, in particular a nanofilter.

[0199] The filtration system may also comprise a pre-filter that can be positioned downstream or upstream of the suction system.

[0200] The filtration system may comprise a sensor for detecting the efficiency of one or more filters, and this sensor is configured to indicate to the user whether the filter should be replaced or cleaned, for example, by changing color when the filtration system is saturated. Such a sensor may also be a pressure sensor capable of detecting filter clogging.

[0201] When applicable, the fluid circuit of the device is designed to reverse the flow of fluid during the cleaning stage to remove filter clogging.

[0202] The treatment and purification unit may comprise a plurality of elements distributed among various parts of the device. For example, this unit may comprise a filtration system present in at least one duct of the fluid circuit and a disinfection system or a system for performing another treatment arranged within a compartment of the tank.

[0203] The treatment and purification unit may comprise a centrifuge designed to extract impurities from the used fluid in contact with the keratinous substance using the centrifugal force imparted to the fluid by swirling the fluid and send them to the recovery area.

[0204] The treatment and purification unit may comprise a disinfection unit that destroys organisms present in the recycled fluid, such as bacteria, viruses, spores or other pathogenic or non-pathogenic biological agents.

[0205] For this purpose, the disinfection unit may comprise any suitable sterilization means, preferably at least one UV lamp and / or an oxidizing agent or ozone generator, in particular a UVC LED lamp.

[0206] Ultrasonic transducer The device comprises an ultrasonic transducer.

[0207] As described above, the transducer comprises one or more electroactive elements for converting an electric current into a mechanical vibration, and these one or more electroactive elements are preferably set to mechanically resonate and can be coupled to a sonotrode that defines an emission surface for emitting acoustic waves towards a surface or a target volume.

[0208] These acoustic waves can cause rapid pressure changes that can cause cavitation of the bubbles, and the acoustic waves can form and rupture bubbles or rupture bubbles already present in the medium, as described above.

[0209] The longitudinal axis of the transducer may indicate the longitudinal axis of the sonotrode. The sonotrode may be rotationally symmetric about its longitudinal axis or may have another shape. This longitudinal axis may be the axis of symmetry of the transducer, and the transducer may be rotationally symmetric about the above axis, for example, or have another shape.

[0210] The vertical axis may also correspond to the direction in which one or more electroactive elements have a maximum movement amplitude when excited.

[0211] The sonotrode may be made of metal, preferably titanium, thereby improving the effect of cavitation of bubbles. The sonotrode may be made at least partially of aluminum, stainless steel, or ceramic. The sonotrode may include a plurality of metals or alloys.

[0212] The transducer may include at least one piezoelectric material, particularly lead zirconate titanate (PZT).

[0213] Preferably, the sonotrode is made of a corrosion-resistant material that allows the sonotrode to be at least partially submerged in the composition.

[0214] The emission surface for emitting the acoustic wave of the sonotrode may be covered with a protective layer to protect the sonotrode from deterioration and / or corrosion caused by cavitation of the bubbles in contact with the emission surface.

[0215] The present invention is not limited to a specific shape or a given size of the sonotrode. However, a size that is compatible with the portability of the handpiece is preferred in order to allow the handpiece to be operated by a user using one hand.

[0216] The sonotrode may have an emission surface that contacts the composition, and the surface area of this emission surface ranges, for example, from the surface area of a circle with a diameter of 5 mm to the surface area of a circle with a diameter of 100 mm, more preferably from the surface area of a circle with a diameter of 5 mm to the surface area of a circle with a diameter of 50 mm, and even more preferably from the surface area of a circle with a diameter of 5 mm to the surface area of a circle with a diameter of 40 mm.

[0217] The sonotrode may be given any shape adapted to the shape of the surface to be treated, such as a round shape, an oval shape, or a polygonal shape, particularly a square or triangular shape.

[0218] The emitting surface of the transducer may be removable with respect to the transducer so that, for example, it can be replaced by the user, in particular to provide various solutions for the induction and / or combing of hair, and / or various solutions for adapting to the type of relief of the induction and / or combing member.

[0219] Preferably, the entire transducer or the sonotrode is removable, i.e., it can be easily detached from the device by the user, preferably without using any tools. This facilitates the cleaning of the transducer or sonotrode and, if desired, allows for the replacement of a plurality of transducers or sonotrodes according to the desired use and energy parameters, for example, by selecting the type of transducer or sonotrode that is most suitable for the generation of acoustic waves at a given frequency.

[0220] When the transducer is replaced, it is possible to change the acoustic intensity as needed.

[0221] Therefore, the device can be selected for a wide range of applications depending on the transducer and / or sonotrode selected. The selection of the transducer and / or sonotrode may depend on various parameters, such as the nature of the desired treatment, the type of keratinous material to be treated, or, in some cases, the frequency of use of the device (daily, weekly, etc.).

[0222] The device may also include an adjustable aperture mechanical element, such as a diaphragm, disposed in front of the sonotrode to limit the emitting surface for emitting ultrasonic waves. The diaphragm may be adjustable by the user to adjust the power of the treatment and / or the size of the treatment area.

[0223] The transducer and / or sonotrode may comprise fastening means for fastening to the remainder of the device by snap fit, screwing, bayonet, friction, magnetic, clamping, in particular clamping using at least one fastening screw or hose clamp, magnets, or any other suitable means.

[0224] The transducer may in particular be movable in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction in order to move towards or away from the hair to be treated. The transducer may be rotatable about its longitudinal axis and / or vibrate.

[0225] The sonotrode may have any shape at the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves.

[0226] The device may comprise drive means for driving the transducer or sonotrode, configured to generate an oscillation, vibration, and / or rotational movement of the transducer or sonotrode, independent of the acoustic waves generated.

[0227] The transducer may in particular be powered using DC or AC, independently of other elements of the device such as a pump.

[0228] The transducer or associated sonotrode may comprise a duct, preferably opening onto the emission surface, connected to a fluid circuit such that the fluid flowing within the device passes through them. Such a flow makes it possible to cool the transducer.

[0229] The device may comprise a plurality of transducers, in particular two specific transducers. This makes it possible, for example, to improve the effect of the treatment by the device.

[0230] Relief on the emission surface The emission surface for emitting acoustic waves towards the liquid medium may comprise reliefs along the longitudinal axis of the transducer where bubbles can occur at different levels. In particular, these reliefs may provide nucleation sites at their top and bottom.

[0231] Accordingly, another subject of the invention according to another aspect of the embodiments of the invention is a device for treating a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, by bringing a keratinous substance into contact with the fluid, the device comprising - at least one ultrasonic transducer having an emission surface for emitting acoustic waves into the fluid for generating bubbles in the fluid that have a mechanical action when the bubbles burst on the keratinous substance, the emission surface having reliefs along the longitudinal axis of the transducer where bubbles can occur at different levels.

[0232] The reliefs may enable a more homogeneous generation of bubbles. In contrast, a smooth emission surface tends to generate nucleation sites randomly distributed over the surface, resulting in non-optimal bubble generation. These reliefs can also promote the bursting of bubbles. This is because the different levels along the longitudinal axis are not limited to a single plane and can generate a relatively large cavitation region.

[0233] The reliefs can also generate turbulence in the fluid, which can contribute to bubble generation, especially when the fluid contains a surfactant.

[0234] The reliefs can be formed in various ways.

[0235] The reliefs can be produced, for example, by machining, chemical etching, electroerosion, laser etching, molding or additive synthesis, or fitting of foreign objects, using any method that enables the creation of a predefined shape by removing the keratinous substance.

[0236] The relief may be integral with the sonotrode and may be produced, for example, by machining the above-mentioned sonotrode.

[0237] The relief may also be formed on at least one additional part fastened to the sonotrode.

[0238] This additional part receives at least a portion of the vibrations of the sonotrode, transmits them to the liquid medium, and defines at least a portion of the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves into the fluid.

[0239] The additional part may be made of the same material as the sonotrode or of a different material, particularly a harder material. The additional part constituting the relief is preferably made of a high-rigidity material in order to transmit acoustic waves without excessive attenuation. The additional part may be made of metal, alloy, or ceramic.

[0240] Using an additional part to define the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves into the liquid medium can facilitate the replacement of the emission surface in the event of wear of the emission surface where bubble rupture is likely to cause such wear.

[0241] The additional part may be fastened to the sonotrode by any means and may in particular be held on the sonotrode by a removable fastener. For example, the additional part is screwed onto the sonotrode. When the fastener need not be removable, the additional part may be fastened to the sonotrode by welding or other means.

[0242] The sonotrode may be made of a material harder than aluminum, such as titanium or stainless steel.

[0243] Thus, the relief may be made of titanium together with the sonotrode, for example, by machining the end face of the sonotrode.

[0244] The additional part may be made of a material harder than aluminum, for example, titanium or stainless steel. In this case, since the sonotrode is not directly exposed to cavitation, it may be made of titanium or a material with a hardness lower than titanium, for example, aluminum.

[0245] The relief preferably has a predefined shape, but as a variant form, it may be made randomly, for example, having at least one random parameter, for example, the size or position of the relief. All or part of the relief may have a random distribution over the release surface and / or may have a random size.

[0246] The relief may be arranged in a regular arrangement, in other words, in a structured shape, for example, in a regular array in two dimensions (the third is the longitudinal axis of the sonotrode).

[0247] The reliefs may be the same, for example, the release surface comprises one and the same basic pattern repeated in two mutually perpendicular directions.

[0248] This pattern may have a prism shape, for example, a pyramid shape, for example, a hemisphere shape, a cylindrical shape, a semi - cylindrical shape, an ogival shape, etc.

[0249] The relief may, where applicable, be in the form of ribs or ridges, and these ribs or ridges may or may not be parallel to each other, may be linear or circular, or may be in a grid pattern, or may have a random distribution. The ridges may be formed, for example, by scratching the surface. The relief may be formed by exposing the surface to shot blasting or sanding, in which case a random distribution and / or a random shape of the relief may be obtained.

[0250] The emission surface may have a relief having a height measured parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sonotrode of 0.001 mm to 50 mm, more preferably 0.01 mm to 30 mm, even more preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

[0251] In the front view, i.e., when the emission surface is observed on the longitudinal axis of the sonotrode, the maximum dimension of the relief may be 0.001 mm to 100 mm, more preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

[0252] The free end of the relief may be rounded or flattened to avoid damaging the skin when it comes into contact with the skin.

[0253] Accordingly, the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves may comprise at least one relief having a pyramidal shape, a frustoconical shape, a cylindrical shape, a hemispherical shape, or a columnar irregular shape. The emission surface may comprise a regular array of four-sided pyramidal reliefs.

[0254] The emission surface for emitting acoustic waves may comprise at least one relief having at least two facets oriented differently towards the area to be treated.

[0255] The relief may, where applicable, have another additional function, for example, inducing and / or combing hair in the treatment area.

[0256] When the relief is formed by the presence of a continuous pattern in one or two directions, the size of the pattern and the distance between consecutive patterns are selected such that, for example, the pattern density is 1 pattern / cm 2 ~10 6 pattern / cm 2 is.

[0257] When the pattern has peaks, all of the peaks belong to, for example, one and the same plane or one and the same spherical surface, cylindrical surface, parabolic surface, or elliptical surface.

[0258] In addition to the relief of the emission surface that contributes to improving the generation of bubbles, the emission surface may pursue another purpose, for example, have a relief that acts to hold a fluid or clean the area to be treated. These are, for example, reliefs made of a flexible material, such as bristles, especially flocked bristles.

[0259] The emission surface of the transducer may have one or more reliefs, such as teeth, and / or natural and / or synthetic bristles, and / or etching, and / or microprotrusions, and / or metal spikes, etc., so as to contribute to combing the hair and / or guiding the hair, for example, upstream or downstream of the treatment area or, in some cases, within the above-mentioned treatment area.

[0260] The emission surface may have the same type of relief as the guiding and / or combing member, or may have different reliefs as a deformed form.

[0261] The emission surface may also have one or more reliefs when the guiding and / or combing member does not have a relief. As a deformed form, the guiding and / or combing member may have one or more reliefs when the emission surface does not have a relief.

[0262] Additional vibration Another subject of the present invention is a device for treating a keratinous substance by bringing it into contact with a fluid, particularly a cosmetic composition, the device comprising - at least one ultrasonic transducer having an emission surface for emitting acoustic waves into the above-mentioned fluid in order to generate bubbles having a mechanical action when the bubbles burst on the above-mentioned keratinous substance; - a vibrator for applying additional vibrations having a frequency lower than the frequency of the acoustic waves to at least a part of the emission surface.

[0263] Additional vibrations with a frequency lower than the frequency of the acoustic wave, for example, below 1500 Hz, more preferably below 150 Hz, and in some cases, vibrations with a frequency of 50 Hz can be applied to at least a part of the emission surface.

[0264] The above additional vibrations may be applied to the entire device. As a variant, only a part, for example, a transducer, a sonotrode, or a part thereof, or only the processing head may be subjected to additional vibrations.

[0265] For this purpose, the device may comprise a vibrator, for example, a vibrator comprising a motor that drives an imbalance to rotate.

