Skin treatment device

Abstract

A skin treatment device 1 comprises a plurality of electrodes 31, 32, 33 that can contact the skin of a user, a power supply that is electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes 31, 32, 33, and a control device that implements output via the plurality of electrodes 31, 32, 33 in a plurality of types of output modes that have mutually different output waveform characteristics. The plurality of types of output modes include combination modes M11, M12. The combination modes M11, M12 include a first submode M1 that has an action that causes an active ingredient to penetrate the skin and a second submode M3 that has an action that applies an alternating-current stimulus to the skin.

Description

Skin treatment device

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

[0002] In a skin treatment device equipped with a low-frequency electrode pair and a high-frequency electrode pair, a technique is known in which the low-frequency electrode pair alternates between transmission periods in which a low-frequency voltage is applied and rest periods in which no voltage is applied, and the high-frequency electrode pair applies a high-frequency voltage only during the rest periods related to the low-frequency electrode pair.

[0003] JP 2012-65693 A

[0004] However, with the above-described conventional techniques, it is difficult to appropriately combine and continuously realize a plurality of types of output modes in a manner that effectively enhances the cosmetic effect.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to appropriately combine and continuously realize a plurality of types of output modes in a manner that effectively enhances the cosmetic effect.

[0006] In one aspect, a skin treatment device is disclosed that includes a plurality of electrodes that can be brought into contact with a user's skin, a power source electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes, and a control device that realizes output through the plurality of electrodes in a plurality of output modes having mutually different output waveform characteristics, the plurality of output modes including a combination mode, and the combination mode including a first sub-mode that has the effect of penetrating an active ingredient into the skin and a second sub-mode that has the effect of applying an alternating current stimulus to the skin.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to appropriately combine and continuously realize a plurality of types of output modes in a manner that effectively enhances the cosmetic effect.

[0008] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a skin treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a head unit of the skin treatment device of FIG. 1. FIG. 3A is a front view showing the arrangement of multiple electrodes and multiple peripheral electrodes. FIG. 3B is a front view of an electrode. FIG. 3C is a front view explaining an example of the arrangement of multiple electrodes. FIG. 3D is a front view explaining the linear parallel output region and equally spaced output region of the electrode of FIG. 2B. FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of an example control system. FIG. 5 is a block diagram explaining functions realized by the control device of FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of setting values ​​of various parameters stored in a parameter storage unit. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an example of an operation mode A1. FIG. 8 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of an active ingredient depending on the difference in the duration of the infiltration mode M1 and the iontophoresis mode M2. FIG. 9 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of an active ingredient depending on the difference in the duration of the infiltration mode M1 and the iontophoresis mode M2. FIG. 10 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of an active ingredient depending on the difference in the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 in the first combination mode M11 and the second combination mode M12. 13C 。 FIG. 13C is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of the active ingredient due to differences in the frequency of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 in the first combination mode M11 and the second combination mode M12. FIG. 13C is a diagram showing a preferred example of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1. FIG. 13C is a diagram showing another example of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1. FIG. 13C is a diagram showing yet another example of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1. FIG. 13C is an enlarged view of part Q6 of FIG. 13C . FIG. 13C is a diagram showing a preferred example of the output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2. FIG. 13C is a diagram showing another preferred example of the output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2. FIG. 13C is a diagram showing another preferred example of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3. FIG. 13C is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of the active ingredient due to various output waveforms. FIG. 13C is an explanatory diagram showing differences in effect depending on differences in frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 13C. FIG. 13C is an explanatory diagram showing differences in effect depending on differences in current value of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 13C. FIG. 13C is an explanatory diagram showing differences in effect depending on differences in usage time of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG.

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

[0010] (Overall Structure of Skin Treatment Device) Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a skin treatment device 1 according to an embodiment, which is an example of a specific configuration of a skin treatment device according to the present invention. Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating a head unit 3 of the skin treatment device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0011] The skin processing device 1 of the embodiment is in the form of a facial 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 processing device 1 may be configured to impart similar beauty-related effects to parts of the user's body other than the user's face, in addition to or instead of the user's face. Furthermore, the skin processing device 1 may be used to impart effects other than beauty-related effects (for example, the effect of promoting transdermal absorption of medicines).

[0012] The beauty-related effect is optional and may include any combination of one or more of the following: reduction of sagging skin, firming, fat burning, lifting, facial slimming, skin firmness, radiance, and moisture improvement. The beauty-related effect may be a quantifiable effect or a non-quantifiable effect.

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

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

[0015] The skin processing device 1 of the embodiment includes a grip unit 2 and a head unit 3. In this case, a user can apply various outputs from the skin processing device 1 to a desired area by gripping the grip unit 2 and applying the head unit 3 to the desired area on the user's own face or the face of another person (e.g., a patient).

[0016] The grip portion 2 has a shape that allows it to be easily held by a user's hand. The grip portion 2 may include a user interface 20 including various buttons such as a power on / off button, a mode switching button, an intensity adjustment button, etc. The various buttons may be mechanical buttons or touch switches. The grip portion 2 may also be provided with a display unit (not shown) that displays the status of the skin treatment device 1, etc. The grip portion 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 grip portion 2. The head portion 3 may be fixed to the grip portion 2, may be detachable, or may be movable relative to the grip portion 2.

[0018] The head unit 3 is capable of contacting the user's skin and has a shape suitable for contacting the user's skin. The head unit 3 may have, for example, a substantially planar contact surface 3a (including a curved surface with a relatively large radius of curvature). The contact surface 3a is a plane whose extension direction (basic plane) can be approximated to a substantially straight line in a side view. The shape of the contact surface 3a in a front view (i.e., the shape when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface 3a) may be any shape, such as a rectangle, a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon. In this embodiment, the shape of the contact surface 3a in a front view is, for example, a circle, as shown in FIG. 2(A). The center of the contact surface 3a of the head unit 3 when viewed from the front (i.e., the center of gravity when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface 3a) is referred to as the "center C of the contact surface 3a."

[0019] The head unit 3 is provided with a plurality of electrode groups for each attribute, specifically, a first electrode group and a second electrode group.

[0020] The first electrode group includes a plurality of electrodes 30 arranged in an array on the contact surface 3 a. The second electrode group includes a plurality of outer electrodes 33 arranged on the contact surface 3 a in a mutually rotationally symmetrical manner around the center C of the contact surface 3 a (which is also the center of the first electrode group) so as to surround the plurality of electrodes 30. These electrodes 30 and outer electrodes 33 are formed to easily contact the user's skin, and may be flush with the basic plane of the contact surface 3 a of the head unit 3, or may be formed to slightly protrude from the basic plane of the contact surface 3 a of the head unit 3.

[0021] In this embodiment, the head unit 3 has seven electrodes 30 as the first electrode group, but the number of electrodes 30 as the first electrode group is not limited to seven and may be any number equal to or greater than 2. In this embodiment, the head unit 3 also has three outer edge electrodes 33 as the second electrode group, but the number of outer edge electrodes 33 as the second electrode group is not limited to three and may be any number equal to or greater than 2.

[0022] Each of the plurality of electrodes 30 has an inner electrode 31 and an outer electrode 32 that is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner electrode 31. The inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 of each of the plurality of electrodes 30 form a pair of electrodes for applying to the user's skin an output waveform of a predetermined frequency that has, for example, a beauty-related effect (specifically, an effect of applying an AC stimulus to the skin).

[0023] That is, in the first electrode group, the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 of each of the multiple electrodes 30 are paired to generate a desired output waveform. In this case, the output waveform may be any waveform, such as an AC waveform or a pulsed DC waveform. In the case of an AC waveform, the frequency band of the output waveform may be any frequency band, such as a high frequency that applies an AC stimulus to the skin. Some examples of output waveforms that are realized by pairing the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 will be described later. In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise specified, high frequency refers to a frequency band greater than 10 kHz, and low frequency refers to a frequency band equal to or less than 10 kHz.

[0024] By arranging the plurality of outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group so as to surround at least a portion of the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group, a synergistic effect can be achieved between the effects provided by the first electrode group and the second electrode group. Furthermore, by shaping and arranging the plurality of outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group to match the overall shape of the assembly of the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group, the contact surface 3 a of the head unit 3 can be used efficiently, ensuring an appropriate (in other words, sufficient) area for the electrodes constituting the second electrode group. This prevents discomfort due to the strong stimulation experienced when a low-frequency current is passed through electrodes with a small area.

[0025] The plurality of peripheral electrodes 33 form a pair of electrodes for applying an output waveform of a predetermined frequency having, for example, a beauty-related effect (specifically, an electrical muscle stimulation effect, etc.) to the user's skin.

[0026] That is, in the second electrode group, the outer electrodes 33 are paired with each other to generate a desired output waveform. In this case, the output waveform may be any waveform, such as an AC waveform or a pulsed DC waveform. In this case, the frequency band of the output waveform may be any waveform, such as a high frequency or low frequency that has an electrical muscular stimulation effect. Some examples of output waveforms that can be generated by pairing the outer electrodes 33 with each other will be described later.

