Skin treatment device

Abstract

Device (1) for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin (P) of the user, the treatment device (1) comprising a main electrode (22), a counter-electrode (23), a photovoltaic cell (3), and a connection system (4) suitable for electrically and mechanically connecting the photovoltaic cell (3) detachably to the main electrode (22) on the one hand and to the counter-electrode (23) on the other hand.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Skin treatment device

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of skin treatment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device for skin treatment, in particular by iontophoresis and / or electroporation and / or electrostimulation, preferably non-therapeutic.

[0005] STATE OF THE ART

[0006] Iontophoresis, electroporation, or electrostimulation are all methods for treating the skin using electrical currents. Skin treatment devices such as facial masks are known, designed to deliver an electrical current to a user's face.

[0007] However, these devices are not very environmentally friendly as they are single-use, sometimes incorporating batteries and / or different metals which can be difficult or even impossible to recycle.

[0008] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0009] One aim of the invention is to improve the durability and recyclability of devices for treating the skin by iontophoresis or electrostimulation.

[0010] According to a first aspect, a device is proposed for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin of the user, the treatment device comprising a main electrode, a counter-electrode, a photovoltaic cell and a connection system adapted to electrically and mechanically removably connect the photovoltaic cell to the main electrode on the one hand and to the counter-electrode on the other hand. The treatment device thus makes it possible to treat the skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation without requiring the use of an electric battery. The treatment device is easy to use because it is sufficient for the photovoltaic cell to be exposed to light for an electrical voltage to be generated. The treatment device is washable and can therefore be reused multiple times.The treatment device is also more easily recyclable and therefore more environmentally friendly than known devices.

[0011] According to advantageous and non-limiting characteristics, taken alone or in any combination: The connection system comprises a first self-gripping material connected to the main electrode and / or a second self-gripping material connected to the counter-electrode and at least a third self-gripping material connected to the photovoltaic cell, the third self-gripping material being adapted to grip the first self-gripping material and / or the second self-gripping material. It is thus easy to electrically and mechanically connect (or disconnect) the photovoltaic cell to the main electrode on the one hand and to the counter-electrode on the other hand.The connection system comprises a first main electrical connector electrically connected to the main electrode and a second main electrical connector electrically connected to the counter electrode, a first secondary electrical connector and a second secondary electrical connector electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell, the first main electrical connector being adapted to be removably electrically connected to the first secondary electrical connector and / or to the second secondary electrical connector and the second main electrical connector being adapted to be removably electrically connected to the second secondary electrical connector and / or to the first secondary electrical connector.

[0012] The first primary electrical connector, the second primary electrical connector, the first secondary electrical connector, and the second secondary electrical connector pass through a hook-and-loop material.

[0013] The connection system comprises a first snap button adapted to electrically and / or mechanically connect the main electrode and the photovoltaic cell and / or a second snap button adapted to electrically and / or mechanically connect the counter electrode and the photovoltaic cell.

[0014] The treatment device comprises a first impregnation film covering the main electrode and / or a second impregnation film covering the counter electrode, the impregnation films being intended to be in contact with the user's skin. Thus, the main electrode and the counter electrode are not in direct contact with the user's skin when the treatment device is applied to the user's skin, the skin being in contact with the skin-friendly impregnation film. The treatment device makes it possible to avoid the appearance of redness.

[0015] The treatment device comprises an insulating element between the main electrode and the counter-electrode, the insulating element preferably being made of silicone. This prevents the occurrence of short circuits between the main electrode and the counter-electrode. The electric current therefore circulates in the skin and the effectiveness of the treatment is optimized. The treatment device comprises adhesion means adapted to ensure contact between the main electrode and the user's skin and between the counter-electrode and the user's skin when the treatment device is applied to the user's skin. When applied to the user's skin, the treatment device is firmly pressed against the user's skin, thus ensuring good circulation of the current in the skin and good diffusion of an active agent of a treatment product in the skin.Additionally, the user can move without the treatment device detaching from the skin.

[0016] The treatment device comprises an electronic module adapted to be electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell, the main electrode and the counter electrode, the electronic module being adapted in particular to control the electric current when the treatment device is applied to the user's skin. The intensity of the electric current can thus be adapted to the type of treatment, optimizing the effectiveness of the treatment.

[0017] The main electrode and / or counter electrode are made of stainless steel. The lifespan of the main electrode and / or counter electrode, and therefore of the treatment device, is increased, making the treatment device more environmentally friendly. In addition, the treatment device is more skin-friendly. The photovoltaic cell is waterproof. The photovoltaic cell can therefore be washed, allowing it to be reused multiple times. In addition, the photovoltaic cell does not deteriorate, for example, when it comes into contact with a treatment product. The photovoltaic cell, and therefore the treatment device, therefore has an increased lifespan.

[0018] The photovoltaic cell is flexible. The treatment device can therefore deform to adapt to the shape of the skin area on which the treatment device is applied, ensuring good treatment effectiveness.

[0019] The treatment device comprises a support on which the main electrode and the counter electrode are arranged. The main electrode and the counter electrode can be connected / disconnected from the photovoltaic cell easily, in a single manipulation.

