Skin treatment device

Abstract

The present invention effectively increases the permeation effect of an active ingredient into a user's skin.　Disclosed is a skin treatment device that comprises: a plurality of electrodes which can be attached to the skin of a user; a power supply which is electrically connected to the electrodes; and an electric circuit which, on the basis of the power supply, generates a first output waveform toward the skin through the electrodes. The first output waveform is an alternating-current waveform which has a first peak voltage value at the beginning, halfway, or end of a half cycle and which also has, in the remaining section of the half cycle, either second peak voltage values that are smaller in magnitude than the first peak voltage value or a substantially constant voltage value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a skin treatment device.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a technique of applying an electrical stimulation, which combines a very short high-voltage electrical pulse and a group of electrical pulses having a voltage lower than the very short electrical pulse and a pulse width or a half cycle longer than the width of the very short electrical pulse, to the skin of a user via an electrode brought into contact with the skin.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art as described above, it is difficult to effectively enhance the penetration effect of an active ingredient into the skin of a user.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to effectively enhance the penetration effect of an active ingredient into the skin of a user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] On one side, there are provided a plurality of electrodes capable of contacting the skin of a user, a power source electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes, and an electric circuit unit that generates a first output waveform to the skin via the plurality of electrodes based on the power source, where the first output waveform is an alternating current waveform having a first peak voltage value at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of a half cycle, and having a second peak voltage value smaller than the first peak voltage value or a substantially constant voltage value in the remaining section of the half cycle. A skin treatment device is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it becomes possible to effectively enhance the penetration effect of active ingredients into the user's skin. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the skin treatment device of this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a two-view drawing of the skin treatment device. [Figure 2A] This is a perspective view showing another example of the appearance of a skin treatment device. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a control system as an example. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram illustrating the functions realized by the control device shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram of the setting values ​​of various parameters stored in the parameter memory unit. [Figure 6] This figure shows a preferred example of the output waveform for infiltration mode M1. [Figure 6A] This figure shows another example of the output waveform for infiltration mode M1. [Figure 6B] This figure shows yet another example of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1. [Figure 6C] This figure shows yet another example of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1. [Figure 6D] This is an enlarged view of section Q6 in Figure 6C. [Figure 7] This figure shows a preferred example of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3. [Figure 8] This diagram compares the penetration effect of active ingredients using various output waveforms. [Figure 8A] This diagram compares the penetration effects of other active ingredients using various output waveforms. [Figure 9] This figure shows the output waveform for the first comparative example. [Figure 10] This figure shows the output waveform for the second comparative example. [Figure 11] It is an explanatory diagram of the difference in effects according to the difference in the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 12] It is an explanatory diagram of the difference in effects according to the difference in the current value of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 13] It is an explanatory diagram of the difference in effects according to the difference in the usage time of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 14] It is an explanatory diagram of the difference in effects according to the difference in the characteristics of another output waveform when the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 6 is combined and applied with another output waveform. [Figure 15] It is an explanatory diagram of the difference in effects according to the difference in the specific waveform pattern of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1.

Embodiment for Carrying out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the skin treatment device 1 of this embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a two-sided view of the skin treatment device 1 of FIG. 1. The left side is a side view, and the right side is a front view. Note that the appearance of the skin treatment device is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, it may be a skin treatment device with an appearance as shown in FIG. 2A.

[0011] The skin treatment device 1 of this embodiment is in the form of a beauty device and is configured to impart beauty-related effects to the skin of the user's face. However, in a modified example, the skin treatment device 1 may be configured to impart similar beauty-related effects to parts other than the user's face in addition to or instead of the user's face. Further, the skin treatment device 1 may be used to impart effects different from beauty-related effects (for example, an effect of promoting transdermal absorption of pharmaceuticals).

[0012] Beauty-related effects are optional and may include any combination of one or more of the following: reduction of sagging, tightening, fat burning, lifting, facial slimming, improvement of skin firmness, radiance, and moisture. Furthermore, beauty-related effects may be quantifiable or non-quantifiable.

[0013] The skin treatment device 1 of this embodiment is configured to impart beauty-related effects to the user's skin by applying various outputs through a plurality of electrodes that come into contact with the user's skin.

[0014] The skin treatment device 1 in this embodiment is portable and can be held by the user's hand, but it may also be applied to a movable device that is movably supported by an arm or the like on a fixed device.

[0015] The skin treatment device 1 includes a gripping unit 2 and a head unit 3. In this case, the user can apply various outputs from the skin treatment device 1 to a desired area on their face by gripping the gripping unit 2 and applying the head unit 3 to the desired area on their face.

[0016] The gripping part 2 has a shape that is easily grasped by the user's hand. The gripping part 2 may include a user interface 20 that includes various buttons such as a power on / off button, a mode switching button, and an intensity adjustment button. These buttons may be mechanical buttons or touch switches. The gripping part 2 may also be provided with a display unit (not shown) that displays the status of the skin treatment device 1, etc. The gripping part 2 may also be provided with electrodes (not shown) that come into contact with the user's hand.

[0017] The head portion 3 is provided at the end of the gripping portion 2. The head portion 3 may be fixed to the gripping portion 2, detachable, or movable relative to the gripping portion 2.

