Assembly for applying a cosmetic product to a body surface and related method

Abstract

The present invention relates to an assembly for applying a cosmetic product comprising a plurality of applicators (14), each applicator (14) comprising a gripping portion (24) and a product support portion (26) carrying the protruding product, particularly a plurality of protruding fibers (28), and a retaining material (30) detachably holding the product on the product support portion (26). Adjacent applicators (14) are connected by frangible links (16) located away from the product support portions (26), the product support portions (26) of adjacent applicators (14) delimiting a guard space (31) between them.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Assembly for applying a cosmetic product to a body surface and related method

[0003] The present invention relates to an assembly for applying a cosmetic product to a body surface, comprising a plurality of applicators, each applicator comprising a gripping portion and a product support portion carrying a protruding product, in particular a plurality of protruding fibers, and a retaining material detachably holding the product on the product support portion.

[0004] Such an assembly is intended in particular for applying a bundle of fibers, notably to mask or correct local alopecia, or low hair density present at the eyebrows, beard, or scalp, for example. Such an assembly is also intended for applying a bundle of fibers for a color change or intensification of the color (natural or not) of the hair, to darken a blonde region, for example.

[0005] In a variant, the cosmetic product is a cosmetic product detachable from a support, formed of beads, for example, encapsulated cosmetic product, or compact powder.

[0006] By "cosmetic product", we mean more generally any product as defined in Council Directive 93 / 35 / EEC of June 14, 1993.

[0007] FR3039368A1 describes a cosmetic treatment process aimed at applying fibers to a body surface, in order to fill sparse eyebrow areas, for example, due to eyebrow alopecia or low-density eyebrows.

[0008] In this method, the fibers are brought into contact with an adhesive composition applied to a body surface using an applicator, then the applicator is moved away from the body surface to release the fibers, which adhere to the body surface.

[0009] The applicator described in this document includes a gripping part, to which fibers are temporarily attached, with the whole being arranged in packaging.

[0010] The applicator may be as described in EP-448955, for example, with a flat support on one side of which fibers are arranged in an organized manner. These fibers are held loosely on the support using a film of material.

[0011] The use of such an applicator to implement the process described in FR3039368A1 does not provide complete satisfaction.

[0012] Indeed, grasping and manipulating the gripping part with the fingers poses a high risk of contact between the fingers and the fibers. This can lead to disorganization or crushing of the fibers, as well as loss of fiber. This is particularly the case when applying the fibers to the body surface, where the described manipulation results in poor visibility during application.

[0013] Such deterioration of the organization of the fibers before or during application, as well as the lack of visibility, affect the aesthetics and realism of the result after application.

[0014] Furthermore, manipulating the gripping part with the fingers, as described in FR3039368A1 , can in some cases be impractical and lead to a lack of precision in targeting the desired application area. Moreover, the potential contact between the fingers and the fibers leads to fiber contamination and, therefore, less satisfactory hygiene.

[0015] An aim of the invention is therefore to provide a product application assembly, particularly of fibers, on a user's body surface that maintains the integrity of the product, notably in the form of fibers, organized in a bundle, for example, without disorganization during transport and storage, the product assembly remaining simple to use and inexpensive and allowing precise and hygienic product application.

[0016] To this end, the invention relates to a product application assembly as defined above, characterized in that adjacent applicators are connected to each other by frangible links located away from the product support portions, with the product support portions of adjacent applicators delimiting a guard space between them.

[0017] The presence of frangible links between the gripping portions of the applicators allows each applicator to be easily detached from the plurality of applicators by grasping the gripping portion by hand, without risking disorganizing the product, particularly in the form of fibers.

[0018] Furthermore, with the product support portions being delimited by a guard space and not connected to adjacent applicators by a frangible link, the risk of collision between the products from multiple applicators during the transport, storage, or manipulation of the applicators is greatly reduced.

[0019] Thus, the user can have an applicator that is very practical to use and very inexpensive, given its structural simplicity. This applicator guarantees a satisfactory aesthetic result when applying the product to the body surface, given the maintenance of the product's organization and the precision of manipulation it allows.

[0020] The risk of contact between the product and the fingers is reduced, ensuring appropriate hygiene.

[0021] The application assembly may comprise the following feature:

[0022] - each applicator extends in an elongated manner along a longitudinal axis between a first end defined by the gripping portion and a second end defined by the product support portion, the second ends of adjacent applicators being transversely separated relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0023] The elongated shape of the applicator between a first and second end ensures very compact product storage while offering effective separation between the product support parts, as the second ends are well separated.

[0024] The product application assembly may comprise the following feature:

[0025] - the second end of at least one applicator is tapered.

[0026] The tapered second end of the applicator ensures very precise product application by guiding the user, especially when applying the product using a mirror. The product application point on the body surface is made more precise.