[0266] Accordingly, additional vibrations, for example, additional lateral vibrations and / or longitudinal vibrations and / or preferably longitudinal angular vibrations, may be applied to the emission surface by the vibrator. For example, it is possible to adjust the direction of vibration by acting on the direction of the rotation axis of the imbalance with respect to the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

[0267] These additional vibrations can promote enhancing the homogeneity of cavitation and can improve the wetting of the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves by the fluid.

[0268] The additional vibrations may be emitted simultaneously with the emission of the acoustic wave. As a variant, alternatively, the device may be designed to enable activation or non - activation of the generation of these vibrations, for example, by starting or not starting a motor that drives an imbalance, or in some cases, by adjusting the rotational speed, when applicable.

[0269] It may be particularly advantageous to apply these additional vibrations to the release surface while the relief defined above is present on the release surface, and by associating the relief with the vibrations, it becomes possible to more easily obtain additional turbulence in the fluid in contact with the keratinous material being treated, thereby improving the generation and bursting of bubbles in the fluid, as explained above.

[0270] Treatment head The device comprises a treatment head that contacts the keratinous material to be treated, and this head is preferably designed to disperse the fluid over the area to be treated via at least one fluid outlet and / or to at least partially recover the used fluid from the area to be treated via at least one fluid return port.

[0271] A device for treating what represents hair may comprise a treatment head through which a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, flows, and the transducer and the induction and / or commingling member extend at least partially within the treatment head.

[0272] The transducer preferably extends at least partially within the treatment head. The transducer may in particular be completely housed within the treatment head.

[0273] The outlet and / or inlet is connected, for example, to the fluid circuit described above. In particular, the fluid circuit may be arranged with respect to the head to disperse the fluid and / or partially recover it, for example via at least one orifice on the release surface, upstream and / or downstream of the release surface of the sonotrode.

[0274] The treatment head may comprise a heating element, such as an electrical resistor for heating the composition, and / or a light source arranged to illuminate the treatment area during use and / or to activate certain constituents of the fluid in which cavitation occurs.

[0275] The treatment head may comprise, for example, at least one filter used to filter the composition to be recycled, and this filter is arranged, for example, on the return path of the fluid.

[0276] The treatment head may comprise a porous material and / or a material capable of releasing or diffusing a fluid, in particular a continuous foam held by a removable support, in particular a support in the form of a frame.

[0277] The treatment head may comprise dispersion orifices such as slots, which are closed in the rest state and open under the pressure of the upstream composition, having an elasticity that allows the volume to increase during the filling and dispersion of the fluid, and the treatment head is extended after the filling operation is completed.

[0278] The treatment head may comprise a chamber for storing an amount of fluid sufficient to enable the cleaning of the keratinous substance and for enabling the bubbles to contact the surface to be cleaned.

[0279] The treatment head may comprise a plurality of independent compartments or compartments communicating with each other.

[0280] The treatment head may comprise, in particular for the parts in contact with the keratinous substance to be treated, parts made of a flexible and / or deformable material, in particular an elastically deformable material.

[0281] The treatment head may have various shapes depending on the desired use of the device.

[0282] The treatment head may comprise one or more removable parts that can be easily detached from the device by the user, preferably without using any tools.

[0283] This facilitates the cleaning of the treatment head after each use.

[0284] One or more removable components of the processing head can be fastened to the rest of the device via any suitable fastening means, in particular ball joints, springs, or pistons. The processing head is preferably movable and, in some examples, can be tilted or rotated by an angle exceeding 180°, 270°, or 360° about at least one axis.

[0285] The transducer is preferably arranged relative to the processing head so as to maintain the emitting surface of the sonotrode for emitting acoustic waves at a distance from the surface of the keratinous material to be processed.

[0286] When applicable, the transducer can be movable relative to the fixed part of the device and is, for example, driven to rotate or move back and forth as described for other parts.

[0287] Thus, cavitation occurs in the space formed between the front part of the head, i.e., between the emitting surface of the sonotrode and the surface of the keratinous material to be processed.

[0288] Thus, fluid can be made to flow through this space and the flow can be regulated.

[0289] This flow can occur continuously or intermittently as described above. It is possible to fill the above space with fluid while the handpiece is in a predetermined position and then generate acoustic waves in the fluid filling this space.

[0290] Induction and / or combing member In the case of hair treatment, the device according to the invention may comprise at least one induction and / or combing member designed to move the hair close to and / or into contact with the emitting surface of the transducer.

[0291] The guiding and / or combing member ensures that the hair is positioned at an appropriate distance from the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves during the treatment, thus making it possible to maintain the effect of the treatment.

[0292] The guiding and / or combing member may maintain the hair at a predefined distance from the emission surface, which, for example, serves as a spacer.

[0293] The guiding and / or combing member may maintain the hair near the emission surface by preventing the hair from moving away in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transducer or in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis of the transducer and the longitudinal direction of the hair. The guiding and / or combing member does not prevent the hair from passing in front of the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves.

[0294] The guiding and / or combing member may not prevent the hair from contacting the emission surface when no spacer is arranged in front of the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves.

[0295] The guiding and / or combing member may also enable the hair tufts to be well divided and the thickness of the hair to be made uniform in the treatment area, thereby enabling homogeneous treatment of the hair tufts.

[0296] In some examples, the hair is combed by the above-mentioned guiding and / or combing member, thereby possibly spreading the hair in front of the emission surface, in some cases to facilitate the action of the bubbles.

[0297] The guiding and / or combing member may be designed to guide the hair laterally, for example, by having a stop portion with which the hair engages therebetween.

[0298] The guiding and / or combing member may comprise at least one surface for guiding the hair laterally and for holding the hair during the treatment of the hair.

[0299] At least one lateral guiding surface of the guiding and / or commingling member, and more preferably, two lateral guiding surfaces may be perpendicular to the emitting surface for emitting acoustic waves.

[0300] The guiding and / or commingling member may be at least partially made of a metallic material and / or a polymer, such as a high-rigidity plastic.

[0301] The guiding and / or commingling member may have, on its surface, a treatment part that enables reflection of acoustic waves, thereby enabling amplification of the treatment of hair.

[0302] The guiding and / or commingling member may be removably or non-removably fastened to the device.

[0303] At least a part of the guiding and / or commingling member may vibrate and / or rotate and / or move in the longitudinal and / or lateral directions.

[0304] The guiding and / or commingling member may be in the form of a single piece or in the form of a plurality of elements joined to each other or joined to the device in order to perform one or more desired guiding and commingling functions.

[0305] The guiding and / or commingling member may include at least one guiding part intended to contact the hair and at least one supporting part that functions to maintain the guiding part in a desired configuration during treatment.

[0306] The guiding part of the guiding and / or commingling member The guiding part may be fixed or movable relative to the rest of the device. For example, it may be movable relative to the transducer, especially to approach or move away from the emitting surface for emitting acoustic waves. Therefore, it is possible to relatively precisely control the distance between the emitting surface and the surface of the hair to be treated, thereby improving the effect of the bubbles in the vicinity of the surface of the hair, and moreover, avoiding direct contact between the emitting surface and the hair if desired.

[0307] When the guiding part is movable, it may be rotatable or axially movable. For example, it can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the guiding part itself and / or move along the longitudinal axis of the guiding member itself and / or move along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the guiding member itself.

[0308] The guiding part may at least partially face the emitting surface and / or extend to either side of the emitting surface, and in particular, may have a guiding surface that defines a treatment space together with the emitting surface.

[0309] The distance between the emitting surface and this guiding surface may be, in particular, 0.1 mm to 50 mm in order to adapt the device to the thickness of the hair to be treated, and in particular, 0.1 mm to 30 mm when it is applicable and adjustable by the user.

[0310] The guiding surface may have a width greater than or equal to the width of the emitting surface. For example, it may have a width of 1 mm to 180 mm, and the emitting surface may have a width of, for example, 1 mm to 150 mm. The "width" here specifies the dimension in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the hair and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

[0311] The guiding part may be hollow so as to define a cavity for guiding the hair to be treated, and the cavity defines a treatment space. This cavity is open at two opposite ends, and the hair may extend between these two ends. The guiding part can be moved along the hair bundle of the hair to be treated, and the hair moves within the cavity between the ends.

[0312] The cavity is open laterally between the ends of the cavity to allow the insertion of hair. In a variant form, the hair is inserted through one end and then exits through the other end.

[0313] The cavity can be formed by a generally tubular, in particular cylindrical, guiding part having an axial slot.

[0314] The inner surface of the cavity can have reliefs that contribute to combing and / or holding the hair. These reliefs can be in the form of ridges, for example, or can have another shape as further described below.

[0315] The guiding part at least partially transmits acoustic waves from a transducer arranged outside the guiding part, such that the acoustic waves emitted by the emitting surface of the transducer reach the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition present in the cavity together with the hair, generate bubbles, and / or burst the bubbles.

[0316] The guiding part can also form all or part of the transducer, in particular all or part of the sonotrode of the transducer, and moreover, defines the above-mentioned cavity. In this case, the emitting surface is formed by at least part of the surface of the cavity.

[0317] The cavity can have a constant or variable inner diameter. The "inner diameter" designates the diameter of the largest circle inscribed within the cross-section of the cavity.

[0318] The guiding part can be located between at least two transducers, for example, two transducers facing each other radially.

[0319] For example, the guiding portion defines a cavity for guiding a hair located between two transducers, and the cavity opens at the axial ends of the cavity between the transducers to define, for example, slots for inserting the hair.

[0320] The guiding portion contacts the two transducers and may form, for example, all or part of the sonotrode of the transducer and / or transmit the acoustic waves emitted by the sonotrode.

[0321] The guiding portion may comprise at least two parts that are movable relative to each other between a spaced configuration for inserting a hair therebetween and a proximate configuration for maintaining the hair within the processing space, for example, in the form of jaws.

[0322] The guiding portion comprises, for example, a proximal portion closer to the transducer and a distal portion farther away.

[0323] The proximal portion may transmit acoustic waves and may at least partially overlap the emission surface in a front view. The "front view" designates a view in a direction generally perpendicular to the emission surface.

[0324] The proximal portion of the guiding portion may be made, in particular, in the form of a grid or, in other cases, may have holes made of a specific material that transmits acoustic waves in order to transmit acoustic waves.

[0325] The distance between the proximal portion and the distal portion may vary between 0 mm in the proximate configuration and 100 mm in the spaced configuration, particularly between 0 mm in the proximate configuration and 50 mm in the spaced configuration.

[0326] The proximal portion may be fixed or movable relative to the transducer.

[0327] The distal part may be fixed to the transducer or movable relative to the transducer, provided that at least one part is movable relative to the other.

[0328] At least one of the distal and proximal parts may be urged to move to a rest position by at least one elastic return means, such as a spring.

[0329] In particular, the proximal and distal parts may be returned to a proximity configuration or to a separated configuration as a deformed state by one or more elastic return means, and preferably also, if necessary, for example, when inserting a hair between the proximal and distal parts described above, when removing the hair, and / or during processing, the proximal and distal parts are configured to allow the user to apply a force opposite to the return action to move the proximal and distal parts in opposite directions.

[0330] The guiding member may comprise a single guiding portion or a plurality of guiding portions.

[0331] Support portion of the guiding and / or combing member The guiding and / or combing member may comprise at least one support portion for holding the guiding and / or combing member during use of the device.

[0332] The support portion may comprise a mechanism that allows translational movement of the guiding and / or combing member along the longitudinal axis of the transducer, in particular a mechanism including one or more springs for returning the support portion to a rest position. This rest position corresponds, for example, to pressing a hair against the guiding and / or combing member and / or against the release surface during processing.

[0333] The support portion may be movable relative to the transducer to create a space facing the release surface, for example, allowing a hair to be inserted into the processing area.

[0334] The support part may be capable of translational or rotational movement, or any movement combining at least one translation and one rotation may be possible.

[0335] For example, the support part may pivot relative to the transducer about a rotation axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

[0336] When the induction and / or commingling member comprises a two-part support part, these two parts may pivot simultaneously to switch the induction and / or commingling member on the side of the transducer.

[0337] Relief on the induction and / or commingling member The induction and / or commingling member may comprise at least one induction and / or commingling relief on its surface.

[0338] The induction and / or commingling relief may extend continuously or discontinuously across the induction and / or commingling member. The induction and / or commingling relief may not be present on some parts of the induction and / or commingling member.

[0339] The induction and / or commingling member may comprise on its surface at least one induction and / or commingling micro-relief that can engage with the hair, in particular at least one tooth, and / or natural or synthetic bristles.

[0340] The induction and / or commingling member may comprise on its surface, in particular on the surface of at least one tooth, at least one micro-relief, in particular etching and / or micro-protrusions obtained from a sanding treatment of the induction and / or commingling member.

[0341] These induction and / or commingling reliefs enable induction and / or commingling of the hair during processing and / or holding and / or pulling of the hair.

[0342] At least one guide and / or combing relief, in particular at least one tooth and / or at least one bristle, may extend into the space located opposite the discharge surface.