[0020] The first hook-and-loop material and / or the second hook-and-loop material forms the support. The first hook-and-loop material and / or the second material enables both the mechanically removable connection between the photovoltaic cell and the main electrode and / or between the photovoltaic cell and the counter electrode and both the support of the main electrode and the counter electrode. The treatment device thus requires less material, making it more environmentally friendly and lighter.

[0021] The holder is washable and is made of, for example, plastic and / or textile material. This means that the main electrode and the counter electrode can be easily washed and therefore reused multiple times.

[0022] DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0023] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description of a preferred embodiment. This description will be given with reference to the appended figures, including: Figure 1 illustrates a top view of a treatment device; Figure 2 shows schematically the operation of the device, in a sectional view, when it is applied to the skin of a user; Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a treatment device; Figure 4 illustrates a sectional view of a first part of a treatment device; Figure 5 illustrates a sectional view of a second part of a treatment device; Figure 6 represents the steps of a method of using the treatment device.

[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Device

[0026] With reference to Figure 1, there is provided a device 1 for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis (also called iontophoresis) and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin of the user. The treatment device 1 is intended to be applied to the skin P of the user, in particular and preferably on the face. The treatment device 1 could be applied to any dermal part of the user's body. However, as will be detailed later, the invention proposes different forms of device which are remarkably well suited for particular areas of the face which are often the subject of a desire for treatment by users. The treatment device 1 advantageously allows a cosmetic treatment of the skin, and advantageously a non-therapeutic treatment, for example by optimizing and / or improving the effectiveness of a cosmetic formulation.Different methods are possible to do this, typically the generation of microcurrents, for example according to the principle of iontophoresis and / or electroporation. By optimizing and / or improving the effectiveness of a treatment product such as a cosmetic formulation, it is understood that at least one active agent contained in the cosmetic formulation is likely to have its diffusion in the skin optimized and / or improved by the treatment device 1, in order to increase the effectiveness of the cosmetic treatment of the skin.

[0027] The treatment device 1 is therefore advantageously suitable for use with a treatment product comprising at least one active agent for treating the skin. This active agent allows a cosmetic treatment of the skin, preferably non-therapeutic, the effectiveness of which is increased by the treatment device 1, thanks to the current that it generates, as will be detailed later. Preferably, said active agent is ionized at the pH of the treatment product, for example between 4 and 10, and substantially equal to 7, in order to obtain an electromigration mechanism.

[0028] The treatment device 1 of the invention will improve the diffusion of the active agent in the skin, thanks to the principle of iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. These principles, using electric current to transport an active agent in the skin, are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be detailed in more detail. The treatment product may, for example, comprise a cosmetic product, preferably non-therapeutic, such as a cosmetic cream, a serum, comprising an active agent such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or any other active agent beneficial for the skin and compatible with treatment by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation and / or electroporation. The treatment product may also be a therapeutic product such as a cream for treating burns.

[0029] The treatment device 1 may also be used to eliminate or reduce various types of pain or other sensory discomfort, including, but not limited to, back pain, joint pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, tingling or numbness of the skin, muscle pain, muscle cramps, joint stiffness, etc. To this end, the treatment device 1 may then make it possible to improve the diffusion of an analgesic using the principles set out above.

[0030] The treatment device 1 may therefore have different shapes depending on the area to which it is intended to be applied. For example, a treatment device 1 intended to be applied to the temple and / or the lower area around the eye may have a general drop shape. Thus, the contours of the device are rounded and a first portion of the device, when viewed from above, is wider than a second portion of the device. A treatment device 1 intended to be applied to the cheekbone may have a circular shape. Thus, when viewed from above the device forms a disc. A device intended to be applied to the forehead and / or the glabella may have a triangular shape. The treatment device 1 of FIG. 1 in the shape of a rectangle with rounded corners may, for example, be used on the forehead or under the eyes.Thus, thanks to the different shapes proposed by the invention, each area of ​​the face traditionally treated by treatments (cheekbone, forehead, temple, glabella, etc.) has a device particularly well adapted to the shape of the area in question, which makes it possible to increase the comfort of use, the ergonomics and the effectiveness of the treatment. However, other shapes could be imagined, without departing from the scope of the invention, which would be adapted to other areas of the face or other dermal areas of the body such as for example the tops of the hands, the décolleté, the neck, etc.

[0031] As illustrated in Figure 2, the treatment device 1 comprises a main electrode 22, a counter-electrode 23 and a photovoltaic cell 3 adapted to be electrically connected to the main electrode 22 and to the counter-electrode 23. In a manner known as such, the photovoltaic cell 3 makes it possible to produce electricity from light (natural or artificial) and thus to supply electricity to the electrodes 22, 23. This allows the device 1 not to use a battery and thus to be more environmentally friendly, but also to have infinite autonomy and availability (no battery charging problem).