[0027] According to variants:

[0028] - the first ends are aligned along an axis transversal to the longitudinal axis.

[0029] - the first ends are located on a non-linear curve, notably an arc of a circle or ellipse, with the second ends of adjacent applicators being further apart than the first ends of adjacent applicators.

[0030] The alignment of the first ends along a line, extending along a transverse axis relative to the longitudinal axis of each applicator, allows compact and safe storage of the applicators, in a case, for example.

[0031] Conversely, the arrangement of the first ends along a non-linear curve ensures a satisfactory aesthetic aspect, in a fan shape, for example, which is attractive to the user.

[0032] According to variants:

[0033] - the gripping portion of at least one applicator has a maximum width greater than the maximum width of the product support portion of the at least one applicator.

[0034] - the length of each product support portion of at least one applicator is greater than the length of each gripping portion of the at least one applicator.

[0035] The provision of an enlarged gripping portion ensures effective and precise gripping by the user's fingers, without the risk of touching the product, particularly in the form of fibers, and disturbing its organization on the product support portion.

[0036] The enlarged length of the product support portion allows the storage of a linear bundle of product that can be applied to the body surface in one piece, while limiting the clutter of the gripping portion.

[0037] Thus, each applicator has a key shape that is intuitively simple to use while offering a satisfactory aesthetic aspect.

[0038] The product application assembly may comprise the following feature: - the product support portion comprises a central depression, receiving the retaining material and the product, the product support portion comprising a rim protruding at least on either side of the central depression, the rim being devoid of product, or wherein the product support portion is devoid of relief up to its lateral edges.

[0039] The central depression-shaped area easily accommodates the adhesive material, allowing the temporary retention of the product on the applicator and slightly distances the product from the periphery of the product support portion, further limiting the risk of contact between products, particularly fibers, between two adjacent applicators, and thus the risk of disorganization. This is particularly the case when detaching the applicator or during its subsequent manipulation.

[0040] A flat central area, devoid of hollow or protruding relief, simplifies the addition of the adhesive material, especially when a screen-printing application process is used.

[0041] According to variants:

[0042] - each applicator is formed of at least one layer of cellulosic material, particularly a layer of cardboard.

[0043] - each applicator includes a first lower layer of cellulosic material, defining corrugations with an amplitude Fl and a wave period PI, and a second upper layer of cellulosic material, supporting the product, the second upper layer having corrugations with an amplitude FS less than the amplitude Fl of the corrugations of the first lower layer and / or having a wave period PS less than the wave period PI of the corrugations of the first lower layer.

[0044] The formation of applicators in cellulosic material is particularly effective in terms of ecological design, as it limits waste and allows for recycling the material forming the applicators. Thus, the entire applicator, except for the product and the product retaining material, is made of cellulosic material. The application assembly is therefore made with a reduced ecological impact, promoting recycling.

[0045] Furthermore, when the applicator has a two-layer structure, the lower layer with large amplitude and wave period corrugations reduces the cost of materials while ensuring structural rigidity, and the upper layer, with smaller amplitude and wave period corrugations, offers a smoother surface appearance that allows effective and homogeneous application of the adhesive material retaining the product and the product on this material.

[0046] The product application assembly according to the invention may comprise the following feature:

[0047] - the frangible link is formed of lines of lesser thickness, grooves, perforated dotted cuts, or continuous mid-layer cuts. Making a frangible link in the form of a line of lesser thickness, a groove, a perforated dotted cut or a mid-layer cut is simple and inexpensive to achieve, while offering simple and reliable detachment of each applicator.

[0048] In a variant, the application assembly comprises the following feature:

[0049] - a case, defining a bottom, receiving the plurality of applicators.

[0050] The presence in the application assembly of a case that can be manipulated between an open configuration and a closed configuration effectively protects the products carried by the applicators during transport and storage, while ensuring easy access for the user when applying the product to the body surface.

[0051] In variants:

[0052] - the case includes a flap, maneuverable between a closed case configuration, covering the products of the applicators, and an open configuration for access to the applicators, the flap being connected to the bottom by a rim of height greater than the cumulative height of the product and the product support portion, the flap being located completely away from the product in the closed configuration.

[0053] - the case includes a step, delimiting with the bottom a housing for receiving the applicators, the flap laying on the step in the closed configuration, the height of the step being greater than the cumulative height of the product and the product support portion, the flap being positioned completely away from the product in the closed configuration.

[0054] Making the case with a deployable flap further simplifies the use of the application assembly, as the flap can be opened easily and intuitively, while positioning it in the closed configuration ensures the integrity of the product.

[0055] The use of a step of sufficient height wedges the flap in the closed configuration, avoiding contact with the product carried by the applicators, further protecting their organization before use.