[0343] The guide and / or combing member may comprise at least one guide and / or combing relief, in particular teeth and / or bristles extending outside the space located opposite the discharge surface. The guide and / or combing member may in particular comprise at least one row of teeth and / or bristles extending outside the space located opposite the discharge surface.

[0344] The guide and / or combing member may comprise at least one row of teeth or bristles between which hair can engage.

[0345] The distance between the longitudinal axes of the teeth or bristles in a row may be between 0.1 mm and 10 mm.

[0346] The teeth or bristles in one and the same row may all be aligned. As a variant, the teeth or bristles in one and the same row may be arranged in a checkerboard pattern.

[0347] At least one tooth may have a conical shape with a circular or elliptical base. As a variant, at least one tooth may have a pyramid shape with a square or rectangular base, or a cylindrical shape.

[0348] Each of at least one tooth, or one bristle, in particular at least one tooth of one row of teeth, or one bristle of one row of bristles, may have a height between 0.1 mm and 50 mm, in particular between 0.5 mm and 20 mm.

[0349] At least part of the guide and / or combing member may be in the form of a brush, such as a brush having a twisted core comprising natural and / or synthetic bristles.

[0350] At least a part of the guiding and / or combing member, for example, a part of the guiding and / or combing member in the form of a brush having a twisted core, can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the guiding and / or combing member below the discharge surface when the hair passes between the guiding and / or combing member and the discharge surface.

[0351] The guiding and / or combing member may have a single type of guiding and / or combing relief, or, as a variant form, may have a plurality of different types of guiding and / or combing reliefs.

[0352] The flow of fluid within the guiding and / or combing member At least a part of the guiding and / or combing member may be hollow to allow a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, to flow through it.

[0353] At least a part of the guiding and / or combing member can be passed through a duct, which can thereby enable a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, to be supplied to, for example, a treatment space.

[0354] In its hollow part, the guiding and / or combing member can receive an anhydrous composition such as a carbonate composition, in particular sodium or calcium, and an acid, for example, a composition of citric acid, and can solubilize when a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, flows through it and can release gas bubbles.

[0355] The guiding and / or combing member may be provided with at least one orifice that enables a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, flowing through it to flow out, and this orifice opens, for example, into a treatment space. The orifice opens, for example, in the direction of the discharge surface and is, for example, positioned opposite the discharge surface.

[0356] Such orifices allow the release of a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, and direct contact with the hair, thereby possibly contributing to the effectiveness of the treatment in some cases.

[0357] The guiding and / or combing member may comprise from 1 to 100,000 or more than 100,000 orifices that allow the outflow of the fluid flowing inside, in particular the cosmetic composition. These orifices may be formed, for example, by machining or may be created by the inherent structure of the material used.

[0358] Thus, the guiding and / or combing member may be at least partially made of a porous material having a very large number of pores that allow the outflow of the fluid flowing inside, in particular the cosmetic composition.

[0359] The guiding and / or combing member may comprise at least one orifice that allows the recovery of the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition, after treatment, for example by sucking the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition.

[0360] The guiding and / or combing member may be at least partially covered by a sleeve of cloth or non-woven fabric, the sleeve being at least partially made of a polymer so as not to damage the fibers of the hair. The sleeve may be formed so as to allow the outflow of the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition, emerging from the orifices of the guiding and / or combing member, thus allowing better diffusion of the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition.

[0361] Since the sleeve allows the outflow of the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition, through the orifices, it has at least partial solubility and may in particular have complete solubility, and thus may contribute to the treatment of the hair by the compounds released when the fluid dissolves. For example, the sleeve may be at least partially made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers or cloth, in the form of a foil or, in some cases, any other soluble polymer in non-woven form.

[0362] At least one induction and / or commingling relief may be hollow to allow a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, to flow therethrough.

[0363] At least one induction and / or commingling relief may comprise at least one orifice that allows a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, flowing therethrough to flow out.

[0364] Nozzle The treatment head may comprise a nozzle, which is preferably removable and contacts the keratinous material to be treated.

[0365] When the nozzle is removable, it is selected, for example, according to the application, for example by selecting the most suitable type, size, hardness, and / or shape for the form of the area to be cleaned.

[0366] Lattice Another subject of the present invention is a device for cleaning a human keratinous material by contacting it with a cosmetic composition in which gas bubbles are present and / or generated inside, the device comprising: - at least one ultrasonic transducer designed to emit acoustic waves in the vicinity of the keratinous material to be cleaned; - a lattice, preferably having non-absorbency and made at least in part of a non-absorbent material, defining a contact surface with the keratinous material to be cleaned, having at least one opening, preferably at least two openings, through which the waves emitted by the transducer can propagate in the direction of the material to be cleaned.

[0367] The lattice makes it possible to more precisely control the distance between the transducer and the surface of the keratinous material, thereby improving the action of the bubbles in the vicinity of the surface of the keratinous material and avoiding direct contact between the transducer and these keratinous materials.

[0368] The grid preferably has non-absorbency, i.e., the grid is not porous.

[0369] In particular, the grid does not have the capacity to absorb water when immersed in water. For example, the amount of water held is less than 10%, and more preferably, the weight of water held is less than 5%.

[0370] The grid is made of a solid material in particular, and thus is made of a solid material other than foam, cloth, or felt.

[0371] The contact surface with the keratinous substance of the device can be defined by the non-absorbent surface of the grid.

[0372] The region of the grid that defines the opening inside can be defined by the non-absorbent portion of the grid.

[0373] The grid is preferably removable, i.e., it can be easily detached from the device by the user, preferably without using any tools. This makes it easy to clean the grid, possible to replace it each time it is used, or in some cases, possible to replace multiple grids according to the application by selecting the most suitable grid type for the form of the area to be cleaned, for example.

[0374] The contact surface defined by the grid may be substantially flat, for example, to maintain a substantially constant distance between the transducer and the keratinous substance to be cleaned located opposite the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves.

[0375] In a variant form, the grid may define a contact surface adapted to the form of the area to be cleaned, for example, a curved shape.

[0376] The grid may further have an adjustable effective diameter, where applicable. The device may comprise a variable aperture mechanical element, such as a diaphragm, disposed upstream or downstream of the grid so as to adjust the accessible diameter of one or more apertures. For example, the device comprises a diaphragm centered on the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

[0377] Some or all of the apertures of the grid may be closed in a fully or partially controlled manner. This makes it possible to limit the surface area and the intensity of the treatment, where desired, in accordance with the area being treated, especially in areas located in the vicinity of the eye, which are the most sensitive areas. The device may comprise a shutter capable of moving between a position where one or more apertures of the grid are unobstructed and an occlusion position where one or more apertures are at least partially or, in some cases, fully occluded. This shutter may be manually controlled by the user, for example, as needed.

[0378] The grid preferably has a thickness of from 0.1 mm to 10 mm, more preferably from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. This ensures that there is at least this minimum thickness of distance between the transducer and the keratinous material, regardless of the position of the grid relative to the transducer.

[0379] The grid is preferably formed of a highly rigid or semi-rigid material, such as metal or a highly rigid plastic. The grid is made of a material selected, for example, from metals, especially steel, stainless steel, alloys, silicone, polymers, especially polyurethane (PU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polythiophene (PT), or combinations of some of these elements.

[0380] During normal use, the grid does not deform visibly to the naked eye due to its rigidity. As a deformable form, the grid may be deformable. For example, it is possible to reduce the diameter of the grid by applying mechanical pressure to the outer shape of the grid.

[0381] The grating may, in particular, have recesses extending along the thickness of the grating. The grating may, for example, have deformable channels, the diameter of which may vary depending on the applied pressure and which may, for example, extend in a non-longitudinal direction. As a deformation mode, the channels may be highly rigid in order to allow the fluid to flow evenly when pressure is applied to the grating.

[0382] The grating may also have reliefs or may or may not be flocked.

[0383] The grating may be formed by reliefs or may be made of a substantially rough material in order to have a non-smooth contact surface with the keratinous material. Such a surface condition makes it possible to obtain a mechanical polishing effect that can contribute to cleaning when the device is moved over the area to be cleaned during use.

[0384] The device may comprise a drive element for driving the grating, configured to generate oscillatory, vibratory, and / or rotational movement of the grating on the keratinous material. For example, the device comprises a motor for driving the grating to perform a movement, such as an alternating or non-alternating rotational movement, a linear movement, an eccentric movement, etc. The device may comprise a vibrator for vibrating the grating, where applicable. The amplitude of the movement may be fixed or adjustable.

[0385] Thus, the mechanical polishing effect can be automatically obtained due to the movement imposed on the grating by the device, and the impurities can be cleaned more effectively.

[0386] The grating can be produced in various ways.

[0387] The grating may comprise a peripheral frame that defines the outer shape of the grating in a front view. This frame is highly rigid and, in particular, more rigid than the central part of the perforated grating.

[0388] The outer shape of the grid in the front view may have a circular, oval, polygonal, etc. shape, and the grid preferably has a closed outer shape.

[0389] One or more openings of the grid may have substantially the same size. The grid may comprise, for example, a plurality of openings arranged as a regular array in a row or column.

[0390] As a variant, one or more openings may be arranged concentrically.

[0391] The openings may have various shapes, and in particular may have the shape of part of one or more disks or rings.

[0392] The grid may in particular have a single opening with a non-circular outer shape, for example in the shape of a slot, cross, regular polygon or irregular polygon or oval. The grid preferably has at least two openings, and in particular two openings having substantially the same size.

[0393] When there is a single opening, this opening may or may not be centered.

[0394] A grid with a micro mesh improves the retention of the keratin surface being treated during use of the device, thereby making it possible to better control a certain distance between the keratinous substance and the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves, and thus to better control the cavitation phenomenon.

[0395] The openings of the grid may have an area of at least 1 mm 2 and may be. In the front view, the smaller dimension of the openings of the grid is, for example, at least 0.5 mm.

[0396] Preferably, the ratio of the total surface area of the openings to the contact surface of the grid with the keratinous substance is 0.3 or more, more preferably 0.5, and even more preferably 0.8.

[0397] Such a ratio allows to avoid the keratinous material, in particular the skin, from coming into contact with or deforming the transducer, and also allows to maintain an opening sufficient for the ultrasonic waves to reach over a range sufficient to produce the desired result in the area to be treated or in its vicinity.

[0398] Spacer having one or more legs Another subject of the invention according to another aspect of the invention is a device for cleaning a human keratinous material (K) by bringing it into contact with a cosmetic composition (C) in which gas bubbles are present and / or generated inside, the device comprising - at least one ultrasonic transducer having an emission surface for emitting acoustic waves within the vicinity of the keratinous material to be cleaned; - a spacer contributing to maintaining the keratinous material at a predefined distance from the emission surface, the spacer preferably comprising at least one leg extending axially over less than 360° about the axis of the transducer in front of the emission surface.

[0399] "Front" should be understood to mean that the leg extends beyond the emission surface in the direction of the keratinous material to be treated.

[0400] The spacer may be in the form of a nozzle attached to the rest of the treatment head by a fastening part, or may be integral with the body of the treatment head, for example.

[0401] One or more legs may come into direct contact with the keratinous material via an end, which may have a rounded head or lug, for example, so as to slide more easily over the skin. As a variant, one or more legs extend laterally, for example in the form of a ring or a grid, with respect to one or more legs and are connected to a part in contact with the keratinous material.

[0402] Thus, the device may comprise a spacer without the above-described lattice, an independent lattice without a spacer including one or more legs, or in other cases, a spacer having at least one leg connected to the above-described lattice.

[0403] Thus, the lattice can preferably be held by a spacer comprising a support of the lattice connected to at least one leg that extends axially over less than 360° about the axis of the transducer in front of the emission surface.

[0404] The one or more legs are preferably generally straight and preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

[0405] The one or more legs may extend towards the keratinous material in a direction substantially perpendicular to the emission surface for emitting ultrasonic waves.

[0406] In a variant form, the one or more legs may extend away from the emission surface for emitting ultrasonic waves, thereby making it possible to improve the stability of the contact of the device with the keratinous material.

[0407] The spacer may comprise a distal portion intended to contact the keratinous material, to which one or more legs are connected.

[0408] This distal portion may extend at least partially opposite the emission surface for emitting ultrasonic waves, or in a variant form, may extend around it when the device is observed along the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

[0409] This distal portion has, for example, an annular, bar-shaped, or sliding lug shape and may, for example, comprise at least one opening and form the above-described lattice.

[0410] The spacer is preferably perforated in the lateral direction. For example, the spacer comprises a plurality of legs that define a perforation therebetween. For example, there are four or fewer support legs. The angular spacing between the legs, about the longitudinal axis between the transducers, may be greater than the angular range of each leg measured about the longitudinal axis as described above.

[0411] One or more of the legs may also have one or more perforations themselves.

[0412] Such perforations allow the composition to flow so as to be easily contacted by the transducer during use of the device and, in some cases, enable the user to more easily visually monitor the position of the transducer and the presence of the composition in contact with the keratinous material, and the perforations form a window that allows visual access to the space located in front of the transducer.

[0413] The perforations may also, in some cases, facilitate the passage of gas or a light source or, in particular, the temperature variations caused by the high or low temperature generating members of the device.