[0032] Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises a support 21 on which the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are arranged. The support 21 is advantageously a film. The support 21, and consequently, the treatment device 1, is sufficiently flexible to be able to adapt to the shapes and reliefs of the skin of the area to be treated, and in particular to the cheekbones, temple, forehead, glabella, etc. as explained previously. The support 21 is preferably insulating, that is to say that it does not allow the current to pass. This makes it possible to avoid any risk of short circuit within the device, by preventing the current from circulating in the support 21, thus forcing it to take another path, in this case the one passing through the user's skin, as will be detailed later.

[0033] The support 21 is for example made of a flexible plastic such as polyurethane (PU) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Preferably, the support 21 has a thickness greater than or equal to 20 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 40 μm, and less than or equal to 90 μm, for example substantially equal to 50 μm or 80 μm. Indeed, such thicknesses allow the support 21, and therefore the treatment device 1, to conform well to the area of ​​skin on which it is intended to be placed. Preferably, the support 21 is washable. This allows the washing, and therefore the reuse, of at least part of the treatment device 1.

[0034] The electrodes 22, 23 are intended to be applied opposite the user's skin and are adapted to allow the circulation of an electric current in the user's skin, when the treatment device 1 is placed in contact with the user's skin. Indeed, the user's skin behaves as a current consumer, in particular as a resistor. The skin of a mammal, in particular human skin, typically behaves as a resistor having a value between 10 kΩ and 10 MΩ, the value being very variable depending on the individuals and the environmental and measurement conditions. To this end, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 may be formed at least from one main metal, a good electrical conductor.

[0035] The electrodes 22, 23 are intended to be in direct or indirect contact with the skin. By indirect contact, it is meant that an element is arranged between the electrode 22, 23 and the skin such as a treatment product, an absorbent layer and / or a woven or non-woven material (such as an impregnation film 71, 72), etc.

[0036] The treatment device 1 is in a so-called “operating” state when it is applied to the skin of a user and when the photovoltaic cell 3 is activated so as to generate a voltage. The expression “in operation” will subsequently be used to designate a situation in which the treatment device 1 is in operation, that is to say that it generates a potential differential between the electrodes 22, 23, then an electric current when the treatment device 1 is applied to the skin.

[0037] In operation, the photovoltaic cell is therefore activated, for example by being exposed to light (natural or artificial). This results in a voltage across the terminals of the photovoltaic cell, i.e. a potential difference between the terminals. As the device comprising the photovoltaic cell is applied to the skin (which is a resistor), this results in the appearance of an electric current which flows between the electrodes 22, 23 and in the skin of the user. As illustrated in Figure 2, the electric current flows to the main electrode 22, then penetrates into the skin P of the user to reach the counter-electrode 23. The current can also flow in a direction opposite to that illustrated.

[0038] In certain cases, the main electrode 22 is called the “treatment electrode”. In other words, advantageously, the main electrode 22 can specifically allow the improvement of the absorption of an active agent present in the treatment product when the main electrode 22 covers a portion of the user's skin to which the treatment product containing a particular active agent is applied. In operation, the active agent of the treatment product is thus specifically absorbed by the skin at the main electrode 22, the shape of which can then advantageously be chosen to correspond as precisely as possible with the area to be treated. Thus, the main electrode 22 of the device can advantageously have the same shape as the general shape of the treatment device 1, as defined and explained previously.This allows the main electrode 22 to be placed as close and as precisely as possible to the specific area to be treated (cheekbone, temple, forehead, etc.).

[0039] The main electrode 22 may be a positive electrode or a negative electrode and, correspondingly and inversely, the counter electrode 23 may be a negative electrode or a positive electrode.

[0040] Preferably, the nature of the main electrode 22 (positive electrode or negative electrode), and therefore of the counter-electrode 23, is adapted according to the type of treatment product that it is desired to use in combination with the treatment device 1. In particular, the main electrode 22 will be adapted to be a negative electrode for certain types of treatment products such as a vitamin C-based cream while the main electrode 22 will be adapted to be a positive electrode for certain other types of treatment products.

[0041] More specifically, the treatment product may comprise molecules that are positively or negatively charged at a given pH. If the main electrode 22 has the same polarity as the polarity of the molecules, the molecules are repelled by the main electrode 22 and thus pushed towards the user's skin. For example, vitamin C molecules are negatively charged for a pH between 5 and 7. A treatment device 1 aimed at improving the absorption by the skin of vitamin C molecules present in a treatment product will therefore preferably have a main electrode 22 forming a negative electrode.

[0042] The main electrode 22 may comprise carbon, advantageously in the form of a plurality of carbon dots, for example arranged under the main metal constituting the main electrode. This makes it possible to give the user a visual indication of the main electrode 22 (or active electrode as explained previously) to help him position the latter correctly on the area of ​​the skin that he wishes to treat, without however degrading the electrical conductivity of the main electrode 22.

[0043] The counter electrode 23 has a polarity opposite to that of the main electrode 22. The counter electrode 23 is therefore negative if the main electrode 22 is positive and the counter electrode 23 is therefore positive if the main electrode 22 is negative. The polarity of the electrodes depends on the photovoltaic cell 3, in particular on the way in which the photovoltaic cell 3 is connected to the electrodes 22, 23 which determines, i.e. dictates, the polarity of the electrodes as will be explained later.