[0056] In a variant:

[0057] - the plurality of applicators includes at least two applicators with product support portions having different areas from one applicator to another and / or products, particularly fiber bundles, with different areas from one applicator to another, or wherein the plurality of applicators comprises at least one applicator having the shape of a body surface covered with keratin fibers on which the product is to be applied, particularly a shape of eyebrows.

[0058] The provision of a plurality of applicators having at least two applicators with product support portions having different areas or / and products, particularly fiber bundles, with different areas allows adapting the product deposit to the body application area, offering, for example, an applicator with a large product support portion for application on large body areas and an applicator with a refined product support portion for precise application on a restricted body area.

[0059] The provision of an applicator having the shape of a body surface covered with keratin fibers on which the product is to be applied, particularly a shape of eyebrows, guides the user in depositing the product by ensuring that the product, particularly in the form of fibers, is deposited following a pattern adapted to the keratin fiber coverage.

[0060] The invention also relates to a method of applying a cosmetic product, particularly fibers on a body surface comprising the following steps: providing a user with an assembly as defined above; application, by a user, of an adhesive composition on the body surface; detachment, by a user, of an applicator from the plurality of applicators by breaking the frangible link; grasping the gripping portion by the user, and bringing the product support portion in front of the adhesive composition on the body surface to bring the product, particularly the free ends of fibers, into contact with the adhesive composition; detachment of the product from the product support portion by moving the applicator away from the body surface.

[0061] The invention will be better understood by reading the following description, given solely by way of example, and made with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:

[0062] - [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is a three-quarter perspective view of a string of applicators in a product application assembly, here in the form of fibers, according to the invention;

[0063] - [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a view of a case intended to hold the string of applicators, and an applicator having been removed from the case;

[0064] - [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a top view of the case in an open configuration;

[0065] - [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 1 of a variant of a string of applicators;

[0066] - [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is a view similar to Figure 1 of another variant of a string of applicators;

[0067] - [Fig. 6] Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 1 of another variant of a string of applicators.

[0068] A first assembly 10 of cosmetic product application according to the invention is shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0069] The cosmetic product is here formed by fibers that will be described in detail below. In a variant, the cosmetic product is a cosmetic product that is detachable from a support, formed of beads, an encapsulated cosmetic product or a compact powder, for example.

[0070] As illustrated by Figure 1 , the assembly includes a string 12 of detachable applicators 14, connected two by two by frangible links 16. An applicator 14 detached from the string 12 is visible in Figure 2.

[0071] Referring to Figure 2, the product application assembly 10 further includes a case 18 that can be manipulated by a user between a closed configuration, for transport and storage of the string 12 of applicators 14, and an open configuration, for retrieving at least one applicator 14, shown in Figure 3.

[0072] The product application assembly 10 further comprises at least one container 19 for receiving an adhesive composition intended to be applied to the body surface.

[0073] The adhesive composition contained in the container 19 is as described in FR3039368. It is suitable for application on the skin and for cosmetic use.

[0074] The adhesive composition comprises or consists of an adhesive. By "adhesive" in the sense of the present invention we mean a polymer or a polymeric system that may comprise one or more polymers of different natures. This adhesive is advantageously in the form of a polymer solution or a dispersion of polymer particles in a solvent.

[0075] This adhesive preferably contains a plasticizer. This adhesive material has a sticking power defined by its viscoelastic properties. The adhesives are notably chosen from "Pressure Sensitive Adhesives" (PSAs) for example, as cited in the "Handbook of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Technology", 3rdedition, D. Satas. Pressure-sensitive adhesives are notably chosen from acrylic polymers, notably acrylate and methacrylate copolymers, rubber-based or styrene-based pressure-sensitive adhesives, such as styrene-isoprene- styrene (SIS) and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymers, for example. They may also be urethane polymers, polyurethanes, silicones, such as Bio-PSA, ethylene-vinyl acetate polymers, styrene-based block copolymers, or natural gums, chloroprene, butadiene, isoprene, neoprene, or similar.

[0076] As non-limiting examples of rubber-based polymers pressure-sensitive adhesives, we can notably cite natural rubber (poly(cis-1 ,4-isoprene)), methyl-methacrylate-isoprene graft copolymers, styrene-butadiene copolymers, butyl rubber, acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, styrene-isoprene block copolymers, polybutadiene, ethylene-butylene block copolymers, and polychloroprene. Among pressure-sensitive adhesives comprising polar acrylic polymers, we can cite block or statistical copolymers based on acrylic acid, alkyl acrylates, and alkyl methacrylates, as well as copolymers of these acrylics with ethylene and vinyl acetate.

