Polymer resin antiperspirant and grip enhancer

Abstract

This invention relates to a cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution and treatment for suppressing sweat and enhancing grip performance. The solution contains polymer film-forming compounds that, upon forming a film, dry the skin surface, block sweat pores to suppress perspiration, leave no toxic byproducts or burdensome residues, reduce slipperiness, and improve grip texture, thereby enhancing grip performance. The treatment involves applying the cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution to the desired area, rubbing the solution into the desired area, allowing the solution to dry, and repeating this process until the desired effect is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 460,896, filed on April 21, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 575,432, filed on April 5, 2024. The entire disclosure of each is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Background of the Invention Field of the Invention The present disclosure relates to the field of dermatological treatment. In particular, it relates to the treatment of hyperhidrosis, the suppression of sweating, and the improvement of grip force stability.

Background Art

[0003] Description of Related Art All humans, from infants to the elderly, sweat, i.e., perspire. Sweating or perspiring is a normal physiological response to rising body temperature, environmental heat and humidity, emotions, stress, or exercise. Sweat occurs when it is released from sweat glands and exits through sweat ducts and out of sweat pores to cover the surface of the skin. Evaporation of sweat from the skin dissipates heat and is the primary thermoregulatory mechanism used by humans and primates.

[0004] The human body has three main types of sweat glands: eccrine, apocrine, and apoeccrine. Eccrine sweat glands are the most numerous of the three types and are involved in the excretion of the most sweat. These sweat glands are coiled tubular glands that are present over almost the entire surface area of the body. The areas of the human body with the highest density of eccrine sweat glands are the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. In response to rising body temperature, the hypothalamus stimulates eccrine sweat glands via sympathetic innervation and the binding of acetylcholine muscarinic receptors, inducing sweating.

[0005] In contrast to widely distributed eccrine sweat glands, apocrine and apoeccrine sweat glands are limited to specific areas of the body and contribute far less to overall sweating. Apocrine sweat glands are large, branched glands located primarily in the armpits, breasts, face, scalp, and groin. Apocrine sweat glands are regulated by norepinephrine and are therefore sensitive to strong emotions such as stress, fear, and sexual arousal. Apocrine sweat ducts do not penetrate directly into the epidermis but connect to hair follicles, releasing sweat onto the skin's surface. The sweat produced from these glands is richer in protein compared to watery eccrine sweat and produces more odor in the presence of bacteria.

[0006] The third category of sweat glands, apoeccrine sweat glands, share characteristics with both eccrine and apocrine sweat glands. Like apocrine sweat glands, these glands are located in a limited area, particularly in the axillary region. Furthermore, similar to eccrine sweat glands, apoeccrine sweat glands release sweat directly from the surface of the skin.

[0007] While sweating undoubtedly evolved as an important mechanism for regulating body temperature in hominids, it also brings undesirable consequences for modern humans, such as wetting hands and feet, making them slippery, irritating the eyes, increasing body odor, and soiling clothes. Furthermore, certain conditions can cause sweating to increase far beyond the amount necessary for thermoregulation.

[0008] Among these conditions are hyperhidrosis and osmidrosis. Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating in amounts exceeding those necessary to maintain homeostasis of body temperature. There are two types of hyperhidrosis: primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis often begins in childhood and can cause episodes of excessive sweating at least once a week. This type of hyperhidrosis is idiopathic and affects both sides of the palms, soles, armpits, or craniofacial region. The etiology of primary hyperhidrosis involves overactivity of normal sweat glands, caused by a defect in nerve signals that triggers overactivity of eccrine sweat glands, and is usually associated with a genetic predisposition.

[0009] Secondary hyperhidrosis is characterized by generalized or unilateral distribution and usually begins in adulthood. This type of hyperhidrosis is less common than primary hyperhidrosis and is often a side effect of a physiological condition, medication, or underlying disease. Conditions that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis include diabetes, menopause, thyroid disorders, certain types of cancer, neurological disorders, and infections. Secondary hyperhidrosis causes sweating throughout the body and can even lead to increased sweating during sleep.

[0010] Whether primary or secondary, hyperhidrosis is a common condition among dermatologists and is estimated to affect up to 5% of the US population and up to 18% of the world population. This condition can interfere with professional activities such as using touchscreens in medical settings or restaurants, shaking hands, and wearing and changing gloves. Furthermore, it can have other negative impacts on daily life, causing significant stress, limiting social interaction, and reducing the patient's quality of life.

[0011] Osmotic brothoracic sweating is similar to, or sometimes related to, hyperhidrosis. Osmotic brothoracic sweating is a condition characterized by excessive or abnormal odor emanating from the skin, caused by the decomposition of sweat gland secretions and cell debris by bacteria and yeast. This condition can result from poor hygiene, infections, diet, medication, or a genetic predisposition. While osmotic brothoracic sweating can affect people of all ages, races, and sexes, it typically develops after puberty and is generally more common in men. Osmotic brothoracic sweating involves either apocrine or eccrine sweat glands and is associated with foul-smelling sweat. Furthermore, osmotic brothoracic sweating can be chronic and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Data suggest that up to 3% of the US population suffers from osmotic brothoracic sweating. Unfortunately, the global prevalence of osmotic brothoracic sweating is unknown.

[0012] Both primary and secondary hyperhidrosis and bromhidrosis are widely underreported and poorly treated, severely limiting our ability to know the full extent of the U.S. and global populations affected by these conditions. However, based on current data available and referenced in the previous paragraph, up to 8% of the U.S. population and at least up to 18% of the global population are affected by either hyperhidrosis or bromhidrosis.