[0027] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral edge of each of the multiple electrodes 30 is formed in a regular hexagonal shape for the inner electrode 31, and the inner and outer peripheral edges of the outer electrode 32 are also formed in a regular hexagonal shape, and the outer electrode 32 is formed in a regular hexagonal ring shape so as to be spaced apart from the inner electrode 31 and surround the inner electrode 31. That is, the outer electrode 32 is disposed outside the outer periphery of the inner electrode 31 (in other words, radially outward) so that the center of the inner electrode 31 (center of gravity position in a front view; the same applies hereinafter) and the center of the outer electrode 32 (center of gravity position in a front view; the same applies hereinafter) coincide with each other.

[0028] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner and outer peripheral edges of the outer electrode 32 of each of the multiple electrodes 30 are formed as a rounded regular hexagon, so that the dimension d between the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32 is constant throughout the entire space S between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 (see FIG. 2B ). In this case, the symmetry and uniformity of the distance from the inner electrode 31 to the outer electrode 32 realizes uniform electrical application with reduced electrical bias between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32. However, the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner and outer peripheral edges of the outer electrode 32 may be formed as shapes other than rounded corners.

[0029] In this embodiment, all of the multiple electrodes 30 have the same shape. However, some of the multiple electrodes 30 may have different shapes (in other words, some may have the same shape), or all of the multiple electrodes 30 may have different shapes from one another. That is, the multiple electrodes 30 may all have the same shape, or may have two or more different shapes from one another.

[0030] One electrode 30 (reference numeral 30c in FIG. 2A) is arranged in such a manner that the center of the inner electrode 31 coincides with the center C of the contact surface 3a. Furthermore, six electrodes 30 (reference numeral 30a in FIG. 2A) are arranged at equal intervals on a circle centered on the center C of the contact surface 3a around the electrode 30 (reference numeral 30c in FIG. 2A) arranged at the center C of the contact surface 3a.

[0031] The dimension Li between opposite sides of the outer periphery of the inner electrode 31 is not limited to a specific value, but may be set to any value in the range of approximately 2 to 5 mm, as an example only.

[0032] The distance between the centers of the inner electrodes 31 of adjacent electrodes 30 is not limited to a specific value, but may be set to any value in the range of approximately 4 to 12 mm, as an example only.

[0033] In this embodiment, as described above, each of the multiple electrodes 30 is configured such that the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 is formed in a regular hexagon shape (more specifically, a rounded regular hexagon; the same applies below), and the inner and outer peripheral edges of the outer electrode 32 are formed in a regular hexagon shape, and the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 are combined so that the center of the inner electrode 31 and the center of the outer electrode 32 coincide.

[0034] In addition, the multiple electrodes 30 are arranged in an array such that the multiple outer electrodes 32 are adjacent to one another (see FIG. 3A), in contact (see FIG. 3B), or integrated (see FIG. 3C; this embodiment). The outer electrodes 32 of adjacent electrodes 30 may be integrated (in other words, overlapping or common), but are arranged so as not to intersect.

[0035] In this embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 30 are arranged in such a manner that at least a portion of the outer electrodes 32 of adjacent electrodes 30 are common to each other, i.e., in the manner shown in FIG. 3(C). In this case, the outer electrodes 32 are formed in a mesh-like shape, specifically a honeycomb shape, when viewed from the front. Furthermore, the outer edges of the outer electrodes 32 are formed in a regular hexagonal shape, and the plurality of electrodes 30 are arranged so that at least a portion of the outer electrodes 32 of adjacent electrodes 30 are integrated (in other words, overlapping or common to each other). This allows the number and arrangement of the electrodes 30 to be adjusted according to the size and shape of the contact surface 3 a without gaps (in other words, without wasted space) between the electrodes 30, and the electrodes 30 can be arranged so as to fill the entire surface of the contact surface 3 a.

[0036] Furthermore, by assembling a plurality of electrodes 30, each consisting of an inner electrode 31 and an outer electrode 32 surrounding it, to form an electrode assembly, the expandability and flexibility of electrode placement can be increased, and the shape of the entire electrode assembly can be freely adjusted depending on the area to which beauty-related effects, etc. Specifically, for example, the shape of the entire electrode assembly may be a shape that fills a roughly circular area as in this embodiment, a shape that fills a roughly elliptical area, a shape that fills a roughly rectangular area, or even a shape that fills a roughly gourd-shaped area.

[0037] By configuring a pair of electrodes by the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 that is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner electrode 31, the spacing between the pair of electrodes (i.e., the dimension d between the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32) can be adjusted to any value by changing the sizes of the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 or by changing the width of the outer electrode 32. The dimension d between the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32 is not limited to a specific value, but is preferably 1.0 mm or more and 3.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.6 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less, and most preferably about 1.8 mm.

[0038] As in this embodiment, it is preferable that the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32 of the electrode 30 both have linear, parallel portions, thereby achieving a uniform electrical application with better suppression of electrical bias.

[0039] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32 of the electrode 30 are both linear and have parallel portions SP, and in the region between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 in this parallel portion SP (the "linear parallel output region" indicated by the dark gray hatched area in Fig. 4), uniform electrical application with reduced electrical bias is realized. Furthermore, because the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32 are shaped as rounded regular hexagons, the dimension d between the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode 32 is constant throughout the entire space S between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32, and uniform electrical application with reduced electrical bias is realized in the region between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 in the rounded portions (the "equidistant output region" indicated by the portion between the linear parallel output regions in Fig. 4).

[0040] The ratio of the area of ​​the outer electrode 32 to the area of ​​the inner electrode 31 of each electrode 30 (referred to as the "internal / external electrode area ratio") is preferably within a predetermined range. The internal / external electrode area ratio is preferably 0.8 to 1.2, more preferably 0.9 to 1.1, even more preferably 0.95 to 1.05, and most preferably 1.0. By setting the internal / external electrode area ratio within an appropriate range, good electrical application between the internal electrode 31 and the external electrode 32 is achieved.

[0041] It is preferable that the ratio of the total area of ​​the space S between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 to the total area of ​​the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 of the multiple electrodes 30 (referred to as the "ratio of the inter-electrode area to the electrode area") be within a predetermined range. The ratio of the inter-electrode area to the electrode area is preferably 0.6 to 1.6, more preferably 0.6 to 1.2, even more preferably 0.7 to 1.1, and most preferably 0.9 to 1.0. By setting the ratio of the inter-electrode area to the electrode area within an appropriate range, good electrical application between the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 is achieved.

[0042] (Function of Electrodes) In this embodiment, as described above, in the first electrode group, the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 of each of the multiple electrodes 30 are paired to generate a variety of output waveforms with various functions, and in the second electrode group, the outer electrodes 33 are paired to generate a variety of output waveforms with various functions. In this way, according to this embodiment, an electrode arrangement can be realized that can impart a uniform and favorable skin treatment effect to the user's skin over the entire contact area of ​​the user's skin where the skin treatment device 1 is in contact.

[0043] In this embodiment, a plurality of output modes with different output waveform characteristics are realized via the plurality of electrodes 30 (specifically, the inner electrodes 31 and the outer electrodes 32) constituting the first electrode group and the plurality of outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group. In the description of this embodiment, the plurality of output modes are referred to as follows. Examples of output waveforms in each output mode will be described later.

[0044] A) An output mode in which the outer peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group are paired with each other, or the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group and the plurality of outer peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group are paired with each other to generate an output waveform having the action of penetrating active ingredients (in other words, cosmetic ingredients) into the skin (hereinafter also referred to simply as the “penetration action”; first action) is referred to as “infiltration mode M1” (an example of a first output mode). When the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group and the plurality of outer peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group are paired, the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 may be paired and the outer peripheral electrodes 33 may be paired with each other, or at least one of the inner electrode 31, the outer electrode 32, and the outer peripheral electrode 33 may be paired with each other, with at least one electrode of the remaining electrodes being paired with the other electrode (group), although the electrode combinations are not limited to these.

[0045] (i) An output mode in which the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 constituting the first electrode group form a pair to generate an output waveform having the action (second action) of introducing ions (i.e., ions related to active ingredients) into the skin is called the “ion introduction mode M2” (an example of the second output mode).

[0046] (c) An output mode in which the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 constituting the first electrode group form a pair to generate a high-frequency output waveform that has the effect of applying an AC stimulus to the skin is called "high-frequency mode M3" (an example of the third output mode).

[0047] (e) An output mode in which the outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group are paired to generate a high-frequency or low-frequency output waveform having an electrical muscle stimulation effect is called "electrical muscle stimulation mode M4" (an example of the fourth output mode).

[0048] e) An output mode in which the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 constituting the first electrode group form a pair to apply a weak current (microcurrent) is called "microcurrent mode M5."

[0049] (c) An output mode in which the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 constituting the first electrode group form a pair to generate an output waveform that has the effect of deriving ions (ions related to dirt, etc.) from within the skin is called the “ion derivation mode M6.”