[0077] Other pressure-sensitive adhesives comprise butyl acrylate, butyl methacrylate, and acrylic acid copolymers, these copolymers being commercially available under the RODERM 560 (Rohm and Haas) brand, for example. An example of a pressure-sensitive adhesive that may be suitable in part is poly(2-ethylhexylacrylate), for example, the one commercially available under the GEL-TAC 100G (Advanced Polymer 30 International) brand as a 40% solid aqueous dispersion of 15-micron adhesive acrylic microspheres. Examples of suitable acrylic copolymers are commercially available under the brands of EASTAREZ 2010, 2020, and 2050 (Eastman Chemical Co.), ACRONAL V210 (BASF), MOWILITH LDM 7255, REVACRYL 491 (Clariant), and FLEXBOND 165 (Air Products). Commercial examples of suitable polymeric rubbers are known under the brands of RICON 130 polybutadiene (Atofina Sartomer) and ISOLENE 40 polyisoprene (Elementis). Examples of suitable polyurethane-based adhesives are available under the brands of SANCURE 2104 (Noveon) and VYLON UR 1400 (Toyobo 10 Vylon). Examples of suitable vinyl acetate copolymers are commercially available under the brands of PVP / VA 6-630 (International Specialty Products) and FLEXBOND 149 (Air Products). Examples of vinyl alcohol / vinyl acetate copolymers are commercially available under the brands of CELVOL 107 (Celanese) and ELVANOL 50-42 (Dupont). We can also cite block or statistical copolymers comprising at least one monomer or an association of monomers whose resulting polymer has a glass transition temperature below room temperature (25°C), these monomers or associations of monomers being chosen from among butadiene, ethylene, propylene, isoprene, isobutylene, a silicone, and their mixtures. Examples of such materials are styrene-butadiene-styrene block polymers, styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene, styrene-isoprene-styrene as those sold under the commercial names of "Kraton" by Kraton or "Vector" by Dexco Polymers.

[0078] The adhesives may also include resins that tackify, such as rosins or rosin derivatives such as hydrogenated rosins, rosin esters, hydrogenated rosin esters, terpenes, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon resins, phenolic resins, styrene resins, and coumarone-indene. We will also mention compounds such as shellac gum, sandarac gum, dammars, elemi, copals, benzoin, and mastic gum. We can also cite: silicone resins, which are cross-linked polyorganosiloxane polymers. The nomenclature of silicone resins is known as "MDTQ," the resin being described according to the different siloxane monomeric units it comprises, each of the letters "MDTQ" characterizing a type of unit. Among these resins, we can particularly cite siloxysilicates, which can be trimethylsiloxysilicate of formula RCH3)3XSiXOLX(SiO4 / 2)5, (MQ units) wherein x and y are integers ranging from 50 to 80, - lipo-dispersible film-forming polymers in the form of non-aqueous dispersions of polymer particles, also called "NAD." As a non-aqueous dispersion of hydrophobic film-forming polymer, we can use dispersions of particles of a grafted ethylenic polymer, preferably acrylic, in a liquid oily phase, for example, in the form of particles, surface-stabilized, dispersed in the liquid fatty phase. The dispersion of surface-stabilized polymer particles can be manufactured as described in document WO 04 / 055081. We can also cite dispersions of alkyl (meth)acrylate polymer particles in C1-C4; stabilized by a stabilizing agent chosen from isobornyl (meth)acrylate polymers, as described in document WO 2015 / 091513. We can also use UV-reactive glues. In examples, we use the adhesive Pros- Aide (acrylic latex) Cream Blend 331 Adhesive, or the adhesive AQ1350 Eastman Chemical (sulfonic polyester soluble polymer), or the green DUO® glue marketed by Ardell® on the website www.ardellshop.com.

[0079] Preferably, the adhesive of the adhesive composition is applied to the body surface as a continuous film, especially when the product density on the applicator is not too high.

[0080] In a variant, the adhesive is applied by leaving non-adhesive areas between the adhesive areas, which offers control over the density and distribution of the product that remains fixed on the body surface. This reduces the amount of product that transfers and achieves a more natural result, especially when the product density on the applicator is high.

[0081] When the adhesive areas are separate, two adjacent adhesive areas can be spaced apart by a distance (measured from edge to edge) ranging from 30 microns to 3 mm, better from 100 microns to 1 mm. The size of the spaces between two adjacent adhesive areas, separated by a non-adhesive area, ranges from 30 pm to 3 mm, better 100 pm to 1 mm.

[0082] The adhesive areas can be in the form of a network, preferably a network of dots, notably a network of dots with a diameter of 300 microns to 3 mm. In a variant, the adhesive areas are in the form of a network of lines, or a network of lines and dots, or a grid. The network can be regular or not. An irregular network, notably random or pseudo-random, is advantageous as it allows for a more natural appearance.

