Beauty instrument

Abstract

A beauty instrument (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body part (10); a treatment part (20) which is provided at an end of the main body part (10) when viewed from the thickness direction (Z) of the main body part (10) and which is formed such that the outer peripheral edge thereof has at least one convex curved part (22) and at least one concave curved part; and three or more electrode parts (31-34) which are provided, separated from each other, on the treatment part (20). Recesses are formed in each of at least one part selected from the group consisting of each of the three or more electrode parts (31-34) and the periphery of each of the three or more electrode parts (31-34).

Description

Beauty equipment

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a beauty device.

[0002] As disclosed in the following Patent Document 1, a beauty device has been proposed that includes a main body, a first electrode provided in a grippable portion of the main body, and a second electrode having a concavely curved portion located on one edge of the main body. In this Patent Document 1, the first and second electrodes are configured to form an external circuit that allows current to flow through the human body. Then, while holding the first electrode, the second electrode is moved while being brought into contact with the skin, such as the cheek, thereby physically massaging the area in contact with the second electrode and allowing current to flow through the area in contact with the second electrode. In this way, the beauty device of Patent Document 1 enhances the beauty effects on the skin.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-079368

[0004] However, with the above-described conventional technology, only the area of ​​the skin that comes into contact with the second electrode is the area that is treated by electrical stimulation, making it impossible to efficiently treat the skin.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a beauty tool that can further improve the efficiency of treatment on the skin.

[0006] A beauty device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a main body, a treatment section provided at an end of the main body when viewed in the thickness direction of the main body, the treatment section having an outer circumferential edge formed to have at least one convex curved section and at least one concave curved section, and three or more electrode sections provided spaced apart from each other on the treatment section, wherein a recess is formed in at least one portion selected from the group consisting of each of the three or more electrode sections and the periphery of each of the three or more electrode sections.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, a beauty tool capable of further improving the efficiency of treatment on the skin can be provided.

[0008] 1 is a perspective view of a beauty device according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a side view of a beauty device according to an embodiment; FIG. 3 is a front view of a beauty device according to an embodiment; FIG. 4 is a rear view of a beauty device according to an embodiment; FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in FIG. 3; FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a method of using a beauty device according to an embodiment; FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of a first electrode section according to an embodiment; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of a second electrode section according to an embodiment; FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of a third electrode section according to an embodiment; FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of a fourth electrode section according to an embodiment; FIG. 11 is a diagram conceptually showing a first mode; FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an output waveform in a first output band; FIG. 13 is a diagram conceptually showing an output waveform in a second output band; FIG. 14 is a diagram conceptually showing a second mode.

[0009] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary detailed descriptions may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters or redundant descriptions of substantially identical configurations may be omitted.

[0010] The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0011] In the following embodiments, for example, as shown in Fig. 3, a direction substantially parallel to the long side 10a of the main body 10 is referred to as the longitudinal direction X or X-direction. The thickness direction of the main body 10 is referred to as the thickness direction Z or Z-direction. The direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and perpendicular to the thickness direction Z is referred to as the lateral direction Y or Y-direction.

[0012] 1 to 4 are perspective, side, front, and rear views of a beauty tool 1 according to an embodiment. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Fig. 3. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of how to use the beauty tool 1.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 , the beauty tool 1 according to this embodiment includes a flat main body 10, a treatment unit 20, and an electrode unit 30, and is shaped like a gua sha (the main body 10 is flat). As shown in FIG. 6 , the beauty tool 1 is used by a user U holding the main body 10 and placing the treatment unit 20 against skin S, such as the cheek or forehead. Physical stimulation can be applied to the skin S by moving the treatment unit 20 against the skin S, such as the cheek or forehead. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the beauty tool 1 can also apply electrical stimulation to the skin S by energizing the electrode unit 30. This allows, for example, EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) training of muscles in the face and other areas.

[0014] In this embodiment, the main body 10 includes a housing 11. The housing 11 is flat and forms the outer shell of the main body 10. As shown in Fig. 5, the main body 10 has a hollow portion 12 therein, which houses electrical appliances such as a control circuit board and a storage battery. In this embodiment, the hollow portion 12 is covered from the outside by the housing 11.

[0015] The main body 10 functions as a gripping part that is held by the user U in the hand when using the beauty tool 1. Then, while the user U is holding the main body 10, the user U can apply at least one of physical stimulation and electrical stimulation to the skin of the user U or the skin of a person receiving treatment by moving the treatment part 20 in contact with the user U's own skin S or the skin of a person receiving treatment other than the user U.

[0016] In this embodiment, the main body 10 is formed to have a substantially trapezoidal shape when viewed from the Z direction, as shown in Fig. 2. The main body 10 has long sides 10a, short sides 10b, first oblique sides 10c, and second oblique sides 10d. The substantially trapezoidal shape is formed by the long sides 10a, short sides 10b, first oblique sides 10c, and second oblique sides 10d.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 2 , the long side 10a forms the outer periphery of the beauty tool 1 when viewed from the Z direction. The short side 10b extends toward the side where the treatment unit 20 is provided. The first oblique side 10c connects one end of the long side 10a to one end of the short side 10b, and extends toward the side where the treatment unit 20 is provided. The second oblique side 10d connects the other end of the long side 10a to the other end of the short side 10b, and forms the outer periphery of the beauty tool 1.

[0018] The housing 11 is formed so that the outer surface is generally rounded. This minimizes the formation of edges on the outer surface. This prevents the user U from touching the edges with their hand when they grip the main body 10, which can cause unnecessary irritation to the user U's hand. The housing 11 can be formed, for example, by joining multiple divided bodies made of synthetic resin.

[0019] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a power / mode switch 13 is formed on the long side 10a of the main body 10 (the end opposite the side on which the treatment unit 20 is provided when viewing the main body 10 from the thickness direction Z) (see FIG. 4). The power / mode switch 13 is a switch for turning the power on / off and switching the EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) output pattern. Also, a level switch (EMS level selection switch) 14 for adjusting the level of electrical stimulation applied by the electrode unit 30 (the current level of the electrode unit 30) and a heat switch 15 for adjusting the level of heat are formed on the long side 10a of the main body 10. In this embodiment, the power / mode switch 13, the level switch 14, and the heat switch 15 are arranged in this order along the longitudinal direction X of the main body 10. In addition, in this embodiment, the level switch 14 is composed of a + side switch and a - side switch, and the current level can be increased by operating the + side switch, and can be decreased by operating the - side switch.

[0020] The EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) output patterns that can be switched by operating the power / mode switch 13 include a first mode, a second mode, etc. These modes are set based on the frequency of the current passed through the skin S of the user U or the skin of a person receiving treatment other than the user U, and the combination of electrodes to which the current is passed. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which one or more of the first mode and the second mode are used as the EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) output pattern.

[0021] [Example of configuration of treatment unit] The treatment unit 20 is provided at the end 10e of the main body 10 when viewed from the thickness direction Z of the main body 10. In this embodiment, the short side portion 10b and the first oblique side portion 10c correspond to the end 10e of the main body 10, and the treatment unit 20 is provided at the short side portion 10b and the first oblique side portion 10c of the main body 10 when viewed from the Z direction. This treatment unit 20 is supported by the main body 10 via a support portion 16 made of resin.