[0013] Current treatment options for hyperhidrosis and bromhidrosis are limited, often ineffective, expensive, and can cause serious side effects. Options include topical antiperspirants, oral medications, Botox® injections, iontophoresis, and various surgical procedures designed to remove sweat glands. Furthermore, treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis is limited to two FDA-approved options: Botox® injections and iontophoresis.

[0014] The most frequent and effective topical treatment for mild to moderate cases of these symptoms is aluminum chloride preparations (such as aluminum chloride hexahydrate), which are readily available over-the-counter, low-cost, and easy to apply. The concentration of aluminum chloride hexahydrate in commercially available antiperspirants ranges from 6.25% to 12.5%, while prescription formulations can reach up to 20%.

[0015] The antiperspirant mechanism is thought to be the result of aluminum salts interacting with sweat mucopolysaccharides, forming precipitates that block the lumen of eccrine sweat glands. Topical aluminum chloride antiperspirants provide high satisfaction in reducing axillary sweating, but their effectiveness against plantar and palmar hyperhidrosis is low.

[0016] Furthermore, aluminum chloride antiperspirants are most effective when applied to clean skin at bedtime, and clinical efficacy is achieved by continuing the process of leaving them on the skin for 6-8 hours and then washing them off every 24-48 hours for 1-2 weeks. However, skin irritation occurs in 21% of patients, which correlates with the higher concentrations of aluminum chloride used in formulations of higher strength.

[0017] Anticholinergic drugs such as glycopyrrolates and glycopyrronium have also been widely used to treat hyperhidrosis. For example, topical use of glycopyrrolates is effective in treating craniofacial hyperhidrosis, and glycopyrronium topical wipes are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for axillary hyperhidrosis. These anticholinergic drugs can be used in combination with antiperspirants or on their own.

[0018] Both glycopyrrolates and glycopyrronium work by blocking acetylcholine receptors in eccrine glands, thereby suppressing sweating. In one study, 60% of patients in the sham group reported reduced sweating after 4 weeks of treatment, compared to 20%. Reported side effects included dry mouth, blurred vision, application site pain, nasopharyngitis, and pupil dilation, with 8% of patients discontinuing use due to adverse events being a concern.

[0019] Injections of onabotulinum toxin A (BOTOX®) are approved by the FDA for the treatment of severe axillary hyperhidrosis. Botox® treatment works by blocking the nerve signals that cause sweating. Botox® injections can reduce sweating by 50% over more than six months. One study reported a reduction of approximately 90% in sweating after two weeks and 65% after 24 weeks, with 98% of participants recommending the treatment. According to studies, common side effects include pain (sometimes severe) and itching at the injection site, headache, muscle pain, and increased compensatory facial sweating. Two pilot studies have shown that topical Botox® may reduce sweating by 20-50% for up to six weeks. Botox® injections for palmar hyperhidrosis show moderate efficacy, with a 25-50% reduction in sweating from three weeks to six months.

[0020] Aside from topical antiperspirants, Botox® injections and anticholinergics are the only medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of hyperhidrosis. Instead of medications to treat this condition, various other methods have been approved or are under development by the FDA to treat hyperhidrosis. However, each of these methods has its own set of drawbacks.

[0021] Iontophoresis is an FDA-approved treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis that involves exposing the skin to a direct current using a tap water bath device. The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but various theories exist, including mechanical occlusion, an electrochemical gradient that blocks sweat secretion, inhibition of neurotransmission, and cytotoxic accumulation of hydrogen ions.

[0022] For iontophoresis to be effective, 6 to 15 20-minute sessions are needed over several weeks. After completing treatment, 80-85% of patients with palmar / plantar hyperhidrosis experience symptom improvement. Reported side effects include dry skin, inflammation, erythema, and blistering. Despite side effects, evidence from multiple clinical trials suggests that tap water iontophoresis effectively treats palmar hyperhidrosis and achieves acceptable patient satisfaction.

[0023] Other experimental hyperhidrosis treatments are in the early experimental and developmental stages. Fractional microneedle radiofrequency (FMR) is a novel technique that uses microneedles to deliver thermal energy to the skin, excising apocrine and eccrine sweat glands without damaging the epidermis. However, blinded trials have not been able to definitively demonstrate the therapeutic effects or long-term safety of these experimental treatment procedures.

[0024] Another cutting-edge approach evaluated 800 nm diode laser light for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis. However, this study did not show a significant reduction in sweating in laser-treated skin compared to untreated skin, and skin biopsies did not show laser-induced skin changes.

[0025] Another procedure under development for the treatment of hyperhidrosis is microfocus ultrasound. The hypothesis is that microfocused ultrasound creates thermal lesions or thermocoagulation points within the dermis, effectively damaging the sweat glands without damaging the skin. This treatment is also hypothesized to have long-term effects because the regenerative capacity of the sweat glands is limited or absent. However, only two small studies have been reported, so no conclusions can be drawn regarding effectiveness or safety.

[0026] The more invasive procedure of liposuction curettage has been shown to reduce sweating in axillary hyperhidrosis by 30 - 80% for over 6 months. However, there are numerous side effects that persist over the long term. The expected side effects include adverse events such as local pain, persistent neuropathic pain, hyperpigmentation, scarring, local hair loss, seroma, infection, bleeding, hematoma, and skin necrosis.

[0027] Finally, MiraDry® is an innovative microwave treatment device approved by the FDA for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis. This device concentrates heat on the skin and ablates the apocrine and eccrine sweat glands. However, only two case reports have been published, and there are concerns that it may cause damage to the ulnar or median nerves.