[0050] (Control System) The configuration of the control system of the skin treatment device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. FIG.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of an example control system 100. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating functions realized by the control device 110 of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of setting values ​​of various parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 116. In addition to the control system 100, FIG. 5 also illustrates a power supply 150. The power supply 150 may be, for example, a DC power supply. Although several power supplies 150 are shown in FIG. 5, they may be common.

[0052] In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control system 100 includes a control device 110 , drive circuit sections 120 , 121 , and 122 , output waveform generating sections 130 , 131 , and 132 , and switching circuit sections 140 and 141 .

[0053] The control device 110 includes a computer and may be formed by, for example, a microcomputer. The control device 110 may operate based on power from the power source 150.

[0054] The control device 110 selectively forms various modes such as the above-mentioned infiltration mode M1 and electrical muscle stimulation mode M4, and controls the multiple electrodes 30 and multiple outer electrodes 33 via drive circuit units 120, 121, 122, output waveform generating units 130, 131, 132, and switching circuit units 140, 141 so that a corresponding output waveform is generated in each mode.

[0055] 6 , 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. Each unit from the user input acquisition unit 111 to the switching control unit 115 can be realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown) of the control device 110 executing one or more programs in a storage device (not shown) of the control device 110. The parameter storage unit 116 can be realized by the storage device (not shown) of the control device 110.

[0056] The user input acquisition unit 111 acquires various user inputs from the user via the above-described user interface 20. The various user inputs may include power on / off, mode selection input, intensity adjustment input, and the like.

[0057] The mode setting unit 112 sets the operation mode desired by the user based on the user input transmitted from the user input acquisition unit 111. In a modified example, the mode setting unit 112 may set the operation mode based on other parameters instead of or in addition to the user input. Various operation modes may be prepared, and the number and types of the operation modes are arbitrary. In this embodiment, as an example, a plurality of operation modes are prepared, including operation mode A0 and operation mode A1.

[0058] The operating mode A0 is one of the various modes, such as the infiltration mode M1 and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4, that is realized independently. For example, the operating mode A0 may be the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4. In this case, while the operating mode A0 is being realized, only the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4 is continuously realized. Note that multiple operating modes A0 may be set, each corresponding to the infiltration mode M1, the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4, etc.

[0059] Operation mode A1 is a mode realized by combining two or more modes, such as the infiltration mode M1 and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4. Multiple operation modes A1 may be prepared, each with a different combination. For example, operation mode A1 may be a combination of two modes: the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3, or a combination of three modes: the infiltration mode M1, the iontophoresis mode M2, and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4. The combination may be arbitrary and may be user-configurable (customizable). Specific examples of operation mode A1 will be described later.

[0060] In operation mode A1, each mode is periodically repeated to output a corresponding output waveform over its respective duration. In this case, the output waveform output during one duration preferably includes a continuous waveform that periodically changes two or more times, rather than a single pulse. For example, if the output waveform is a pulsed DC waveform, the output waveform output during one duration includes two or more pulses (where one pulse is defined as a period from a rising / falling edge to a falling / rising edge). Furthermore, if the output waveform is a sinusoidal AC waveform, the output waveform output during one duration includes two or more cycles of a sine wave.

[0061] Furthermore, when transitioning from one mode to another mode in operation mode A1, a predetermined pause time may be set from the end timing of the output waveform for that mode to the start timing of the output waveform for that other mode. The predetermined pause time may be set relatively short so as to ensure the time (e.g., 1 to 2 milliseconds) required for the switching operation in switching circuit units 140 and 141 (described later). For example, the predetermined pause time may be shorter than the shortest duration of each mode, e.g., approximately 5 milliseconds.

[0062] The control parameter setting unit 113 sets the values ​​of various control parameters to realize a corresponding output waveform according to the operation mode set by the mode setting unit 112. The various control parameters may include a first parameter indicating whether the waveform is AC or DC, a second parameter indicating a frequency, a third parameter indicating a duration, and a fourth parameter indicating the pair of electrodes that generate the output waveform. The duration corresponds to the output time of the output waveform related to the mode, i.e., the continuous output time from the start to the end of the corresponding output waveform. Note that the third parameter may be used only in the above-described operation mode A1 and may not be used in operation mode A0. Note that in operation mode A0, the duration may be, for example, until the power is turned off, or may be determined based on other factors (e.g., a factor based on temperature information from a thermistor, not shown).

[0063] 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. FIG. 7 shows an example of the setting values ​​of various parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 116. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the setting values ​​of various parameters correspond to each mode, such as the infiltration mode M1 and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4. In FIG. 7, the value "1" of the first parameter represents an AC waveform, and the value "0" represents a DC waveform. Furthermore, the values ​​PT1 to PT4, PT20, and PT21 of the fourth parameter may represent a change pattern of the electrode pair that generates the output waveform. The electrode pair that generates the output waveform may be a one-to-one pair or a one-to-many pair.

[0064] The control signal generating 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 generating unit 114 provides the generated control signal to a corresponding one of the drive circuit units 120, 121, and 122.

[0065] 5, the control system 100 has three drive circuit units 120, 121, and 122. Of the drive circuit units 120, 121, and 122, the drive circuit unit 120 generates various output waveforms via the second electrode group (i.e., the multiple outer electrodes 33), and the drive circuit units 121 and 122 generate various output waveforms via the first electrode group (i.e., the inner electrode 31 and the outer electrode 32 of each of the multiple electrodes 30). The drive circuit unit 121 generates an AC output waveform (e.g., an output waveform for the high-frequency mode M3), and the drive circuit unit 122 generates a DC output waveform (e.g., an output waveform for the iontophoresis mode M2).

[0066] FIG. 5 schematically shows the waveforms of some of the control signals CT1 and CT2. In this case, the control signals CT1 and CT2 may be provided to the drive circuit units 120 and 121 via separate control lines L1 and L2, respectively. The frequencies (duty ratios) of the control signals CT1 and CT2 may be determined in accordance with the setting value of the second parameter. FIG. 5 also schematically shows the waveform of some of the control signal CT3. In this case, the control signal CT3 may be provided to the drive circuit unit 122 via control line L3. The frequency (duty ratio) of the control signal CT3 may be determined in accordance with the setting value of the second parameter.

[0067] Furthermore, when a certain mode is realized, whether the control signals CT1, CT2 (and the associated control lines L1, L2) or the control signal CT3 is output may be determined according to the set value of a first parameter associated with the certain mode. For example, with respect to a certain mode, when the set value of the first parameter is "1," both the control signals CT1 and CT2 may be output, and when the set value of the first parameter is "0," the control signal CT3 may be output. Furthermore, when a certain mode is realized, the duration of the control signals CT1, CT2, and CT3 associated with the certain mode may be determined according to the set value of a third parameter.

[0068] The drive circuit units 120, 121, and 122 include drivers that drive a plurality of switching elements Tr, which will be described later. The drive circuit units 120, 121, and 122 generate drive signals for turning on / off the switching elements Tr of the output waveform generating units 130, 131, and 132, respectively, in response to control signals CT1, CT2, and CT3 from the control signal generating unit 114, and provide the generated drive signals to the corresponding switching elements Tr.

[0069] Output waveform generating units 130, 131, and 132 each generate an output waveform based on power supply 150, which is a DC power supply. Output waveform generating unit 130 includes a pair of switching elements Tr and a transformer 135. Output waveform generating unit 131 includes a pair of switching elements Tr and a transformer 136. Output waveform generating unit 132 includes a switching element Tr and a transformer 137.

[0070] For the system related to the drive circuit unit 120, a pair of switching elements Tr are, for example, transistors or other switching elements. One is connected to a terminal Ta of the transformer 135, and the other is connected to a terminal Tb of the transformer 135. The power supply 150 is connected to a terminal Tc related to the center tap of the transformer 135. In this embodiment, the transformer 135 has a frequency specification adapted to the frequency of the high frequency mode M3. For example, if the induced voltage E of the transformer 135 is E = √2πfnφm, the frequency f is approximately equal to the frequency of the high frequency mode M3 (the set value α3 of the second parameter in FIG. 7). In this case, n is the number of turns, and φm is the magnetic flux. The transformer 135 may be adapted to the frequency of the high frequency mode M3 based on settings (adjustments) such as changing the set multiplier of the peripheral circuit or the material and adhesion of the ferrite core (an internal component of the transformer 135).

[0071] In the system related to the drive circuit unit 121, the pair of switching elements Tr are, for example, transistors or other switching elements, one of which is connected to a terminal Ta of the transformer 136 and the other of which is connected to a terminal Tb of the transformer 136. The power supply 150 is connected to a terminal Tc related to the center tap of the transformer 136. In this embodiment, the transformer 136 has a frequency specification adapted to the frequency of the high-frequency mode M3. Therefore, in this case, the output waveform generating units 130 and 131 may be configured using the same components. This also applies to the drive circuit units 120 and 121.

[0072] In the system related to the drive circuit unit 122, a switching element Tr is a switching element such as a transistor, and is connected to a terminal Tb of a transformer 137. A power supply 150 is connected to a terminal Ta of the transformer 137. In this embodiment, the transformer 137 may have a frequency specification adapted to the frequency of the iontophoresis mode M2.