[0022] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the treatment unit 20 includes a housing 21, which forms the outer shell of the treatment unit 20. The housing 21 can be formed, for example, by joining together multiple divided bodies formed with approximately the same thickness. In this embodiment, a hollow portion is formed inside the housing 21. The housing 21 can be formed, for example, using an electrically insulating resin material. In this embodiment, the treatment unit 20 is designed to be heated by the heating unit 40, as will be described later. For this reason, it is preferable to use a housing 21 made of polycarbonate containing carbon. Note that if a resin containing carbon is used for the housing 21, the surface of the housing must be processed to prevent conduction with the electrode unit 30.

[0023] The treatment portion 20 is formed so that the outer peripheral edge 20a has at least one convex curved portion 22 and at least one concave curved portion 26. Specifically, the housing 21 is provided with at least one convex curved portion 22 and at least one concave curved portion 26. In this embodiment, the at least one convex curved portion 22 includes a first convex curved portion 23, a second convex curved portion 24, and a third convex curved portion 25. In this embodiment, the at least one concave curved portion 26 includes a first concave curved portion 27, a second concave curved portion 28, a third concave curved portion 29a, and a fourth concave curved portion 29b (see FIG. 2).

[0024] When the housing 21 is attached to the end portion 10e of the main body portion 10 and viewed from the Z direction, a first convex curved portion 23 is formed on the side of the intersection 10f between the long side portion 10a and the first oblique side portion 10c of the housing 21.

[0025] The first convex curved portion 23 is formed to protrude in a direction intersecting (substantially perpendicular to) the first oblique side portion 10c when viewed from the Z direction. The first convex curved portion 23 is formed with a first convex ridge portion 23d that smoothly continues from the bottom portion 23a through the apex portion 23b to the bottom portion 23c.

[0026] Furthermore, when the housing 21 is attached to the end portion 10e of the main body portion 10 and viewed from the Z direction, a second convex curved portion 24 is formed on the side of the intersection 10g between the short side portion 10b and the first oblique side portion 10c of the housing 21.

[0027] When viewed from the Z direction, the second convex curved portion 24 is formed to protrude in a direction intersecting (substantially perpendicular to) the first oblique side portion 10c. The second convex curved portion 24 has a second convex ridge portion 24d that smoothly continues from the bottom portion 24a through the apex portion 24b to the bottom portion 24c. In this embodiment, the second convex curved portion 24 protrudes outward more than the first convex curved portion 23.

[0028] Furthermore, between the first convex curved portion 23 and the second convex curved portion 24 (between the bottom portion 23c and the bottom portion 24a), a first concave curved portion 27 is formed, which smoothly connects the first convex curved portion 23 and the second convex curved portion 24.

[0029] The first concave curved portion 27 is formed to be recessed in a direction intersecting (substantially perpendicular to) the first oblique side portion 10 c when viewed from the Z direction. The first concave curved portion 27 has a first concave ridge portion 27 b that smoothly continues from the bottom 23 c of the first convex curved portion 23 through the apex 27 a to the bottom 24 a of the second convex curved portion 24.

[0030] When the housing 21 is attached to the end 10e of the main body 10 and viewed from the Z direction, a third convex curved portion 25 is formed on the side of the intersection 10h between the short side 10b and the second oblique side 10d of the housing 21. The intersection 10i between the long side 10a and the second oblique side 10d is formed at a position away from the treatment area 20.

[0031] When viewed from the Z direction, the third convex curved portion 25 protrudes in a direction intersecting (substantially perpendicular to) the short side portion 10b. The third convex curved portion 25 has a third convex ridge portion 25d that smoothly continues from the bottom portion 25a through the apex portion 25b to the bottom portion 25c. In this embodiment, the third convex curved portion 25 protrudes less than the first convex curved portion 23.

[0032] Therefore, in this embodiment, the protrusion amount of the second convex curved portion 24 (the distance from the apex 24b to the main body 10) is the largest, and the protrusion amount of the third convex curved portion 25 (the distance from the apex 25b to the main body 10) is the smallest. The protrusion amount of the first convex curved portion 23 (the distance from the apex 23b to the main body 10) is intermediate between the protrusion amounts of the second convex curved portion 24 and the third convex curved portion 25.

[0033] In this way, in this embodiment, by providing three types of convex curved portions 22, it is possible to bring the most appropriate convex curved portion 22 into contact with the skin when massaging the skin.

[0034] Furthermore, a second concave curved portion 28 that smoothly connects the second convex curved portion 24 and the third convex curved portion 25 is formed between the second convex curved portion 24 and the third convex curved portion 25 (between the bottom portion 24c and the bottom portion 25a).

[0035] The second concave curved portion 28 is formed to be recessed in a direction intersecting (substantially perpendicular to) the short side portion 10 b when viewed from the Z direction. The second concave curved portion 28 has a second concave ridge portion 28 b that smoothly continues from the bottom 24 c of the second convex curved portion 24 through the apex 28 a to the bottom 25 a of the third convex curved portion 25.

[0036] In this embodiment, when viewed from the Z direction, the second concave curved portion 28 is curved more gently than the first concave curved portion 27. In other words, the second concave ridge portion 28b has a smaller curvature than the first concave ridge portion 27b.

[0037] In this way, in this embodiment, by providing at least two types of concave curved portions 26, it is possible to bring the most appropriate concave curved portion 26 into contact with the skin when massaging the skin.

[0038] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the distance between the apex 24b of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25 is longer than the distance between the apex 23b of the first convex curved portion 23 and the apex 24b of the second convex curved portion 24. By forming at least one such convex curved portion 22, it becomes possible to bring the concave curved portion 26 into more optimal contact with the skin when massaging the skin.

[0039] In particular, the gently curved second concave curved portion 28 is suitable for contact when massaging the cheeks, forehead, etc. The largely curved first concave curved portion 27 is suitable for massaging the jaw while being in contact from the cheek side to the throat side.

[0040] In this embodiment, when viewed from the Z direction, the inflection points of the curve of the outer peripheral edge 20a are the bottoms 23c, 24a, 24c, and 25a.

[0041] As described above, in this embodiment, the housing 21 is formed so as to have a shape resembling a lowercase inverted y when viewed from the Z direction, as shown in FIG.

[0042] In the present embodiment, the outer peripheral edge 20a is formed to have three convex curved portions 22 (23, 24, 25) as an example of the at least one convex curved portion of the present disclosure. However, the number of the at least one convex curved portion of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and one or two convex curved portions may be formed, or four or more convex curved portions may be formed.

[0043] In addition, in this embodiment, the outer peripheral edge 20a is formed to have a plurality of concave curved portions 26, including two concave curved portions 26, a first concave curved portion 27 and a second concave curved portion 28, as an example of the at least one concave curved portion of the present disclosure. The number of the at least one concave curved portion of the present disclosure can vary, and may be one concave curved portion, two concave curved portions, or three or more concave curved portions.

[0044] Furthermore, the convex curved portion 22 and the concave curved portion 26 are not limited to being used in contact with the above-mentioned locations, but can be used in contact with any desired part of the human body for massage. In other words, the convex curved portion 22 and the concave curved portion 26 can be placed in contact with any desired part of the human body according to the preference of the user U or the person receiving massage.

[0045] The electrode unit 30 is provided at the end of the treatment unit 20 when viewed from the thickness direction Z. In this embodiment, the electrode unit 30 is provided between the apex 24b of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25. More specifically, the electrode unit 30 is provided between the bottom 24c of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25. The surface of the treatment unit 20 located between the bottom 24c of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25 is a surface of the treatment unit 20 that can simultaneously come into contact with the skin S, as shown in FIG. 6 . In other words, the surface of the treatment unit 20 located between the bottom 24c of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25 is a single closed area of ​​the treatment unit 20 that can simultaneously come into contact with the skin S.