[0044] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are made from conductive materials, typically metals. Preferably, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 comprise the same material. This allows a particularly simple construction of the device while minimizing the number of different materials in contact with the skin, and therefore the risk of undesirable reactions of the latter. Advantageously, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 are made, i.e. formed, from the same material or set of materials.

[0045] The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may comprise silver and / or silver chloride. The main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may be made of silver and / or silver chloride. In particular, the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23 may each be composed of 55% silver and 45% silver chloride. Silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being hypoallergenic and interacting well with the skin. In addition, silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being good conductors of electricity. Silver chloride is less prone to oxidation than silver, so that combined with silver, it helps to limit oxidation and therefore improve the durability of the electrodes 22, 23.

[0046] Alternatively, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are made of carbon. Carbon is conductive and not very oxidizable.

[0047] Advantageously, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter electrode 23 are made of stainless steel. Stainless steel has the advantage of being hypoallergenic, interacting well with the skin and being particularly durable. In addition, since it does not oxidize, it can be washed. Thus, the support 21 and the electrodes 22, 23 are washable and therefore have a longer service life.

[0048] Advantageously, the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are printed on the support film 21 using conductive inks, and preferably metallic inks. The main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are preferably printed on the support film 21 using electronic printing techniques such as inkjet, offset, gravure printing, screen printing. The main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are preferably printed on the support film 21 by screen printing.

[0049] Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises impregnation films 71, 72 covering the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23. More specifically, the treatment device 1 comprises a first impregnation film 71 covering the main electrode 22 and a second impregnation film 72 covering the counter-electrode 23. The impregnation films 71, 72 can act as a reservoir for the treatment product. The impregnation films 71, 72 can be impregnated with the treatment product advantageously comprising an active agent intended to be diffused into the skin by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation.

[0050] The impregnation films 71, 72 are therefore made from at least one porous material, that is to say a material which absorbs the treatment product.

[0051] Preferably, the impregnation films 71, 72 are made from a non-woven fabric, for example non-woven cotton. A non-woven fabric has the advantage of being absorbent and is generally hypoallergenic so that it can be brought into contact with the skin of a user without risk of skin reaction.

[0052] Furthermore, a non-woven textile has the advantage of being very flexible and therefore does not limit the flexibility of the treatment device 1.

[0053] The impregnation films 71, 72 preferably have a thickness greater than or equal to 100 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 800 μm, and less than or equal to 2 mm. The thickness of the impregnation films 71, 72 will in particular be chosen as a function of the desired absorption capacity of the impregnation films 71, 72.

[0054] The impregnation films 71, 72 are therefore intended to be in contact with the skin in order, on the one hand, to diffuse the treatment product into the latter, and on the other hand, to protect the latter from direct contact with the electrodes 22, 23. The impregnation films 71, 72 are therefore intended to be placed between the skin P of the user and each of the electrodes 22, 23 when using the device.

[0055] The impregnation films 71, 72 make it possible to limit the risk of reddening of the skin and to increase the comfort of use. Indeed, the electrodes 22, 23, possibly metallic, are, thanks to the impregnation films 71, 72, not in direct contact with the skin. In addition, the treatment device 1 also makes it possible to avoid any risk of migration of the metal to the skin since only impregnation films 71, 72 are in contact with the skin.

[0056] According to another embodiment, the electrodes 22, 23 are formed directly by impregnation films 71, 72. In other words, the treatment device 1 comprises a main electrode 22 and a counter-electrode 23, a first impregnation film 71 forming the main electrode 22 and a second impregnation film 72 forming the counter-electrode 23. It is therefore understood here that each electrode 22, 23 is constituted by one or more impregnation films, and therefore that the electrodes 22, 23 do not comprise other elements. In particular, the main electrode 22 and / or the counter-electrode 23 is / are devoid of metal.This thus makes it possible to reduce the quantity of material used for the manufacture of the treatment device 1, and thus its manufacturing cost, while being more respectful of the environment and facilitating its recycling (indeed, it is possible to easily detach the impregnation films 71, 72 from the support 21 to recycle these impregnation films 71, 72 if they are free of metal).

[0057] The fact that the electrodes 22, 23 are not made of metals, such as silver or gold, makes the treatment device 1 less expensive and more environmentally friendly.

[0058] Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises an insulating element 26 between the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23. Preferably, the insulating element 26 is made of silicone. This insulating element 26 may for example take the form of an insulating layer covering the support 21 and perforated at the electrodes 22, 23 so as to allow direct or indirect contact between the electrodes 22, 23 and the skin of the user when the treatment device 1 is applied to the skin of the user. The insulating element 26 makes it possible to prevent short circuits and therefore to guarantee good efficiency of the treatment device 1.

[0059] Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises adhesion means 8 adapted to ensure contact, direct or indirect, between the main electrode 22 and the user's skin and between the counter-electrode 23 and the user's skin when the treatment device 1 is applied to the user's skin. Thus, the treatment device 1 can be stuck to the skin and can be used effectively throughout the treatment without the user having to hold the treatment device 1 against his skin himself. The adhesion means 8 therefore make it possible to hold the treatment device 1 on the skin despite possible external disturbances (wind, clothing, hair, etc.).