[0028] There are various treatment options for hyperhidrosis, but the available options typically take days to weeks to become effective, can negatively affect the texture of the skin's surface, are costly and time-consuming, have various undesirable side effects, and in some cases, carry a risk of serious adverse events. Therefore, there is a large unmet need for a new, instant, inexpensive, effective, and safe antiperspirant that improves skin texture, prevents sweating, and enhances grip force stability.

[0029] One of the important problems with existing hyperhidrosis treatments is their inability to address the need for improved skin surface texture and grip ability. In fact, antiperspirant treatments often deteriorate the skin texture. For example, aluminum chloride makes the surface chalky and unappealing, slippery, and iontophoresis can rough up the skin and cause inflammation. These treatments may suppress sweating, but the side effects can significantly reduce the grip function of the palms, soles, and knuckles.

[0030] Unlike axillary hyperhidrosis that can be alleviated by the choice of absorbent pads and fabric, or plantar hyperhidrosis that can be alleviated by moisture-wicking socks or open-toe sandal shoes, there is no simple relief measure for palmar hyperhidrosis. Due to the lack of simple relief measures, the problem of excessive sweating of the palms is particularly difficult and burdensome for patients.

[0031] Sweaty palms can interfere with various occupational activities such as handshakes, gripping writing utensils, using touchscreens, gripping and operating tools, wearing and changing gloves in medical and restaurant settings, and even typing. In addition to professional environments, palmar hyperhidrosis can also have a significant impact on recreational activities.

[0032] Sweaty hands make it difficult to firmly grip baseballs, volleyballs, soccer balls, and basketballs. Furthermore, sweating on the palms during gymnastics can cause serious harm. Palmar hyperhidrosis can cause a gymnast's hands to slip during floor tumbling routines, resulting in serious injuries, and make it difficult to grip the bar, rings, or beam during bar or beam routines, increasing the risk of serious injury if the gymnast's hand slips off the bar, rings, or beam during the routine.

[0033] In the case of racket sports, sweaty hands reduce the stability of the grip force, leading to a decline in performance. Furthermore, playing racket sports with sweaty hands can cause players to try to compensate with excessive grip strength, which can lead to swelling, wrist tension, arm tension, and other potential injuries.

[0034] Furthermore, because sweaty hands, feet, and finger bones are generally prone to blistering and cracking, palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis can cause everyday pain and injuries, and may lead to impaired athletic performance.

[0035] For example, someone who plays tennis regularly and constantly suffers from sweaty hands may find it difficult to grip the racket firmly, leading to overcompensation with excessive force and potentially recurring painful blisters. Not only can blisters recur and be painful, but the difficulty in gripping the racket can also cause it to slip from the player's hand during play, especially during serves, potentially damaging the racket or, worse, injuring bystanders. Furthermore, playing tennis with sweaty hands can lead to overcompensation by gripping the racket too tightly, potentially causing stress-induced injuries to the player's elbow and wrist.

[0036] Furthermore, talcum powder, silica-based and other special grip enhancers, and ultra-strong aluminum chloride antiperspirants may be used to address sweaty hands. However, none of these options provide adequate sweat control while ensuring a firm grip.

[0037] Alternatively, cyanoacrylates such as super glue or Nu Skin® liquid bandages are known to harden the skin and heal cuts when used on fingertips or hands. However, these also come with many undesirable problems.

[0038] In particular, many commonly available cyanoacrylate adhesives, such as super glues, release toxic byproducts, cure too quickly or not quickly enough, have an unpleasant odor, can cause skin irritation, can cause fingers to stick together unintentionally, are difficult to remove, or have other undesirable side effects. Furthermore, these commonly available products, such as New-Skin®, are typically not water-resistant or sweat-resistant, have a strong odor, require frequent reapplication, and leave an unpleasant peeling residue on the user's hands.

[0039] While some cyanoacrylates available, such as certain cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives used in medical applications, do not exhibit the above problems, these products are generally widely used by medical professionals and are not easily accessible to the general public. For example, research immunologists performing animal surgery in veterinary settings use Vetbond® (3M), a tissue adhesive containing cyanoacrylate that is considered non-toxic when used on animal skin.

[0040] Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives have been used for decades to close wounds, stop bleeding, and prevent infection. Cyanoacrylate was one of the earliest compounds used by soldiers in the 1950s for simple wound closure. Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives bond to the skin through the addition reaction of Michael to tissue amines, forming a durable yet flexible film. Because cyanoacrylate reacts with water, it is stored in sealed bottles and may contain hydroquinone stabilizers, as used in Vetbond®. Many cyanoacrylate adhesives (such as n-butyl cyanoacrylate) can be applied directly to tissue without additional ingredients, as residual water and amines present on the tissue surface are sufficient to initiate polymerization, curing, and tissue bonding within seconds.

[0041] n-butyl and 2-octyl cyanoacrylates are used in various settings, including thoracic, gastrointestinal, neurological, cardiovascular, ophthalmic, and vascular surgery, due to their low toxicity and strong adhesive properties. See Table 1 below. Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives also possess antimicrobial properties, forming a barrier that protects wounds from infection. Methyl cyanoacrylate and ethyl cyanoacrylate were among the first formulations used in medical procedures such as abdominal and ophthalmic surgery. However, methyl cyanoacrylate and ethyl cyanoacrylate have been shown to release toxic degradation products into tissues, and are no longer used clinically.

[0042] [Table 1] JPEG2026514756000003.jpg110170

[0043] The two most common medical-grade formulations are n-butyl and 2-octyl cyanoacrylate, which have longer alkyl chains. These adhesives produce longer polymers that are more resistant to the decomposition and release of toxic products such as formaldehyde and alkyl cyanoacetate. For example, Dermabond® is a topical tissue adhesive based on 2-octyl cyanoacrylate that is stable enough to peel off the skin before it decomposes and releases toxic degradation byproducts. However, because the cyanoacrylate polymerization reaction is exothermic, care must be taken to prevent thermal damage to the tissue and scarring.