[0018] The head portion 3 is capable of contacting the user's skin and has a shape suitable for contact with the user's skin. For example, the head portion 3 may have a contact surface 3a that is substantially planar (including a curved surface with a relatively large radius of curvature). In Figure 2, the extension direction (basic plane) of the contact surface 3a in a side view is shown by a dashed line. In this case, the contact surface 3a is a plane that can be approximated as a substantially straight line in a side view. The shape of the contact surface 3a in a front view (the shape when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface 3a) can be arbitrary, such as a rectangle, circle, ellipse, polygon, etc., and in this embodiment, as an example, it is circular, as shown in Figure 2.

[0019] The head portion 3 has a plurality of electrodes 30 positioned on the contact surface 3a. The plurality of electrodes 30 may be shaped to protrude slightly from the basic surface of the contact surface 3a of the head portion 3 in order to make contact with the user's skin.

[0020] In this embodiment, as an example, the multiple electrodes 30 are three electrodes arranged in a ring shape centered near the center of the contact surface 3a of the head portion 3. However, the number, shape, and arrangement of the multiple electrodes 30 are arbitrary.

[0021] In this embodiment, the electrodes 30 form pairs to generate a variety of output waveforms with various effects. Hereinafter, the output mode in which the electrodes 30 form pairs to generate an output waveform that has the effect of penetrating active ingredients (beauty ingredients) into the skin (hereinafter also simply referred to as "penetration effect") will be referred to as "infiltration mode M1", and the output mode in which the electrodes 30 form pairs to generate a high-frequency output waveform that has a heating effect will be referred to as "high-frequency mode M3". Furthermore, the output mode in which the electrodes 30 form pairs to generate an output waveform that has the effect of introducing ions (ions related to active ingredients) into the skin or extracting ions (ions related to dirt, etc.) from the skin will also be referred to as "ion introduction / extraction mode M7".

[0022] Next, the configuration of the control system of the skin treatment device 1 will be described with reference to Figures 3, 4, and 5.

[0023] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an example control system 100. Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the functions realized by the control device 110 in Figure 3. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the setting values ​​of various parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 116. In addition to the control system 100, the power supply 150 is also shown in Figure 3.

[0024] In the example shown in Figure 3, the control system 100 includes a control device 110 and an electrical circuit unit 200, and the electrical circuit unit 200 includes a drive circuit unit 120, an output waveform generation unit 130, and a switching circuit unit 140.

[0025] The control device 110 includes a computer, which may be formed by, for example, a microcomputer. The control device 110 may operate based on power from the power supply 150.

[0026] The control device 110 selectively forms various modes, such as the infiltration mode M1 and high-frequency mode M3 described later, and controls the multiple electrodes 30 via the drive circuit 120, output waveform generation unit 130, and switching circuit 140 so that a corresponding output waveform is generated in each mode.

[0027] In this embodiment, as an example, the control device 110 includes a user input acquisition unit 111, a mode setting unit 112, a control parameter setting unit 113, a control signal generation unit 114, a switching control unit 115, and a parameter storage unit 116, as shown in Figure 4. Each unit from the user input acquisition unit 111 to the switching control unit 115 can be implemented, for example, by the CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown) of the control device 110 executing one or more programs in the storage device (not shown) of the control device 110. The parameter storage unit 116 can be implemented by the storage device (not shown) of the control device 110.

[0028] The user input acquisition unit 111 acquires various user inputs from the user via the user interface 20 described above. These user inputs may include power on / off, mode selection input, intensity adjustment input, and so on.

[0029] The mode setting unit 112 sets the operating mode desired by the user based on the user input received from the user input acquisition unit 111. In a modified example, the mode setting unit 112 may set the operating mode based on other parameters instead of or in addition to user input. Various operating modes may be provided, and their number and types are arbitrary. In this embodiment, as an example, multiple operating modes are provided, including operating mode A0 and operating mode A1.

[0030] Operation mode A0 is one of the various modes, such as the invasion mode M1 described above, that is realized independently. For example, operation mode A0 may be invasion mode M1. In this case, while operation mode A0 is formed, only invasion mode M1 is continuously realized.

[0031] Operating mode A1 is a single mode realized by a combination of two or more modes, such as the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3 described above. Multiple operating modes A1 may be provided in different combinations.

[0032] In operating mode A1, each mode is repeated intermittently and periodically, outputting the corresponding output waveform for its respective duration.

[0033] The control parameter setting unit 113 sets the values ​​of various control parameters to realize the corresponding output waveform according to the operating mode set by the mode setting unit 112. The various control parameters may include a first parameter indicating whether it is an AC waveform or a DC waveform, a second parameter indicating the frequency, a third parameter indicating the duration, and a fourth parameter representing the pair of electrodes that generate the output waveform. The duration corresponds to the output time of the output waveform related to the mode, and corresponds to the continuous output time from the start to the end of the corresponding output waveform. Note that the third parameter is used only in the above-described operating mode A1 and does not need to be used in operating mode A0. Note that in operating mode A0, the duration may be, for example, until the power is turned off, or it may be determined by other requirements (for example, requirements based on temperature information from a thermistor not shown).

[0034] The control parameter setting unit 113 may set the values ​​of various control parameters to realize the corresponding output waveform based on the setting values ​​of each parameter in the parameter storage unit 116. Figure 5 shows an example of the setting values ​​of various parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 116. In the example shown in Figure 5, the setting values ​​of various parameters are associated with each mode, such as the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3. In Figure 5, the value "1" of the first parameter represents an AC waveform, and the value "0" represents a DC waveform. The values ​​PT1, PT3, and PT7 of the fourth parameter may represent the change patterns of the electrode pairs that generate the output waveform. The electrode pairs that generate the output waveform may be one-to-one pairs or one-to-many pairs.