[0046] Furthermore, three or more electrode sections 30 are formed in a portion of the treatment section 20 that forms a single closed area that can simultaneously contact the skin S. In this manner, in the present embodiment, three or more electrode sections 30 are formed in a single closed area of ​​the treatment section 20 that can simultaneously contact the skin S. This allows three or more electrode sections 30 to be applied to the skin S simultaneously, allowing the skin S to feel electrical stimulation more stably. Furthermore, by arranging all of the three or more electrode sections 30 on the surface between the bottom 24c of the second convex curved section 24 and the top 25b of the third convex curved section 25, it becomes possible to lift the skin while applying electrical stimulation to the user U or the person being treated. As a result, the skin S can be lifted by the effects of both electrical stimulation and physical stimulation.

[0047] In order to apply electrical stimulation to human skin (skin S of a user U, etc.), it is necessary to apply two or more electrode units 30 to the skin S and pass electricity between the different electrode units 30. The strength of the electrical stimulation felt by the skin S at this time is generally determined by the waveform and voltage of the electricity passed between the different electrode units 30.

[0048] Therefore, even when applying a two-pole electrode unit 30 to the skin S to pass an electric current, the electrical stimulation felt by the skin S can be strengthened by increasing the current flow time or duty ratio of the electricity flowing between the electrode units 30, changing the waveform, or increasing the voltage value.

[0049] However, increasing the energization time, duty ratio, or voltage value can lead to pain for the user U or the person receiving treatment, and is therefore not desirable from the standpoint of usability and safety.

[0050] In contrast, if an electrode unit 30 with three or more poles is used to apply electrical stimulation to the skin S, it becomes possible to apply electricity with two or more outputs to the skin S. In this way, even if electricity with the same waveform and voltage as when a two-pole electrode unit 30 is used, it becomes possible to apply a stronger electrical stimulation to the skin S than when a two-pole electrode unit 30 is used. Therefore, when an electrode unit 30 with three or more poles is used, it becomes possible to apply a stronger electrical stimulation to the skin S without increasing the current application time, duty ratio, or voltage value. In other words, it becomes possible to apply a stronger electrical stimulation to the skin S more safely while reducing pain.

[0051] Furthermore, if electricity can be passed through the skin S at two or more outputs, it becomes possible to pass electricity over a wider area of ​​the skin S than when electricity is passed through the skin S at a single output. This reduces the number of times the treatment unit 20 needs to be moved over the skin S when treating the skin S, making it possible to treat the skin S more efficiently. As a result, it becomes possible to perform treatment while reducing the burden on the skin S.

[0052] Therefore, in this embodiment, the treatment section 20 is provided with four (three or more) electrode sections 30 spaced apart from each other (electrically separated).

[0053] That is, in the present embodiment, the electrode section 30 includes a first electrode section 31, a second electrode section 32, a third electrode section 33, and a fourth electrode section 34. The second electrode section 32 is provided at a position distant from the first electrode section 31. The third electrode section 33 is provided at a position distant from the first electrode section 31 and the second electrode section 32. The fourth electrode section 34 is provided at a position distant from the first electrode section 31, the second electrode section 32, and the third electrode section 33.

[0054] Electrical current is passed through the skin S between the first electrode portion 31 and the third electrode portion 33, and between the second electrode portion 32 and the fourth electrode portion 34, respectively, so that electrical stimulation can be applied to the skin S through two outputs. In this embodiment, the first electrode portion 31, the second electrode portion 32, the third electrode portion 33, and the fourth electrode portion 34 are evenly arranged between the apex 24b of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25. That is, the first electrode portion 31, the second electrode portion 32, the third electrode portion 33, and the fourth electrode portion 34 are arranged in this order in a linear chain between the bottom portion 24c of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved portion 25. In this case, the distance between each electrode portion 30 is preferably 5 mm or more and 15 mm or less. In this way, by making the distance between the electrode sections 30 uniform in all sections, it becomes possible to apply electrical stimulation uniformly to the facial muscles and facial fascia.

[0055] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first electrode portion 31 according to the embodiment. In this embodiment, the first electrode portion 31 is disposed between the apex 24b of the second convex curved portion 24 and the apex 28a of the second concave curved portion 28. The first electrode portion 31 may be formed using a conductive material such as a metal. The first electrode portion 31 may contain a metal such as titanium to improve biosafety, or a metal such as stainless steel to reduce corrosion. Alternatively, a thin chromium film may be applied to the base material to increase hardness and make the first electrode portion 31 less susceptible to scratches. As shown in FIG. 7, the first electrode portion 31 includes a first exposed portion 31a, a first sidewall portion 31b, and a first protruding portion 31c.

[0056] The first exposed portion 31a has a plate shape. The first exposed portion 31a has an outer surface that contacts the skin S and is the exposed surface, and an inner surface located on the opposite side of the outer surface. In this embodiment, the first exposed portion 31a has a substantially triangular shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the exposed surface of the first exposed portion 31a (the short-side direction Y) (see FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the first exposed portion 31a is tilted at approximately 17 degrees with respect to the X-axis in FIG. 7. The first side wall portion 31b extends from the end of the first exposed portion 31a toward the main body portion 10 when viewed from the short-side direction Y, forming a substantially triangular tube. The first protrusion portion 31c is located approximately at the center of the first exposed portion 31a in the short-side direction Y and protrudes toward the inner surface of the first exposed portion 31a.

[0057] The first exposed portion 31a is the surface that comes into contact with the skin S, and in this embodiment, the edge between the first exposed portion 31a and the first side wall portion 31b is removed. This smooths the gap between the first exposed portion 31a and the first side wall portion 31b, improving the contact of the first exposed portion 31a with the skin. Specifically, a curved surface is formed at the joint between the outer surface of the first exposed portion 31a and the first side wall portion 31b, and rounded surfaces are formed on both sides of the curved surface, thereby removing the edge between the first exposed portion 31a and the first side wall portion 31b. This prevents the skin S from being injured by the body portion 10 riding up when the beauty tool 1 is used while gripping and moving the body portion 10.

[0058] Furthermore, since the larger the area of ​​the electrode unit 30 that comes into contact with the skin S, the lower the contact resistance with the skin S, it is preferable that the area of ​​the portion of the first electrode unit 31 that comes into contact with the skin S is larger. However, if the area of ​​the first electrode unit 31 that comes into contact with the skin S is made too large, the treatment unit 20 will become larger, and the main body unit 10 will also become larger. Furthermore, since the beauty tool 1 is used by gripping and moving the main body unit 10, if the main body unit 10 becomes larger, it will become difficult to use when gripped by hand. Therefore, the area of ​​the portion of the first electrode unit 31 that comes into contact with the skin S should be 100 cm ２ More than 300cm ２ It is preferable to have the following:

[0059] In this embodiment, the first electrode portion 31 is fixed to the housing 21. Specifically, the first electrode portion 31 is fixed to the housing 21 by hardening rubber poured into the groove portion 21a of the housing 21 and by an elastic body 21b disposed between the housing 21 and the inner surface of the first electrode portion 31. In this embodiment, a double-sided tape is used as the elastic body 21b.