[0083] In the case of a network of dots, these can be of any shape, for example circular or non-circular. All the dots in the network can be of the same shape, or, in a variant, within the network, the shape and / or size of the dots evolve, with a variation in size or shape, for example, depending on the location within the network. Preferably, the shape of the dots is circular. Also preferably, the network is irregular, with a non-constant spacing between two adjacent dots. The adhesive areas can be formed by any suitable means, being formed using an adhesive applicator, for example, arranged to deposit the adhesive on the skin at locations spaced apart from each other. The adhesive areas can be formed using a dispenser including at least one distribution nozzle equipped with a distribution orifice through which the adhesive is distributed. An applicator that transfers the adhesive by tamping can be used. In a variant, the adhesive is applied using a stencil. The adhesive can be applied by spraying, notably through the stencil.

[0084] The adhesive can be applied by sticking one or more adhesive objects to the skin, notably in the form of patches. In particular, the patches can be made of a double-sided adhesive film, coated on both sides with a removable protective film. The double-sided adhesive film is pre-cut into patches. The density of adhesive areas ranges from 4 per cm2 to 700 per cm2, better between 10 per cm2 and 50 per cm2, even better between 20 per cm2 and 30 per cm2.

[0085] Referring to Figure 1 , the string 12 of applicators 14 comprises a plurality of adjacent applicators 14 connected successively to each other.

[0086] Each applicator 14 away from the ends of the string 12 is connected to two adjacent applicators 14, on either side of the applicator 14. The applicators 14 located at the end of the string 12 are connected to a single adjacent applicator 14.

[0087] Each applicator 14 extends here along a longitudinal axis A- A' of the applicator between a first end 20 and a second free end 22.

[0088] The applicator 14 comprises a gripping portion 24, containing the first end 20, intended to be grasped by the user's fingers to detach the applicator 14 from an adjacent applicator 14, and to manipulate the applicator 14 to apply the product, particularly fibers, to the user's body surface.

[0089] The applicator 14 further comprises a product support portion 26 containing the second end 22 and protruding from the gripping portion 24 along the longitudinal axis A-A'.

[0090] Each applicator 14 further comprises the product, carried by the product support portion 26, here formed of a bundle 27 of fibers 28 and a retaining material 30 for the product.

[0091] The retaining material 30 is configured to temporarily hold the product, particularly fibers 28, on the product support portion 26, notably during transport, storage, and manipulation of the applicator 14, allowing the product to detach from the product support portion 26 during the application of the product on the adhesive composition applied to the user's body surface. Advantageously, in the example shown in the figures, the gripping portion 24 and the product support portion 26 of each applicator 14 are made of cellulosic material.

[0092] The cellulosic material comprises cellulosic fibers arranged in a three-dimensional structure. These cellulosic fibers can come from paper pulp produced from wood or plant fibers.

[0093] The cellulosic material thus comprises paper fiber, cardboard fiber, wood fiber, or plant fiber, for example, or even paper pulp, or cardboard pulp, or a mixture of these materials.

[0094] The use of this type of material has the advantage of coming from renewable resources and thus reducing the use of raw materials from the petrochemical industry. These materials can be recycled in recycling channels dedicated to paper and cardboard. In some advantageous cases, they can also benefit from the biodegradability of cellulosic fibers. Thus, the use of these materials improves the recyclability and / or degradability of the applicator 14, with these materials also advantageously able to be sourced from recycling channels.

[0095] The cellulosic fibers can come from trees, for example, (for example, softwood fibers, such as pine, fir, or spruce, or hardwood fibers, such as birch, beech, poplar, aspen, acacia, or eucalyptus), plants, such as bamboo, flax, hemp, or even agricultural by-products, such as bagasse, fibrous residue of sugarcane, wheat straw, rice straw, corn stalks, or a mixture of these materials.

[0096] The applicator 14 made of cellulosic material is equipped with a coating of another nature, for example, applied to its inner and / or outer surface. This coating serves to protect the fibers and improve the surface properties of the object made from these fibers.

[0097] The materials used for the coating are generally layers, varnishes, resins that can be organic (Polyethylene - PE, Polypropylene - PP, Polyethylene terephthalate - PET, acrylics or acrylic derivatives, latex, Polyhydroxyalkanoate - PHA, Polylactic acid - PLA, waxes, paraffins derived from algae or starch) or inorganic (aluminum oxide, silicon oxide, for example) and deposited in thicknesses ranging from a few nanometers to several hundred microns.

[0098] Advantageously, the applicator 14 is formed of a first lower layer 32 of stiffening cellulosic material, having two opposite sheets separated by corrugations, having an amplitude Fl and a wave period PI.

[0099] It further comprises a second upper layer 34 assembled on the first lower layer 32 intended to support the product, particularly in the form of fibers 28. The second upper layer 34 also has two opposite sheets separated by corrugations, having an amplitude FS less than the amplitude Fl and / or a wave period PS less than the wave period PI.