[0035] The control signal generation unit 114 generates a control signal in the form of a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal based on the values ​​of various parameters set by the control parameter setting unit 113. The control signal generation unit 114 then provides the generated control signal to the drive circuit unit 120.

[0036] In the example shown in Figure 3, the control system 100 has a drive circuit section 120, which generates various output waveforms via a plurality of electrodes 30. Figure 3 schematically shows some waveforms of the control signals CT1 and CT2. In this case, the control signals CT1 and CT2 may be applied to the drive circuit section 120 via separate control lines L1 and L2, respectively. The frequencies (duty cycles) of the control signals CT1 and CT2 may be determined according to the setting value of the second parameter.

[0037] Furthermore, when a certain mode is realized, whether or not control signals CT1 and CT2 (and the corresponding control lines L1 and L2) are output may be determined according to the setting value of the first parameter associated with that mode. For example, with respect to a certain mode, if the setting value of the first parameter is "1", both control signals CT1 and CT2 are output, and if the setting value of the first parameter is "0", only one of the control signals CT1 or CT2 may be output. Also, when a certain mode is realized, the duration of control signals CT1 and CT2 associated with that mode may be determined according to the setting value of the third parameter.

[0038] The drive circuit section 120 includes a driver that drives a plurality of switching element Trs, which will be described later. The drive circuit section 120 generates drive signals to turn on / off the switching element Trs of the output waveform generation section 130 in accordance with the control signals CT1 and CT2 from the control signal generation section 114, and supplies the generated drive signals to the corresponding switching element Trs.

[0039] Each output waveform generation unit 130 generates an output waveform based on a DC power supply 150. The output waveform generation unit 130 includes a pair of switching elements Tr and a transformer 135.

[0040] The pair of switching elements Tr are, for example, switching elements such as transistors, with one connected to terminal Ta of transformer 135 and the other connected to terminal Tb of transformer 135. Power supply 150 is connected to terminal Tc of transformer 135, which corresponds to the center tap. In this embodiment, transformer 135 has a frequency specification that is adapted to the frequency of high-frequency mode M3. For example, if the induced voltage E of transformer 135 is E = √2·π·f·n·φm, then the frequency f is approximately equal to the frequency of high-frequency mode M3 (the setting value α3 of the second parameter in Figure 5). In this case, n is the number of turns and φm is the magnetic flux. Transformer 135 may be adapted to the frequency of high-frequency mode M3 based on settings (adjustments) such as changing the setting multiplier of the surrounding circuitry or the material and contact degree of the ferrite core (internal component of transformer 135).

[0041] The switching circuit 140 controls the pair of electrodes that generate the output waveform within the multiple electrodes 30 by switching the connection destinations of the output terminals Td and Te of the output waveform generation unit 130 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 135) within the multiple electrodes 30. In this case, the switching circuit 140 may control the pair of electrodes that generate the output waveform based on the setting value of the fourth parameter.

[0042] Note that the control system 100 shown in Figure 3 is merely an example and may be modified as appropriate depending on requirements such as the type of output waveform to be generated, the method of generating different types of output waveforms, and cost. For example, in the switching circuit 140, the connection destinations of the output terminals Td and Te of the output waveform generation unit 130 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 135) may include other electrodes (not shown), in which case the pair of electrodes that generate the output waveform may be switched by time division. Alternatively, two or more drive circuit units 120 or output waveform generation units 130 may be provided. Furthermore, in configurations where switching of the pair of electrodes is unnecessary, the switching circuit 140 may be omitted. In addition, the PWM signal may be applied directly to the drive circuit 120 (without going through the control device 110) using an oscillator.

[0043] Figure 6 shows a preferred example of the output waveform of invasion mode M1. Figures 6A to 6C show other examples of the output waveform of invasion mode M1. In Figure 6 (and similarly in Figures 6A to 6C), the output waveform (time-series waveform) of invasion mode M1 is shown when time is plotted on the horizontal axis and voltage is plotted on the vertical axis. In Figure 6 (and similarly in Figures 6A to 6C), ΔT1 represents one period of the output waveform.

[0044] In this embodiment, the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 (an example of the first output waveform) is an AC waveform and has multiple peak voltage values ​​during half a period (ΔT / 2). In this case, the multiple peak voltage values ​​include a first peak voltage value Vp1 and one or more second peak voltage values ​​Vp2.

[0045] The first peak voltage value Vp1 is the peak voltage value that appears at the beginning of a half-cycle, and the second peak voltage value Vp2 appears after the first peak voltage value Vp1 and is smaller in magnitude than the first peak voltage value Vp1. The second peak voltage value Vp2 may occur in multiple successive events in a manner that gradually decreases, as shown in Figure 6. Preferably, the second peak voltage value Vp2 is smaller than half the magnitude of the first peak voltage value Vp1.