[0060] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second electrode portion 32 according to the embodiment. The second electrode portion 32 is disposed between the first electrode portion 31 and the bottom portion 25a of the third convex portion 25. This second electrode portion 32 can also be formed using a conductive material, such as a metal. The second electrode portion 32 may contain a metal such as titanium to improve biosafety, or a metal such as stainless steel to reduce corrosion. A thin chromium film may be applied to the base material to increase hardness and make the second electrode portion 32 less susceptible to scratches. As shown in FIG. 8, the second electrode portion 32 includes a second exposed portion 32a, a second sidewall portion 32b, and a second protruding portion 32c.

[0061] The second exposed portion 32a is also plate-shaped and has an outer surface that contacts the skin S and is the exposed surface, and an inner surface located on the opposite side of the outer surface. In this embodiment, the second exposed portion 32a has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the exposed surface of the second exposed portion 32a (the short-side direction Y) (see FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the second exposed portion 32a is tilted at approximately 9 degrees with respect to the X-axis in FIG. 8. The second side wall portion 32b extends from the end of the second exposed portion 32a toward the main body portion 10 when viewed from the short-side direction Y, forming a substantially rectangular tube. The second protrusion portion 32c is located approximately at the center of the second exposed portion 32a in the short-side direction Y and protrudes toward the inner surface of the second exposed portion 32a.

[0062] The second exposed portion 32a is also a surface that comes into contact with the skin S, and in this embodiment, the edge between the second exposed portion 32a and the second side wall portion 32b is rounded. This smooths the area between the second exposed portion 32a and the second side wall portion 32b, improving the contact of the second exposed portion 32a with the skin. Specifically, a curved surface is formed at the joint between the outer surface of the second exposed portion 32a and the second side wall portion 32b, and rounded surfaces are formed on both sides of the curved surface, thereby rounding the edge between the second exposed portion 32a and the second side wall portion 32b. This prevents the skin S from being injured by the body portion 10 riding up when the beauty tool 1 is used while gripping and moving the body portion 10.

[0063] Furthermore, the larger the area of ​​the second electrode 32 that comes into contact with the skin S, the lower the contact resistance with the skin S, so it is preferable that the area of ​​the portion of the second electrode 32 that comes into contact with the skin S is larger. However, if the area of ​​the second electrode 32 that comes into contact with the skin S is made too large, the treatment section 20 will become larger, and the main body 10 will also become larger. Furthermore, since the beauty tool 1 is used by gripping and moving the main body 10, if the main body 10 becomes larger, it will become difficult to use when gripped by hand. Therefore, the area of ​​the portion of the second electrode 32 that comes into contact with the skin S should be 100 cm or less. ２ More than 300cm ２ It is preferable to have the following:

[0064] In this embodiment, the second electrode portion 32 is also fixed to the housing 21. Specifically, the second electrode portion 32 is fixed to the housing 21 by hardening rubber poured into the groove portion 21c of the housing 21 and by an elastic body 21d disposed between the housing 21 and the inner surface of the second electrode portion 32. In this embodiment, a double-sided tape is used as the elastic body 21d.

[0065] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the third electrode portion 33 according to the embodiment. The third electrode portion 33 is disposed between the second electrode portion 32 and the bottom portion 25a of the third convex portion 25. This third electrode portion 33 can also be formed using a conductive material, such as a metal. The third electrode portion 33 may contain a metal such as titanium to improve biosafety, or a metal such as stainless steel to reduce corrosion. A thin chromium film may be applied to the base material to increase hardness and make the third electrode portion 33 less susceptible to scratches. As shown in FIG. 9 , the third electrode portion 33 includes a third exposed portion 33a, a third sidewall portion 33b, and a third protruding portion 33c.

[0066] The third exposed portion 33a is also plate-shaped and has an outer surface that contacts the skin S and is the exposed surface, and an inner surface located on the opposite side of the outer surface. In this embodiment, the third exposed portion 33a has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the exposed surface of the third exposed portion 33a (the short-side direction Y) (see FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the third exposed portion 33a is tilted at approximately 8 degrees with respect to the X-axis in FIG. 9. The third side wall portion 33b extends from the end of the third exposed portion 33a toward the main body portion 10 when viewed from the short-side direction Y, forming a substantially rectangular tube. The third protrusion portion 33c is located approximately at the center of the third exposed portion 33a in the short-side direction Y and protrudes toward the inner surface of the third exposed portion 33a.

[0067] The third exposed portion 33a is also a surface that comes into contact with the skin S, and in this embodiment, the edge between the third exposed portion 33a and the third side wall portion 33b is removed. This smooths the gap between the third exposed portion 33a and the third side wall portion 33b, improving the contact of the third exposed portion 33a with the skin. Specifically, a curved surface is formed at the joint between the outer surface of the third exposed portion 33a and the third side wall portion 33b, and rounded surfaces are formed on both sides of the curved surface, thereby removing the edge between the third exposed portion 33a and the third side wall portion 33b. This prevents the skin S from being injured by the body portion 10 riding up when the beauty tool 1 is used while gripping and moving the body portion 10.

[0068] Furthermore, the larger the area of ​​the third electrode 33 that comes into contact with the skin S, the lower the contact resistance with the skin S, so it is preferable that the area of ​​the portion of the third electrode 33 that comes into contact with the skin S is larger. However, if the area of ​​the third electrode 33 that comes into contact with the skin S is made too large, the treatment section 20 will become larger, and the main body 10 will also become larger. Furthermore, since the beauty tool 1 is used by gripping and moving the main body 10, if the main body 10 becomes larger, it will become difficult to use when gripped by hand. Therefore, the area of ​​the portion of the third electrode 33 that comes into contact with the skin S should be 100 cm ２ More than 300cm ２ It is preferable to have the following:

[0069] In this embodiment, the third electrode portion 33 is also fixed to the housing 21. Specifically, the third electrode portion 33 is fixed to the housing 21 by hardening rubber poured into the groove portion 21e of the housing 21 and by an elastic body 21f disposed between the housing 21 and the inner surface of the third electrode portion 33. In this embodiment, a double-sided tape is used as the elastic body 21f.

[0070] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the fourth electrode portion 34 according to the embodiment. The fourth electrode portion 34 is disposed between the third electrode portion 33 and the apex 25b of the third convex portion 25. This fourth electrode portion 34 can also be formed using a conductive material, such as a metal. The fourth electrode portion 34 may contain a metal such as titanium to improve biosafety, or a metal such as stainless steel to reduce corrosion. A thin chromium film may be applied to the base material to increase hardness and make the fourth electrode portion 34 less susceptible to scratches. As shown in FIG. 10 , the fourth electrode portion 34 includes a fourth exposed portion 34a, a fourth sidewall portion 34b, and a fourth protrusion 34c.

[0071] The fourth exposed portion 34a is also plate-shaped and has an outer surface that contacts the skin S and is the exposed surface, and an inner surface located on the opposite side of the outer surface. In this embodiment, the fourth exposed portion 34a has a substantially triangular shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the exposed surface of the fourth exposed portion 34a (the short-side direction Y) (see FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the fourth exposed portion 34a is tilted at approximately 6 degrees with respect to the X-axis in FIG. 10. Furthermore, the fourth side wall portion 34b extends from the end of the fourth exposed portion 34a toward the main body portion 10 when viewed from the short-side direction Y, forming a substantially triangular tube. The fourth protrusion portion 34c is located approximately at the center of the fourth exposed portion 34a in the short-side direction Y and protrudes toward the inner surface of the fourth exposed portion 34a.