[0100] Thus, the first lower layer 32 provides structural rigidity to each applicator 14 while offering a lower material cost. The second upper layer 34 has a smoother surface appearance than the first lower layer 32, which is advantageous for the retaining material 30 and for the product.

[0101] The corrugations are either macroscopic, to form corrugated cardboard, or micro- or nanoscopic, to form micro- or nano-corrugations, respectively.

[0102] In a variant, the applicator 14 is formed of a single layer, particularly a single layer of flat or corrugated cardboard.

[0103] In the example shown in Figure 1 , each applicator 14 has a general key shape.

[0104] The gripping portion 24 has a maximum width, taken perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A-A', greater than the maximum width of the product support portion 26, taken perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A-A'.

[0105] Thus, the gripping portion 24 has two longitudinal edges 35A, 35B, from which at least one frangible link 16 with another applicator 14 is present before detachment of the applicator 14, and two transverse edges 36C, 36D, the product support portion 26 protruding from a transverse edge 36D.

[0106] The product support portion 26 here has two parallel longitudinal edges 37A, 37B, parallel to the longitudinal edges 35A, 35B of the gripping portion. It has a tapered second end 22 away from the gripping portion 24, beveled, for example.

[0107] The tapered second end 22 allows for more precise product application, particularly of fibers 28, and effective guidance when manipulating the applicator 14 towards the body surface.

[0108] In the example illustrated by Figure 1 , the product support portion 26 advantageously has a central depression 40 intended to receive the retaining material 30, and lateral rims 42 extending along the lateral edges 37A, 37B of the product support portion 26.

[0109] The central depression 40 opens here at the second end 22 between the lateral rims 42.

[0110] In a variant (not shown), the upper surface of the product support portion 26 is devoid of relief up to its lateral edges 37A, 37B.

[0111] In the example shown in Figure 1 , the first ends 20 and the gripping portions 24 are aligned along a transverse axis B-B', perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A’. Thus, the compactness of the string 12 of applicators 14 is maximal. Nevertheless, with the product support portions 26 of adjacent applicators 14 being less wide than the product support portions 26, they delimit an intermediate guard space 31 between them, which prevents contact between the adjacent fiber bundles 27 of adjacent applicators 14. This guard space 31 extends from the gripping portion 24 to the second end 22. It has a minimum width, taken parallel to the transverse axis B-B’ greater than 50% of the width of a product support portion 26 of an adjacent applicator 14.

[0112] The retaining material 30 is advantageously configured so that the adhesion force FA of the product, particularly fibers 28 of the bundle 27 to the adhesive composition, is strictly greater than the retention force FR of the product on the retaining material 30.

[0113] Preferably, the adhesion force FA is greater than 1 .5 times the retention force FR, notably greater than 2 times the retention force FR, particularly when the product is in the form of fibers.

[0114] This ensures that the fibers detach well from the applicator 14. The force FE to be exerted on the fibers to release them from the applicator 14 is advantageously less than or equal to 20 mN, notably less than or equal to 15 mN.

[0115] The retaining material 30 is an adhesive, for example, as defined above for the adhesive composition, but offering a lower product retention force than that of the adhesive composition.

[0116] In a variant, the retaining material 30 is sensitive to a stimulus, such as a thermal or chemical stimulus, to modify the product's grip force on the applicator. Examples of such retaining materials are given in FR3039368 for a product consisting of fibers.

[0117] Preferably, the product, particularly the fibers 28, is completely separated from the applicator 14 upon contact with the adhesive composition.

[0118] In another variant, as described in FR3039368, the fibers 28 have a frangible zone that breaks during the application of the free end of the fiber on the adhesive composition, separating the fiber into a region applied to the adhesive composition and a region remaining on the applicator 14.

[0119] In the particular example shown in Figure 1, the retaining material 30 is positioned here in the central depression 40, away from the lateral rims 42, so that the lateral rims 42 are devoid of product, notably fibers 28.

[0120] The fibers 28 protrude from the product support portion 26, away from the lateral rims, with a first end 50, received in the retaining material 30 to be linked to the product support portion 26, and a second free end 52, positioned away from the product support portion 26, perpendicularly to a guiding surface defined by the product support portion 26. In the example shown in Figure 1 , the fibers 28 form a bundle 27 with a substantially parallelepiped shape.

[0121] The fiber density 28 is, for example, greater than 500 fibers per cm2, and is notably between 700 fibers and 2800 fibers per cm2, particularly when the fibers have a linear density between 40 and 50 decitex and a length between 4 mm and 6 mm, notably a linear density of 44 decitex and a length of 5 mm.