[0414] The fastening portion of the nozzle that enables one or more legs of the spacer to be fastened to the remainder of the device, in particular the processing head, may have any shape, in particular an annular shape, and may be provided with fastening means for fastening by snap fitting, screwing, bayonet, friction, magnetic, clamping, in particular clamping using at least one fastening screw or a hose clamp, or any other suitable means.

[0415] The position of the fastening portion of the nozzle relative to the remainder of the device is preferably adjustable and may be adjusted to adjust the static distance between the emission surface of the transducer and the keratinous material. The device may in particular be formed such that this position is adjustable by the user, for example by acting on an adjustment member such as a control knob.

[0416] The spacer may have an adjustable height. For example, the nozzle may comprise a plurality of sub-components that can be stacked according to the desired spacing.

[0417] The spacer may comprise an elastic return member, preferably at least one helical spring or leaf spring, which is designed to elastically bias the distal end of the spacer away from the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves and to enable control of the applied pressure to the keratinous material of the spacer, thereby enabling more comfortable use of the device.

[0418] One or more legs may be formed, for example, telescopically, and the elastic return member acts to deploy the one or more legs.

[0419] The leg may also be received in a guide such that the proximal end side of the leg slides, and the elastic return member prevents the leg from being inserted into this guide.

[0420] Thus, when the grating is fastened to the spacer, it may be movable relative to the rest of the device and may be returned to its initial position by an elastic return means that acts to apply the grating to the keratinous material being treated.

[0421] When applicable, the return movement of the movable part of the grating or spacer after applying the device to the keratinous material being treated is limited by a stop against which the grating or movable part contacts. The return movement of the grating or this movable part may also be detected to automatically trigger the emission of acoustic waves when applying the device to the keratinous material.

[0422] The support of the grating that holds the grating in a predetermined position relative to the grating and the emission surface may or may not be formed of different materials. When applicable, the support and the grating are a single part and are integrally fabricated, for example, by injection molding, machining, or 3D printing.

[0423] One or more legs and / or grids may also conduct an electric current to deliver the current to the composition and / or the keratinous material to be treated.

[0424] Flow of the composition within the spacer and / or grid The device according to the invention has at least one supply duct which opens near the keratinous material to be treated and which makes it possible to disperse and bring into contact the composition, in particular at least one duct which extends along one or more legs or extends within a leg or, more generally, extends within the support of the grid and / or within the above-mentioned grid.

[0425] When the spacer holds the grid in contact with the keratinous material at its end, the supply duct may extend within the grid or within the support for the grid.

[0426] Such a device makes it possible to continuously apply the cosmetic composition, i.e. a flow of the composition in contact with the keratinous material to be treated is established, which flow occurs, for example, in a closed or open circuit.

[0427] When the flow is established in a closed circuit, the device is connected to a suction pump and has at least one return duct which makes it possible to at least partially recover the composition in the vicinity of the keratinous material to be washed, in particular at least one duct which extends along one or more legs and which, optionally, extends within the grid or within the support of the grid.

[0428] Method for washing keratinous material using a grid and / or spacer Another subject of the invention is a method for washing a human keratinous material by bringing it into contact with a cosmetic composition in which gas bubbles are present and / or are generated inside, this method comprising: - bringing the grid or spacer of the device into contact with the above-mentioned keratinous material to be washed; - Applying gas bubbles to acoustic waves emitted within the vicinity of the keratinous substance being cleaned by an ultrasonic transducer, in particular bursting the bubbles to generate a mechanical shock on the surface being cleaned and removing dirt from the surface.

[0429] The acoustic waves can propagate through at least one or two openings of the grid.

[0430] The grid or spacer can be intermittently moved, for example, remaining stationary during a certain duration and then being gradually moved along the surface being processed. The grid or spacer can be continuously moved across the surface being processed.

[0431] As described above, the grid or spacer can be driven to perform an oscillatory movement combined with a movement, in particular a movement imparted by the user.

[0432] The grid or spacer can cause abrasion of the keratinous substance by being moved in contact with the keratinous substance being processed.

[0433] Flexible lip The treatment head may comprise at least one flexible lip, and the flexible lip can also act as a spacer to maintain the above-mentioned distance between the emission surface for emitting the acoustic waves of the transducer and the surface being processed.

[0434] The flexible lip can contribute to confining fluid in the treatment area when the treatment head is applied to the keratinous substance being processed.

[0435] The lip can consist of a sub-lip in which fluid can be collected.

[0436] The flexible lip is preferably formed of a material including silicone, polyurethane (PU), natural or synthetic rubber, plastic, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or in other cases polythiophene (PT), or some combination of these elements.

[0437] The flexible lip may be formed with relief or made of a substantially rough material in order to have a non-smooth contact surface with the keratinous substance. Thus, the flexible lip can contribute to cleaning the keratinous substance through the mechanical polishing effect obtained when moving the device over the area to be cleaned during use.

[0438] This flexible lip can also contribute to fluid delivery, diffusion, recovery, and / or recycling.

[0439] Battery The device preferably comprises at least one battery, particularly a removable battery. The battery can serve to power the entire device or only a part, particularly the pump.

[0440] The battery can be of various types, for example, Li-ion or NiMH, preferably a type suitable for wet conditions or a type that can be at least partially submerged in liquid.

[0441] The battery is preferably rechargeable, particularly rechargeable by wire or induction, or rechargeable when the device is placed on a support and / or docking station for recharging the battery.

[0442] The battery is preferably selected such that the device is reliably powered for a plurality of consecutive processes or, in some cases, reliably powered for a plurality of processes and cleaning of the device without the need for recharging.

[0443] Other elements The device may comprise an electronic circuit for driving the operation of the transducer and, optionally, other elements of the device, such as an electric pump.

[0444] The electronic circuit preferably comprises a control unit having, for example, a microcontroller, which can be held by the handpiece and / or distributed between the possible base station and the handpiece, or may be present only on the base station.

[0445] The device may comprise a sensor for detecting contact of the processing head on the keratinous substance to be processed, which can communicate data to the control unit, or a plurality of sensors other than the sensors described above, such as a tank filling sensor.

[0446] The device may also comprise a human-machine interface that communicates with the control unit. The human-machine interface may comprise a display screen and / or control buttons.

[0447] The interface may provide various functions and / or programs for adjusting certain operating parameters of the device, for example, or various functions and / or programs for indicating certain information to the user, such as battery level, usage time, liquid level in the tank, clogging level of various washable elements (tank, filter, etc.), user-specific information, or information regarding safety and / or usage conditions of the device in some cases.

[0448] The interface may communicate with a terminal, such as a mobile phone, via a wired or wireless link, for example, via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, to receive updates or send data linked to the use of the device.

[0449] The interface may comprise a function for diagnosing the keratinous substance to be processed.

[0450] The device may comprise various switches, in particular an on-switch and / or a standby switch, a program selection switch or a switch for selecting certain parameters specific to ultrasound, or in other cases a sensor for selecting the flow rate of a pump.

[0451] The device may also comprise one or more LED light sources that serve to illuminate the area to be treated or, in other cases, serve as an indicator, for example, to inform the user that the tank needs to be replaced or filled or emptied, or that the filtration system needs to be cleaned.

[0452] As described above, the device may comprise a base station connected to the handpiece, and the base station may be a station for refilling and / or storing the handpiece.

[0453] Bubble generator Preferably, as described above, the bubbles are generated only by the acoustic waves in the cavitation phenomenon obtained via the minimum level parameter Isata and the other above-mentioned parameters.

[0454] Therefore, the device preferably does not comprise a bubble generator.

[0455] As a variant, the device may comprise a bubble generator for generating additional bubbles in the fluid.

[0456] The bubble generator may be arranged within the device such that it generates bubbles before emitting the acoustic waves, generates bubbles simultaneously with the emission, or generates bubbles cyclically with respect to the emission.

[0457] The bubble generator may use, for example, any technique suitable for generating bubbles using the mechanical, physical, chemical, or electrochemical means described above.

[0458] Thus, the bubble generator can use techniques to reduce the pressure of the liquid, generate turbulent flow, or supply energy, as described above.

[0459] Method for treating hair Another subject of the present invention is a method for treating human hair by bringing the hair into contact with a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, in which gas bubbles are present and / or generated inside, in particular for washing and / or decoloring the hair. This method comprises applying gas bubbles to acoustic waves emitted in the vicinity of the hair to be treated by a transducer, bursting the above-mentioned bubbles, generating a mechanical shock on the surface of the hair to be treated, and in particular removing impurities and / or dyes from the surface.

[0460] The transducer may belong to the treatment device according to the present invention, as defined above, and in particular comprises a guiding and / or combing member for guiding and / or combing the hair.

[0461] Thus, this method comprises guiding and / or combing the hair before and / or after the hair passes through the treatment space and / or in the treatment space itself.

[0462] This method comprises sending or maintaining the above-mentioned hair in the treatment space, and / or maintaining the above-mentioned hair at a predefined distance from the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves when the above-mentioned hair passes through the treatment space, in particular for the purpose of preventing the above-mentioned hair from being separated by a distance longer than a given distance from the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves, and includes guiding the hair.

[0463] This method may include vibrating and / or rotating the guiding and / or combing member and / or the transducer, and / or moving them in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions.

[0464] The method according to the invention may include the step of the user adjusting the distance between the guiding and / or combing member's guiding surface and the transducer's emitting surface to adapt the method to the desired treatment and / or the treated hair.

[0465] This method may include the step of the user adjusting the internal cross-section, in particular the diameter, of the cavity defined by the guiding and / or combing member to adapt the method to the treated hair and the desired treatment.

[0466] This method may include the step of the user adjusting the distance between the proximal part of the guiding and / or combing member closer to the transducer and the distal part of the guiding and / or combing member farther away. This adjustment may make it possible to adapt the method to the hair and / or the desired treatment.

[0467] The method according to the invention comprises, for example, device heating and / or device diffused light for activating certain compounds present in a fluid, in particular certain compounds present in a cosmetic composition.

[0468] The method of treating hair may include the step of applying a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, to the hair tresses.

[0469] The fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition, may be supplied to the treatment space by the guiding and / or combing member, in particular when the guiding and / or combing member is hollow or when the guiding and / or combing member is passed through by a duct. This application may be carried out continuously or discontinuously. The fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition, may be delivered to the hair via one or more orifices of the guiding and / or combing member. As a variant, the fluid, in particular the cosmetic composition, may be delivered by another means, for example by another application element of the device, or applied to the hair by means other than using the device.

[0470] Generally, fluids, particularly cosmetic compositions, may already contribute to decolorization on their own due to their formulation and / or may already contribute to the removal of impurities or dyes that are desirably removed through the action of applying acoustic waves to bubbles. The action of applying acoustic waves to bubbles speeds up or improves this process. The association of combining the waves generated by bursting bubbles with the action of the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, can have an effect greater than the mere effect of the waves or the mere effect of the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, due to synergy.

[0471] Bubbles are preferably generated by acoustic waves within the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, and the acoustic waves can then burst the bubbles. Thus, this method can include applying a fluid without bubbles formed under the action of acoustic waves. This makes it possible to avoid using a bubble generator and simplifies the implementation of the device.

[0472] In a variant or in addition, the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, is first applied regardless of whether bubbles are already present in the cosmetic composition, and then second, after being applied to the hair tresses, is exposed to acoustic waves, resulting in a shock wave after the bubbles burst. The bubbles can be formed, for example, using a bubble generator of a device that operates by electrolysis.

[0473] For example, the user first applies the cosmetic composition, for example in the form of foam, to the area to be treated, for example over the above-mentioned area, particularly along the hair tresses, by spraying, and then brings the treatment device into contact with the composition to apply acoustic waves to the cosmetic composition.

[0474] The fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, can be applied continuously, i.e., a flow of the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, in contact with the hair to be treated is established, and this flow occurs, for example, within a closed or open circuit.

[0475] When flow occurs in a closed circuit, the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, can be at least partially recycled. To reduce losses, additional amounts of fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, can be introduced continuously or intermittently into the circuit.

[0476] In an open circuit, the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, is not recycled to carry out this method and is, for example, sucked up into a collection container or directly sucked up with the waste water.

[0477] The flow of the fluid, particularly the cosmetic composition, occurs at a flow rate of, for example, from 0.01 mL per second to 50 mL per second.

[0478] This method includes dissolving a sleeve made of cloth or a non-woven sleeve, particularly made of a polymer, covering a part of the induction and / or coaming member. This dissolution can occur, for example, when the fluid flows out through one or more orifices located on the induction and / or coaming member.

[0479] The method according to the present invention may be applied to hair that has undergone a dyeing treatment, for example, a treatment called permanent hair dyeing, a treatment called semi-permanent hair dyeing, tone-on-tone hair dyeing, strand hair dyeing, swept hair dyeing, henna hair dyeing, or in other cases a treatment using a tint shampoo.

[0480] The method according to the present invention can be carried out to decolorize hair without performing new hair dyeing within 24 hours. Also, within 24 hours after this method is carried out, a new treatment for dyeing the hair decolorized by the ultrasonic treatment according to the present invention can be carried out.