[0072] The fourth exposed portion 34a is also a surface that comes into contact with the skin S, and in this embodiment, the edge between the fourth exposed portion 34a and the fourth side wall portion 34b is rounded. This smooths the gap between the fourth exposed portion 34a and the fourth side wall portion 34b, improving the contact of the fourth exposed portion 34a with the skin. Specifically, a curved surface is formed at the joint between the outer surface of the fourth exposed portion 34a and the fourth side wall portion 34b, and rounded surfaces are formed on both sides of the curved surface, thereby rounding the edge between the fourth exposed portion 34a and the fourth side wall portion 34b. This prevents damage to the skin S caused by the body portion 10 riding up when the beauty tool 1 is used while gripping and moving the body portion 10.

[0073] Furthermore, the larger the area of ​​the fourth electrode 34 that comes into contact with the skin S, the lower the contact resistance with the skin S, so it is preferable that the area of ​​the portion of the fourth electrode 34 that comes into contact with the skin S is larger. However, if the area of ​​the fourth electrode 34 that comes into contact with the skin S is made too large, the treatment section 20 will become larger, and the main body 10 will also become larger. Furthermore, since the beauty tool 1 is used by gripping and moving the main body 10, if the main body 10 becomes larger, it will become difficult to use when gripped by hand. Therefore, the area of ​​the portion of the fourth electrode 34 that comes into contact with the skin S should be 100 cm ２ More than 300cm ２ It is preferable to have the following:

[0074] In the present embodiment, the fourth electrode portion 34 is also fixed to the housing 21. Specifically, the fourth electrode portion 34 is fixed to the housing 21 by hardening rubber poured into the groove portion 21g of the housing 21 and by an elastic body 21h disposed between the housing 21 and the inner surface of the fourth electrode portion 34. In the present embodiment, double-sided tape is used as the elastic body 21h.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7 , the beauty tool 1 may include a first elastic portion 35. Specifically, the first elastic portion 35 may be provided between the first exposed portion 31 a and the support portion 16 so as to cover the first protrusion 31 c. In this embodiment, the first elastic portion 35 is connected to the support portion 16. The first elastic portion 35 is in contact with the inner surface of the first exposed portion 31 a. The first elastic portion 35 is electrically connected to a control circuit on the control circuit board. The first elastic portion 35 may be formed of a conductive elastic member such as a coil. By including such a first elastic portion 35, the first exposed portion 31 a and the first elastic portion 35 are strongly in contact with each other due to the elastic force of the elastic member, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection between the first exposed portion 31 a and the control circuit.

[0076] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8 , the beauty tool 1 may include a second elastic portion 36. Specifically, the second elastic portion 36 may be provided between the second exposed portion 32a and the support portion 16 so as to cover the second protrusion portion 32c. In this embodiment, the second elastic portion 36 is connected to the support portion 16. The second elastic portion 36 is in contact with the inner surface of the second exposed portion 32a. The second elastic portion 36 is electrically connected to the control circuit on the control circuit board. The second elastic portion 36 may also be formed of a conductive elastic member such as a coil. By including such a second elastic portion 36, the second exposed portion 32a and the second elastic portion 36 are in strong contact due to the elastic force of the elastic member, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection between the second exposed portion 32a and the control circuit.

[0077] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9 , the beauty tool 1 may include a third elastic portion 37. Specifically, the third elastic portion 37 may be provided between the third exposed portion 33a and the support portion 16 so as to cover the third protrusion portion 33c. In this embodiment, the third elastic portion 37 is connected to the support portion 16. The third elastic portion 37 is in contact with the inner surface of the third exposed portion 33a. The third elastic portion 37 is electrically connected to the control circuit on the control circuit board. The third elastic portion 37 may also be formed of a conductive elastic member such as a coil. By including such a third elastic portion 37, the third exposed portion 33a and the third elastic portion 37 are in strong contact due to the elastic force of the elastic member, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection between the third exposed portion 33a and the control circuit.

[0078] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10 , the beauty tool 1 may include a fourth elastic portion 38. Specifically, the fourth elastic portion 38 may be provided between the fourth exposed portion 34a and the support portion 16 so as to cover the fourth protrusion portion 34c. In this embodiment, the fourth elastic portion 38 is connected to the support portion 16. The fourth elastic portion 38 is in contact with the inner surface of the fourth exposed portion 34a. The fourth elastic portion 38 is electrically connected to the control circuit on the control circuit board. The fourth elastic portion 38 may also be formed of a conductive elastic member such as a coil. By including such a fourth elastic portion 38, the fourth exposed portion 34a and the fourth elastic portion 38 are in strong contact with each other due to the elastic force of the elastic member, thereby stabilizing the electrical connection between the fourth exposed portion 34a and the control circuit.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a recess is formed in at least one portion selected from the group consisting of each of the three or more electrode portions 30 and the periphery of each of the three or more electrode portions 30. Specifically, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, a first recess (recess) 31d is formed around the first electrode portion 31, and a second recess (recess) 32d is formed around the second electrode portion 32. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, a third recess (recess) 33d is formed around the third electrode portion 33, and a fourth recess (recess) 34d is formed around the fourth electrode portion 34.

[0080] This allows the first recess 31d, the second recess 32d, the third recess 33d, and the fourth recess 34d to hold a medicinal agent such as gel. When the electrode unit 30 contacts the skin S, the stimulation is uniform and the electrical stimulation can be applied stably to the skin S. In this way, by using the beauty device 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to simultaneously obtain the effects of massage and electrical stimulation.

[0081] The drug held in the first recess 31d, the second recess 32d, the third recess 33d, and the fourth recess 34d may be a gel containing water and a moisturizer. If a gel is used as the drug, the gel is placed between the skin S and the electrode unit 30, so that current can be effectively passed from the electrode unit 30 to the skin S via the water in the gel. An example of a moisturizer is glycerin.

[0082] In addition, although the present embodiment has been exemplified by forming a recess around the electrode section 30, it is also possible to form a recess in the exposed section of the electrode section 30 and use this recess to hold the drug. Furthermore, it is also possible to form a recess around the electrode section 30 and also form a recess in the exposed section of the electrode section 30.

[0083] The main body 10 is then gripped and moved while the four-pole (three or more poles) electrode unit 30 is in contact with the skin S on the cheek, forehead, etc. In the above-described configuration, using it in this manner enhances the physical massage effect, and by applying an electric current to the skin S, treatment of the skin S can be performed by electrical stimulation.

[0084] In this embodiment, as described above, current is passed through the skin S between the first electrode portion 31 and the third electrode portion 33, and between the second electrode portion 32 and the fourth electrode portion 34, so that electrical stimulation can be applied to the skin S with two outputs.

[0085] That is, a first output having a predetermined waveform (electrical waveform) can be applied to the skin S between the first electrode unit 31 and the third electrode unit 33, and a second output having a predetermined waveform (electrical waveform) can be applied to the skin S between the second electrode unit 32 and the fourth electrode unit 34. The first output and the second output are output from a control circuit board housed in the main body unit 10. In this embodiment, the control circuit on the control circuit board includes an electrical stimulation control unit, and the first output and the second output are controlled by this electrical stimulation control unit.

[0086] In this way, in this embodiment, three or more electrode sections 30 are arranged at electrically separate positions on the same surface, and the electrical stimulation control section outputs a current that applies electrical stimulation to the skin S between the pair of electrode sections 30, making it possible to output two or more waveforms in a composite manner.