[0044] Furthermore, while n-butyl and 2-octyl cyanoacrylates are considered harmless to most patients, they may cause allergic contact dermatitis when used to close surgical wounds. Studies have reported an incidence of 2.7% for 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and 2.2% for n-butyl cyanoacrylate. Topical application of cyanoacrylates to undamaged skin may reduce the risk of allergic contact dermatitis, but this needs to be investigated in clinical safety trials.

[0045] However, even these cyanoacrylates are insufficient for improving grip or suppressing sweating. As explained above, the polymerization reaction of these cyanoacrylates is exothermic and can cause injury to the user. Furthermore, the use of these cyanoacrylates carries the risk of unintended skin bonding and allergic contact dermatitis. In addition, as shown in Table 1, while some cyanoacrylates are used in various medical applications, there are currently no cyanoacrylates formulated for use as antiperspirants or grip enhancers.

[0046] Therefore, improvements that make cyanoacrylates and similar polymer film-forming agents accessible to the general public, and commercially usable for improved sweat control and grip while eliminating or significantly reducing the risk of injury and the possibility of allergic contact dermatitis, would be beneficial for the general public suffering from hyperhidrosis and other conditions that cause increased sweating. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0047] Summary of the Invention For these problems in the art, this invention describes topical film-forming agents, particularly polymer film-forming agents, and associated methods of use, which, when spread on the skin surface, clog sweat pores, prevent sweating, enhance grip while preventing blistering, and reduce or eliminate the risk of releasing toxic byproducts that cause skin inflammation or unintended skin bonding.

[0048] In particular, this paper describes topical polymer film-forming solutions and treatments that suppress sweating and improve grip without causing irritation, releasing toxic byproducts, impairing grip ability, or leaving unsightly, burdensome residues. These solutions involve polymer film-forming compounds that, when formed into a film, block numerous sweat pores, suppressing sweating without leaving toxic byproducts or burdensome residues, and improving grip by reducing slippage. The treatment involves applying a cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution to the desired area, rubbing the solution into the desired area, allowing the solution to dry, and repeating this process until the desired effect is achieved.

[0049] The polymer film-forming liquid of this disclosure is non-toxic and spreads easily on skin and non-skin surfaces. The polymer film-forming liquid comprises a polymer film-forming agent and a stabilizer that inhibits the spontaneous polymerization of the polymer film-forming agent. The polymer film-forming agent and the stabilizer combine to form a polymer film-forming compound, which hardens into a film less than 20 μm thick in about 10-15 seconds by manual friction or in about 20-30 seconds by air drying. After hardening into a film, the compound broadly clogs sweat pores and increases friction on the skin surface.

[0050] In one embodiment, the polymer film-forming agent is cyanoacrylate.

[0051] In some embodiments, the cyanoacrylate is selected from the group consisting of n-butyl cyanoacrylate, 2-octyl cyanoacrylate, octyl cyanoacrylate, isobutyl cyanoacrylate, methyl cyanoacrylate, ethyl cyanoacrylate, and combinations thereof.

[0052] In some embodiments, the stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of <1% hydroquinone, mequinol, SiO2, butylated hydroxyanisole, and combinations thereof.

[0053] In other embodiments, the polymer film-forming solution further includes a non-toxic dye additive.

[0054] In other embodiments, the polymer film-forming liquid further comprises a fragrance additive.

[0055] In other embodiments, the polymer film-forming solution further comprises a pharmaceutical additive.

[0056] In other embodiments, the polymer film-forming liquid further comprises viscosity modifier additives.

[0057] A method using a localized polymer film-forming solution is also discussed, which comprises the steps of: providing the polymer film-forming solution of the present disclosure; applying about 100-200 μL of the solution to a target area of ​​human skin; spreading the solution to form a thin film on the target area; and curing the cured film, the cured film enabling unhindered touch, feel, and dexterity in the target area, suppressing sweating, preventing blistering, increasing friction on the skin surface, and improving grip safety.

[0058] In some embodiments, the target area includes the user's hands, feet, phalanges, armpits, genitals, or craniofacial region.

[0059] In further embodiments, the target region is a non-skin surface.

[0060] In other embodiments, the cured film reduces the occurrence of sweat-induced blistering, tearing, and epidermal peeling in the target area.

[0061] In some embodiments, sweating is suppressed for at least 1 hour to up to 24 hours.

[0062] In some embodiments, the coating is cured by applying friction to the target area by hand for about 10 to 15 seconds.

[0063] In other embodiments, the coating is cured by air-drying the target area for about 20 to 30 seconds.

[0064] In a further embodiment, 100 to 200 μl of the solution is applied by coating the target area with several droplets of approximately 20 μl each, and then spreading the solution over the target area.

[0065] In yet another embodiment, the solution is applied to the target area via a spray bottle.

[0066] In yet another embodiment, the solution is applied to the target area via a roll-on applicator.

[0067] In yet another embodiment, the solution is applied to a target area via a pulverizable capsule containing the solution.