[0481] The method according to the present invention is also carried out to create at least one pattern along the hair bundle and / or a dyeing gradient, for example, by varying the intensity and / or duration of the treatment according to the position along the hair bundle.

[0482] This method can be carried out to decolorize the hair only on the outside of the hair (i.e., on the side opposite the scalp) so as to give a swept effect to the hair.

[0483] The method according to the invention can possibly reduce the amount of the active decolorizing agent and / or shorten the time of exposure to these agents when used on the hair to decolorize the hair in combination with chemical decolorizing means.

[0484] Thus, the invention can include subjecting the hair to the acoustic waves according to the invention and exposing it to at least one active decolorizing agent, for example, an oxidizing agent such as persulfate, alkali, or hydrogen peroxide, potassium salt, sodium salt, ammonium perborate, or percarbonate.

[0485] The risk of irritation linked to the use of the active decolorizing agent is reduced or, in some cases, eliminated.

[0486] This method can include selectively treating a part of the hair by generating the emission of acoustic waves only in a certain area of the hair, for example, by operating the device intermittently.

[0487] The subject of the invention is, independently of or in combination with the above, a method for treating at least one hair lock of hair that has undergone a permanent hair dyeing treatment or a semi-permanent hair dyeing treatment, wherein the above hair lock in contact with a fluid such as a cosmetic composition containing at least one surfactant is exposed to acoustic waves generated by a transducer having a frequency and intensity selected to generate and burst bubbles through cavitation within the composition, and most of the bubbles present in the treatment area are generated by or are those generated by the transducer.

[0488] "Permanent hair dyeing" or oxidative hair dyeing covers all of the hair and, on the other hand, penetrates the core of the hair and refers to a dye designed to last, as the name indicates.

[0489] "Semi-permanent hair dyeing" refers to a type of hair dyeing that does not use ammonia in particular, covers the surface without reaching the core of the hair, and is gradually washed away during the shampooing process.

[0490] The bleaching method according to the present invention may include drying the hair using a hair dryer after exposing it to sound waves.

[0491] After this bleaching method, permanent hair dyeing or semi-permanent hair dyeing may be performed using the same color as the color used to color the hair treated for bleaching the above-described hair, for example, or a different color.

[0492] Throughout the following description, the present invention is implemented using a fluid that is an aqueous medium. However, the present invention may more generally be implemented using any fluid suitable for home use or salon use by consumers.

[0493] The present invention may be better understood by reading the following detailed description of its non-limiting exemplary implementations and by considering the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0494]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0495] The method according to the present invention includes generating bubbles within a cosmetic composition and rupturing the bubbles by exposing them to acoustic waves.

[0496] Figure 1 shows a first exemplary implementation of the present invention, where a cosmetic composition C is present on the surface of a keratinous substance K to be treated, and a treatment device 1 is brought into contact with the composition C to emit acoustic waves within the composition C.

[0497] The composition C may not contain bubbles before the acoustic waves are emitted. As a variant, the composition C already contains bubbles, for example, in the form of foam, and the bubbles are also formed by the acoustic waves.

[0498] The keratinous substance K is formed, for example, by the facial skin or hair.

[0499] For example, it is desirable to clean the skin in order to more quickly and effectively remove makeup marks.

[0500] The treatment device 1 comprises a handpiece that holds the sonotrode 4 in contact with the composition, and acoustic waves are emitted from the sonotrode 4.

[0501] The handpiece can be operated to form a slight space with the keratinous substance K and avoid contact between the sonotrode 4 and the above keratinous substance.

[0502] In a variant form, the handpiece is designed to maintain such an interval by one or more elements 49 intended to contact the keratinous substance, and the sonotrode 4 is located behind the element 49.

[0503] Under the effect of the acoustic wave, bubbles are generated in the composition C and then burst by themselves, thereby generating a shock wave. This shock wave has been proven to be effective in skin cleansing.

[0504] In the example of FIG. 1, the composition C is applied, for example, from a pressurized container to generate bubbles, and then the handpiece holding the sonotrode 4 is brought into contact with the bubbles.

[0505] The composition can also be applied by the device 1 that generates acoustic waves, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0506] In this figure, the device 1 comprises a treatment head 10 designed to disperse the composition C over the area to be treated, for example, through at least one opening 31.

[0507] The device 1 may, as shown, comprise a chamber 32 through which the composition C flows and at least one ultrasonic transducer 4 for emitting acoustic waves into the chamber 32. The transducer 4 is powered by a generator 15, which may or may not form part of the handpiece. For example, the generator 15 is present in a base station to which the handpiece is connected by a cable.

[0508] The composition C can be supplied to the chamber 32 by a duct 16 and, for example, sent from a composition tank 22.

[0509] In the example of FIG. 2, the handpiece is moved along the area to be treated and the composition delivered through the opening 31 is not recycled.

[0510] In a variant of FIG. 3, the composition is recycled.

[0511] In this example of FIG. 3, the device 1 used to implement the method according to the invention comprises at least one ultrasonic transducer 4 that emits acoustic waves into the chamber 32, as in the example of FIG. 2.

[0512] However, the composition C dispersed through the opening 31 onto the area K to be treated is recovered through at least one duct 27 for the purpose of recycling.

[0513] In the example under consideration, this duct 27 opens around the opening 31 so as to recover the composition in contact with the area to be treated.

[0514] The device 1 may, where applicable, be provided with a sealing element 19, such as a flexible lip, around the duct 27 that contains the composition and facilitates the return of the composition through the duct 27. The lip may consist of a sub-lip between which fluid can be recovered.

[0515] The duct 27 communicates, as shown, with a suction pump 20, for example an electric pump, that can send the returned composition to a filter 21. The filter may be designed to stop particles floating in the composition, such as skin debris removed during cleaning.

[0516] The composition is returned to the chamber at the outlet of the filter 21.

[0517] The composition can be sent, for example, from a tank 22, shown schematically, held by the handpiece.

[0518] This tank 22 enables the filling of the circuit through which the composition flows during the operation of the device and enables the compensation of any loss of the composition if a part of the above composition is not recycled.

[0519] The corresponding detailed views of FIGS. 4 and 5 and FIGS. 6a and 6b show another example of a device according to the invention, which device comprises an ultrasonic transducer 4, two tanks 22a and 22b, a pump 20, and a fluid circuit, the fluid circuit comprising ducts 23, 25, and 27 enabling the composition C to flow between the tanks 22a and 22b and the keratinous substance K to be treated.

[0520] In the example under consideration, the device 1 is in the form of a handpiece comprising a handle 9 and a treatment head 10, the treatment head 10 comprising a spacer 7 in contact with the keratinous substance K to be treated.

[0521] The device does not comprise a bubble generator other than the transducer 4, and the bubbles are generated in the cavitation phenomenon by acoustic waves.

[0522] The transducer 4 is arranged with respect to the spacer 7 so as to form a space E between the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves and the surface of the keratinous substance K to be treated.

[0523] The cavitation of the bubbles occurs in this space E as shown in FIG. 6a.

[0524] The device 1 may comprise a grid 6 in contact with the keratinous substance to be treated, the grid 6 being fastened, for example, to the spacer 7 and comprising regular openings arranged in rows and columns, for example, as shown in FIG. 6b.

[0525] As shown in FIG. 4, the device 1 further comprises an electronic circuit 12 connected by a connector 120 to an electronic generator 40 that supplies power to the transducer. This generator comprises, for example, an oscillator and a power stage.

[0526] The electronic circuit 12 may comprise a control unit capable of communicating with the human-machine interface 41, and the human-machine interface 41 may comprise a screen, in particular an LED screen, and / or control buttons, or may communicate via a wireless link with a terminal such as a mobile phone in some cases.

[0527] The human-machine interface 41 makes it possible to adjust certain operating parameters of the device, such as the intensity at which the acoustic wave is emitted.

[0528] The electronic circuit 12 can drive the operation of the pump 20 and the operation of the battery 15 that supplies power to the device (especially its load), and receive data from one or more sensors (not shown), such as a sensor for detecting the contact of the device on the skin.

[0529] In the latter case, the electronic circuit 12 can start the pump 20 and emit acoustic waves so that the composition can be recycled, especially when the area to be treated comes into contact with the grid 6.

[0530] The electronic circuit can also communicate with a photodetector 650, as highly schematically shown in FIG. 5, to detect the presence of a compound removed from the surface of the skin and, in some cases, determine the amount present.

[0531] As described above, the system for the flow of the composition, comprising a fluid circuit, one or more tanks, and a pump, can be arranged in various ways.

[0532] In the examples shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the device 1 comprises two separate tanks 22a and 22b. Tank 22a is, for example, a tank for the composition to be dispersed, connected to the pump 20, and the pump 20 can send the composition C to the treatment area via a duct 25 that opens via an outlet 250 as shown.

[0533] As shown in Figure 6a, tank 22b recovers the composition in contact with the area to be treated via duct 27 opening onto outlet 270.

[0534] Device 1 may, where applicable, include a sealing element 19, such as a flexible lip, at the periphery of the end of the treatment head to facilitate the return of the composition through duct 27.

[0535] Tanks 22a and 22b may be at least partially transparent, thereby enabling the user to visually monitor the filling level and / or clogging level of the tanks, where applicable, through a transparent window provided on the handle. Each of the tanks and / or the assembly formed by one or more tanks and fluid circuits may preferably be removable so as to be easily cleaned or replaced by the user.

[0536] The filter may also be arranged in the duct connecting tanks 22a and 22b.

[0537] The filter may also be held by tank 22b so as to be automatically replaced when the composition is discharged and the tank is replaced.

[0538] In the variant shown in Figure 7, tanks 22a and 22b are directly connected to the treatment area via ducts 25 and 27 respectively.

[0539] In this example, pump 20 is connected to tanks 22a and 22b in such a way that the composition does not flow inside otherwise, and the pump is capable of generating a positive air pressure in tank 22a for the composition to be dispersed and a negative pressure in tank 22b for the recovered composition to maintain the flow in ducts 25 and 27 between the treatment area and the tanks.

[0540] The pump 20 may also contribute to generating air bubbles in the tank 22a before dispersing the composition across the treatment area.

[0541] In one variant, the device may comprise a single tank 22, which may or may not comprise an internal filter, which may be removable in some cases.

[0542] For example, the composition is recovered using a suction system 28 such as a suction pump, which may be arranged at various positions in the fluid circuit, for example, directly in the treatment head 7 where the composition is recovered and maintained by the flexible lip 19, as schematically shown in FIG. 8.

[0543] As shown in FIG. 8, the device 1 may comprise a treatment and purification unit 29 for the composition, thereby enabling recycling for the purpose of returning the composition to the keratinous substance to be treated. In that case, the composition flows at least partially within a closed circuit.

[0544] The treatment and purification unit 29 is, for example, a filtration system schematically shown in FIG. 8 and comprises one or more filters designed to stop particles floating within the composition, such as skin debris removed during washing.

[0545] As shown in FIG. 8, the filtration system may be arranged between the suction system 28 and the tank 22.

[0546] In the variant shown in FIG. 9, the tank 22 comprises two compartments 220 and 225 separated by a piston 230. Compartment 220 contains, for example, the composition C to be dispersed and is directly connected to the treatment head by a duct 25 opening onto the treatment area.

[0547] The composition is recovered by a duct 27 connecting the pump 20 to the treatment area, and the pump 20 returns the used composition to the second compartment 225 of the tank 22.

[0548] As shown in the figure, the filter 21 can be arranged in the duct 27 between the processing area and the pump 20.

[0549] The flow is established by the movement of the piston 230 in the pump 20 and the tank 22. In this example, the compartments 220 and 225 of the tank 22 do not communicate.

[0550] The tank 22 is preferably partially or completely transparent, so that the user can evaluate the position of the piston and the respective remaining levels of the composition to be dispensed and the used liquid.

[0551] The device may further comprise one or more control buttons 39, such as an on button or a standby button, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0552] The device is charged, for example, using a USB port (not shown) positioned directly on the body of the device or, in other cases, by being placed on a base station provided for this purpose and charged inductively or using any suitable connector.

[0553] The battery 15 can also be removed separately and charged. The device may also comprise an outlet 31 for delivering the composition C and a transducer 4 arranged so as to be offset from the outlet 31, as shown in FIG. 10. In this case, the composition disposed on the area K to be treated passes under the transducer 4 after the device has been moved relative to the area to be treated and is thereby exposed to acoustic waves.

[0554] The device may comprise a possible additional bubble generator 17.

[0555] The spacer element 49 may be a flexible lip and serves to separate the transducer 4 from the area to be treated and can, for example, avoid direct contact with the skin.

[0556] The transducer 4 or its sonotrode is preferably removable. Thus, it is possible to easily remove them from the device in order to clean the transducer 4 and the sonotrode.

[0557] It is also possible to exchange various transducers and sonotrodes and provide sonotrodes of different sizes and / or transducers that generate waves of various frequencies and acoustic intensities, in particular according to the desired use of the device.

[0558] For this purpose, the transducer or the sonotrode may be provided with various fastening means for fastening to the handpiece.

[0559] The fastening means are, for example, screwed fastening means as shown in FIGS. 11a and 11b.