[0122] The fiber density 28 depends on both the fiber linear density and their length, and more precisely on the ratio between their length and their linear density (length I linear density). Indeed, the finer and / or longer the fibers, the more they tend to bend and thus individually occupy a larger surface than they would if they were more rectilinear, thus decreasing the fiber density.

[0123] Thus, the fiber density 28 can be higher than the values indicated in the particular example above when the fiber length I linear density ratio is lower than in this example, due to a fiber linear density value higher than those indicated in this example for the same fiber length value or a fiber length value lower than those indicated in this example for the same fiber linear density value.

[0124] Similarly, the fiber density 28 can be lower than the values indicated in the particular example above when the fiber length I linear density ratio is higher than in this example, due to a fiber length value higher than those indicated in this example for the same fiber linear density value or a fiber linear density value lower than those indicated in this example for the same fiber length value.

[0125] The fiber density is not necessarily homogeneous and can be variable to better reproduce a natural implantation. The gap between two adjacent fibers 28 on the applicator 14 is preferably between 150 microns and 250 microns.

[0126] The fibers of the bundle 27 of fibers 28 are each an object of length L and diameter D such that L is greater than D, and preferably, much greater than D, D being the diameter of the circle wherein the fiber section is inscribed. In particular, the L / D ratio (or shape factor) is chosen in the range from 3.5 to 2500, better from 5 to 15 500, and better from 5 to 150.

[0127] In particular, their ends are pointed and / or polished to avoid injury.

[0128] For example, the fibers 28 have a length ranging from 0.5 mm to 20 mm from their first end 50 to their second end 52. In particular, their section is between 20 pm and 120 pm, notably between 30 pm and 100 pm, even better between 40 pm and 80 pm.

[0129] The weight or linear density of the fibers 28 is often given in denier or decitex and represents the weight in grams for 9 km of yarn. The fibers 28 have, for example, a linear density chosen in the range from 0.1 deniers to 100 deniers, preferably from 1 deniers to 70 deniers, and better from 5 deniers to 60 deniers.

[0130] The fibers 28 are organized in the form of a bundle 27 of parallel fibers on the applicator 14. The fibers 28 are advantageously arranged on the applicator 14 by being oriented perpendicularly to the product support portion 26 or at an angle with the normal to the product support portion 26, notably an angle up to 45°.

[0131] Advantageously, all the fibers 28 extend substantially parallel to each other, along a perpendicular longitudinal elevation axis C-C', and a transverse axis B-B'.

[0132] The fibers of the bundle 27 of fibers 28 are, for example, fibers of synthetic or natural origin, mineral or organic. They are short or long, unitary or organized, for example, braided, hollow, or solid. Their shape is notably circular or polygonal (square, hexagonal, or octagonal) depending on the specific application envisaged.

[0133] The fibers 28 are notably silk, cotton, wool, flax fibers, cellulose fibers, extracted for example from wood, vegetables or algae, rayon fibers, polyamide (Nylon(c)), viscose, acetate notably rayon acetate, acrylic polymer notably polymethyl methacrylate or poly 2- hydroxyethyl methacrylate, polyolefin and notably polyethylene or polypropylene, glass, silica, carbon notably in graphite form, polytetrafluoroethylene (like Teflon), insoluble collagen, polyesters, polyvinyl chloride or vinylidene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylonitrile, chitosan, polyurethane, polyethylene phthalate, fibers formed from a mixture of polymers such as those mentioned above, like polyamide / polyester fibers.

[0134] Preferably, the fibers 28 are polyamide 6-6 fibers.

[0135] Furthermore, the fibers 28 are advantageously surface-treated, notably coated with a protective layer or intended to give them a color.

[0136] Flame-retardant acrylic fibers of the "Kanekalon" brand can be used. The fibers are, for example, those marketed under the reference Minkeprops SKINTEX Flock ref 590502. In a variant, polyamide and / or cellulosic fibers such as viscose (or Rayon) fibers are used.

[0137] The bundle 27 of fibers 28 is formed, for example, of identical fibers or, in a variant of a mixture of fibers that differ from each other in length, section, material, shape, and / or color.

[0138] The use of fibers 28 of different lengths has the advantage of conferring more naturalness.

[0139] The bundle 27 of fibers 28 includes, for example, a mixture of colors, particularly a mixture of gray and white or black and white fibers.

[0140] Thus, the fibers 28 are configured to treat the hair area, eyebrows, or beard, or even the scalp. It is possible to create several densities, ranging from low density allowing to complete or reproduce sparse hair, to denser hair. It is possible to create effects of sparse beards whose appearance can give an especially aesthetic youthful aspect. It is also possible to reproduce densities close to natural densities (inter-hair distance of about 200 pm) whose advantage is to make the addition of fibers 28 undetectable from near or far. Densities higher than natural densities can be reproduced to create bushy effects or to hide skin irregularities.