[0060] The adhesion means 8 may consist of an adhesive layer. According to a certain embodiment, the adhesive layer may be insulating so that the insulating element 26 is in fact a part of the adhesive layer 8 as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3. The adhesive layer comprises an adhesive face intended to adhere to the user's skin. The adhesive layer may comprise a seal covering the adhesive face. This seal is to be removed to adhere the treatment device 1 to the skin via the adhesive face. The seal may be reusable and can therefore be arranged again on the adhesive face once the treatment is finished.

[0061] The adhesion means 8 may alternatively, or in addition, comprise an elastic band. For example, in the case of a treatment device 1 taking the form of a face mask, the treatment device 1 may comprise an elastic band which would surround the head to press the treatment device 1 against the face. The main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23 are adapted to be electrically and mechanically connected in a removable manner to the photovoltaic cell 3.

[0062] The photovoltaic cell 3 is adapted to produce an electrical voltage from light. The light can be natural, such as sunlight, or artificial, such as light from a light bulb.

[0063] A photovoltaic cell means a cell or a set of cells forming a photovoltaic network / module.

[0064] The photovoltaic cell 3 is advantageously flexible. It advantageously takes the form of a flexible film. By flexible, it is advantageously understood that the photovoltaic cell 3 can have a radius of curvature of 2 cm when it is bent, without it being damaged.

[0065] Preferably, the photovoltaic cell 3 is waterproof. By waterproof, it is understood that the photovoltaic cell 3 is resistant to liquids such as the treatment product and water. Thus, the photovoltaic cell 3 is advantageously washable, which promotes its reuse.

[0066] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the treatment device 1 comprises a connection system 4 adapted to electrically and mechanically removably connect the photovoltaic cell 3 to the main electrode 22 on the one hand and to the counter-electrode 23 on the other hand.

[0067] Advantageously, the treatment device 1 can be separated into two parts comprising a first part 1a illustrated in figure 4 and a second part 1b illustrated in figure 5. The first part 1a comprises at least the photovoltaic cell 3. The second part 1b comprises at least the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23, advantageously arranged on the support 21.

[0068] The fact that the treatment device 1 can be separated into two parts 1a, 1b makes it easier to recycle the treatment device 1. In particular, this makes it possible to separate the device according to the materials it contains: for example, the first part 1a comprising the electrodes 22 and 23 can easily be recycled, particularly if the electrodes 22 and 23 are free of metal as discussed previously. In addition, this allows the washing of the first part 1a even if the second part 1b, in particular the photovoltaic cell 3, is not waterproof and cannot be in contact with water without being damaged. Also, this makes it possible to improve the hygiene of the device since it is possible to wash the first part 1a, which is intended to be in contact with the skin. It is thus possible to reuse the first part 1a several times and for several different treatments thanks to its regular washing.Furthermore, this promotes the reuse of either part 1a, 1b if one of them has a shorter lifespan than the other part. For example, if the first part 1a deteriorates more quickly than the second part 1b, it will still be possible to reuse the second part 1b with a new first part 1a. The treatment device 1 is thus more environmentally friendly.

[0069] For this purpose, the treatment device 1 comprises a connection system 4 which allows the electrical and mechanical connection between the first part 1a, in particular the electrodes 22, 23, and the second part 1b, in particular the photovoltaic cell 3.

[0070] To ensure the electrical connection, as illustrated in figures 2, 4 and 5, the processing device 1 comprises a first main electrical connector 51 electrically connected to the main electrode 22 and a second main electrical connector 52 electrically connected to the counter-electrode 23. The processing device 1 further comprises a first secondary electrical connector 53 and a second secondary electrical connector 54 electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell 3. The first main electrical connector 51 is adapted to be electrically connected in a removable manner to the first secondary electrical connector 53 or to the second secondary electrical connector 54. The second main connector 52 is adapted to be electrically connected in a removable manner to the first secondary electrical connector 53 or to the second secondary electrical connector 54.

[0071] The electrical connectors 51, 52, 53, 54 are, for example, contactors. The contactors are electrotechnical devices intended to establish the passage of an electrical signal during the assembly of the first part 1a and the second part 1b. The contactors of the first part 1a are intended to be in contact with the contactors of the second part 1b.

[0072] The connectors 51, 52, 53, 54 are respectively electrically connected to the main electrode 22, the counter electrode 23 and the photovoltaic cell 3, and therefore comprise an electric wire.

[0073] It should be noted that the connectors 51, 52, 53, 54, in addition to allowing the electrical connection, can also allow the mechanical connection between the electrodes 22, 23 and the photovoltaic cell 3.