[0560] The transducer 4 may have a threaded rod 102 at one end of the transducer 4 as shown in FIG. 11a, and the threaded rod 102 may be screwed into a nut 103 that is fastened to the device, in particular the processing head.

[0561] In contrast, as shown in FIG. 11b, the transducer 4 may be provided with a nut 103 on its upper surface, and the threaded rod 102 may be fastened to the processing head 7.

[0562] The removable transducer may be fastened by snap fit, as shown in FIG. 11c, or by clamping, in particular by a host clamp 106 as shown in FIG. 11d, or by a seal 107 made of polymer or rubber, for example, as shown in FIG. 11e.

[0563] The emission surface for emitting acoustic waves may have a relief 420 where the bubbles may rise at various levels along the longitudinal axis X of the transducer during cavitation.

[0564] These reliefs 420 may be integral with the sonotrode as shown in FIG. 12a, or may be formed on an additional part 95 added to the sonotrode as shown in FIG. 12b, and the additional part 95 is fastened to the sonotrode, for example, by screwing.

[0565] All or part of the reliefs 420 may have a random distribution across the emission surface and / or may have random sizes, as shown in FIG. 13a.

[0566] As a variant, the relief may have a predefined shape, for example, may have a pyramid shape as shown in FIG. 13b, and may be arranged in a regular arrangement, for example, may be arranged as a regular array as shown in FIG. 13c.

[0567] The relief 420 preferably has a height h measured parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the sonotrode of 0.001 mm to 50 mm, more preferably 0.01 mm to 30 mm, and even more preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

[0568] The device may also comprise a vibrator 750 for applying additional vibrations having a frequency lower than the frequency of the acoustic waves to at least a part of the emission surface.

[0569] The vibrator 750 comprises, for example, a motor 751 for driving the imbalance 752 to rotate, as shown in FIG. 14.

[0570] FIG. 15 shows another example of the device 1 according to the present invention. The device 1 comprises a body 2 for housing the transducer 4, a spacer 7 in the form of a nozzle added to the processing head, and a grid 6 arranged in front of the transducer 4.

[0571] The transducer 4 comprises an electroactive element coupled to the sonotrode, the electroactive element typically being made of metal, defining an emission surface S through which acoustic waves are emitted onto the keratinous material to be treated.

[0572] The body 2 of the treatment device 1 may be in the form of a handpiece that is operated by the user to bring the grating 6 into contact with the area to be treated.

[0573] As shown in FIG. 16, the composition C containing the bubbles B is present on the surface of the keratinous material K to be cleaned during use of the device 1.

[0574] The composition C is, for example, in the form of foam or another composition and is applied to the keratinous material before bringing the device into contact with the keratinous material. The composition C may also be delivered by the device 1 or be at least partially present before the device 1 is brought into contact with the keratinous material and is partially supplied by the device.

[0575] The keratinous material K is formed, for example, by the skin or hair of the face.

[0576] The transducer 4 comes into contact with the composition C.

[0577] Under the effect of the acoustic waves, the bubbles burst by themselves, thereby generating shock waves that have been proven to be effective in cleaning the keratinous material K. The acoustic waves can contribute to forming the bubbles when applicable.

[0578] The grating 6 can be produced in various ways.

[0579] The grating 6 comprises at least one opening 300 and the grating 6 may comprise exactly one opening as shown in FIG. 17f, or exactly two openings as shown in FIG. 17a, or more openings.

[0580] The openings can be mostly of the same size or all of the same size, as shown in FIGS. 17b, 17d, or 17e. The openings may have various shapes, such as square or round, or in other cases, may have the shape of a part of a disk or a ring, as shown in FIG. 17c.

[0581] The grid 6 preferably has a ratio of the total surface area of the openings to the contact surface with the keratinous material of 0.5 or more, so that the shock wave generated by the bursting of the bubbles can reach the keratinous material K over a suitable surface area, thereby obtaining the benefit of relatively wide openings.

[0582] The grid 6 can have a circular outer shape as shown in FIGS. 17a - 17f, or can have an outer shape of another shape, such as a polygonal outer shape.

[0583] The outer surface of the grid 6 may be flat, for example, may be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0584] The grid 6 may be, for example, a single part formed by machining or injection molding.

[0585] The thickness of the grid 6 may be selected so as to obtain the desired rigidity.

[0586] The grid may be made of metal, and the surface of the grid in contact with the keratinous material is in a smooth or rough state. The grid may be made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy or stainless steel. The grid may also be formed of a high - rigidity plastic or made of ceramic. The grid may also be a composite material, for example, may include a frame embedded in a plastic matrix.

[0587] The grid may be made of a deformable and / or compressible material. Thus, the grid may be compressed to a thickness such that a minimum distance is ensured between the release surface and the surface of the keratinous material being treated during its use.

[0588] The smooth surface state can facilitate movement on the skin in particular, while the rough surface state can exert a mechanical action contributing to skin cleansing.

[0589] Each opening of the grid can be delimited by a sharp edge on the application surface to the keratinous substance. Such a sharp edge can promote cleansing by rubbing the keratinous substance while the grid moves in contact with the keratinous substance.

[0590] As shown in FIG. 15, the device according to the invention can comprise a spacer 7, each having a plurality of support legs 115 extending axially over less than 360° about the axis X of the transducer in front of the emission surface S.

[0591] The grid 6 is held by the spacer 7 as in the example under consideration, in which case the spacer can comprise a holding part 110 for the grid 6, and one or more support legs 115 act as a high-rigidity link between the fastening part 100 for fastening the spacer to the device and the holding part 110.

[0592] The device can comprise only the spacer 7 defining the contact surface with the keratinous substance to be treated, without a grid.

[0593] As a variant, the spacer 7 can be held directly by the transducer 4 and, where applicable, a damper is used between these two spacers to limit the transmission of vibrations from the transducer to the spacer.

[0594] The spacer 7 makes it possible to maintain the transducer 4 at a distance d from the keratinous substance in order to avoid direct contact between the emission surface S and the above-mentioned keratinous substance. When the device comprises the grid 6 held by the spacer 7, the distance d is at least equal to the thickness of the grid 6.

[0595] The spacer 7 is preferably perforated in the transverse direction, and these perforations are defined by the space between the support legs 115, for example, as shown in FIG. 15, whereby the position of the transducer 4 can be observed and the flow of the composition between the transducer 4 and the keratinous substance can be facilitated.

[0596] In the example of FIG. 15, the spacer 7 comprises three support legs 115 arranged at 120° to each other about the longitudinal axis X of the device. These support legs 115 form a link between the fastening part 100 and the holding part 110 for the grid, and both the fastening part 100 and the holding part 110 have an annular shape.

[0597] Other spacer shapes are possible.

[0598] For example, the spacer 7 may comprise a single support leg 115 that extends substantially perpendicular to the emission surface S of the transducer 4 and contacts the keratinous substance directly through its free end, as shown in FIG. 18a.

[0599] The spacer 7 may similarly comprise three or four linear support legs 115 arranged at 120° or 90° to each other about the longitudinal axis X of the device. These legs may be parallel to the longitudinal axis X as shown in FIG. 18b, or may be inclined obliquely outwards so as to improve the stability of the contact of the device on the keratinous substance, as shown in FIG. 18c.

[0600] One or more support legs 115 extend transversely to the legs and connect to a distal portion 116 that faces or extends around the emission surface S for emitting ultrasonic waves (in a front view).

[0601] This distal portion 116 has an annular shape, for example, as shown in FIG. 18d, or in other cases, has a bar shape, as shown in FIG. 18e.

[0602] One or more legs and / or distal parts may be made of a high-rigidity material, such as metal, or a high-rigidity plastic, or a semi-rigid or flexible material.

[0603] The spacer may be integral with the body of the device or may be in the form of a removable nozzle.

[0604] When the spacer 7 is in the form of a nozzle, it can be fastened to the body 2 of the device by various means, such as screwing using the screw 15 as shown in FIG. 15.

[0605] The axial position of the spacer may be adjustable along the longitudinal axis X of the device with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the transducer. For example, the spacer may be engaged somewhat on the body of the device 2, in which case the spacer may be fastened to a selected position using the screw 15 as shown in FIG. 1.

[0606] This adjustable position makes it possible to accurately adjust the static distance d between the transducer 4 and the keratinous substance as desired.

[0607] The nozzle 7 may be telescopic at the support leg 115. The legs 115 are each height-adjustable, for example, and this adjustment is made, for example, to adapt the position of the grid to the form of the keratinous substance to be cleaned. Thereby, it may be possible, for example, to obliquely incline the plane of the grid with respect to the axis X.

[0608] One or more support legs 115 of the spacer 7 may also be provided with elastic return means 8, such as one or more springs as highly schematically shown in FIG. 19a, or a telescopic link as shown in FIG. 19b.

[0609] Such elastic means 8 vary the distance d between the transducer 4 and the keratinous substance K based on the pressure applied to the keratinous substance K against which the spacer is pressed and / or maintain a constant applied pressure when moving the device, for example enabling adaptation of the keratinous substance to any relief.

[0610] As shown in FIG. 20, the device 1 may comprise one or more supply ducts 25 that extend, in particular along one or more support legs 115 and open via at least one outlet 250 located near the area to be treated during use, through the spacer 7 from the composition tank 22.

[0611] One or more supply ducts 25 may extend within the grid and / or the support 110 for the grid 6 when the grid 6 is held by the spacer 7. The device 1 comprises, for example, a plurality of outlets 250 located on the grid 6 or on a support 110 for the grid 6 (not shown).

[0612] FIG. 23 shows a treatment device 1 according to the invention, the treatment device 1 comprising a transducer 4 having an emission surface S for emitting acoustic waves into the cosmetic composition C and a guiding member 70 for guiding the hair tufts of the hair K and enabling the hair K to be guided as it passes through the treatment area.

[0613] The treatment device 1 may be in the form of a handpiece (not shown) that operates autonomously or is connected to a base station.

[0614] The transducer 4 may be removably or non-removably fastened to the device.

[0615] The guiding member 70 may be made of one or more parts that can be disassembled and / or assembled and / or replaced and / or modified by the user.

[0616] The transducer 4 is powered by a generator (not shown), which may form part of the device 1, for example, be incorporated in the handpiece or be connected to the handpiece by a flexible cable.

[0617] The guiding member 70 can be removably or non-removably attached to the remaining part of the device 1 and can be movable or immovable relative to the remaining part of the device 1, for example, between a use configuration in which the member 70 guides the hair K and a non-engaging configuration in which the member 70 is spaced from the transducer 4 and allows the hair bundle of the hair K to be inserted. The guiding member 70 can also be fixedly attached on the device 1 and forms a passage for inserting the hair bundle of the hair K to be processed.

[0618] The guiding member 70 defines a space using the release surface S through which the hair K passes during processing and can be arranged to extend at least partially opposite to the release surface as shown, for example, having a guiding portion 71 that defines a guiding surface 72 substantially parallel to the release surface S.

[0619] The guiding surface 72 can be flat or can have another shape adapted to move on the hair bundle, for example, a circular shape.

[0620] The guiding surface 72 has a width L greater than or equal to the width of the release surface and can have, for example, a width L of 1 mm to 180 mm, and the release surface has, for example, a width of 1 mm to 150 mm.

[0621] The guiding member 70 can, for example, extend along the transducer 4 and include a support portion 73 connected to the body of the device 1 at the end opposite the guiding portion 71 by any suitable means.

[0622] The guiding member 70 can advantageously serve to supply the cosmetic composition C to the processing area. For this purpose, the guiding member 70 can be passed through by at least one duct 74 that opens via one or more orifices 75 in the guiding portion 71 facing the release surface S.

[0623] The duct 74 is connected, for example, to a fluid circuit that ensures the flow by obtaining the flow of the composition from a tank.

[0624] The distance D between the emission surface S and the guiding surface 72 is, for example, between 0.1 mm and 30 mm.

[0625] This distance D can be fixed or adjustable, for example, by a specific mounting of the guiding member 70 on the device 1, enabling the user to move the guiding member 70 relative to the transducer 4 as needed.

[0626] The orifices 75 are regularly spaced along the guiding portion 71 as shown, for example, but may be spaced differently in a variant form.

[0627] The orifices 75 are, for example, circular, but may be made in another shape, for example, the shape of one or more slots.

[0628] To use the device 1 of FIG. 23, the user engages a tuft of hair K between the guiding portion 71 and the transducer 4 and can move the device 1 along the tuft of hair K, for example, starting from the hair root to the tip.

[0629] During this movement, the composition C is delivered to the treatment area by the device 1, in particular via the dispersion orifices 75.

[0630] The composition C present in the treatment area contacts the hair K and is subjected to the action of the acoustic waves emitted by the transducer 4.

[0631] Bubbles are generated by cavitation in the treatment area and then burst, generating contributing shock waves produced by the cleaning and / or decolorization of the hair K.

[0632] The composition delivered to the treatment area can be discharged from the device or recycled.

[0633] The guiding member 70 can also be formed to perform combing of the hair K upstream or downstream of the treatment area, or in some cases within the above treatment area. As a result, for example, it may be possible to have a hair bundle with a more uniform thickness facing the emission surface S, and the hair bundle engaged with the device is divided into smaller and more easily accessible hair bundles by teeth and / or bristles and / or etching and / or micro-relief.