[0068] In a further embodiment, the solution is applied to a target area via a bag containing the solution, in which the user places at least one finger on the outside of the bag and inverts the bag onto the at least one finger so that the solution comes to the outside of the bag and is exposed to the air, and then the user spreads the solution by rubbing the outside of the bag against the target area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0069] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A shows human skin, eccrine sweat glands, and apocrine sweat glands that have not been treated with the disclosed cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B shows the human skin from Figure 1A, with a polymer layer formed on the skin surface after topical application of the disclosed cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the method for applying the cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution of this disclosure. [Figure 3]Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the method for applying the cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution of this disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an additional alternative embodiment of the method for applying a cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution using a plastic bag fingercot applicator. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the artificial sweat present on the surface of a nitrile glove after applying a cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution to the surface of the nitrile glove, and the results of a grip efficiency test after applying the cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution of this disclosure are shown in comparison to the results without the presence of the cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution of this disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the results of a grip efficiency test after applying the disclosed cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution, demonstrating that the grip strength was improved by applying the disclosed cyanoacrylate polymer film-forming solution.

[0070] Detailed description of preferred embodiments The following detailed descriptions and disclosures are illustrative and not restrictive. These descriptions clearly enable those skilled in the art to create and use the disclosed systems and methods, and describe several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses of the disclosed systems and methods. Since various modifications can be made to the systems and methods described in this disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure, all matters described in this disclosure or shown in the accompanying drawings are intended to be interpretable and not restrictive.

[0071] The film-forming agents of this disclosure may be cyanoacrylates, but other polymer film-forming agents are also possible. In particular, other polymer film-forming agents that are diffusible, non-toxic (i.e., non-toxic or free of toxic substances as defined in the Cambridge Dictionary incorporated herein by reference https: / / dictionary.cambridge.org / us / dictionary / english / non-toxic), thin enough not to impair the user's touch or sense of touch, have the adhesion or curing times discussed herein, and cover sweat pores may be used in place of cyanoacrylates in non-toxic polymer film-forming agents as described herein, as described below. Hereafter, when this disclosure refers to a polymer film-forming agent as cyanoacrylate, it should be understood that the term cyanoacrylate is used schematically. Furthermore, it should be understood that the term “cyanoacrylate” as used in this disclosure means any polymer film-forming agent that is mentioned in this paragraph and exhibits the properties and characteristics described below in detail.

[0072] Figures 1A and 1B show the skin surface before and after treatment with a topical polymer film-forming solution, particularly a cyanoacrylate solution. As shown in Figure 1A, before the application of the cyanoacrylate solution, the eccrine sweat glands secrete sweat onto the epidermal surface of the skin. This is because, as seen in Figure 1A, the sweat produced in the sweat glands travels up the sweat ducts and is released onto the skin surface through the pores. When the skin surface sweats, the skin becomes slippery and wet.

[0073] In contrast, as shown in Figure 1B, the skin surface is dry after the cyanoacrylate topical solution has been applied and cured. This is because the cured cyanoacrylate solution forms a thin, transparent film on the epidermis, blocking sweat pores and effectively suppressing sweating. The cyanoacrylate topical solution of this disclosure functions as an antiperspirant, as will be described in more detail here, and also improves the texture of the skin surface, increases friction on the skin surface, thereby enhancing the grip in the area to which it is applied and preventing skin blistering and lacerations caused by sweat.

[0074] The cyanoacrylate topical treatments of this disclosure are fast-acting, effective, affordable, accessible, and safe. Furthermore, the cyanoacrylate solutions of this disclosure may benefit workers and sports enthusiasts by significantly improving the quality of life for individuals with hyperhidrosis and osmidrosis, improving workflows, reducing stress for healthcare workers, restaurant employees, and others required to wear gloves, and enhancing grip safety while reducing the risk of blistering, tearing, and grip-related stress injuries.

[0075] Specific embodiments of this disclosure involve the application of a thin layer of a polymer film-forming solution containing a polymer film-forming compound, wherein the polymer film-forming compound typically comprises, or essentially comprises, cyanoacrylate (typically >90% in amount) and a stabilizer (e.g., <1% hydroquinone, mequinol, SiO2, butylated hydroxyanisole, or other components, as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,512,023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and discussed in Polymeric Tissue Adhesives, Sungmin Nam and David Mooney, Chem. Rev. 2021, 121(18), 11336-11384) to inhibit the spontaneous polymerization of cyanoacrylate and improve shelf life. In preferred embodiments, a non-toxic dye may be added to the solution to facilitate visibility and promote uniform application to the skin.

[0076] In this disclosure, cyanoacrylate adhesives such as n-butyl cyanoacrylate and 2-octyl cyanoacrylate are preferred as cyanoacrylates in polymer film-forming compounds due to their low toxicity and slow polymerization rate. However, these cyanoacrylates are not required, and other cyanoacrylates may be used alone or in combination, as discussed herein.

[0077] For example, octyl cyanoacrylate, isobutyl cyanoacrylate, methyl cyanoacrylate, ethyl cyanoacrylate, and other related molecules may be used to address polymerization rate and toxicity issues through chemical modification of the structure or the addition of stabilizers and polymerization modifiers to the solution. Furthermore, other polymer film-forming agents that share the same or similar properties as the aforementioned cyanoacrylates may also be used, as described in various chemical theories summarized in Nam et al.'s Polymer Structure Adhesives, which are incorporated by reference.

[0078] Specifically, as summarized in Nam, topical polymer film-forming antiperspirants can be manufactured using the following alternative functional groups and chemicals: NHS esters, aminolysis and thiolysis; aldehydes, Schiff base reaction, hemithioacetal formation; 1,2-aminothiols, thiazolidination formation; isocyanates, Michael addition reaction (urea bond); catechols, quinone formation by oxidation, and subsequent Michael addition or Schiff base reaction; transglutaminase, amide bond formation. However, this list is merely illustrative, and other functional groups and chemicals may also be suitable embodiments. For example, other polymer film-forming agents that may be used according to this disclosure are formulated to spread easily on the skin, seal sweat pores before curing into a film, enhance grip function in target areas such as the user's hands, feet, and finger bones without restricting the user's tactile or tactile sensation or hindering the user's dexterity.