[0046] The frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 is significantly lower than the frequency of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3, preferably between 10 kHz and 500 kHz, and more preferably between 50 kHz and 200 kHz. Figures 6A to 6C show other output waveforms that may be used instead of the output waveform of output mode M1 shown in Figure 6. Figure 6D is an enlarged view of part Q6 in Figure 6C. The examples shown in Figures 6A and 6C differ from the output waveform shown in Figure 6 mainly in that there is no second peak voltage value Vp2. In this case, the voltage value of the output waveform for half a cycle changes in a manner that maintains an approximately constant value (approximately constant voltage value) from the first peak voltage value Vp1. In this case, the approximately constant value may be at the same level as the second peak voltage value Vp2. Alternatively, the approximately constant value may be at a level slightly smaller than the second peak voltage value Vp2, as shown in Figure 6C. In this case, the peak waveform related to the first peak voltage value Vp1 has an effect similar to electroporation, and the subsequent electrical stimulation (the approximately constant value interval) is expected to have an effect that promotes penetration. Note that the approximately constant value is a concept that allows for errors that occur in a relatively small sawtooth waveform as shown in Figure 6D, for example, a concept that allows for an error of 10% or less relative to the constant value. In Figure 6D, BVp1 represents the magnitude (amplitude) of the first peak voltage value Vp1, and δ represents the fluctuation range of a nearly constant value. Although Figure 6D is a diagram illustrating the nearly constant value in Figure 6C, the same applies to Figure 6A.

[0047] The example shown in Figure 6B differs from the output waveform shown in Figure 6 mainly in that the first peak voltage value Vp1 does not appear at the beginning of the half-cycle but appears midway through. In this case, as shown in Figure 6B, the second peak voltage value Vp2 may appear at the beginning of the half-cycle. In the example shown in Figure 6B, the first peak voltage value Vp1 appears around the middle of the half-cycle, but it may appear significantly later (for example, at the very end) (or significantly earlier) than the middle. The same applies to the output waveforms shown in Figures 6A and 6C. That is, even in the output waveforms shown in Figures 6A and 6C, the first peak voltage value Vp1 does not necessarily have to appear at the beginning of the half-cycle, but may appear midway through or at the end of the half-cycle.

[0048] The various waveforms shown in Figures 6 to 6C may be substantially symmetrical in terms of positive and negative values, but they may also have a slight offset on the positive or negative side.

[0049] Here, in the various waveforms shown in Figures 6 to 6C, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔTVp1) is preferably 1 / 5 or less of the half-period (=ΔT / 2) or the remaining time within the half-period (=ΔT / 2-ΔTVp1). That is, ΔTVp1 ≤ 1 / 5 × (ΔT / 2-ΔTVp1). For example, in the example shown in Figure 6, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔTVp1) is preferably 1 / 5 or less of the duration of the second peak voltage value Vp2 (=ΔTVp2=ΔT / 2-ΔTVp1). Also, in the example shown in Figure 6B, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔTVp1) is preferably 1 / 5 or less of the sum of the durations of the two second peak voltage values ​​Vp2 (=2 × ΔTVp2=ΔT / 2-ΔTVp1). In these cases, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔTVp1) may be measured as the period during which 80% or more of the magnitude of the first peak voltage value Vp1 is maintained.

[0050] The effects of the output waveform of this infiltration mode M1 will be discussed later with reference to Figure 8 and subsequent figures.

[0051] Figure 7 shows a preferred example of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 (an example of the third output waveform). In Figure 7, the output waveform (time-series waveform) of the high-frequency mode M3 is shown when time is plotted on the horizontal axis and voltage is plotted on the vertical axis. In Figure 7, ΔT3 represents one period of the output waveform.

[0052] The output waveform of high-frequency mode M3 is a high-frequency AC waveform, and as described above, it has a significantly higher frequency than the output waveform of infiltration mode M1. The frequency of the output waveform of high-frequency mode M3 may be, for example, 900 kHz or higher.

[0053] Incidentally, the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 differs significantly in waveform (waveform characteristics other than frequency) from the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 shown in Figure 7, but it can be generated using the same hardware resources as the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3. Specifically, both the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 and the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 can be generated via the output waveform generation unit 130 of the control system 100 shown in Figure 3 (i.e., the output waveform generation unit 130 is an example of an AC generation unit). In this case, the only difference between generating the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 and generating the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 is the frequency of the control signals CT1 and CT2 from the control signal generation unit 114. That is, when generating the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1, the frequencies of the control signals CT1 and CT2 from the control signal generation unit 114 correspond to the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1, whereas when generating the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3, the frequencies of the control signals CT1 and CT2 from the control signal generation unit 114 correspond to the frequency of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3.

[0054] As described above, in this embodiment, since the transformer 135 has a frequency specification adapted to the frequency of high-frequency mode M3, it can generate a sinusoidal output waveform of the desired frequency (frequency of high-frequency mode M3) as shown in Figure 7 for control signals CT1 and CT2 corresponding to the frequency of high-frequency mode M3. On the other hand, the transformer 135 cannot generate a sinusoidal output waveform (a sinusoidal output waveform corresponding to the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1) as shown in Figure 7 for control signals CT1 and CT2 corresponding to the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 which is significantly lower than the frequency of high-frequency mode M3. On the other hand, the transformer 135 can generate the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in Figure 6 for control signals CT1 and CT2 corresponding to the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 which is significantly lower than the frequency of high-frequency mode M3.

[0055] Thus, according to this embodiment, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 can be generated without requiring special hardware resources to generate the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6. In other words, according to this embodiment, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 can be generated by utilizing the hardware resources used to generate the output waveform of high-frequency mode M3. As a result, a variety of output waveforms (output waveforms with various effects as described above or later) including the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 can be generated while minimizing the variation and number of components of the control system 100.

[0056] Next, referring to Figure 8 and subsequent figures, we will explain the effects of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in Figure 6 (or Figures 6A to 6C, and so on).