[0073] The switching circuit unit 140 switches the connection destination of the output terminals Td, Te of the output waveform generating unit 130 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 135) among the plurality of outer electrodes 33 in response to a control signal from the switching control unit 115, thereby controlling the electrode pair that generates the output waveform among the plurality of outer electrodes 33. In this case, the switching circuit unit 140 may control the electrode pair that generates the output waveform based on the setting value of the fourth parameter.

[0074] The switching circuit unit 141 switches the connection destination of the output terminals Td, Te of the output waveform generating unit 131 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 136) and the connection destination of the output terminals Td, Te of the output waveform generating unit 132 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 137) among the plurality of electrodes 30 (specifically, between the plurality of inner electrodes 31 and the outer electrode 32) in response to a control signal from the switching control unit 115, thereby controlling the electrode pair that generates the output waveform among the plurality of electrodes 30. In this case, the switching circuit unit 141 may control the electrode pair that generates the output waveform based on the setting value of the fourth parameter.

[0075] 5, the control system 100 for applying an output waveform via the first electrode group (i.e., the inner electrode 31 and outer electrode 32 of each of the multiple electrodes 30) and the control system for applying an output waveform via the second electrode group (i.e., the multiple outer electrodes 33) are configured independently, so that it is possible to simultaneously generate (in other words, output) an output waveform via the first electrode group and an output waveform via the second electrode group. Therefore, it is possible to combine the output waveform via the first electrode group and the output waveform via the second electrode group in various ways on the time axis, and it is also possible to efficiently increase the output variation of the skin treatment device 1.

[0076] The control system 100 shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example and may be modified as appropriate depending on the type of output waveform to be generated, requirements such as whether the first electrode group and the second electrode group are used simultaneously, costs, etc. For example, in a configuration in which the first electrode group and the second electrode group are not used simultaneously, the drive circuit unit 122 and the output waveform generating unit 132 may be omitted. In this case, the switching circuit unit 140 may switch the connection destination of the output terminals Td and Te of the output waveform generating unit 130 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 135) among the multiple outer electrodes 33 or among the multiple electrodes 30 in a time-division manner. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the switching circuit unit 140 may switch the connection destination of the output terminals Td and Te of the output waveform generating unit 130 (i.e., the output terminals of the transformer 135) among the multiple outer electrodes 33 and the multiple electrodes 30 in a time-division manner so that one or more of the multiple outer electrodes 33 are paired with one or more of the multiple electrodes 30.

[0077] (Operation Mode) An example of operation mode A1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0078] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of an example of operation mode A1, showing combination patterns (change patterns) in a time series with time on the horizontal axis. Specifically, in FIG. 8 , along with a picture of the head unit 3, a circled "+" and a circled "-" correspond to paired electrodes among the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group and the plurality of outer edge electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group. In this case, the electrode associated with the circled "+" and the electrode associated with the circled "-" form a pair. In addition, in FIG. 8 , the combination patterns (change patterns) of each mode are shown in association with the picture of the head unit 3 on the lower side.

[0079] 8, the operating mode A1 is a combination mode of the infiltration mode M1, the iontophoresis mode M2, the radiofrequency mode M3, and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4. In this case, the operating mode A1 includes the combination modes M11 and M12, the repeat mode M9, and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4, and the first combination mode M11, the repeat mode M9, the second combination mode M12, and the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4 are periodically repeated in this order without overlapping with each other.

[0080] The first combination mode M11 is a combination mode of the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3. That is, the first combination mode M11 includes the infiltration mode M1 as a first sub-mode that has the effect of penetrating an active ingredient into the skin, and the high-frequency mode M3 as a second sub-mode that has the effect of applying an AC stimulus to the skin.

[0081] In this case, the two sub-modes (i.e., the first sub-mode and the second sub-mode) of the first combination mode M11 can be simultaneously realized using the control system 100 described above with reference to FIG. 5 . That is, the first sub-mode can be realized simultaneously and independently using the system (drive circuit unit 120, etc.) related to the second electrode group in the control system 100 shown in FIG. 5 , and the second sub-mode can be realized simultaneously and independently using the system (drive circuit unit 121, etc.) related to the first electrode group in the control system 100 shown in FIG. 5 . However, in a modified example in which the drive circuit unit 122 and the output waveform generating unit 132 are omitted as described above, the two sub-modes may be realized in a time-division manner. In this case, the first sub-mode and the second sub-mode may be alternately realized once or multiple times within the duration of the first combination mode M11.

[0082] That is, the infiltration mode M1 and the high frequency mode M3 in the first combination mode M11 may be applied simultaneously, or may be applied once each in a time-divided manner, or may be applied alternately and repeatedly.

[0083] In the infiltration mode M1 of the first combination mode M11, all of the peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group may be used simultaneously, and in this case, an output waveform that has the effect of penetrating the active ingredient into the skin is applied to the user's skin via each pair. Note that in the example shown in Figure 8, of the three peripheral electrodes 33, two peripheral electrodes 33 with the same phase of the AC waveform (electrodes associated with a circled "+") may be paired with another peripheral electrode 33 (electrode associated with a circled "-") (i.e., a total of two pairs may be formed).

[0084] The output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the first combination mode M11 is an AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the first combination mode M11 is preferably 10 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less, more preferably 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less. The frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the first combination mode M11 is preferably lower than the frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the first combination mode M11.

[0085] In the high-frequency mode M3 of the first combination mode M11, all of the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group may be used simultaneously, and in this case, an output waveform having the effect of applying an AC stimulus to the skin is applied to the user's skin via each pair. Note that in the example shown in Fig. 8, for the plurality of electrodes 30, each of the inner electrodes 31 (electrodes associated with a circled "+") having the same phase of the AC waveform may be paired with an outer electrode 32 (electrode associated with a circled "-").

[0086] The output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the first combination mode M11 is a high frequency AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the first combination mode M11 is preferably 100 kHz or more and 250 kHz or less, more preferably 150 kHz or more and 200 kHz or less. The frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the first combination mode M11 is preferably higher than the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the first combination mode M11.

[0087] The duration of the first combination mode M11 is preferably between 5 and 25 seconds, more preferably between 10 and 20 seconds, and most preferably around 15 seconds.

[0088] The repeat mode M9 alternates between the infiltration mode M1 and the iontophoresis mode M2. Specifically, in the repeat mode M9, the infiltration mode M1 and the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​are alternately switched between in this order without overlapping with each other, and are periodically repeated.

[0089] In the infiltration mode M1 of the repetition mode M9, all of the electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group and the plurality of outer peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group may be used simultaneously. In this case, an output waveform having the effect of penetrating the active ingredient into the skin is applied to the user's skin via each pair. In the example shown in Figure 8, for the first electrode group and the second electrode group, each of the inner electrodes 31 (electrodes associated with a circled "+") of the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group that have the same phase of the AC waveform, and two of the three outer peripheral electrodes 33 (electrodes associated with a circled "+") that have the same phase of the AC waveform, may be paired with the outer electrode 32 (electrode associated with a circled "-") constituting the first electrode group and the other outer peripheral electrodes 33 (electrodes associated with a circled "-") constituting the second electrode group. In this case, the inner electrodes 31 and outer electrodes 32 constituting the first electrode group may be paired, and the outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group may be paired, or at least one of the inner electrodes 31, outer electrodes 32, and outer electrodes 33 may be one electrode (group) and at least one of the remaining electrodes may be the other electrode (group) to form a pair, however, the electrode combinations are not limited to these.

[0090] The output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the repetition mode M9 is an AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the repetition mode M9 is preferably 10 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less, more preferably 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less.

[0091] In the infiltration mode M1 of the repetition mode M9, the frequency of the output waveform of the first electrode group and the frequency of the output waveform of the second electrode group may be the same or different from each other.

[0092] In the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​of the repetition mode M9, all of the electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group may be used simultaneously. In this case, an output waveform having the effect of introducing ions into the skin is applied to the user's skin via each pair. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 8 , for the electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group, each of the inner electrodes 31 (electrodes associated with a circled "+") of the same polarity may be paired with an outer electrode 32 (electrode associated with a circled "-").

[0093] In the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​of the repetition mode M9, a continuous waveform that periodically changes at least twice within a single duration is generated. The output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​of the repetition mode M9 is a pulsed DC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​of the repetition mode M9 is set so that at least two pulsed DC waveforms are generated within a single duration, and is preferably 1.5 kHz or more and 10 kHz or less.

[0094] In the repetition mode M9, the duration of the infiltration mode M1 and the duration of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​are preferably the same, and each is preferably at least 1 second, more preferably about 1 second.

[0095] The duration of the repeat mode M9 is preferably between 5 and 25 seconds, more preferably between 10 and 20 seconds, and most preferably about 14 seconds. The duration of the repeat mode M9 is preferably 14 seconds in total, with the infiltration mode M1 and the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​both alternately performed for the same duration of 1 second or more, specifically, 1 second for the infiltration mode M1 and 1 second for the iontophoresis mode M2, each alternately performed 7 times, for a total of 14 seconds.