[0074] Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises an electronic module (not shown) adapted to be electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell 3 to the main electrode 22 and to the counter-electrode 23. The electronic module is adapted to control the electric current when the treatment device 1 is applied to the user's skin, for example by controlling the electric voltage generated by the photovoltaic cell 3. The electronic module makes it possible, for example, to rectify or modulate the voltage. Advantageously, the electronic module is programmable so that the intensity of the electric current is programmable. Thus, the intensity of the electric current can be adapted, for example according to the treatment product used and / or according to the shape of the device described above, so as to make the treatment device 1 more effective.Programming can be manual, i.e. carried out by use, for example by means of a selection interface (button, screen, etc.) or automatic, for example through an automatic recognition system of the device and / or product being used.

[0075] According to a certain embodiment, pairs of connectors 51, 52, 53, 54 take the form of snap fasteners. More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the processing device 1 comprises a first snap fastener 61 adapted to electrically connect the main electrode 22 and the photovoltaic cell 3. Advantageously, the processing device 1 comprises a second snap fastener 62 adapted to electrically connect the counter-electrode 23 and the photovoltaic cell 3. A snap fastener typically comprises a male part adapted to engage in a female part. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, the male part of the first snap fastener 61 corresponds to the first secondary electrical connector 53 and the female part of the first snap fastener 61 corresponds to the first main electrical connector 51.The male part of the second press stud 62 corresponds to the second secondary electrical connector 54 and the female part of the second press stud 62 corresponds to the second main electrical connector 52. The press studs 61, 62 are then made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metallic material.

[0076] According to this embodiment, the snap fasteners 61, 62 are also adapted to allow a mechanical connection between the first part 1a and the second part 1b. Indeed, during the actual connection, at least one of the male or female parts is designed to deform elastically so as to ensure blocking and therefore assembly between the male and female parts of the button in question.

[0077] Thus, the snap fasteners 61, 62 make it possible to ensure an easy connection of the photovoltaic cell 3 to the main electrode 22 on the one hand and to the counter electrode 23 on the other hand. The connection is both mechanical and electrical. Furthermore, it is removable, in particular thanks to the aforementioned elastic deformation. In addition, the snap fasteners 61, 62 act as foolproof devices insofar as when the snap fasteners 61, 62 are assembled, the treatment device 1 is assembled so that the electrical connection is established between the parts 1a, 1b.

[0078] The device 1 is adapted to operate regardless of which female part a male part is engaged in. In other words, each male part of the snap fasteners can engage in either of the female parts of the snap fasteners. As explained previously, the first main electrical connector 51 of the first part 1a can be connected to any of the electrical connectors 53, 54 of the second part 1b and the second main electrical connector 52 of the first part 1a can be connected to any of the electrical connectors 53, 54 of the second part 1b (the first main electrical connector 51 being adapted to be connected to a connector 53, 54 different from that to which the second main electrical connector 52 is connected).This makes it easier for the user to assemble the parts 1a, 1b of the device 1, who only needs to assemble the snap fasteners without worrying about which male part should engage in which female part. The way in which the parts are connected will impact the polarization of the electrodes 22, 23. Indeed, the second part 1b, comprising the photovoltaic cell 3, is polarized and the electrical connectors 53, 54 of this part are therefore polarized. Consequently, the polarity of the electrodes 22, 23 depends on the polarity of the electrical connectors 53, 54 of the second part 1b and of the electrode 22, 23 to which they are connected (via the electrical connectors 51, 52 of the first part 1a).

[0079] It should be noted that the connection system 4 may comprise snap fasteners only for the mechanical connection between the parts 1a, 1b. In other words, these snap fasteners would not have an electric current circulation function.

[0080] To ensure the mechanical connection of the photovoltaic cell 3 to the main electrode 22 on the one hand and to the counter electrode 23 on the other hand, the connection system 4 may alternatively, or in addition, comprise self-gripping materials. By self-gripping material is meant a part of a self-gripping closure system. A self-gripping closure system comprises two complementary self-gripping parts which, when brought into contact, grip each other and are thus mechanically connected. The self-gripping materials may for example be Velcro®.

[0081] The connection system 4 may comprise a first self-gripping material 41 connected to the main electrode 22. The connection system 4 may comprise a second self-gripping material 42 connected to the counter-electrode 23. The connection system 4 may comprise at least a third self-gripping material 43 connected to the photovoltaic cell 3, the third self-gripping material 43 being adapted to grip the first self-gripping material 41 and / or the second self-gripping material 42. It is therefore understood that the first self-gripping material 41 and a third self-gripping material 43 are complementary and adapted to grip each other. Furthermore, the second self-gripping material 42 and the third self-gripping material 43 are complementary and adapted to grip each other.

[0082] The connection system 4 may comprise two third separate self-gripping materials 43, including a third self-gripping material 43 adapted to grip the first self-gripping material 41 and a third self-gripping material 43 adapted to grip the second self-gripping material 42. It may be envisaged that the third self-gripping material 43 adapted to grip the first self-gripping material 41 is exclusively adapted to grip the first self-gripping material 41, and therefore not the second self-gripping material 42, and that the same would be true reciprocally for the third self-gripping material 43 adapted to grip the second self-gripping material 42, thus forming a single and exclusive connection mode (a sort of foolproofing device).If the connection system 4 comprises a first self-gripping material 41 and a second self-gripping material 42, the first self-gripping material 41 and the second self-gripping material 42 may be distinct or may be part of the same self-gripping material. In the latter case, it is then advantageously possible to design a device 1 in which the self-gripping material 41, 42 then itself directly forms the support 21 for the electrodes 22, 23. In other words, the electrodes 22, 23 can be directly integrated into the self-gripping material 41, 42, for example by printing or screen printing. This makes it possible to save a layer in the construction of the device and therefore to limit its size.