[0057] Figure 8 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of the active ingredient using various output waveforms. On the left side of Figure 8, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C1 to C5, showing the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C1 to C5. On the right side of Figure 8, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C1 to C5, showing the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C1 to C5. Test condition C1 corresponds to a condition in which no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1 (hereinafter also referred to as the "output-free condition"), while test conditions C2 to C5 are conditions in which the skin treatment device 1 is used. Test condition C2 corresponds to a condition in which only the output waveform of high-frequency mode M3 is applied, test condition C3 corresponds to a condition in which only the output waveform of the first comparative example (the positive output waveform shown in Figure 9) is applied, and test condition C4 corresponds to a condition in which only the output waveform of the second comparative example (the negative output waveform shown in Figure 10) is applied. Furthermore, test condition C5 corresponds to a condition in which only the output waveform of infiltration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, is applied.

[0058] Figures 9 and 10 show examples of output waveforms for the first and second comparative examples. In Figures 9 and 10, the output waveform (time-series waveform) for the first comparative example is shown, with time on the horizontal axis and voltage on the vertical axis. In Figures 9 and 10, ΔT2 represents one period of the output waveform.

[0059] In the first comparative example, a continuous waveform that changes periodically at least twice within a single duration is generated. The output waveform from the first comparative example (an example of the second output waveform) is a pulsed DC waveform and may be the same as the output waveform used in ion introduction / extraction mode M7. In ion introduction / extraction mode M7, instead of the waveform shown in Figure 9, an output waveform with reversed polarity as shown in Figure 10 (an example of the second output waveform) may be used as the second comparative example.

[0060] This examination was conducted according to the following procedure. 1) First, to confirm skin homeostasis, the forearm was washed and allowed to acclimate for 15 minutes. The amount of water evaporation at the application site (5 locations) was then measured, and it was confirmed that there were no significant fluctuations in the values ​​or any wounds. 2) Next, quantitative measurements were taken after the facial treatment as follows. 2-1: Drop the sample onto the forearm. After processing 2-2:2-1, the device is used to draw a circle over the sample at a speed of 1 rotation per second for 1.5 minutes. In the case of no output being used, the same operation is achieved using the skin treatment device 1 with the power off (i.e., the skin treatment device 1 in a state where no output waveform is generated). After the 2-3:2-2 treatment, wipe off any remaining sample with cotton, then wipe the skin surface with cotton soaked in a 50% ethanol solution and wash. After the 2-4:2-3 treatment, the stratum corneum of the application site is peeled off using adhesive tape (a keratin checker commercially available under the product name "D-Squame®"), and the amount of VCPMg (magnesium L-ascorbyl phosphate) contained in the 2nd to 5th tapes and the 6th to 10th tapes is quantified. In this test, considering the electrical influence of the skin treatment device 1, the test was performed starting from test condition C1.

[0061] As shown in Figure 8, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 indicates that a significantly higher penetration effect can be expected compared to the output waveforms of other modes, both for tapes 2-5 and tapes 6-10. The output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 has a peak (first peak voltage value Vp1) compared to a normal sine wave or square wave, which is presumed to add an effect similar to that of exposure, thereby improving the penetration effect.

[0062] Here, while there are substances that are suitable and unsuitable for the first and second comparative examples, it was found that the output waveform of penetration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, can be expected to have a high penetration effect for components with all the characteristics described later. For example, Figure 8A shows the same test results when niacinamide (vitamin B3) is used instead of magnesium L-ascorbyl phosphate. However, the details of the test conditions may differ, for example, the component concentrations may differ. In this case as well, as shown in Figure 8A, it was found that the output waveform of penetration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, can be expected to have a significantly higher penetration effect than the output waveforms of other modes. It should be noted that the output waveform of penetration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, is effective for promoting the penetration of useful components of topical skin preparations suitable for penetration, regardless of whether they are low molecular weight, high molecular weight, or oil-soluble substances, but an example of a useful component will be described later.

[0063] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the differences in effects depending on the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in Figure 6. In Figure 11, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C10 to C12 and C1. The amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C10 to C12 and C1 is shown separately as the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0064] Test conditions C10 to C12 correspond to conditions where the output waveform frequency of the infiltration mode M1 is 50kHz, 70kHz, and 156kHz, respectively, while test condition C1 is the output-free condition described above (a condition in which no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1). The test procedure is as described above with reference to Figure 8.

[0065] As shown in Figure 11, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 yielded effective results at all frequencies, as is clear when compared to the results for test condition C1. Furthermore, regarding the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1, a slight tendency for greater absorption within the stratum corneum was observed at lower frequencies.

[0066] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the differences in effects depending on the current value of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in Figure 6. In Figure 12, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the various test conditions C20, C21, and C1. The amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C20, C21, and C1 is shown separately as the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0067] Test conditions C20 and C21 correspond to the condition where the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is 70 kHz, respectively. Test condition C20 is the same as test condition C21 except that the current value is twice that of test condition C21. Test condition C1 is the output non-use condition described above.

[0068] As shown in Figure 12, a tendency for absorption to increase in all layers can be observed as the current value increases. Specifically, when the current value is doubled (test condition C20 compared to test condition C21), the absorption amount increases by 1.5 times. From this, it can be seen that, at the same frequency, a higher current value results in greater absorption.

[0069] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the difference in effects depending on the usage time of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in Figure 6. In Figure 13, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the various test conditions C30, C31, and C1. The amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C30, C31, and C1 is shown separately as the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0070] Test conditions C30 and C31 correspond to the condition where the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is 70 kHz, respectively. Test condition C30 has a usage time of 90 seconds, and test condition C31 has a usage time of 15 seconds. Test condition C1 is the output-free condition described above.