[0087] Here, the first output output between the first electrode unit 31 and the third electrode unit 33 can be, for example, a relatively low-frequency current output having a first frequency. Typically, the first output is a current output having a frequency used in EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation). The first frequency is preferably, for example, in the range of 1 Hz to 10 kHz, and more preferably, in the range of 5 Hz to 7 kHz. This first output has the effect of, for example, passing a current through the skin S of the user U to electrically stimulate the facial muscles and facial fascia, thereby contracting and relaxing them, thereby achieving firmer skin.

[0088] On the other hand, the second output output between the second electrode unit 32 and the fourth electrode unit 34 can be, for example, a relatively low-frequency current output having a second frequency. Typically, the second output is a current output having a frequency used in EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation). The second frequency is preferably, for example, within the range of 1 Hz to 10 kHz, and more preferably within the range of 5 Hz to 7 kHz. This second output also has the effect of, for example, passing a current through the skin S of the user U to electrically stimulate and contract and relax the facial muscles and facial fascia, thereby achieving firmer skin.

[0089] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the four electrode units 30 can be brought into contact with the skin S at the same time, and with the four electrode units 30 in contact with the skin S, two outputs, the first output and the second output, are applied simultaneously to the skin S. This allows the current to flow over a wider range of the skin S, enabling treatment of the skin S to be performed more efficiently.

[0090] In this case, the first output and the second output are set to current outputs of a frequency used in EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation), and the first output and the second output are output simultaneously to pass electricity through the skin S of the user U and provide electrical stimulation. In this way, a composite electrical stimulation can be provided to the skin S, thereby achieving a firmer skin S than by providing electrical stimulation to only one of the two outputs. However, it is not necessary to output the first output and the second output simultaneously; it is also possible to output only the first output and stop the second output, or vice versa, i.e., to output only the second output and stop the first output.

[0091] By appropriately setting the waveform of the first output and the waveform of the second output to be applied to the skin S, it is possible to perform treatment on the skin S more effectively.

[0092] For example, by setting the first output and the second output so that the first frequency and the second frequency are different numerical values, it becomes possible to adjust the bodily sensation of the electrical stimulation for the user U. By adjusting the bodily sensation of the electrical stimulation for the user U, it becomes possible to impart electrical stimulation that is less electrically painful but has a high usability.

[0093] Therefore, in this embodiment, the first output and the second output are set in a mode that can impart electrical stimulation that is less electrically painful but has a high usability, so that treatment of the skin S can be performed.

[0094] In the present embodiment, as described above, the first mode or the second mode can be selected by operating the power / mode switch 13. By selecting either mode, the electrical waveform set for the selected mode can be applied to the skin S as the first output and the second output. In this way, in the present embodiment, the electrical stimulation control unit has a mode control unit that can change the electrical stimulation mode.

[0095] Regardless of whether the first mode or the second mode is selected, it is possible to apply an electrical stimulation that is less painful but more comfortable to use.

[0096] The state of voltage application to the skin S in each mode will be described below.

[0097] First, the first mode will be described. Fig. 11 is a diagram conceptually showing the first mode. Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 are diagrams showing output waveforms in the first output band and the second output band.

[0098] When the beauty tool 1 is turned on and the first mode is selected, as shown in Fig. 11, output is performed in the first output band for a certain period of time, followed by a standby state, and then output in the second output band for a certain period of time. In this first mode, different waveforms are output in the first output band and the second output band. Furthermore, the duration of output in the first output band and the duration of output in the second output band may be the same or different.

[0099] In this embodiment, the beauty tool 1 does not immediately switch to treatment at the second output band after four minutes of treatment at the first output band, but instead enters a standby state after four minutes of treatment at the first output band. Then, when the level switch 14 is operated in the standby state to set the desired level of electrical stimulation (the current level of the electrode unit 30), the beauty tool 1 immediately switches to treatment at the second output band. Furthermore, if the level switch 14 is not operated for one minute in the standby state, the power is turned off.

[0100] Thus, in this embodiment, the beauty tool 1 requires the operation of the level switch 14 while in standby mode in order to perform a treatment at the second output band after a four-minute treatment at the first output band. In this embodiment, the level of electrical stimulation (the current level of the electrode unit 30) can be adjusted by operating the level switch 14 at any time while the beauty tool 1 is in operation. In other words, the level of electrical stimulation (the current level of the electrode unit 30) can be adjusted during treatment in the first mode, and the beauty tool 1 is not configured such that the level of electrical stimulation (the current level of the electrode unit 30) cannot be adjusted unless the beauty tool is in standby mode.

[0101] The above-described operation method is an example, and various operation methods are possible in the first mode.

[0102] In this embodiment, when performing treatment at the first output band, as shown in FIG. 12, output of waveform A1 for 10 ms, output of waveform B1 for 10 ms, output of waveform C1 for 10 ms, and output of waveform D1 for 10 ms are repeated for four minutes in the order of waveform A1, waveform B1, waveform C1, waveform D1, and waveform A1.

[0103] In the beauty tool 1, waveform A1 is configured such that energization is repeated for 6.5 ms followed by a 3.5 ms de-energization. The 6.5 ms energization is performed simultaneously for the first output and the second output. The first output has a carrier frequency of 6250 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.6, while the second output has a carrier frequency of 7000 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.28.

[0104] In addition, the beauty tool 1 is configured such that, for waveform B1, energization is repeated for 6.5 ms followed by a 3.5 ms de-energization. The 6.5 ms energization is performed simultaneously for the first output and the second output. The first output has a carrier frequency of 7000 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.28, while the second output has a carrier frequency of 6250 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.6.

[0105] In addition, the beauty tool 1 is configured such that, for waveform C1, energization is repeated for 6.5 ms followed by a 3.5 ms de-energization. The 6.5 ms energization is performed simultaneously for the first output and the second output. The first output has a carrier frequency of 7000 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.6, while the second output has a carrier frequency of 6250 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.25.

[0106] In addition, the beauty tool 1 is configured such that, for waveform D1, energization is repeated for 6.5 ms followed by a 3.5 ms de-energization. The 6.5 ms energization is performed simultaneously for the first output and the second output. The first output has a carrier frequency of 6250 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.25, while the second output has a carrier frequency of 7000 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.6.

[0107] In this way, the beauty tool 1 outputs waveforms of two electrical stimulation frequencies alternately (in a staggered manner) in the first output band.

[0108] When treating the skin S with this first output band, the electrical stimulation produced by the output of the above-mentioned pattern repeatedly contracts and relaxes the facial muscles and facial fascia at short intervals, and by applying high-frequency stimulation, the surface of the skin S can be stimulated, giving a sensation of being rubbed. This allows the muscles and fascia to relax, and a stretching effect can be expected.

[0109] On the other hand, when performing treatment in the second output band, waveform A2 is output four times for 200 ms (waveform A2 group), followed by waveform B2 for 40 ms five times (waveform B2 group), as shown in Figure 13. The waveform A2 group and waveform B2 group are output alternately for four minutes.

[0110] In the beauty tool 1, waveform A2 is configured such that the power is applied for 18 ms, followed by a 182 ms de-energization. The 18 ms power application is performed simultaneously for the first output and the second output. The first output has a carrier frequency of 3500 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.4, while the second output has a carrier frequency of 3521 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.7.

[0111] In the waveform B2, the beauty tool 1 is energized for 8 ms, followed by a 32 ms de-energization. The 8 ms energization is performed simultaneously for the first output and the second output. The first output has a carrier frequency of 3500 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.4, while the second output has a carrier frequency of 3521 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.7.