[0634] FIG. 24 shows a deformed form of the guiding member 70 different from that of FIG. 23, in that at least one row of teeth 80 is schematically shown, enabling such combing.

[0635] These teeth 80 extend, for example, as shown in the figure, and the longitudinal axis Y of these teeth is parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the transducer 4.

[0636] The teeth 80 may extend facing the emission surface S as shown in the figure, or as a deformed form, be shifted relative to this surface to perform combing of the hair K upstream or downstream of this surface.

[0637] The guiding member 70 may be provided with both teeth 80 and orifices 75 for dispersing the composition C as shown in the figure.

[0638] These orifices 75 open, for example, between the teeth 80.

[0639] The guiding member 70 may be provided at a position other than the position facing the emission surface S with combing and / or guiding relief, for example, on the opposite side as shown in the figure. Thus, FIG. 24 shows a row of additional teeth 81 on the opposite side of the teeth 80.

[0640] The height of the teeth 80 and 81 of the combing member 70 in FIG. 24 is, for example, about 0.5 mm to 20 mm.

[0641] Of course, the present invention is not limited to a specific tooth shape.

[0642] In the example of FIG. 25, the tooth 80 is hollow and communicates with the duct 74, thereby dispersing the composition C through an orifice formed in the tooth and not visible in this figure.

[0643] The guiding member 70 may hold the dispersion orifice 75 on the guiding portion 71 that holds the teeth 80 and 81, as shown. As a variant, the composition C is dispersed only through an orifice provided on the tooth 80.

[0644] FIG. 25 also shows the possibility of a guiding member 70 having one or more lateral guiding surfaces 76. Between the lateral guiding surfaces 76, the hair tuft of the hair is held when the hair passes through the treatment area.

[0645] For example, the device comprises one lateral guiding surface 76 defined by the support portion 73 and another lateral guiding surface 76 defined by the inwardly curved portion 77.

[0646] When applicable, as shown, the curved portion 77 is hollow and communicates with the duct 74, thereby dispersing the composition C through at least one (not visible) orifice opening in the direction of the treatment area.

[0647] The emission surface S of the transducer 4 also has teeth 46 and / or bristles 47 and / or etching and / or micro-relief and / or spikes, especially those made of metal, thereby combing the hair K upstream or downstream of the treatment area, or, in some cases, combing the hair K within the above treatment area. The emission surface S of the transducer 4 may have the same type of relief as the guiding member 70 or, as a variant, may have a different relief.

[0648] Figure 26 schematically shows a modified device 1 with teeth 46 or other reliefs on the emission surface S to contribute to combing the hair bundle of the hair K and guiding the hair bundle.

[0649] These teeth 46 or other reliefs extend, for example, as shown in the figure, and the longitudinal axis Z of these teeth is parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the transducer 4.

[0650] The teeth 46 or other reliefs can be arranged, as shown in the figure, to fit between the teeth 80 of the guiding member 70.

[0651] Figure 27 schematically shows a modified device 1 different from the device 1 shown in Figure 26, which also enables combing, with bristles 47 on the emission surface S and bristles 82 on the guiding member 70. The bristles 47 and 82 can be natural and / or synthetic bristles in some cases.

[0652] The emission surface S of the transducer can be defined by removable and replaceable parts to provide various solutions for guiding and / or combing the hair K depending on the guiding member 70 used.

[0653] The guiding member 70 and the transducer 4 may be mounted on the device 1 so as to be movable relative to each other and / or movable relative to the device 1, for example, performing longitudinal movement, lateral movement, vibration, and / or rotation.

[0654] In particular, the guiding part 71 of the guiding member 70 may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis W of the guiding part 71, as shown in Figure 27, for example, driven by a motor or rotating freely. The guiding part 71 can rotate facing the emission surface S while the hair bundle of the hair K passes between the guiding member 70 and the transducer 4, thereby enabling, for example, guiding and / or combing the hair bundle when the hair bundle of the hair K passes through.

[0655] The transducer 4 in FIG. 28 can rotate about its vertical axis X. The guiding member 70 and the transducer 4 in FIG. 28 can also be moved longitudinally along the axis X such that the guiding surface 72 and the emitting surface S move towards each other or away from each other, for example to adapt the treatment to the thickness of the hair bundle of the hair K. The guiding member 70 can in particular be returned to its rest position using elastic return means 730, for example a spring, held by the support part 73.

[0656] As described above, the device 1 can comprise a spacer element 7, also called a spacer.

[0657] This spacer element 7 can be capable of maintaining the hair K at a predefined distance from the emitting surface S. This spacer element 7 may or may not form part of the guiding member 70.

[0658] For example, the spacer element 7 is held by the guiding member 70 and fastened to the support part 73, as shown for example in FIG. 29.

[0659] The spacer element 7 allows the acoustic waves emitted by the transducer 4 to pass through and, together with the guiding part 71, defines a treatment area through which the hair K passes for treatment.

[0660] The spacer element 7 is for example in the form of a grid and is made of, for example, a metallic material or plastic.

[0661] FIG. 29 shows the distribution of the composition C through the orifice 75 of the guiding member. As a variant, the composition C can be supplied to the treatment area by any other means or, in some cases, can already be present on the hair K inserted into the treatment area.

[0662] The variant device in FIG. 30 comprises a treatment head 10 which ensures the flow of the composition C between the supply duct 25 and the return duct 27.

[0663] Accordingly, the composition can flow within the treatment area between duct 25 and duct 27.

[0664] The flow of the composition is ensured, for example, by an electric or manual pump (not shown).

[0665] The treatment head 10 comprises a sealing nozzle (not shown) which is applied to the hair around the treatment area in order to limit the loss of the composition during treatment. This sealing nozzle is applied to a support surface (not shown) which is lowered onto the treatment head 10 during use of the device 1, the treatment head 10 being held, for example, by a first jaw of the device 1, and the support surface being held in the same way as a straightening iron by a second opposing jaw articulated on the first jaw.

[0666] The guiding member 70 can at least partially extend within the treatment head 10 during use, as schematically shown in FIG. 30, and can maintain the treatment of the hair K within the treatment area.

[0667] The hair K can in particular be maintained at a certain distance below a predefined value from the release surface S by the guiding portion 71 of the guiding member 70.

[0668] The guiding member 70 can be held by the above-mentioned second jaw.

[0669] The guiding member 70 can comprise, as shown in FIG. 31, for example, a tubular hollow guiding portion 71 defining a cavity 710 for guiding the hair K to be treated. The cavity is in particular open at two opposite ends 711 and 712.

[0670] The cavity 710 can have a constant cross-section or a non-constant cross-section.

[0671] In this example, the tuft of hair K is inserted into the cavity 710 through the end 711 and exits the cavity 710 through the opposite end 712.

[0672] The inner surface 716 of the cavity 710 may have reliefs that contribute to the combing and / or holding of the hair. These reliefs may be in the form of ridges or teeth 713.

[0673] The guiding portion 71 is deformable and, in particular, its diameter can be changed under the action of the adjustment means of the device, and the device can be adapted to the hair tuft and the desired treatment, for example, using a clamping member such as a hose clamp.

[0674] The guiding portion 71 can transmit acoustic waves. In a deformable form, the guiding portion can form all or part of a transducer, in particular all or part of a sonotrode.

[0675] The device may be configured such that the transducer 4 can move along the guiding portion 71, for example, such that its emission surface S faces the outer surface 714 of the guiding portion 71. The transducer 4 is moved, for example, motor-driven, and the transducer 4 reciprocates along the guiding portion, for example, or is manually moved by the user.

[0676] The transducer 4 can also rotate around the guiding portion 71, while preferably maintaining a state where its emission surface S faces the outer surface 714 of the guiding portion 71. The rotation of the transducer is motor-driven or manually performed by the user, for example, to adjust the side of the hair to be treated.

[0677] The guiding portion 71 is also movable and can move, for example, along its longitudinal axis W or rotate about its longitudinal axis W. The movement of the guiding portion 71 may or may not be motor-driven.

[0678] Device 1 may, where applicable, comprise a plurality of transducers 4, in particular two transducers 4 as shown in FIG. 32. These two transducers 4 may be radially opposed. These transducers 4 may be fixed to each other and to the guiding part 71, or may be movable relative to the guiding part 71, for example, may be moved independently of each other or may be movable.

[0679] The presence of a plurality of transducers makes it possible to enhance the effect of device 1, for example, by simultaneously treating two opposite surfaces of the hair and / or by achieving a higher bubble density.

[0680] The emission surface S of one or more transducers 4 may have a concave shape towards the guiding part, for example, as shown in FIG. 32, so as to coincide as much as possible with the outer surface 714 of the guiding part 71.

[0681] The guiding member may have a slot 715 along the part 71 between two ends 711 and 712 as shown in this figure. This slot 715 may make it easier to insert the hair bundle of hair K into the cavity 710.

[0682] Thus, the cavity 710 may be defined by a guiding part 71 comprising two parts 78 and 79 movable relative to each other in the form of a jaw, as particularly shown in FIG. 33, and the above parts can be moved between a separated configuration for inserting the hair bundle of hair K between the parts and a proximity configuration for treating the hair.

[0683] Jaws 78 and 79 may be held by a support part 73 for the guiding member 70 as shown in the figure. Jaws 78 and 79 may be fastened to the support part 73 removably or non-removably.

[0684] The distance E between the two jaws 78 and 79 may vary between 0 mm in the proximity configuration and 50 mm in the separated configuration.

[0685] The two jaws 78 and 79 can be moved relative to each other along the axis X to extend or shorten the distance E, for example, to adapt the treatment to the thickness of the tuft of hair K to be treated.

[0686] Each jaw 78 or 79 may have teeth 78d and 79d and / or bristles or other reliefs on the surface of the jaw facing the other jaw, in particular making it possible to divide the tuft of hair K and better treat the divided parts.

[0687] The jaw 78 proximal to the transducer 4 preferably allows the acoustic waves emitted by the transducer 4 to pass through and may be provided with holes made in the form of a grid or, in other cases, holes formed from a specific material that allows the acoustic waves to pass through, for this purpose.

[0688] As shown in FIG. 33, the guide member 70 may have two lateral guide surfaces 76, one defined by the support portion 73 and the other by the curvature 790 of the lower jaw 79 directed inward.

[0689] The space between the two jaws 78 and 79 is closed on the opposite side of the support portion 73 by a closing portion 791 in a deformed configuration, as shown in FIG. 34.

[0690] In the example of this figure, the support portion 73 and the closing portion 791 comprise, for example, at least one elastic return member 500, for example one or more helical springs, the elastic return member allowing the jaws 78 and 79 to move towards each other and biasing the jaws 78 and 79 into a rest position, for example a proximal configuration or a spaced configuration depending on the deformed configuration.

[0691] Examples of treating a tuft of hair Example 1 Confocal microscopy analysis was performed on a natural tuft of hair, and the passive diffusion of a fluorescent dye within the fibers was used to examine whether the integrity of the cuticle was altered by the treatment device.

[0692] The following three hair samples were prepared. - Sample 1: A tuft of untreated natural hair that was not dyed, used as a reference. - Sample 2: A tuft of the same natural hair that was not dyed was treated by passing it through the treatment device according to the present invention twice. The treatment device emitted ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 33.4 kHz and brought the tuft of hair into contact with a cosmetic composition C such as foam containing a soap-type surfactant (partially neutralized long-chain fatty acid). - Sample 3: A tuft of the same natural hair that was not dyed was treated by passing it through the treatment device according to the present invention ten times. The treatment device emitted ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 33.4 kHz and brought the tuft of hair into contact with the same composition C.

[0693] Next, for microscopic examination, the three tufts of hair were stained with a hydrophilic fluorescent dye, specifically fluorescein.

[0694] Next, in order to investigate the diffusion of fluorescein in the hair, each part of the tuft of hair was observed using laser scanning confocal microscopy.

[0695] The acquired images were analyzed using software. A first analysis was performed on the color intensity within the fiber. The results are shown in FIG. 35.

[0696] A second analysis was performed regarding the fluorescein color level. The results can be seen in FIG. 36.

[0697] It was observed that the staining intensity within the hair fiber was low, at 6.2% - 6.5%, and was comparable to that of the hair used as a reference and the hair treated using ultrasonic waves according to the present invention. This indicates that the integrity of the cuticle of the treated hair has not been altered. The ultrasonic waves have not damaged the capillary sheath.

[0698] Example 2 Transmission light analysis was performed on the dyed hair bundles to visualize the decrease in thickness and quantify the pigment intensity within the fibers of the treated hair.