[0071] As shown in Figure 13, it can be confirmed that the absorption amount tends to increase in all layers with longer usage time. Specifically, when the usage time is six times longer (90 seconds in test condition C30 compared to 15 seconds in test condition C31), the absorption amount is 3.6 times higher in tapes 2-10. From this, it can be seen that, for the same frequency, longer usage time results in greater absorption. Therefore, for example, by including the infiltration mode M1 in the operating mode A1 and increasing the ratio of the time of the infiltration mode M1 to one cycle of the operating mode A1, it is expected that the absorption amount per unit time can be efficiently increased.

[0072] Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the differences in effects when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, is combined with other output waveforms, depending on the differences in the characteristics of the other output waveforms. In Figure 14, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C60 to C63. The amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C60 to C63 is shown separately as the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (amount of absorption in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0073] The test procedure is the same as described above, except that the usage time of the skin treatment device 1 is 1.0 minute, and the details corresponding to the no-output condition (see the details below regarding test condition C60). Figure 14(A) shows the results when the sample is VCPMg (magnesium L-ascorbyl phosphate), and Figure 14(B) shows the results when the sample is niacinamide (vitamin B3).

[0074] Test condition C60 is a condition in which no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1. However, unlike the output-free condition described above, the sample dropped onto the forearm was left as is without performing any predetermined operations on the sample using the skin treatment device 1.

[0075] Under test condition C61, the output waveform of invasion mode M1 (frequency 70 kHz, 1 second) and a negative DC waveform (1 second), as shown in Figure 6, were alternately switched and repeatedly applied. Under test condition C62, the output waveform of invasion mode M1 (frequency 70 kHz, 1.6 seconds) and a negative DC waveform (0.4 seconds), as shown in Figure 6, were alternately switched and repeatedly applied. Under test condition C63, the output waveform of invasion mode M1 (frequency 70 kHz, 0.3 seconds) and a negative DC waveform (0.3 seconds), as shown in Figure 6, were alternately switched and repeatedly applied.

[0076] When the sample was niacinamide, test conditions C61 to C63 were set to a frequency of 130 kHz and a positive DC waveform. Note that the concentrations of VCPMg (magnesium L-ascorbyl phosphate) and niacinamide (vitamin B3) dropped onto the forearm were mutually different.

[0077] As shown in Figure 14(A), when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 is applied in combination with other output waveforms (i.e., test conditions C61 to C63), it was found that a significantly higher penetration effect can be expected for both tapes 2-5 and tapes 6-10, as is clear from the results when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is not used (i.e., test condition C60). Specifically, a particularly good penetration effect is achieved when the time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 is 40% or more of the total, and it can be confirmed that the amount absorbed in the stratum corneum tends to increase when the time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is higher. Furthermore, when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 and the DC waveform are repeatedly applied by switching them alternately at a relatively high speed as shown in Figure 6, it can be confirmed that the amount absorbed in the stratum corneum tends to increase when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is output continuously for 1 second or more before switching.

[0078] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14(B), when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, is applied in combination with other output waveforms (i.e., test conditions C61 to C63), it was found that a significantly higher penetration effect can be expected in both tapes 2-5 and tapes 6-10, as is clear from the results when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is not used (i.e., test condition C60). Specifically, a particularly good penetration effect is achieved when the time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1, as shown in Figure 6, is 40% or more of the total, and it can be confirmed that a higher time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 tends to result in a larger amount of absorption in the stratum corneum, at least in total for tapes 2-10. In addition, when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 and the DC waveform are repeatedly switched on and off at a relatively high speed, it can be confirmed that switching after continuously outputting the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 for 1 second or more tends to result in a larger amount of absorption in the stratum corneum. Although not shown in the figure, it was also confirmed that the amount of absorption within the stratum corneum was greater than under test condition C60 when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 and the DC waveform were switched every 30 seconds, as shown in Figure 6.

[0079] The results shown in Figure 14 indicate that, when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is combined with other output waveforms as shown in Figure 6, it is preferable that the time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 accounts for 40% or more of the total output, and that the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is output continuously for 1 second or more. In this case, the electrical circuit section 200 of the skin processing device 1 generates other output waveforms and controls the content of the combination of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 and other output waveforms as shown in Figure 6 (for example, the proportion of the time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 to the total output, and the time interval for switching between the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 and other waveforms). The allocation of control within a processing mode is preferably such that the time allocation of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 accounts for 40% or more of the total output within each predetermined range intended for penetration, and in processing modes in which the combination of output waveforms changes depending on the site or purpose, preferred processing waveforms may be combined between the output waveforms of infiltration mode M1 according to the site or purpose.

[0080] Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the differences in effects depending on the specific waveform characteristics of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1. In Figure 15, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption within the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C70 to C72. The amount of absorption within the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C70 to C72 is shown separately as the amount of absorption within the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the amount of absorption within the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (amount of absorption within the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0081] The test procedure is the same as described above, except that the usage time of the skin treatment device 1 is 1.0 minute, and the details corresponding to the no-output condition (see the details below regarding test condition C70). Figure 15 shows the results when the sample is VCPMg (magnesium L-ascorbyl phosphate).

[0082] Test condition C70 is a condition in which no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1. However, unlike the output-free condition described above, the skin treatment device 1 was not used to perform any predetermined actions on the sample, but rather a spatula was used to spread and blend the sample for 1.0 minute.

[0083] Under test condition C71, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 (frequency 130 kHz) was provided, having a specific waveform configuration as shown in Figure 6 (excluding Figures 6A to 6C). Under test condition C72, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 (frequency 130 kHz) was provided, having a specific waveform configuration as shown in Figures 6C and 6D.