[0096] The second combination mode M12, like the first combination mode M11, is a combination mode of the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3. That is, the second combination mode M12 includes the infiltration mode M1 as a first sub-mode that has the effect of penetrating the active ingredient into the skin, and the high-frequency mode M3 as a second sub-mode that has the effect of applying an AC stimulus to the skin.

[0097] In this case, as already explained in relation to the first combination mode M11, the two sub-modes (i.e., the first sub-mode and the second sub-mode) of the second combination mode M12 can be simultaneously realized using the control system 100 described above with reference to Fig. 5. Also, as already explained in relation to the first combination mode M11, the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3 in the second combination mode M12 may be applied simultaneously, or may be applied once each in a time-shared manner, or may be applied alternately and repeatedly.

[0098] In the infiltration mode M1 of the second combination mode M12, all of the peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group may be used simultaneously, and in this case, an output waveform that has the effect of penetrating the active ingredient into the skin is applied to the user's skin via each pair. Note that in the example shown in Figure 8, of the three peripheral electrodes 33, two peripheral electrodes 33 with the same phase of the AC waveform (electrodes associated with a circled "+") may be paired with another peripheral electrode 33 (electrode associated with a circled "-") (i.e., a total of two pairs may be formed).

[0099] The output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the second combination mode M12 is an AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the second combination mode M12 is preferably 10 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less, more preferably 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less. The frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the second combination mode M12 is preferably lower than the frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the second combination mode M12.

[0100] In the high-frequency mode M3 of the second combination mode M12, all of the plurality of electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group may be used simultaneously, and in this case, an output waveform having the effect of applying an AC stimulus to the skin is applied to the user's skin via each pair. Note that in the example shown in Fig. 8, for the plurality of electrodes 30, each of the inner electrodes 31 (electrodes associated with a circled "+") having the same phase of the AC waveform may be paired with an outer electrode 32 (electrode associated with a circled "-").

[0101] The output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the second combination mode M12 is a high frequency AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the second combination mode M12 is preferably 100 kHz or more and 250 kHz or less, more preferably 150 kHz or more and 200 kHz or less. The frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 of the second combination mode M12 is preferably higher than the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 of the second combination mode M12.

[0102] The duration of the second combination mode M12 is preferably between 4 and 12 seconds, more preferably between 6 and 10 seconds, and most preferably around 8 seconds. The duration of the second combination mode M12 may be shorter than the duration of the first combination mode M11.

[0103] For example, if the duration of the entire operation mode A1 is about 45 seconds, the sum of the duration of the first combination mode M11 and the duration of the second combination mode M12 in the operation mode A1 is preferably 15 seconds or more and 30 seconds or less, and more preferably 20 seconds or more and 30 seconds or less. That is, the ratio of the duration of the entire operation mode A1 to the sum of the duration of the first combination mode M11 and the second combination mode M12 is preferably 1 / 3 or more and 2 / 3 or less, and more preferably 4 / 9 or more and 2 / 3 or less.

[0104] In the electrical muscular stimulation mode M4, all of the peripheral electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group may be used simultaneously. In this case, a high-frequency or low-frequency output waveform having an electrical muscular stimulation effect is applied to the user's skin via each pair. In the example shown in Fig. 8, of the three peripheral electrodes 33, two peripheral electrodes 33 having the same AC waveform phase (electrodes corresponding to circled "+") may be paired with another peripheral electrode 33 (electrode corresponding to circled "-") (i.e., two pairs may be formed in total).

[0105] The output waveform of the electrical muscular stimulation mode M4 is an AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the electrical muscular stimulation mode M4 is preferably 10 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less.

[0106] The duration of the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4 is preferably between 4 and 12 seconds, more preferably between 6 and 10 seconds, and most preferably about 8 seconds.

[0107] The output mode after the second combination mode M12 is not limited to the muscular electrical stimulation mode M4 as shown in the example of Fig. 8, and other types of output modes may be performed. For example, after the second combination mode M12, the infiltration mode M1 may be performed by simultaneously using all of the electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group and the outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group, similar to the infiltration mode M1 in the repetitive mode M9. The output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 when performed after the second combination mode M12 is an AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform is preferably 10 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less, more preferably 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less.

[0108] 8, the duration of the operation mode A1 is considered to be 45 seconds in total, specifically, 15 seconds for the first combination mode M11, 14 seconds for the repeat mode M9, 8 seconds for the second combination mode M12, and 8 seconds for the electrical muscle stimulation mode M4 (or other output mode such as the infiltration mode M1). The operation mode A1 may be repeated two or more times.

[0109] Such operation mode A1 is suitable for the penetration of various ingredients, such as whitening ingredients (e.g., kojic acid), anti-inflammatory ingredients (e.g., dipotassium glycyrrhizinate), and anti-aging ingredients (e.g., tocopherol acetate). Furthermore, operation mode A1 can be expected to have an even better penetration effect by executing a first combination mode M11 (i.e., simultaneous or alternating application of infiltration mode M1 and high-frequency mode M3) and a second combination mode M12 (i.e., simultaneous or alternating application of infiltration mode M1 and high-frequency mode M3) before and after a repetition mode M9 in which infiltration mode M1 and iontophoresis mode M2 ​​are alternately repeated.

[0110] (Frequency Customization) The frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 included in the operating mode A1 may be selected and set by the user depending on the type and characteristics of the component (e.g., a component contained in a cosmetic or liniment used together with the skin treatment device 1) to be penetrated by the active ingredient penetration effect associated with the infiltration mode M1. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 8 , the frequency of the output waveform of at least one of the infiltration modes M1 of the first combination mode M11, the repeat mode M9, and the second combination mode M12, as well as the infiltration mode M1 when the infiltration mode M1 is performed after the second combination mode M12, may be selected and set by the user. Note that one operating mode A1 may include both an infiltration mode M1 in which the frequency of the output waveform is selected and set by the user (also referred to as a “customized output mode”) and an infiltration mode M1 in which the frequency of the output waveform is not selected and set by the user.

[0111] Specifically, the frequency of the output waveform in the customized output mode is adjusted according to the type and characteristics of the component to be infiltrated, within the range of 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less, which is the preferred frequency range for the output waveform in the infiltration mode M1.

[0112] In this case, for example, a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the respective types of components to be infiltrated may be provided in advance in the skin processing device 1 (in other words, stored), and the user may select the type of component to be infiltrated or the frequency corresponding to the type of component to be infiltrated via the user interface 20. The skin processing device 1 sets or controls the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 to be customized (i.e., customized output mode) to a frequency associated with the type of component selected by the user, or to a frequency selected by the user.

[0113] Alternatively, the skin processing device 1 may be configured to be able to communicate with a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone, and an app for controlling the skin processing device 1 may be installed on the mobile information terminal. In this case, the user selects the type of component to be infiltrated and selects frequency customization on the app, whereby information (specifically, a control signal for the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1) is transmitted from the mobile information terminal to the skin processing device 1. The skin processing device 1 then sets and controls the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 (i.e., the customized output mode) to be customized according to the information transmitted from the mobile information terminal.

[0114] When the frequency of the output waveform of the immersion mode M1 is selected and set by the user, the duration of the immersion mode M1 (i.e., the customized output mode) for which the frequency of the output waveform is selected and set by the user (if there are multiple customized output modes in one operating mode A1, the total duration of these customized output modes) preferably accounts for more than 50% of the total duration of one operating mode A1, more preferably accounts for more than 60%, even more preferably accounts for more than 70%, and even more preferably accounts for more than 80%.

[0115] (Effects) Differences in effects according to differences in the duration of the infiltration mode M1 and the duration of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​in the repetition mode M9 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0116] In order to verify the difference in effect depending on the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2, a verification test of the amount of absorption into the stratum corneum was conducted using the following procedure (referred to as the "verification test procedure").

[0117] 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 sites (five locations) was measured, and the absence of significant fluctuations or scars was confirmed. 2) Next, quantitative measurements were performed using the facial beauty device as follows: 2-1: A sample was dropped onto the forearm. 2-2: After the treatment in 2-1, the skin treatment device 1 was used in a circular motion over the sample at a speed of one rotation per second for a predetermined time. 2-3: After the treatment in 2-2, the remaining sample was wiped off with cotton, and the skin surface was wiped with cotton soaked in 50% ethanol solution and washed. 2-4: After the treatment in 2-3, the stratum corneum at the application site was peeled off with adhesive tape (a keratin checker commercially available under the trade name "D-Squame (registered trademark)"), and the amount of VCPMg (L-ascorbyl magnesium phosphate) contained in tapes 2-10 was quantified.

[0118] In order to verify the difference in effect depending on the duration of the infiltration mode M1 and the duration of the iontophoresis mode M2, the following test conditions T11 to T14 were set.

[0119] Test condition T11 is a condition (hereinafter also referred to as "output non-use condition") in which no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1. Regarding procedure 2-2 above, in the output non-use condition, the skin treatment device 1 in a powered-off state (i.e., the skin treatment device 1 in a state in which no output waveform is generated) was used, and a circular motion was performed on top of the sample at a speed of one rotation per second for 60 seconds.