[0699] The following five hair samples were prepared. - Sample 1: A bundle of untreated natural hair that was not dyed, used as a reference. - Sample 4: A bundle of the same hair that was dyed using the product "Colorista Washout L’Oreal Paris" but not treated. This sample is shown in Figure 37A. - Sample 5: A bundle of the same hair that was dyed using the product "Colorista Washout L’Oreal Paris" and treated by passing it through the treatment device according to the present invention 10 times. The treatment device emitted ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 33.4 kHz. This sample is shown in Figure 37B. - Sample 6: A bundle of the same hair that was dyed using the dye "Majirouge 6.66 L’Oreal Pro" but not treated. This sample is shown in Figure 37C. - Sample 7: A bundle of the same hair that was dyed using the dye "Majirouge 6.66 L’Oreal Pro" and treated by passing it through the treatment device according to the present invention 10 times. The treatment device emitted ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 33.4 kHz. This sample is shown in Figure 37D.

[0700] Each part of the hair bundle was observed using laser scanning confocal microscopy in transmission light.

[0701] The following observations were made on the grayscale images obtained using confocal microscopy. - The undyed and untreated hair of the reference hair bundle (Sample 1) has a bright gray, uniform hue. - The hair that was dyed using the product "Colorista Washout L’Oreal Paris" and not treated (Sample 4) showed coloring mainly on the surface and somewhat dark black rings. However, these were mainly located on the periphery. - The hair that was dyed using the dye "Majirouge 6.66 L’Oreal Pro" and not treated (Sample 6) showed a considerably dark coloring. This is because the hair was almost completely dyed. - The hair treated using ultrasonic waves (Samples 5 and 7) showed weak coloring relative to their respective dyed references, thereby demonstrating the advantage of the treatment for decoloring dyed hair while minimizing the impact on the integrity of the hair.

[0702] The analysis was performed by quantifying the average coloring intensity of the hair based on a 0 - 100 gray scale. 0 on the gray scale is white and 100 is black. The results of the analysis can be seen in Figure 38.

[0703] After passing ultrasonic waves 10 times over the dyed tresses of hair, a 34% reduction in coloring was observed for the product "Colorista Washout L’Oreal Paris" and a 23% reduction for the dye "Majirouge 6.66 L’Oreal Pro".

[0704] A statistical analysis of the coloring data was also performed. This is reproduced in Figure 39. In this analysis, it was confirmed that the differences between the measured average values are statistical differences within the 95% confidence interval.

[0705] Of course, the present invention is not limited only to the examples described here.

[0706] Therefore, it is possible to give more shapes to the guiding member.

[0707] The device can be used in the following steps, which are given, by way of example, to a device comprising one or more removable tanks, a transducer or a removable sonotrode, and / or optionally additional elements such as spacers, grids, etc., and a treatment head equipped with them. - The user selects a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, according to the treatment desired to be carried out, and fills the tank or inserts a pre-filled tank (e.g., a single-use tank) into the handpiece. - The user selects the type of sonotrode and the elements that come into contact with the keratinous substance to be used according to the area the user wishes to treat, and fastens those elements to the rest of the device. - The user turns on the device using the on / off button and selects a program that can be seen on the screen. - The start of the program can be associated with an acoustic signal, vibration, and / or an indicator light. - The user applies the treatment head in contact with the keratinous substance, thereby triggering the activation of the pump and the transducer by the contact sensor. - The pump enables the flexible lip disposed at the end of the treatment head to come into contact with the keratinous substance and creates a vacuum to form a closed space between the emission surface for emitting ultrasonic waves and the surface of the keratinous substance to be treated. - The fluid flows through the space thus formed. The transducer generates acoustic waves that cause cavitation of the bubbles in the treatment area. - The used fluid is collected in a second tank or a second compartment of the tank and can be reintroduced into the filtered fluid circuit, and thus multiple passes through the treatment area are made. - The user checks the dirt level of the collected fluid. The user may empty the tank containing this fluid at the end of the treatment or even before, if necessary. - When an excessive temperature rise is detected, the device stops operating as a safety measure when the user moves the treatment head away from the keratinous substance, or when it is detected that the device is fixed. - After the treatment is completed, the user may replace the device on the base for recharging, or remove the battery and recharge it separately. - The user may also start a cleaning program for the device by filling the tank with a specific product and closing the fluid circuit by placing the device on a dedicated surface for cleaning.

[0708] Example of treating the skin Prepare a sample of artificial skin (from Bioskin) and apply a long-lasting foundation to it so that the thickness reaches about 6 μm + / - 20%.

[0709] Dry at room temperature for a minimum of 20 minutes. As a variant, drying may be carried out at room temperature for 15 minutes, or drying may be completed in 2 minutes using a hair dryer.

[0710] The composition is, for example, one of the compositions C1 to C5 described below.

[0711] The acoustic wave has a frequency of about 34 kHz, is pulse-width modulated as shown in Figure 21, and is generated by exciting the ultrasonic transducer 13 with a sinusoidal electrical signal U fed by the generator G.

[0712] The amplitude of the voltage U can be adjusted by the user by acting on the generator during the test.

[0713] The pulse has a pulse duration T on and a duty cycle

[0714]

Number

[0715] is characterized by. Here, T off is the duration of the "low" or "passive" state over one cycle.

[0716] The sonotrode 4 shown in FIG. 1 is used, for example, to emit acoustic waves and is moved slowly in a state where the sonotrode contacts the composition without touching the foundation film.

[0717] The sonotrode includes, for example, a ceramic piezoelectric transducer system.

[0718] The nominal frequency of the transducer is, for example, about 34 kHz.

[0719] The sonotrode is made of, for example, titanium.

[0720] The transducer includes, for example, ceramics separated by an insulator and attached to each other by clamping.

[0721] The diameter of the sonotrode is, for example, about 1.8 cm, that is, the surface area is about 2.5 cm 2 and the ceramics of the transducer have a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the sonotrode.

[0722] The sonotrode is included in, for example, a casing, and its front end protrudes several centimeters beyond the casing, preferably less than 5 cm.

[0723] The tests are for various parameters, namely, - The total concentration (%) of surfactant in the composition, - The peak acoustic intensity I (W / cm 2 unit) that depends directly on the activation voltage U, - The pulse duration T on , - The duty cycle Ton / Toff, - The duration for which the surface to be cleaned is exposed to acoustic waves, - By varying the distance between the emission surface and the surface to be cleaned is carried out.

[0724] The acoustic intensity I on the surface to be cleaned SATA is expressed in W / cm 2 and is calculated based on the selected parameters. The acoustic intensity is given by the following formula.

[0725]

Equation

[0726] The acoustic intensity I SATA can also be expressed as a function of the average acoustic pressure p applied to the area to be treated m as follows.

[0727]

Equation

[0728] In the above equation, ρ is the bulk density of the composition (in kg m-3 units), c is the speed of sound in the composition (in m.s-1 units), p m is the average acoustic pressure (in Pa units, or equivalent to N.m-2 or kg.m-1.s-2), and I SATA is in W.m -2 units.

[0729] The effectiveness of the combination of parameters for each test is evaluated based on the makeup removal rate (% makeup removal) calculated based on the gradient measured on the colorimetric scale (Delta E).

[0730] The cleaning is considered to have a sufficient effect when Delta E is 15 or more and the makeup removal rate exceeds 65%.

[0731]

Table 1

[0732] For the combinations of parameters summarized in the above table, good removal of the foundation is observed in the area through which the sonotrode passes during operation.

[0733] It is also observed that it is very difficult to remove makeup simply by passing a sponge or brush over the makeup, thereby emphasizing the cleaning effect obtained in the present invention.

[0734] Response surface The values of the parameters obtained experimentally above and demonstrating a good makeup removal effect can be extended to the range of parameters using an optimization plan that takes into account various interactions between all the parameters.

[0735] Thus, this gives the response surfaces shown in FIGS. 40 to 45, which show the ranges of values of various parameters where a sufficient makeup removal effect is found.

[0736] The makeup removal effect is considered sufficient when it follows the same criteria as described above, i.e., when ΔE is 15 or more and the makeup removal rate exceeds 65%.

[0737] In the optimization plan, the following three parameters, namely - The total concentration (%) of surfactant in the composition, - The peak acoustic intensity I (W / cm 2 unit), and - The duration for which the surface to be cleaned is exposed to the acoustic wave are fixed.

[0738] The range of optimal values is determined for the other two parameters, namely the pulse duration T on and the duty cycle T on / T off

[0739] ​The range of the optimal value is defined as the range that satisfies the above-mentioned criteria for makeup removal. On the illustrated response curve, these ranges correspond to the regions above the isobar 0.

[0740] These value ranges are summarized in the following table, which refers to each of the figures showing the corresponding response surface.

[0741] For some parameter values, as shown in the example on the response surface of Figure 45e, the response surface has no pulse duration and duty cycle T on / T off values that satisfy the above-mentioned criteria for makeup removal effect.

[0742] For other parameter values, as shown in the examples in Figures 40b to 40e, the entire region under consideration for optimization satisfies the makeup removal effect criteria.

[0743]

Table 2A

[0744]

Table 2B

Explanation of Symbols

[0745] 1 Processing device, deformation device 2 Main body 4 Sonotrode, ultrasonic transducer 6 Grid 7 Spacer, processing head, nozzle, spacer element 8 Elastic return means, elastic means 9 Handle 10 Processing head 12 Electronic circuit 15 Generator, battery, screw 16 Duct 17 Bubble generator 19 Sealing element, flexible lip 20 Suction pump 21 Filter 22 Composition tank 22a, 22b Tanks 23 Duct 25 Supply duct 27 Duct, return duct 28 Suction system 29 Treatment and purification unit 31 Opening, outlet 32 Chamber 39 Control button 40 Electric generator 41 Human-machine interface 46 Teeth 47 Bristles 49 Spacing element 70 Inductive member, corming member 71 Inductive part 72 Inductive surface 73 Support part 74 Duct 75 Dispersion orifice 76 Lateral inductive surface 77 Bend 78 Joe, part 79 Joe, part, lower joe 80, 81 Teeth 82 Bristles 95 Part 100 Fastening part 102 Threaded rod 103 Nut 106 Hose clamp 107 Seal 110 Holding part 115 Support leg 116 Distal part 120 Connector 220, 225 Compartments 230 Piston 250 Outlet 270 Outlet 420 Relief 500 Elastic return member 650 Photodetector 710 cavities 711, 712 opposing ends 713 teeth 714 outer surface 715 slots 716 inner surface 730 elastic return means 750 vibrator 751 motor 752 imbalance 790 curved portion 791 closed portion

Claims

1. A device for treating a keratinous substance (K) that has been contacted with a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, - At least one ultrasonic transducer (4) having an emission surface (S) for emitting acoustic waves into the fluid in order to generate, in the fluid, bubbles having a mechanical action when the bubbles burst on the keratinous substance, the emission surface having a relief (420) along the longitudinal axis (X) of the transducer, along which the bubbles can occur at different levels, the device comprising at least one ultrasonic transducer (4).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the transducer (4) comprises a sonotrode and the relief (420) is integral with the sonotrode.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the transducer comprises a sonotrode and the relief is formed on at least one part (95) added to the sonotrode, in particular held on the part by a removable fastener.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the added part is made of a material different from that of the sonotrode, in particular a harder material.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the relief is arranged in a regular arrangement, in particular a regular array in two dimensions.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the reliefs are identical, in particular in the form of a basic pattern that repeats in two mutually perpendicular directions, this pattern preferably having a prism shape, in particular a pyramid shape, etc., in particular a hemisphere shape, a cylinder shape, a semi-cylinder shape, or an ogival shape.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the emission surface for emitting acoustic waves comprises at least one relief having a pyramid shape, a frustum shape, a cylindrical shape, a hemispherical shape, or a prismatic irregular shape, in particular a regular array of four-sided reliefs.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the relief is in the form of a rib or a ridge.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein all or part of the relief has a random distribution over the emission surface and / or a random size.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the emission surface has a relief having a height of 0.001 mm to 50 mm, more preferably 0.01 mm to 30 mm, and even more preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sonotrode.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when the emission surface is observed along the longitudinal axis of the sonotrode, the maximum dimension (h) of the relief is 0.001 mm to 100 mm, more preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

12. The relief is formed by the presence of one or two continuous patterns in one or two directions, and the size of the pattern and the distance between the continuous patterns are selected such that the density is 1 pattern / cm ２ ~10 ６ pattern / cm ２ The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein in addition to the relief that contributes to improving the generation of the bubbles, the emission surface has a relief for another purpose, in particular for the purpose of holding a fluid or acting to clean the area to be treated, in particular a relief made of a flexible material, in particular bristles, preferably a group of bristles.

14. A device for treating keratinous materials in contact with a fluid, in particular a cosmetic composition, comprising: - at least one ultrasonic transducer (4) having an emission surface (S) for emitting acoustic waves into the fluid in order to generate in the fluid bubbles having a mechanical action when bursting on the keratinous material; - a vibrator (750) for applying an additional vibration having a frequency lower than the frequency of the acoustic waves to at least a part of the emission surface.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the vibrator comprises a motor (751) for rotationally driving an imbalance (752).

16. The device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the additional vibration has a frequency of 1500 Hz or less, more preferably 150 Hz or less, and in particular 50 Hz.

17. The device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the emission surface is subjected to an additional lateral vibration and / or longitudinal vibration and / or angular vibration, preferably longitudinal vibration, by the vibrator.

18. The device according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the emission surface has a relief (420) along which the bubbles can occur at different levels along the longitudinal axis of the transducer.

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