[0083] The hook-and-loop materials allow for a removable connection. Parts 1a, 1b can be separated and assembled multiple times, thus offering the advantages of reuse and hygiene mentioned above.

[0084] The connection system 4 may comprise connection means of different types. For example, the connection system 4 may comprise gripping materials to enable the mechanical connection between the main electrode 22 and the photovoltaic cell 3 and a snap button to enable the mechanical connection between the counter electrode 23 and the photovoltaic cell 3, or vice versa.

[0085] Advantageously, electrical connectors 51, 52, 53, 54 pass through a gripping material 41, 42, 43. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, the connectors 51, 52, 53, 54, in particular electrical wires, pass through the gripping materials 41, 42, 43. Thus, on the one hand the gripping materials 41, 42, 43 ensure the mechanical connection between the first part 1a and the second part 2b, on the other hand the connectors 51, 52, 53, 54 ensure the electrical connection between the first part 1a and the second part 2b.

[0086] Thus, the device 1 according to the invention preferably comprises two parts 1a, 1b, and is advantageously made up of only these two parts 1a, 1b. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the first part 1a comprises the main electrode 22, preferably at least partly covered by the first impregnation film 71, and the counter electrode 23, preferably at least partly covered by the second impregnation film 72. The first part 1a also preferably comprises a support 21. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first part 1a also comprises a first part of a connection system 4a. The latter itself advantageously comprises the first self-gripping material 41 and / or the second self-gripping material 42. Alternatively or additionally, the first part of the connection system 4a may also comprise the first main electrical connector 51 and the second main electrical connector 52.The first part 1a of the treatment device 1 also preferably comprises the insulating element 26, the latter advantageously being able to be formed by a part of the support 21.

[0087] As illustrated in Figure 5, the second part 1 b comprises the photovoltaic cell 3 as well as a second part of the connection system 4 b, complementary to the first part of the connection system 4 a mentioned previously. This second part of the connection system 4 b advantageously comprises the third self-gripping material 43. Preferably, the second part 1 b also comprises the first secondary electrical connector 53 and the second secondary electrical connector 54, respectively intended to cooperate with the first main electrical connector 51 and the second main electrical connector 52 of the first part 1 a.

[0088] It is therefore understood that the first part 1a and second part 1b are designed to be able to be assembled and disassembled from each other, according to the will of the user. When the first part 1a and second part 1b are separated from each other (they are disassembled), the device 1 is not able to operate but is on the contrary, able for example to be stored or cleaned. When the first part 1a and second part 1b are assembled (they are linked, connected together), the device 1 is able to operate, subject to the presence of light activating the photovoltaic cell 3.

[0089] The user therefore has, thanks to these separable first part 1a and second part 1b, a multitude of possibilities in the use of the device 1: operation, storage, cleaning (or even washing) of the first part 1a only, cleaning (or even washing) of the second part 1b only, replacement of the first part 1a only, replacement or repair of the second part 1b only, selection of a first part 1a from a plurality of first parts 1a to be assembled with a single second part 1b (for example to choose a type of treatment or a treatment area), etc. Thanks to these multiple possibilities, the device can be used several times, in different configurations, cleaned, repaired, etc. so that it is particularly environmentally friendly.

[0090] Method of use

[0091] With reference to Figure 6, a method of using the treatment device 1 presented previously is proposed.

[0092] In a step a) of applying the treatment product, the user applies treatment product to an area of ​​his body to be treated. Alternatively, the user applies treatment product to the electrodes 22, 23 preferably covered with impregnation films 71, 72. Advantageously, even if the user applies treatment product between the electrodes 22, 23, there will be no short circuits thanks to the insulating element 26.

[0093] In a step a1) of assembling the parts of the device, the user assembles the first part 1a of the treatment device 1 comprising the electrodes 22, 23 and the second part 1b of the treatment device 1 comprising the photovoltaic cell 3 so as to bring the connectors 51, 52, 53, 54 into contact. More precisely, the first main electrical connector 51 electrically connected to the main electrode 22 is connected to a connector electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell 3, i.e. one of the first secondary electrical connector 53 and the second secondary electrical connector 54. The second main electrical connector 52 electrically connected to the counter-electrode 23 is connected to a connector electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell 3, i.e. the other of the first secondary electrical connector 53 and the second secondary electrical connector 54.

[0094] The mechanical and electrical connection can, for example, be ensured by hook-and-loop materials and / or snap fasteners.

[0095] It should be noted that step a1) of assembly can be carried out prior to step a) of application of treatment product.