[0084] As shown in Figure 15, it was found that for both the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 having the specific waveform configuration shown in Figure 6 (not including Figures 6A to 6C) and the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 having the specific waveform configuration shown in Figures 6C and 6D (i.e., test conditions C71 and C72), a significantly higher penetration effect can be expected for both tapes 2-5 and tapes 6-10, as is clear from the results when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is not used (i.e., test condition C70).

[0085] Next, regarding the output waveform of the penetration mode M1 shown in Figure 6, we will list some examples of useful components of topical skin preparations that are suitable for penetration. Note that the output waveform of the penetration mode M1 shown in Figure 6 is suitable for promoting the penetration of useful substances contained in topical skin preparations, and the purpose of use of the substance carrier is arbitrary, such as pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, and cosmetics, as long as it is a topical skin preparation. For example, it is effective not only for cosmetics and quasi-drugs, but also for promoting the transdermal absorption of pharmaceuticals that have been metabolized in the liver and whose effects and efficacy could not be fully exerted. Furthermore, the purpose of use of topical preparations for transdermal absorption is arbitrary, and it does not matter what the purpose of transdermal absorption of the topical preparation is, including analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, whitening agents, moisturizers, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-inflammatory agents, antibacterial agents, and antiviral drugs.

[0086] [Examples of useful ingredients in topical skin preparations] In promoting the penetration of useful ingredients in topical skin preparations suitable for penetration, it is effective for low molecular weight, high molecular weight, and oil-soluble substances, but examples of useful ingredients are as follows:

[0087] At pH levels ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline <Potentially charged compounds> Ingredients known to have a whitening effect include tranexamic acid, tranexamic acid derivatives such as cetyl hydrochloride, and niacinamide. However, these are not the only examples; pyridoxine hydrochloride and its derivatives, which are considered effective for acne and rough skin, benzalkonium chloride, which is used for sterilization and disinfection, and peptides with an alkaline isoelectric point, which are said to be effective in improving wrinkles. Examples include palmitoyl tripeptide-5, acetyl hexapeptide-8, dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate, and peptides and their derivatives. In addition, allantoin, aldioxa, carnitine HCl, and urea as a moisturizer are also examples, but any substance with a pH in the slightly acidic to slightly alkaline range and a positive charge (even a small amount of charge is acceptable) will suffice, and the list is not limited to these compounds. <- Group of compounds that are charged with a negative charge > Examples of skin whitening agents include potassium 4-methoxysalicylate and disodium adenosine monophosphate, as well as ascorbic acid and its derivatives such as ascorbic acid, L-ascorbic acid 2-glucoside, sodium L-ascorbyl phosphate, disodium L-ascorbic acid sulfate, and trisodium ascorbyl palmitate phosphate, and sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate. Other examples include zinc paraphenolsulfonate, salicylic acid and its sodium salts, and acidic amino acids such as sodium lactate, L- or DL-pyrrolidone carboxylate sodium solution, sodium L-glutamate, and sodium L-aspartate. Furthermore, any substance that is negatively charged at a pH in the weakly acidic to weakly alkaline range (even if the charge is minute) may be used, including glycyrrhizic acid, dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, and other glycyrrhizic acid salts, sodium guaiazulene sulfonate, and sodium dilauroyl glutamate lysine, which are known to have anti-inflammatory effects. <Compounds or amphoteric electrolytes that hardly dissociate in aqueous solution> Ascorbic acid derivatives such as kojic acid, arbutin, hydroquinone, 4-n-butylresorcinol, 5,5'-dipropyl-biphenyl-2,2'-diol, ellagic acid, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, 3-glyceryl ascorbic acid, bisglyceryl ascorbic acid, hexyl 3-glyceryl ascorbic acid, myristyl 3-glyceryl ascorbic acid, 3-laurylglyceryl ascorbic acid, D-pantothenyl alcohol, and cholecalciferol, which are said to have a whitening effect. Examples include neutral amino acids and their derivatives such as 3-o-cymene-5-ol (isopropylmethylphenol), glycine, proline, alanine, serine, acetylhydroxyproline, ε-aminocaproic acid, and γ-aminobutyric acid; amphoteric electrolytes such as trimethylglycine; sugars such as xylose, sorbitol, and mannitol; polyols such as butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, pentylene glycol, and glycerin; and terpenes such as hinokitiol. In addition, poorly soluble substances such as fullerene, oryzanol, ceramide EOP, ceramide EOS, ceramide NG, caproylsphingosine, ceramide NP, N-stearoylphytosphingosine, N-stearoyldihydrosphingosine, ceramide AG, ceramide AP, hydroxystearylphytosphingosine, ceramide 6II, and phytosphingosine can also be listed as useful components, whether or not they are encapsulated in liposomes. Furthermore, this includes extracts obtained from plants and animals that exhibit useful properties, as well as culture media and culture supernatants of stem cells.