[0112] In this embodiment, when performing treatment in the second output band, the first output is set to a carrier frequency of 3500 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.4, and the second output is set to a carrier frequency of 3521 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.7. In other words, the output values ​​are kept constant between waveform A2 and waveform B2.

[0113] In such a treatment of the skin S in the second output band, the electrical stimulation by the output of the above-described pattern causes the contraction and relaxation of the facial muscles and facial fascia to be repeated at longer intervals than in the treatment of the skin S in the first output band, and by applying electrical stimulation at a carrier frequency lower than that of the first output band, it is possible to expect the effect of obtaining firmer skin S. In this way, when the first mode is selected, the facial muscles are relaxed in the first output band by electrical stimulation, and the facial muscles relaxed in the first output band can be trained in the second output band, and it is possible to expect the effect of obtaining firmer skin S.

[0114] In this way, in the first mode, after applying a massaging electrical stimulus to the skin S, it is possible to apply a muscle-training-like electrical stimulus to the skin S. That is, in the first mode, the electrical stimulus control unit outputs a massaging electrical stimulus to the skin S, and then outputs a muscle-training electrical stimulus to the skin S. Such control can be performed, for example, by switching between a massaging mode and a muscle-training mode using the mode control unit.

[0115] Next, the second mode will be described with reference to Fig. 14, which is a conceptual diagram of the second mode.

[0116] When the beauty tool 1 is turned on and the second mode is selected, output in the second output band is performed for four minutes, as shown in FIG.

[0117] In this second mode, the facial muscles can be trained by electrical stimulation, and the effect of obtaining firmer skin S can be expected.

[0118] In addition, the treatment of skin S in the second mode does not need to be performed at the same output as the second output band of the first mode, and it is also possible to use an output different from the second output band of the first mode.

[0119] In this manner, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the first mode or the second mode is selected, the first output and the second output are performed simultaneously.

[0120] In this way, by simultaneously performing the first output and the second output, it becomes possible to apply a stronger and deeper electrical stimulus to the skin S.

[0121] In this embodiment, the frequency of the first output (first frequency) and the frequency of the second output (second frequency) that are output simultaneously are slightly different from each other.

[0122] In this way, by slightly differentiating the frequency of the first output (first frequency) and the frequency of the second output (second frequency) that are output simultaneously, it becomes possible to maintain a strong and deep electrical stimulation while easing the pain felt by the skin S.

[0123] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the first output band of the first mode, when waveforms A1, B1, C1, D1, and A1 are repeatedly output in this order, outputs with a high duty ratio and outputs with a low duty ratio are applied alternately to the skin S within the same output (first output, second output).

[0124] This makes it possible to give not only a strong stimulus but also a gentle, rubbing stimulus to the surface of the skin S. This is expected to produce an effect similar to that of a massage of the skin S at a beauty salon.

[0125] In the first output range of the first mode, the duty ratio of the first output and the duty ratio of the second output, which are output simultaneously, are made different from each other. This makes it possible to apply a strong stimulus to the skin S with one output while applying a soft, stroking stimulus to the surface of the skin S with the other output, which is expected to enhance the beauty effect.

[0126] In addition, in this embodiment, a first output can be applied to the skin S between the first electrode unit 31 and the third electrode unit 33, and a second output can be applied to the skin S between the second electrode unit 32 and the fourth electrode unit 34.

[0127] This increases the distance between the electrode units 30 of both the first output and the second output. Increasing the distance between the paired electrode units 30 in this way allows the current applied to the skin S to flow deeper into the skin S. As a result, deeper electrical stimulation can be applied to the skin S.

[0128] It is also possible to use adjacent electrode units 30 for at least one of the first and second outputs, but in this case, the distance between the electrode units 30 for the first and second outputs may become short, or the distance between the electrode units 30 for either one of the outputs may become short.

[0129] In contrast to this, by selecting every other pair of electrode units 30 as in the present embodiment, it becomes possible to ensure the distance between the electrode units 30 of the first output and the second output without increasing the space required for arranging the four-pole electrode units 30.

[0130] Therefore, by selecting every other electrode unit 30 as in the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a stronger and deeper electrical stimulation to the skin S while miniaturizing the beauty tool 1. When arranging the paired electrode units 30 at electrically separated positions in this manner, it is preferable to arrange the electrode units 30 at a distance that allows electricity to flow deep into the skin S.

[0131] 7 to 10, the beauty tool 1 may also include a heating unit 40 that heats at least a portion of the treatment unit 20. By providing the heating unit 40 to the treatment unit 20, the treatment unit 20 that comes into contact with the skin S of the user U or the like is warmed by the heating unit 40, making it possible to impart a warm sensation to the skin S. In this embodiment, the heating unit 40 is provided inside the housing 21. Specifically, the heating unit 40 is provided between the housing 21 and the support unit 16. The heating unit 40 may be installed on the support unit 16 with the heating surface of the heating unit 40 facing the inner surface of the housing 21.

[0132] The heating unit 40 used in this case is desirably a thin plate-like structure that can be flexibly deformed to fit the shape of the area where the heating unit 40 is installed. There are no particular limitations on the structure that can be used for the heating unit 40, but it is possible to use, for example, a heat-sensitive heater such as a sheet-shaped heater with a built-in sheathed heater. The heating unit 40 is electrically connected to a control circuit on a control circuit board.

[0133] The heating unit 40 can also be installed inside at least one of the convex curved portions 22. For example, it is desirable to install the heating unit 40 inside the second convex curved portion 24, which is assumed to be the portion that the user U will most often contact with the skin S. In this case, the heating unit 40 will extend from at least the vicinity of the bottom portion 24a, via the apex portion 24b, to the vicinity of the bottom portion 24c.

[0134] 5, the heating unit 40 is not only installed inside the second convex curved portion 24, but is also installed continuously from the second convex curved portion 24 to the third convex curved portion 25. In this case, the range heated by the heating unit 40 in the treatment area 20 extends not only around the second convex curved portion 24 but also around the third convex curved portion 25.

[0135] Furthermore, the heating unit 40 may heat not only the housing 21 but also the electrode unit 30. In this way, the heating unit 40 can provide a warm sensation to the skin S while the electrode unit 30 can provide an electrical stimulus to the skin S.

[0136] (Additional Notes) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0137] (Technology 1) A beauty device of Technology 1 includes a main body, a treatment section provided at an end of the main body when viewed from the thickness direction of the main body, the treatment section having an outer circumferential edge formed to have at least one convex curved section and at least one concave curved section, and three or more electrode sections provided spaced apart from each other on the treatment section, wherein a recess is formed in at least one portion selected from the group consisting of each of the three or more electrode sections and the periphery of each of the three or more electrode sections.

[0138] In this way, if a beauty device is equipped with three or more electrode sections, it becomes possible to output two or more waveforms in a composite manner, and the area on the skin through which electricity flows can be made wider than when only two electrode sections are provided. This allows treatment of a wider area of ​​the skin at once, reducing the number of times the main body is moved when treating the skin, and allowing for more efficient skin treatment. In this way, using the beauty device described in Technology 1 makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of skin treatment.

[0139] In addition, if the number of times the main unit is moved is reduced, the number of frictions is also reduced, so treatment can be performed while reducing the burden on the skin. Furthermore, if two or more waveforms are output in combination, it is possible to apply a stronger and deeper electrical stimulation to the skin without increasing the voltage, which makes it possible to further improve the beauty effects on the skin while increasing safety.