[0079] As shown in Figure 2, the user applies several drops (approximately 20 μl each) of approximately 100-200 μl of the disclosed cyanoacrylate solution to the palm (201) or other treatment target area. However, these amounts are merely illustrative, and other amounts of the disclosed cyanoacrylate solution can be used. After applying the droplets to the target area, the user spreads the solution over the target area and applies friction with the hand, for example, rubbing the hand and fingers together for about 10-15 seconds (203) to create a thin, transparent film of cured cyanoacrylate adhesive (205) on the target area. The cyanoacrylate film then clogs the sweat pores and suppresses sweating, as seen in Figure 1B. The application of this cyanoacrylate solution leaves a satin-like texture on the palm and finger surfaces of the skin, improving grip.

[0080] In one embodiment, the cyanoacrylate is contained in a small plastic or glass bottle with a solution volume of approximately 3–5 ml (202), although this volume is illustrative and other volumes of plastic or glass bottles are possible. The plastic or glass bottle (202) is also equipped with an integrated dropper mechanism that allows for controlled delivery of multiple drops to the skin. Dispersing the drops over the target area makes it easier to quickly spread the cyanoacrylate solution on the skin surface by hand before it hardens. This method of applying cyanoacrylate is simple and straightforward and can be used to create a thin film of cyanoacrylate on various surfaces, including the skin of the palms and creases of the fingers (201), the entire foot (301), (303), or (305), or underarms (307), (309), or (311), or other skin surfaces such as the forehead. If necessary, gloves can be worn when spreading the solution by hand to prevent contact with the hands.

[0081] The cyanoacrylate (202) container may also include a tether cap or ring (204) that allows the container (202) to be held in place with one finger while the adhesive spreads on the skin. This facilitates the application of the cyanoacrylate by allowing the user to spray the solution without setting the bottle down, and does not delay the application of the solution by hand. However, this application method is not always necessary, and in other embodiments, the application method may include spray bottles (305) and (307), roll-on applicators (309), material pieces containing the solution (311), or crushable capsules containing the solution.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, a plastic or foil bag containing the cyanoacrylate solution can be used for the application of the disclosed cyanoacrylate compound. The application method using the plastic or foil bag involves the user placing at least one finger on the outside of the bag containing the solution, and then inverting the bag over the at least one finger. Inverting the bag over the at least one finger exposes the cyanoacrylate solution, which was on the inside of the bag, to the outside, allowing the cyanoacrylate solution to be exposed to air for application. The disclosed cyanoacrylate solution preferably takes about 20-30 seconds to cure when exposed to air (i.e., air-dried), which is longer than the preferred time for the cyanoacrylate solution to be applied when rubbed by hand, so this application method allows the user to spread the solution to a target area without the risk of the solution curing on the surface of the bag before application. To apply the solution to a target area, the user spreads the solution to the target area by using the bag as a finger cot and rubbing the outside of the bag against the target area. See Figure 4.

[0083] Regardless of the application method, when the disclosed cyanoacrylate solution is applied to a target area, the cyanoacrylate film will improve the skin texture of the target area (e.g., the skin of the palms, soles, and phalanges) to which the cyanoacrylate is applied, compared to aluminum chloride-based antiperspirants that leave a smooth, greasy residue that reduces grip. Furthermore, the cyanoacrylate solution of this disclosure may be applied to non-skin surfaces to improve grip, for example, by applying the cyanoacrylate solution to gloves to improve the grip of the gloves. Moreover, the effect of the cyanoacrylate film on improving skin texture and grip on the target area may last for up to 24 hours or more, depending on the degree of sweating, exposure to water, and frequency of washing.

[0084] The cyanoacrylate disclosed herein can be applied multiple times as needed and removed by the user as needed. If the skin begins to sweat after the initial treatment, further sweating can be prevented simply by wiping the skin and reapplying the cyanoacrylate film. However, wiping the skin is not necessary, and in some embodiments, the performance can be improved by applying the disclosed cyanoacrylate solution to damp skin, which rapidly dries the skin surface, prevents further sweating, and results in the disclosed cyanoacrylate providing a stronger grip to the user. Conversely, the film can be removed by washing with an exfoliating brush and soapy water, or by using nail polish remover, makeup remover / wipes, or disinfectant cleaning wipes.

[0085] The application of cyanoacrylate solutions may also be used to suppress sweating in other skin surfaces, including but not limited to the axillae, genitals, and craniofacial regions. The effectiveness and duration of the antiperspirant effect in these various areas are thought to depend on variables such as whether the sweat is produced by eccrine or apocrine glands, the level of sweat production, and the frequency of washing the area.

[0086] In cases of osmidrosis (bad sweating), the antibacterial activity of cyanoacrylate may also help reduce the unpleasant odor resulting from the interaction between bacteria and apocrine sweat. Unlike aluminum chloride antiperspirants, which can be unsightly on the underarm skin and stain or discolor clothing, cyanoacrylate compounds used as antiperspirants have the advantage of forming a clear, non-rubbing film on clothing after curing.

[0087] Cyanoacrylate compounds typically harden in about 10–15 seconds by applying friction by hand, such as rubbing hands together (201), (203), and (205), as shown in Figure 2, or by massaging the solution onto the skin. However, if application by hand is undesirable, the cyanoacrylate solution may be applied using other methods and apparatus including a material piece containing the solution, such as a spray bottle (305) and (307), a roll-on applicator (309), or a wipe (311), as seen in Figure 3.