[0120] In test condition T12, the duration of infiltration mode M1 was 1 second and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was 1 second, and the output waveforms were applied to the skin 30 times for a total of 60 seconds. In other words, test condition T12 is a condition in which the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​are the same and are each 1 second.

[0121] In test condition T13, the duration of infiltration mode M1 was 1.6 seconds and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was 0.4 seconds, and the output waveforms were applied to the skin 30 times for a total of 60 seconds. Test condition T13 is a condition in which the ratio of the duration of infiltration mode M1 to the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was 4:1, and the duration of infiltration mode M1 was 1 second or more while the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was less than 1 second.

[0122] In test condition T14, the duration of infiltration mode M1 was 0.3 seconds and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was 0.3 seconds, and the output waveforms were applied to the skin 100 times for a total of 60 seconds. In test condition T14, the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​were the same and each was less than 1 second.

[0123] Under test conditions T12, T13, and T14, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 was an AC waveform with a frequency of 130 kHz. Under test conditions T12, T13, and T14, the output waveform of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was a pulsed DC waveform with a frequency of 1 to 10 kHz.

[0124] 9 is a diagram comparing the penetration effects of the active ingredient depending on the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2. In FIG. 9, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption β [μg] into the stratum corneum for tapes 2 to 10 (i.e., the total for tapes 2 to 10; the same applies below), and the horizontal axis represents the amount of absorption into the stratum corneum under each of test conditions T11 to T14.

[0125] 9, it was confirmed that a higher penetration effect can be expected under test condition T12 than under the other test conditions T11, T13, and T14. That is, by setting the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​to the same value of 1 second, as in test condition T12, the effect of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​can be further enhanced over the effect of infiltration mode M1, and a higher penetration effect can be expected.

[0126] In addition, to verify the difference in effect depending on the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2, the following test conditions T21 and T22 were set. Then, a verification test of the absorption amount in the stratum corneum was conducted using the above-mentioned verification test procedure.

[0127] In test condition T21, the duration of infiltration mode M1 was 1 second and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was 1 second, and the output waveforms were applied to the skin 30 times for a total of 60 seconds. In test condition T21, the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​were the same, each 1 second.

[0128] In test condition T22, the duration of infiltration mode M1 was set to 2 seconds and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​was set to 2 seconds, and the output waveforms were applied to the skin 15 times in alternation for a total of 60 seconds. In test condition T22, the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​were set to the same time, each 2 seconds.

[0129] In both test conditions T21 and T22, the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 is an AC waveform with a frequency of 130 kHz. In both test conditions T21 and T22, the output waveform of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​is a pulsed DC waveform with a frequency of 1 to 10 kHz.

[0130] Fig. 10 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of the active ingredient depending on the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2. In Fig. 10, the vertical axis represents the amount of absorption β [μg] into the stratum corneum for tapes 2 to 10, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions T21 and T22, showing the amount of absorption into the stratum corneum under each of the test conditions T21 and T22.

[0131] 10, it was confirmed that a higher penetration effect can be expected under test condition T21 than under test condition T22. That is, by setting the duration of infiltration mode M1 and the duration of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​to 1 second, as in test condition T21, the effect of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​can further enhance the effect of infiltration mode M1, and a higher penetration effect can be expected.

[0132] Furthermore, to verify the difference in effect depending on the frequency of the output waveform (specifically, AC waveform) of infiltration mode M1 in the first combination mode M11 or the second combination mode M12 (i.e., the combination mode of infiltration mode M1 and high-frequency mode M3), the following test conditions T31 to T33 were set. Then, a verification test of the absorption amount within the stratum corneum was conducted using the above-mentioned verification test procedure.

[0133] Under test condition T31, the frequency of the output waveform (specifically, AC waveform) from the multiple outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group relating to infiltration mode M1 is 70 kHz; similarly, under test condition T32 it is 130 kHz, and under test condition T33 it is 180 kHz.

[0134] In all of test conditions T31, T32, and T33, the frequency of the output waveform (specifically, AC waveform) from the multiple electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group in the high-frequency mode M3 was 165 kHz. Furthermore, the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3 were applied simultaneously for 60 seconds.

[0135] Fig. 11 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of the active ingredient depending on the frequency of the output waveform (AC waveform) of the infiltration mode M1 in the first combination mode M11 and the second combination mode M12. In Fig. 11, the vertical axis represents the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum for tapes 2 to 10, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions T31 to T33, showing the absorption amount in the stratum corneum under each of the test conditions T31 to T33.

[0136] 11, it was confirmed that a higher penetration effect can be expected under test conditions T31 and T32 than under other test conditions T33. That is, as in test conditions T31 and T32, by setting the frequency of the output waveform (AC waveform) of the infiltration mode M1 in the first combination mode M11 or the second combination mode M12 to 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less, it was found that a high penetration effect can be expected. Furthermore, it was found that a lower frequency of the output waveform (AC waveform) of the infiltration mode M1 in the first combination mode M11 or the second combination mode M12 can be expected to have a higher penetration effect.

[0137] Furthermore, in order to verify the difference in effect according to the difference in the frequency of the output waveform (specifically, AC waveform) of the high-frequency mode M3 in the first combination mode M11 or the second combination mode M12 (i.e., the combination mode of the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3), the following test conditions T41 and T42 were set. Then, a verification test of the absorption amount in the stratum corneum was carried out according to the above-mentioned verification test procedure.

[0138] Under test condition T41, the frequency of the output waveform (specifically, AC waveform) from the multiple electrodes 30 constituting the first electrode group associated with high frequency mode M3 is 165 kHz, and similarly, under test condition T42, it is 3000 kHz.

[0139] In both test conditions T41 and T42, the frequency of the output waveform (specifically, AC waveform) from the multiple outer electrodes 33 constituting the second electrode group in the infiltration mode M1 was 130 kHz. In addition, the infiltration mode M1 and the high-frequency mode M3 were applied simultaneously for 60 seconds.

[0140] Fig. 12 is a diagram comparing the penetration effect of the active ingredient depending on the frequency of the output waveform (AC waveform) of the high-frequency mode M3 in the first combination mode M11 and the second combination mode M12. In Fig. 12, the vertical axis represents the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum for tapes 2 to 10, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions T41 and T42, showing the absorption amount in the stratum corneum under each of the test conditions T41 and T42.

[0141] 12, it was confirmed that a higher penetration effect can be expected under test condition T41 than under test condition T42. That is, it was found that a high penetration effect can be expected by setting the frequency of the output waveform (AC waveform) of the high frequency mode M3 in the first combination mode M11 or the second combination mode M12 to be 150 kHz or more and 200 kHz or less, as in test condition T41.

[0142] (Output Waveform) Next, preferred examples of output waveforms relating to various modes such as the infiltration mode M1 described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 17. FIG.

[0143] Figure 13 shows a preferred example of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1. Figure 13 shows the output waveform (time series waveform) of infiltration mode M1, with time on the horizontal axis and voltage value on the vertical axis. In Figure 13, ΔT1 represents the interval (range) corresponding to one cycle of the output waveform.

[0144] In this embodiment, the output waveform in infiltration mode M1 is an AC waveform having multiple peak voltage values ​​during a half cycle (ΔT / 2), including a first peak voltage value Vp1 and one or more second peak voltage values ​​Vp2.

[0145] The first peak voltage Vp1 is the peak voltage that appears first in a half cycle, and the second peak voltage Vp2 appears after the first peak voltage Vp1 and is smaller in magnitude than the first peak voltage Vp1. The second peak voltage Vp2 may occur multiple times in a manner that gradually decreases, as shown in Figure 13. The second peak voltage Vp2 is preferably smaller than half the magnitude of the first peak voltage Vp1.

[0146] The frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 is preferably 10 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less, more preferably 10 kHz or more and 150 kHz or less. The frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 is preferably lower than the frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3.

[0147] 13A to 13C show other output waveforms that may be used instead of the infiltration mode M1 output waveform shown in FIG. 13 . FIG. 13D is an enlarged view of portion Q6 in FIG. 13C . The examples shown in FIGS. 13A and 13C differ from the output waveform shown in FIG. 13 primarily in the absence of the second peak voltage Vp2. In this case, the voltage value of the output waveform for a half cycle varies from the first peak voltage Vp1 in a manner that maintains a substantially constant value (a substantially constant voltage value). In this case, the substantially constant value may be at a level similar to the second peak voltage Vp2. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13C , the substantially constant value may be at a level slightly smaller than the second peak voltage Vp2. In this case, the peak waveform associated with the first peak voltage Vp1 has an electroporation-like effect, and the subsequent electrical stimulation (a substantially constant value section) is expected to promote penetration. The term "approximately constant value" refers to a concept that allows for an error that occurs in a relatively small sawtooth waveform as shown in FIG. 13D, and is, for example, a concept that allows for an error of 10% or less from a constant value. Ｖｐ１ represents the magnitude (amplitude) of the first peak voltage Vp1, and δ represents the fluctuation range of the approximately constant value. Note that Fig. 13D is a diagram illustrating the approximately constant value in Fig. 13C, but the same applies to Fig. 13A.