[0096] In a step b) of applying the device to the skin, the treatment device 1 is applied to the user's skin. Advantageously, the electrode 22 is arranged opposite the area of ​​skin to be treated and is thus in direct or indirect contact with the area of ​​skin to be treated. The treatment device 1 is advantageously held on the user's skin by means of the adhesion means 8.

[0097] In a step c) of exposure to light, the photovoltaic cell 3 is exposed to light. Advantageously, the photovoltaic cell 3 is exposed to sunlight because this allows the production of an electrical voltage of greater intensity. In practice, it is sufficient for the user to be in a room in daylight, i.e. the room is not plunged into darkness, for the treatment device 1 to operate, i.e. for the photovoltaic cell 3 to produce electricity.

[0098] Consequently, as illustrated in Figure 2, an electric current is produced by the device 1, circulates to the skin P of the user via the main electrode 22 then circulates to the counter-electrode 23 to return to the photovoltaic cell 3. The treatment device 1 has the advantage of not limiting the treatment duration. Indeed, as long as the treatment device 1, in particular the photovoltaic cell 3, is exposed to light, the treatment device 1 operates.

[0099] At the end of the treatment, in a step d) of removing the device, the user removes the treatment device 1 from his skin. The user can then wash the treatment device 1. Advantageously, the photovoltaic cell 3 and the electrodes 22, 23 are washable and the entire treatment device 1 can be washed, and therefore placed for example in a washing machine. If the photovoltaic cell 3 is more fragile than the electrodes 22, 23, the first part 1a is separated from the second part 1b and the parts of the treatment device 1 can be washed separately. Alternatively, only the first part 1a comprising the electrodes 22, 23, which is in contact with the treatment product and the skin, is washed. The photovoltaic cell 3, which remains clean in practice, is not necessarily washed, thus avoiding damaging it.

[0100] After washing, the treatment device 1 can be reassembled if the parts 1a and 1b have been separated, and can be used again. If one of the parts, for example the first part 1a, in particular for example the electrodes 22, 23, is worn after multiple uses, the user can use a new first part 1a while keeping the same second part 1b. This limits the waste of materials. The treatment device 1 is thus more environmentally friendly.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Device (1) for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and / or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin (P) of the user, the treatment device (1) comprising a main electrode (22), a counter-electrode (23), a photovoltaic cell (3) and a connection system (4) adapted to electrically and mechanically removably connect the photovoltaic cell (3) to the main electrode (22) on the one hand and to the counter-electrode (23) on the other hand.

2. Treatment device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the connection system (4) comprises a first self-gripping material (41) connected to the main electrode (22) and / or a second self-gripping material (42) connected to the counter-electrode (23) and at least a third self-gripping material (43) connected to the photovoltaic cell (3), the third self-gripping material (43) being adapted to grip the first self-gripping material (41) and / or the second self-gripping material (42).

3. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the connection system (4) comprises a first main electrical connector (51) electrically connected to the main electrode (22) and a second main electrical connector (52) electrically connected to the counter-electrode (23), a first secondary electrical connector (53) and a second secondary electrical connector (54) electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell (3), the first main electrical connector (51) being adapted to be electrically connected in a removable manner to the first secondary electrical connector (53) and / or to the second secondary electrical connector (54) and the second main electrical connector (52) being adapted to be electrically connected in a removable manner to the second secondary electrical connector (54) and / or to the first secondary electrical connector (53).

4. Treatment device (1) according to claims 2 and 3, wherein the first main electrical connector (51), the second main electrical connector (52), the first secondary electrical connector (53) and the second secondary electrical connector (54) pass through a self-gripping material (41, 42, 43).

5. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connection system (4) comprises a first snap button (61) adapted to electrically and / or mechanically connect the main electrode (22) and the photovoltaic cell (3) and / or a second snap button (62) adapted to electrically and / or mechanically connect the counter-electrode (23) and the photovoltaic cell (3).

6. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a first impregnation film (71) covering the main electrode (22) and / or a second impregnation film (72) covering the counter-electrode (23), the impregnation films (71, 72) being intended to be in contact with the skin of the user.

7. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising an insulating element (26) between the main electrode (22) and the counter-electrode (23), the insulating element (26) preferably being made of silicone.

8. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising adhesion means (8) adapted to ensure contact between the main electrode (22) and the skin of the user and between the counter-electrode (23) and the skin of the user when the treatment device (1) is applied to the skin of the user.

9. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising an electronic module adapted to be electrically connected to the photovoltaic cell (3), to the main electrode (22) and to the counter-electrode (23), the electronic module being adapted in particular to control the electric current when the treatment device (1) is applied to the user's skin.

10. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the main electrode (22) and / or the counter electrode (23) are made of stainless steel.

11. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, in which the photovoltaic cell (3) is waterproof.

12. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in which the photovoltaic cell (3) is flexible.

13. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a support (21) on which the main electrode (22) and the counter-electrode (23) are arranged.

14. Treatment device (1) according to the preceding claim and claim 2, wherein the first self-gripping material (41) and / or the second self-gripping material (42) forms the support (21).

15. Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein the support (21) is washable and is made for example of a plastic and / or textile material.

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