[0088] Applying cyanoacrylate solutions using these alternative application methods allows the solution to be applied to larger surfaces, which is sometimes desirable. These application methods enable the cyanoacrylate solution to be uniformly applied to the skin as a thin film, which is then cured. This thin, evenly spread, and cured film is key to the mechanism of action of the antiperspirant.

[0089] These alternative application methods may be combined with manual diffusion, or manual friction (i.e., rubbing the solution with the hands, rubbing or massaging the solution using an applicator) may be applied while wearing gloves to prevent the cyanoacrylate solution from coming into contact with the skin of the hands, allowing the solution to harden in about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, if no manual friction is applied, the cyanoacrylate solution will harden after being exposed to air for about 20-30 seconds. Once the cyanoacrylate compound hardens as a thin film and adheres to the epidermis, it will effectively block sweat pores and prevent sweating, despite many variables related to various skin areas of the body, such as the axillary and plantar skin.

[0090] When a cyanoacrylate compound is applied and cured to form a film, surface moisture on the coated surface is almost completely removed. This is shown in Figure 5, where 99.9% of the artificial sweat (or moisture) on a nitrile glove was removed after 15 seconds of treatment with cyanoacrylate (501). As further shown in Figure 5, applying and curing cyanoacrylate improves the resulting user grip efficiency. Specifically, as seen in the grip efficiency test in Figure 5 (503), the maximum tensile force with cyanoacrylate applied is at least twice the maximum tensile force without cyanoacrylate.

[0091] This enhanced grip strength is further illustrated in Figure 6, which shows the results of a grip efficiency experiment. This grip efficiency test shows that the grip stability shown in (603) more than doubles when the cyanoacrylate solution is applied. See Figure 6. The grip efficiency experiment was conducted by researchers using a small handheld crane scale with two handles, and the researchers recorded the grip strength when the grip began to slip by pulling the two handles of the small handheld crane scale in different directions. The results of the test were recorded, and as shown in the grip stability (603) graph, the cyanoacrylate solution improves grip performance.

[0092] Furthermore, it is known that applying a cyanoacrylate solution can suppress sweating and block sweat pores (see Provisional Application No. 63 / 575,432, Figure 8). While not limited to known processes, cyanoacrylate solutions suppress sweating by blocking sweat pores, and since sodium and other elements are removed from dermal sweat, leaving only water that the body does not recognize as needing to be expelled, there is no accumulation of pressure on the cyanoacrylate film. Based on this understanding, one way to suppress sweating is for the cyanoacrylate solution to block sweat pores, leaving only water in the dermis, and since the body does not attempt to expel the water, sweating can be suppressed. See Figure 1B. The sweating inhibition by cyanoacrylate solutions may be the result of a process different from what is thought, but cyanoacrylate solutions still suppress sweating.

[0093] Furthermore, after treatment with the cyanoacrylate solution of this disclosure, no signs of sweat accumulation under the cyanoacrylate layer or visible irritation of the skin of the palms were observed, even after strenuous exercise. This indicates that the disclosed cyanoacrylate does not cause skin irritation or other undesirable effects. This is thought to be due to the very thin and non-invasive residual film left on the skin. Based on the tests, as discussed in Provisional Application No. 63 / 575,432, Figure 7, the film thickness after application of cyanoacrylate is approximately 10 μm. Thus, while a film thickness of less than 10 μm is preferred in this disclosure, film thicknesses of 15 μm, 20 μm, or less than 30 μm would also be sufficient for this disclosure.

[0094] This disclosure includes a method for inhibiting sweating comprising, or basically comprising, a solution of cyanoacrylate and a polymerization stabilizer, and a topical application method for inhibiting sweating by forming a film on the skin to block sweat pores. Other embodiments may include the addition of non-toxic dyes to visualize the solution and facilitate uniform application to the skin, but these are not essential to the mechanism of action and may be omitted in large-area application methods. In yet another embodiment, perfume may be added to the cyanoacrylate solution as needed. In yet another embodiment, other additives such as plasticizers, viscosity modifiers, and pharmaceuticals (e.g., insect repellents, sunscreens, etc.) may be added to the cyanoacrylate solution. In addition, various chemical stabilizers and polymerization modifiers can be added to the cyanoacrylate solution to extend its shelf life and / or alter its polymerization dynamics to promote uniform spread on the skin.

[0095] In addition to treating hyperhidrosis and osmidrosis, there are additional applications that represent a logical extension of this disclosure based on the inherent properties of cyanoacrylate films, which distinguishes it from existing topical antiperspirants. For example, healthcare workers and restaurant staff are required to wear disposable gloves, but changing gloves when their hands sweat can be difficult. In such cases, cyanoacrylate topical antiperspirants could improve the workflow for millions of healthcare and restaurant workers by facilitating the donning and changing of gloves during work.

[0096] Furthermore, topical cyanoacrylate solutions can be used to reduce the occurrence of sweat-related skin blisters and lacerations. This is a common problem among workers, athletes, hikers, and soldiers, and cyanoacrylate solutions could be used to treat feet and hands to prevent blisters during work, hiking, exercise, and sports. When skin becomes damp and waterlogged due to sweating, it becomes more fragile and more prone to tearing, blistering, and epidermal peeling. Blisters can cause pain and mental stress and reduce physical performance. A cyanoacrylate film would be effective in reducing sweat-related skin blisters, lacerations of the hands, fingers, and feet, and skin damage from abrasion, as it enhances the structural integrity of the epidermis and keeps the skin dry against abrasions.