[0148] The example shown in FIG. 13B differs from the output waveform shown in FIG. 13 primarily in that the first peak voltage Vp1 does not appear at the beginning of a half cycle but appears midway through. In this case, as shown in FIG. 13B, the second peak voltage Vp2 may appear at the beginning of the half cycle. Note that, while the example shown in FIG. 13B shows the first peak voltage Vp1 near the middle of the half cycle, it may also appear significantly later (e.g., at the end) or significantly earlier than the middle. This also applies to the output waveforms shown in FIGS. 13A and 13C. That is, in the output waveforms shown in FIGS. 13A and 13C, the first peak voltage 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.

[0149] It should be noted that the various waveforms shown in FIGS. 13 to 13C may be waveforms that are substantially symmetrical between positive and negative, but may have a slight offset on the positive or negative side.

[0150] Here, in the various waveforms shown in FIGS. 13 to 13C, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) is preferably calculated for a half period (=ΔT / 2) or for the remaining time (ΔT Ｖｃ = ΔT / 2 - ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) is 1 / 5 or less. Ｖｐ１ ≦1 / 5×(ΔT / 2−ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) For example, in the example shown in FIG. 13, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) is preferably the duration of the second peak voltage value Vp2 (=ΔT Ｖｐ２ = ΔT / 2 - ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) is 1 / 5 or less. In the example shown in FIG. 13B, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) is preferably the sum of the durations of the two second peak voltage values ​​Vp2 (=2×ΔT Ｖｐ２ = ΔT / 2 - ΔT Ｖｐ１ In these cases, the duration of the first peak voltage value Vp1 (ΔT Ｖｐ１ ) may be measured as a period during which 80% or more of the magnitude of the first peak voltage value Vp1 is maintained.

[0151] The effect of such an output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 will be described later with reference to FIG. 18 and subsequent figures.

[0152] Incidentally, although the output waveform of this infiltration mode M1 is significantly different in waveform (waveform characteristics other than frequency) from the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 shown in FIG. 17 described below, it can be generated using the same hardware resources as the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3. Specifically, the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 and the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3 can both be generated via the output waveform generating units 130 and 131 of the control system 100 shown in FIG. 5. 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 generating unit 114. In other words, when generating the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1, the frequency of the control signals CT1 and CT2 from the control signal generating unit 114 corresponds 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 only difference is that the frequency of the control signals CT1 and CT2 from the control signal generating unit 114 corresponds to the frequency of the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3.

[0153] As described above, in this embodiment, the transformer 136 (as well as the transformer 135) has a frequency specification adapted to the frequency of the high frequency mode M3, so that for the control signals CT1 and CT2 corresponding to the frequency of the high frequency mode M3, a sinusoidal output waveform of the desired frequency (frequency of the high frequency mode M3) as shown in FIG. 17 can be generated. On the other hand, the transformer 135 (as well as the transformer 136) cannot generate a sinusoidal output waveform (sinusoidal output waveform corresponding to the frequency related to the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1) as shown in FIG. 17 for the control signals CT1 and CT2 corresponding to the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 that is lower than the frequency of the high frequency mode M3. On the other hand, the transformer 135 can generate an output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 13 for the control signals CT1 and CT2 corresponding to the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 that is lower than the frequency of the high frequency mode M3.

[0154] In this way, according to this embodiment, the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in Fig. 13 can be generated without requiring special hardware resources for generating the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in Fig. 13. That is, according to this embodiment, the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in Fig. 13 can be generated by utilizing hardware resources for generating the output waveform of the high-frequency mode M3. As a result, a variety of output waveforms (output waveforms having various effects as described above or below) including the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in Fig. 13 can be generated while minimizing the component variations of the control system 100.

[0155] In a modified example, an infiltration mode M1 output waveform as shown in FIG. 13 may be generated via the first electrode group (specifically, a plurality of inner electrodes 31 and outer electrodes 32) instead of or in addition to the second electrode group (specifically, a plurality of outer electrodes 33). Alternatively, a high-frequency mode M3 output waveform as shown in FIG. 17 may be generated via the second electrode group (specifically, a plurality of outer electrodes 33) instead of or in addition to the first electrode group (specifically, a plurality of inner electrodes 31 and outer electrodes 32). In this case, by simply changing the frequencies of the control signals CT1 and CT2 using a common drive circuit and output waveform generator (e.g., the drive circuit 120 and output waveform generator 130 in FIG. 5), the infiltration mode M1 output waveform as shown in FIG. 13 and the high-frequency mode M3 output waveform as shown in FIG. 17 can be selectively generated. This allows a variety of output waveforms (output waveforms having various effects as described above or below) to be applied via various electrodes while minimizing the circuit size of the control system 100.

[0156] Fig. 14 shows a preferred example of an output waveform in iontophoresis mode M2. Fig. 14 shows the output waveform (time series waveform) in iontophoresis mode M2, with time on the horizontal axis and voltage on the vertical axis. In Fig. 14, ΔT2 represents a section (range) corresponding to one cycle of the output waveform.

[0157] In the iontophoresis mode M2, a continuous waveform that periodically changes at least twice within a single duration is generated. In this embodiment, the output waveform in the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​is a pulsed DC waveform. Note that instead of the waveform shown in FIG. 14, a waveform with reversed polarity as shown in FIG. 15 may be used.

[0158] The frequency of the output waveform in the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​is determined so that at least two or more pulsed DC waveforms are generated within one duration, and is preferably 1.5 kHz or more and 10 kHz or less.

[0159] The output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​may consist of multiple pulsed DC waveforms with the same amplitude (voltage value), but preferably includes one or more specific pulses with significantly larger amplitude (voltage value). For example, FIG. 16 shows an example of an output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​that includes only one specific pulse PL2 within a single duration. The specific pulse enhances the effect of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​by generating transient pores in the skin through pulse stimulation (electroporation). The specific pulse may differ not only in amplitude (voltage value) but also in frequency from pulses other than the specific pulse (hereinafter referred to as "mesoporation pulses" for distinction) in the output waveform of the iontophoresis mode M2. For example, the mesoporation pulse may have a peak voltage of less than 10 V and a frequency of 1.5 kHz or more and 10 kHz or less, while the specific pulse may have a peak voltage of 10 V or more and a low frequency of 2 Hz or more and 10 Hz or less.

[0160] In order to enhance the function of mesoporation pulses, which have the effect of applying a high voltage to push active ingredients into the deeper layers with ions (mesoporation), it may be useful to apply mesoporation pulses immediately after applying a specific pulse that has the function of generating temporary pores in the skin by pulse stimulation, since the temporary pores tend to close quickly.

[0161] In this regard, with the output waveform shown in FIG. 16, a mesoporation pulse is generated immediately after the application of a specific pulse, so that the effect of the iontophoresis mode M2 ​​can be effectively enhanced.

[0162] Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a preferred example of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3. Fig. 17 shows the output waveform (time series waveform) of the high frequency mode M3, with time on the horizontal axis and voltage value on the vertical axis. In Fig. 17, ΔT3 represents a section (range) equivalent to one cycle of the output waveform.

[0163] The output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 is a high frequency AC waveform, and the frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 is preferably 100 kHz or more and 250 kHz or less, more preferably 150 kHz or more and 200 kHz or less. The frequency of the output waveform of the high frequency mode M3 is preferably higher than the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1.

[0164] (Effects) Next, with reference to FIG. 18 and subsequent figures, the effects of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 13 (or FIGS. 13A to 13C, the same applies below) will be described.

[0165] Figure 18 is a diagram comparing the penetration effects of active ingredients using various output waveforms. The left side of Figure 18 shows the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 on the vertical axis, and the various test conditions C1-C5 on the horizontal axis, showing the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C1-C5. The right side of Figure 18 shows the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 on the vertical axis, and the various test conditions C1-C5 on the horizontal axis, showing the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for each of the test conditions C1-C5.

[0166] Test condition C1 corresponds to a condition under which no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1 (hereinafter also referred to as the "output non-use condition"), test conditions C2 to C5 correspond to conditions under which the skin treatment device 1 is used, test condition C2 corresponds to a condition under which only the output waveform of high frequency mode M3 is applied to the skin, test condition C3 corresponds to a condition under which only the output waveform of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​(the positive output waveform shown in FIG. 14) is applied to the skin, test condition C4 corresponds to a condition under which only the output waveform of iontophoresis mode M2 ​​(the negative output waveform shown in FIG. 15) is applied to the skin, and test condition C5 corresponds to a condition under which only the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in FIG. 13 is applied to the skin.