[0088] Other examples of flavonoids include isoflavones, licorice root extract, licorice flavonoids, and licorice flavonoids, but are not limited to these. Examples of extracts include chamomile ET, Sophora flavescens root extract, Swertia japonica extract, ginseng and its root extract, soybean extract and soybean seed extract, green tea leaf extract, Galactomyces ferment filtrate, Rice Power No. 11 (rice extract No. 11), astaxanthin solution and red algae extract, placenta extract and placenta extract (1) to (5), water-soluble and hydrolyzed placenta extract. <Lipids and oil-soluble substances> Examples include squalane, linoleic acid, ascorbyl tetra-2-hexyldecanoate, ascorbyl dipalmitate, retinol, retinyl acetate, retinyl palmitate, hydrogenated retinol, retinol and its derivatives such as retinol linoleate, tocopherol nicotinate, dl-α-tocopherol, d-δ-tocopherol, natural vitamin E, tocopherol and its derivatives such as DL-α-tocopherol acetate, stearyl glycyrrhetinate, estradiol, ethinylestradiol, astaxanthin, rice germ oil, phospholipids such as sphingomyelin, synthetic and plant-derived squalane, guaiazulene and guaiazulene sulfonate esters, fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid such as ascorbyl stearate and ascorbyl palmitate, di(phytosteryl / octyldodecyl) lauroyl glutamate, and oil-soluble placenta. <Compounds with relatively high molecular weight and polymer compounds> Examples include human recombinant oligopeptide-1, palmitoyl hexapeptides including palmitoyl hexapeptide-4, palmitoyl pentapeptides, hydrolyzed collagen and its derivatives, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, acetylated sodium hyaluronate and other hyaluronic acid and its derivatives, Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides, Alcaligenes-producing polysaccharides, and polyquaterniums.

[0089] Furthermore, based on the inventor's findings from the results of the various test conditions described above and other test results, the preferred frequency of the output waveform differs depending on the characteristics of the component being penetrated. Specifically, for low molecular weight, water-soluble, and positively charged active ingredients, a higher output waveform frequency results in a higher penetration effect; for example, an output waveform frequency of around 70-165 kHz is preferred. Conversely, for low molecular weight, water-soluble, and negatively charged active ingredients, a lower output waveform frequency results in a higher penetration effect; for example, an output waveform frequency of around 50-130 kHz is preferred. In this regard, it should be added that lower frequencies may result in a stronger sensation, so considering the balance between the tendency for lower frequencies to increase absorption within the stratum corneum and the degree of stimulation felt by the user at (extremely) low frequencies, around 70 kHz is also preferable. Moreover, for low molecular weight, water-soluble, and amphoteric electrolyte active ingredients that hardly dissociate in aqueous solution, an output waveform frequency of around 40-200 kHz is preferred.

[0090] Although each embodiment has been described in detail above, the invention is not limited to any particular embodiment, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope described in the claims. Furthermore, it is possible to combine all or more of the components of the embodiments described above.

[0091] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the operation mode A1 may include a combination of an infiltration mode M1 that outputs an output waveform as shown in Figure 6, and an output mode (ion introduction / extraction mode M7) that outputs an output waveform according to the first comparative example shown in Figure 9 and / or the output waveform according to the second comparative example shown in Figure 10. In this case, the duration of the infiltration mode M1 and / or the duration of the ion introduction / extraction mode M7 is preferably between 20 milliseconds and 70 milliseconds, more preferably between 30 milliseconds and 60 milliseconds, and most preferably between 40 milliseconds and 50 milliseconds. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 1 Skin treatment device 2 Grip part 3. Head section 3a Contact surface 20 User Interface 30 electrodes 100 Control Systems 110 Control device 111 User Input Acquisition Unit 112 Mode setting section 113 Control parameter setting unit 114 Control signal generation unit 115 Switching control unit 116 Parameter Storage Unit 120 Drive circuit section 130 Output waveform generation unit (an example of an AC generation unit) 135 Transformers 140 Switching circuit section 150 Power supply 200 Electrical Circuit Section

Claims

1. Multiple electrodes that can come into contact with the user's skin, A power supply electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes, Includes an electrical circuit section that generates a first output waveform to the skin via at least some of the plurality of electrodes based on the power supply, The first output waveform is an AC waveform and has a first waveform portion having a first peak voltage value at the beginning or in the middle of a half-cycle, and a second waveform portion that rises continuously from the trough after the first waveform portion has dropped to a trough. The second peak voltage value, which is the peak voltage value of the second waveform portion, is less than half the magnitude of the first peak voltage value. The skin treatment apparatus comprises an electrical circuit section having a pair of switching elements that generate the first output waveform by being switched on / off in response to a drive signal.

2. The skin treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the waveform portion continuous with the second waveform portion has a plurality of peak voltage values ​​in which the magnitude gradually decreases.

3. The skin treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frequency of the first output waveform is between 10 kHz and 500 kHz.

4. The skin treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the duration of the first peak voltage value per half cycle is 1 / 5 or less of a half cycle.

5. The electrical circuit further generates a second output waveform to the skin via the plurality of electrodes based on the power supply, The skin treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second output waveform is a pulsed DC waveform.

6. The aforementioned electrical circuit further generates a third output waveform to the skin via the plurality of electrodes based on the power supply, The skin treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the third output waveform is an AC waveform and has a higher frequency than the first output waveform.

7. The electrical circuit section includes an AC generation section adapted to generate an AC waveform corresponding to the frequency of the third output waveform. The skin treatment apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first output waveform is generated using the AC generation unit.

8. The skin treatment apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the frequency of the third output waveform is 900 kHz or higher.

9. The electrical circuit section generates a DC waveform different from the first output waveform and controls the content of the combination of the first output waveform and the DC waveform. The skin treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the time distribution of the output of the first output waveform is 40% or more of the total.

10. The electrical circuit section generates a DC waveform different from the first output waveform and controls the content of the combination of the first output waveform and the DC waveform. The skin processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first output waveform is output continuously for 1 second or more.

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