[0097] Furthermore, topical cyanoacrylate coatings improve skin texture and increase friction on the skin surface, thereby enhancing the grip function and strength of the targeted area to which the cyanoacrylate solution is applied. Topical cyanoacrylate will significantly improve sports performance when playing racket sports and other sports that rely on a firm grip on the ball, such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, and baseball. This increase in grip strength is shown in Figure 5, which shows the results of grip strength tests (503). These test results compare the maximum tensile force of the test apparatus with and without cyanoacrylate treatment, showing that the tensile force without cyanoacrylate treatment is significantly higher than that without treatment (503).

[0098] Cyanoacrylate compounds not only improve overall performance but also reduce the risk of grip-related injuries caused by slipping or excessive grip. Furthermore, the cyanoacrylate perspiration agent and grip-enhancing properties will help improve performance and safety for gymnasts, acrobats, and rock climbers. Finally, the texture and grip-enhancing properties of the present invention will further benefit workers who routinely use various tools such as hammers, saws / knives / scissors, and wrenches, as well as improve the grip of weapons such as swords, canes, spears, nun's chucks, handguns, and rifles.

[0099] The modifier "generally," and similar modifiers used herein, will be understood by an ordinary technician of the art to correspond to a recognizable attempt to adapt a device to the modifier; however, this may not always be the case. This is because terms such as "perpendicular" are purely geometric configurations, and real-world components and relationships are not truly "perpendicular" in a geometric sense. Similarly, since this disclosure discusses various capacities and other mathematical descriptors or measurement terms, when a modifier such as "approximately" precedes a mathematical descriptor or term, it is not intended that the term is an exact numerical value. This is because variations from geometric and mathematical descriptions are unavoidable due to manufacturing tolerances resulting from variations in shape, defects and flaws, uneven thermal expansion, natural wear, calibration tolerances, etc. Furthermore, for all objects, there exists a magnification level at which the geometric and mathematical descriptors fail due to the nature of the material. Therefore, a person of normal skill would understand the term “generally” and the relationship intended here, taking these and other considerations into account, regardless of the inclusion of such modifiers, which include various variations from the literal mathematical meaning of the term.

[0100] The present invention is disclosed in conjunction with descriptions of specific embodiments, including those currently considered preferred embodiments; however, the detailed descriptions are intended for illustrative purposes only and should not be understood to limit the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments other than those described in detail herein are included in the invention, as understood by an ordinary person of the art. Modifications and alterations of the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0101] Furthermore, it will be understood that any scope, value, characteristic, or characteristic given for any single component of this disclosure can be used interchangeably with any scope, value, characteristic, or characteristic given for any other component of the disclosure, where appropriate, to form embodiments having the values ​​defined for each component as described herein as a whole. In addition, the scope provided for a genus or category may also apply to a species or member of a category within that genus, unless otherwise specified.

Claims

1. A non-toxic polymer film-forming solution for spreading on the skin: Polymer film-forming agents; and Stabilizers that inhibit the spontaneous polymerization of polymer film-forming agents Includes, Here, the polymer film-forming agent and the stabilizer combine to form a polymer film-forming compound; The compound hardens in about 10 to 15 seconds by applying friction by hand, or in about 20 to 30 seconds by air drying, forming a film with a thickness of less than 20 μm. After the compound hardens and forms a film, the compound clogs sweat pores and increases friction on the skin surface. A non-toxic polymer film-forming solution.

2. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the polymer film-forming agent is cyanoacrylate.

3. The solution according to claim 2, wherein the cyanoacrylate is selected from the group consisting of n-butyl cyanoacrylate, 2-cyanoacrylate, octyl cyanoacrylate, isobutyl cyanoacrylate, methyl cyanoacrylate, ethyl cyanoacrylate, and combinations thereof.

4. The solution according to claim 1, wherein the stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of <1% hydroquinone, mequinol, SiO2, butylated hydroxyanisole, and combinations thereof.

5. The solution according to claim 1, further comprising a non-toxic dye additive.

6. The solution according to claim 1, further comprising a fragrance additive.

7. The solution according to claim 1, further comprising a pharmaceutical additive.

8. The solution according to claim 1, further comprising a viscosity modifier additive.

9. A method for using a topical polymer film-forming solution, The steps of providing the polymer film-forming solution described in claim 1, The steps include applying approximately 100-200 μL of the solution to a target area of ​​human skin, The steps include spreading the solution to form a thin film over the target region, The step of curing the thin film Includes, Here, the hardened coating enables unhindered touch, feel, and dexterity, suppresses sweating, increases friction on the skin surface, and improves the grip stability of the target area. method.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the target area includes the user's hand, foot, phalanges, armpit, genitals, or craniofacial region.

11. The method according to claim 9, wherein the cured film reduces the occurrence of sweat-induced blisters, lacerations, and epidermal peeling in the target area.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein sweating is suppressed for at least 1 hour to a maximum of 24 hours.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein the film is cured by applying friction by hand to the target area for about 10 to 15 seconds.

14. The method according to claim 9, wherein the coating is cured by air-drying the target area for about 20 to 30 seconds.

15. The method according to claim 9, wherein the 100 to 200 μl of solution is applied by applying a plurality of droplets of approximately 20 μl each to the target area, and then spreading the solution over the target area.

16. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of applying the solution to the target area via a spray bottle.

17. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of applying the solution to the target area via a roll-on applicator.

18. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of applying the solution to a target region via a crushable capsule containing the solution.

19. The method further includes the step of applying the solution through a bag having the solution inside, The method according to claim 9, wherein the user places at least one finger on the outside of the bag and inverts the bag over the at least one finger so that the solution comes to the outer surface of the bag and is exposed to the air, and then the user spreads the solution by rubbing the outer surface of the bag over the target area.

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