[0167] This test 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 sites (five locations) was measured, and it was confirmed that there were no significant fluctuations or scratches. 2) Next, quantitative measurements were performed using the facial beauty device treatment as follows: 2-1: The sample was dripped onto the forearm. 2-2: After treatment in 2-1, the skin treatment device 1 was used for 1.5 minutes, moving in a circular motion at a speed of one rotation per second over the sample. Note that under non-output conditions, the same operation was performed using the skin treatment device 1 with its power turned off (i.e., a skin treatment device 1 in which no output waveform was generated). 2-3: After treatment in 2-2, the remaining sample was wiped off with cotton, and the skin surface was wiped with cotton soaked in 50% ethanol solution and washed. 2-4: After the treatment of 2-3, the stratum corneum of the application site was peeled off with adhesive tape (a keratin checker commercially available under the trade name "D-Squame (registered trademark)"), and the amount of VCPMg (L-ascorbyl magnesium phosphate) contained in tapes 2-5 and tapes 6-10 was quantified. Note that in this test, test condition C1 was started in consideration of the electrical influence of the skin treatment device 1.

[0168] As shown in Figure 18, it was found that the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in Figure 13 can be expected to produce a significantly higher penetration effect in both tapes 2-5 and tapes 6-10 than the output waveforms of other modes.

[0169] Here, some substances are suitable for ion introduction or ion extraction, while others are not. However, it has been found that the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 shown in FIG. 13 can be expected to have a high penetration effect for components with all characteristics, as shown in the table below.

[0170]

[0171] Fig. 19 is an explanatory diagram of differences in effect depending on the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in Fig. 13. In Fig. 19, the vertical axis represents the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C10 to C12 and C1. The absorption amounts in the stratum corneum for each of test conditions C10 to C12 and C1 are shown as the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 2 to 5 (see reference numeral 2301), the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 6 to 10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 2 to 10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0172] Test conditions C10 to C12 correspond to conditions where the frequencies of the output waveform in infiltration mode M1 are 50 kHz, 70 kHz, and 156 kHz, respectively, and test condition C1 is the above-mentioned no-output condition (a condition where no output waveform is generated from the skin treatment device 1). The test procedure is as described above with reference to FIG. 18.

[0173] As shown in Fig. 19, when the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 shown in Fig. 13 was used, effective results were obtained at all frequencies, as is clear from the results for test condition C1. It is also possible to confirm that the lower the frequency of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1, the slightly higher the absorption amount within the stratum corneum.

[0174] Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram of the difference in effect depending on the current value of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in Fig. 13. In Fig. 20, the vertical axis represents the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C20, C21, and C1. The absorption amounts in the stratum corneum for each of test conditions C20, C21, and C1 are shown as the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0175] Test conditions C20 and C21 correspond to the condition where the frequency of the output waveform of the infiltration mode M1 is 70 kHz, and test condition C20 is the same as test condition C21 except that the current value is twice that of test condition C21. Note that test condition C1 is the above-mentioned output non-use condition.

[0176] As shown in Figure 20, it can be seen that the higher the current value, the greater the absorption amount in all layers. Specifically, when the current value is doubled (test condition C20 compared to test condition C21), the absorption amount is 1.5 times greater. This shows that, at the same frequency, the higher the current value, the greater the absorption amount.

[0177] Fig. 21 is an explanatory diagram of differences in effect depending on the duration of use of the output waveform of infiltration mode M1 as shown in Fig. 13. In Fig. 21, the vertical axis represents the absorption amount β [μg] in the stratum corneum, and the horizontal axis corresponds to various test conditions C30, C31, and C1. The absorption amounts in the stratum corneum for each of test conditions C30, C31, and C1 are shown as the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-5 (see reference numeral 2301), the absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 6-10 (see reference numeral 2302), and the sum of these (absorption amount in the stratum corneum for tapes 2-10) (see reference numeral 2303).

[0178] Test conditions C30 and C31 correspond to conditions where the frequency of the output waveform in infiltration mode M1 is 70 kHz, with test condition C30 corresponding to a usage time of 90 seconds and test condition C31 corresponding to a usage time of 15 seconds. Note that test condition C1 corresponds to the above-mentioned output non-use condition.

[0179] As shown in Figure 21, it can be seen that the longer the usage time, the higher the absorption amount in all layers. Specifically, when the usage time is six times longer (test condition C31 "15 seconds" compared to test condition C30 "90 seconds," which is six times longer), the absorption amount is 3.6 times greater for tapes 2 to 10. This shows that, at the same frequency, the longer the usage time, the higher the absorption amount. Therefore, for example, by including the wet mode M1 in the operating mode A1 and increasing the proportion of the time spent in the wet mode M1 in one cycle of the operating mode A1, it can be expected that the absorption amount per unit time can be efficiently increased.

[0180] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the specific configuration of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the present invention also includes modifications and changes to the above-described embodiments that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, it is possible to combine all or a plurality of the components of the above-described embodiments.

[0181] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 of each of the multiple electrodes 30 is formed in a regular hexagon, and the inner and outer peripheral edges of the outer electrode 32 are also formed in a regular hexagon. However, the shapes of the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode 31 and the inner and outer peripheral edges of the outer electrode 32 are not limited to a regular hexagon and may be a vertically or horizontally elongated hexagon, or another regular polygon having a triangle or more, or a vertically or horizontally elongated polygon, or may even be a circle or an ellipse. Note that, although the shape of the outer peripheral edge of the inner electrode and the shape of the inner peripheral edge of the outer electrode are preferably polygonal or elliptical shapes similar to each other, they may also be polygonal or elliptical shapes that are dissimilar to each other.

[0182] Furthermore, the infiltration mode M1 output waveform shown in Figure 13 is suitable for promoting the penetration of useful substances contained in topical skin preparations, and the substance carrier can be used for any purpose, such as a drug, quasi-drug, or cosmetic, as long as the topical skin preparation is used. For example, it is effective not only for cosmetics and quasi-drugs, but also for promoting the percutaneous absorption of drugs that have been broken down in the liver and have not been able to fully exert their effects. Furthermore, the purpose of the topical preparation to be absorbed percutaneously is arbitrary, and it can be used for any purpose, such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, whitening agents, moisturizing agents, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-inflammatory agents, antibacterial agents, or antiviral drugs.

[0183] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Skin treatment device 2 Grip unit 3 Head unit 3a Contact surface 20 User interface 30 Electrode 31 Inner electrode 32 Outer electrode 33 Outer electrode 100 Control system 110 Control device 111 User input acquisition unit 112 Mode setting unit 113 Control parameter setting unit 114 Control signal generation unit 115 Switching control unit 116 Parameter storage unit 120 Drive circuit unit 121 Drive circuit unit 122 Drive circuit unit 130 Output waveform generation unit 131 Output waveform generation unit 132 Output waveform generation unit 135 Transformer 136 Transformer 137 Transformer 140 Switching circuit unit 141 Switching circuit unit 150 Power supply

Claims

1. A plurality of electrodes that can be brought into contact with the skin of a user; a power source electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes; a control device that realizes output through the plurality of electrodes in a plurality of output modes having mutually different output waveform characteristics; The plurality of output modes includes a combination mode, The combination mode includes a first sub-mode having a function of penetrating an active ingredient into the skin and a second sub-mode having a function of applying an AC stimulus to the skin, A skin treatment device, wherein the frequency of the output waveform of the first sub-mode is 10 to 150 kHz, and the frequency of the output waveform of the second sub-mode is 150 to 200 kHz.

2. A plurality of electrodes that can be brought into contact with the skin of a user; a power source electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes; a control device that realizes output through the plurality of electrodes in a plurality of output modes having mutually different output waveform characteristics; The plurality of output modes includes a combination mode, The combination mode includes a first sub-mode having a function of penetrating an active ingredient into the skin and a second sub-mode having a function of applying an AC stimulus to the skin, The plurality of electrodes form a first electrode group and a second electrode group, The electrodes constituting the first electrode group are arranged in an array, the second electrode group is configured to be spaced apart from one another by a distance greater than the inter-electrode distance of the first electrode group; A skin treatment device, wherein in the combination mode, the first sub-mode is realized by utilizing the second electrode group, and the second sub-mode is realized by utilizing the first electrode group.

3. A plurality of electrodes that can be brought into contact with the skin of a user; a power source electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes; a control device that realizes output through the plurality of electrodes in a plurality of output modes having mutually different output waveform characteristics; The plurality of types of output modes include a combination mode and a fourth output mode having an effect of penetrating an active ingredient into the skin or an effect of electrically stimulating a muscle, The combination mode includes a first sub-mode having a function of penetrating an active ingredient into the skin and a second sub-mode having a function of applying an AC stimulus to the skin, The plurality of electrodes form a first electrode group and a second electrode group, The electrodes constituting the first electrode group are arranged in an array, the second electrode group is configured to be spaced apart from one another by a distance greater than the inter-electrode distance of the first electrode group; A skin treatment device, wherein the fourth output mode is realized by utilizing the second electrode group.

4. A plurality of electrodes that can be brought into contact with the skin of a user; a power source electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes; a control device that realizes output through the plurality of electrodes in a plurality of output modes; A skin treatment device, wherein in at least one of the plurality of output modes, a frequency of an output waveform is controlled based on information of an application agent used by a user.

5. The skin treatment device according to claim 4 , wherein the duration of the at least one output mode is 50% or more of the total duration of each of the plurality of types of output modes.