[0140] In addition, because it is possible to hold a gel or other agent in the recess, when the electrode part comes into contact with the skin, the stimulation is uniform and the electrical stimulation can be applied to the skin stably. In other words, by using the beauty device described in Technology 1, it is possible to further improve the efficiency of skin treatment.

[0141] (Technology 2) In the beauty device of Technology 2, in the beauty device described in Technology 1, the three or more electrode sections are provided in a single closed area in the treatment area that can simultaneously come into contact with the skin.

[0142] This allows the three or more electrodes to be in more reliable contact with the skin, thereby improving the efficiency of skin treatment. Furthermore, since the electrodes can be in more stable contact with the skin when the beauty device is in use, current can be more stably passed through the skin, thereby improving the efficiency of skin treatment. Furthermore, since it is possible to prevent the electrodes from making point contact with the skin when the beauty device is in use, it is possible to prevent electrical pain or burns from occurring on the skin.

[0143] [Others] As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology in the present disclosure, but the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to these descriptions, and various modifications and improvements are possible.

[0144] For example, the technology of the present disclosure can be applied to the embodiments described above in which the configurations are changed, replaced, added, omitted, etc. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments to create new embodiments.

[0145] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the beauty tool 1 is exemplified in which the four-pole electrode section 30 is provided in the treatment section 20, but it is also possible to provide a three-pole electrode section 30 in the treatment section 20.

[0146] In this case, three electrode sections 30 (first electrode section 31 to third electrode section 33) can be arranged in a linear chain between the apex 24b of the second convex curved section 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved section 25 in the treatment section 20 at the end when viewed from the thickness direction Z of the main body section 10.

[0147] Then, for example, a voltage with a frequency used for EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) can be applied to the skin as a first output between the first electrode unit 31 and the second electrode unit 32, and a voltage with a frequency used for EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) can be applied to the skin as a second output between the first electrode unit 31 and the third electrode unit 33. Then, by appropriately setting the waveforms of the first output and the second output applied to the skin, it becomes possible to apply a stronger and deeper electrical stimulation to the skin while easing pain.

[0148] In this way, even when three electrode units 30 are provided on the treatment unit 20, two outputs can be applied to the skin simultaneously by using one electrode unit 30 as a common electrode unit 30. It is not necessary to use the first electrode unit 31 as a common electrode unit 30, and it is also possible to use the second electrode unit 32 or the third electrode unit 33 as a common electrode unit 30.

[0149] It is also possible to provide the treatment unit 20 with a five-pole electrode unit 30 .

[0150] In this case, five electrode sections 30 (first electrode section 31 to fifth electrode section) can be arranged in a linear chain between the apex 24b of the second convex curved section 24 and the apex 25b of the third convex curved section 25 in the treatment section 20 at the end when viewed from the thickness direction Z of the main body section 10.

[0151] Then, for example, a voltage having a frequency used for EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) can be applied as a first output to the skin between the first electrode unit 31 and the third electrode unit 33, and a voltage having a frequency used for EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) can be applied as a second output to the skin between the second electrode unit 32 and the fourth electrode unit 34. Furthermore, for example, a voltage having a frequency used for EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) can be applied as a third output to the skin between the third electrode unit 33 and the fifth electrode unit.

[0152] Furthermore, by appropriately setting the waveforms of the first output, the second output, and the third output to be applied to the skin, it becomes possible to apply a stronger and deeper electrical stimulation to the skin while easing pain.

[0153] In this way, by providing the five-pole electrode unit 30 to the treatment unit 20, it becomes possible to apply not only the first output and the second output but also the third output to the skin. In other words, it becomes possible to apply three outputs to the skin simultaneously. Note that the first electrode unit 31 and the third electrode unit 33 do not have to be the electrode units 30 that apply the first output to the skin, and any two electrode units 30 selected from the five-pole electrode units 30 can be the electrode units 30 that apply the first output to the skin. The same applies to the selection of the electrode unit 30 that applies the second output to the skin and the selection of the electrode unit 30 that applies the third output to the skin.

[0154] It is also possible to provide the treatment unit 20 with six or more electrode units 30 .

[0155] Furthermore, when three or more electrode sections 30 are provided in the treatment section 20, it is not necessary to arrange each electrode section 30 in a straight line; for example, it is possible to arrange each electrode section 30 at a position that is the vertex of a polygon.

[0156] It is also possible for the treatment unit 20 to have a roller that provides a massage effect to the skin S.

[0157] It is also possible to vary the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied during treatment. For example, the electrical stimulation control unit can control the frequency when outputting electrical stimulation so as to mitigate pain or the intensity of stimulation that increases depending on the number of electrodes.

[0158] In the above embodiment, a gua sha-type beauty tool 1 having a flat main body 10 is illustrated, but it is also possible to provide a beauty tool with a three or more electrode section in the treatment section provided on a non-flat main body, which also makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of treatment on the skin.

[0159] In addition, the specifications of the main body, treatment area, and other details (shape, size, layout, etc.) can be changed as appropriate.

[0160] As described above, the beauty tool according to the present disclosure can be applied to beauty tools for commercial and home use.

[0161] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Beauty tool 10 Main body 10a Long side 10b Short side 10c First oblique side 10d Second oblique side 10e End 10f Intersection 10g Intersection 10h Intersection 10i Intersection 11 Housing 12 Hollow portion 13 Mode switch 14 Level switch 15 Heating switch 16 Support portion 20 Treatment portion 20a Outer periphery 21 Housing 21a Groove 21b Elastic body 21c Groove 21d Elastic body 21e Groove 21f Elastic body 21g Groove 21h Elastic body 22 Convex curved portion 23 First convex curved portion 23a Bottom 23b Top 23c Bottom 23d First convex ridge portion 24 Second convex curved portion 24a Bottom 24b Top 24c Bottom 24d Second convex ridge 25 Third convex curved portion 25a Bottom 25b Top 25c Bottom 25d Third convex ridge 26 Concave curved portion 27 First concave curved portion 27a Top 27b First concave ridge 28 Second concave curved portion 28a Top 28b Second concave ridge 29a Third concave curved portion 29b Fourth concave curved portion 30 Electrode portion 31 First electrode portion 31a First exposed portion 31b First side wall portion 31c First protruding portion 31d First recess (recess) 32 Second electrode portion 32a Second exposed portion 32b Second side wall portion 32c Second protruding portion 32d Second recess (recess) 33 Third electrode portion 33a Third exposed portion 33b Third side wall portion 33c Third protruding portion 33d Third recess (recess) 34 Fourth electrode portion 34a Fourth exposed portion 34b Fourth side wall portion 34c Fourth protruding portion 34d Fourth recess (recess) 35 First elastic portion 36 Second elastic portion 37 Third elastic portion 38 Fourth elastic portion 40 Heating portion A1 Waveform A2 Waveform B1 Waveform B2 Waveform C1 Waveform D1 Waveform S Skin U User X Longitudinal direction Y Shortitudinal direction Z Thickness direction

Claims

1. A beauty device comprising: a main body; a treatment section provided at the end of the main body when viewed in the thickness direction of the main body, the treatment section having an outer periphery formed with at least one convex curved section and at least one concave curved section; and three or more electrode sections provided spaced apart from each other on the treatment section, wherein a recess is formed in at least one portion selected from the group consisting of each of the three or more electrode sections and the periphery of each of the three or more electrode sections.

2. The beauty device according to claim 1, wherein the three or more electrodes are provided in a single closed area of ​​the treatment area that can simultaneously come into contact with the skin.

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