[0141] Furthermore, at least two applicators 14 of the same string 12 can carry products, particularly fibers, with different characteristics, for example in terms of length, section, material, shape, and / or color.

[0142] As indicated above, adjacent applicators 14 are connected two by two by frangible links 16. In the example shown in Figure 1 , the frangible links 16 extend along the lateral edges 35A, 35B of each gripping portion 24, parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A'.

[0143] The frangible links 16 are formed, for example, by lines of lesser thickness, grooves, perforated dotted cuts, or continuous cuts at mid-layer, particularly when the applicator 14 is formed of one or more layers of cellulosic materials.

[0144] Thus, each applicator 14 is easily detachable by tearing the frangible link 16 along the lateral edge 35A, 35B of the gripping portion 24 by grasping the gripping portion 24 between the fingers of a user.

[0145] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the case 18 includes a bottom 60, a flap 62, intended to be moved relative to the bottom 60 between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and a rim 64 connecting the bottom 60 to the flap 62.

[0146] The case 18 further advantageously includes a step 66 protruding from the bottom 60.

[0147] The bottom 60 delimits between the rim 64 and the step 66, a housing 68 for receiving the string 12 of applicators 14.

[0148] The rim 64 has a height greater than the sum of the height of the product support portion 26 and the height of the product, particularly fibers. It is connected to the bottom 60 by a first linear hinge 70. It is connected to the flap 62 by a second linear hinge 62, its height being defined by the distance separating the hinges 70, 72.

[0149] The flap 62 is maneuverable by the user between the closed configuration of the case 18, visible in Figure 2, wherein it covers the housing 68 by laying on the step 66, the rim 64 being positioned perpendicularly to the bottom 60, and the open configuration of the case 18, shown in Figure 3, wherein the flap 62 has been moved away from the bottom 60, and access to the housing 68 is possible. The string 12 of applicators 14 is advantageously manufactured from a sheet of material, particularly a sheet of cellulosic material, as described above. The applicators 14 are formed by totally cutting through the sheet along the periphery of each applicator 14, except for the frangible links 16, which are formed by partial cutting, by perforated dotted cuts, by grooving, or / and by continuous cutting at mid-layer, as described above.

[0150] Similarly, the retaining material 30 is applied to the product support portions 26, advantageously leaving the periphery of the product support portion 26 devoid of retaining material 30 along the lateral edges 37A, 37B of the product support portion 26.

[0151] The product, particularly fibers 28, are then deposited on the retaining material 30 to form bundles 27 of fibers 28 that are held protruding relative to each product support portion 26 by the retaining material 30.

[0152] Similarly, the case 18, when present, can be manufactured by cutting at its periphery and by making hinges 70, 72 to form the step 66, the bottom 60, the rim 64, and the flap 62, respectively.

[0153] During support and storage, the string 12 of applicators 14 is kept lodged in the housing 68 of the case, the case 18 being kept in its closed configuration.

[0154] When the user wishes to apply the product, particularly fibers 28, to a body surface, they open the container 19 for receiving the adhesive composition and apply the adhesive composition 19 to the body surface they wish to cover with fibers 28, as described above.

[0155] Then, they maneuver the case 18 to switch it from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0156] They then grasp an applicator 14 from the string 12 located at one end of the string 12. Advantageously, they pinch the gripping portion 24 of this applicator 14 between the fingers of one hand and pinch the gripping portion 14 of the adjacent applicator 14 between the fingers of the other hand. Then, they break the frangible link 16 by moving the applicator 14 they wish to detach from the adjacent applicator 14.

[0157] The presence of a significant guard space 31 between adjacent applicators 14 avoids the risk of disorganization of the fiber bundles 27 of fibers 28 not only during transport and storage of the applicators 14 in their case 18 but also during manipulation to break the frangible link 16.

[0158] Then, the user moves the applicator 14 they have just freed from the string 12 towards the body surface by holding it by the gripping portion 26. They bring the product support portion 26 and the protruding product, particularly the protruding fibers 28, on the product support portion 26 of the body surface until bringing the product, particularly the free ends 52 of the fibers 28, into contact with the adhesive composition deposited on the body surface.

[0159] The user then moves the product support portion 26 away from the body surface. The adhesion force FA of the product, particularly the fibers 28, on the adhesive composition being greater than the retention force FR of the product, particularly the fibers 28, on the retaining material 30, the product remains linked to the adhesive composition on the body surface and detaches from the product support portion 26, without significant modification of its organization. The product, particularly in the form of the fibers 28, thus remains organized during transport, storage, and manipulation of each applicator 14 and during application to the body surface, producing a very satisfactory aesthetic result.

[0160] Furthermore, the applicators 14 are very practical to use while being cost-effective. They are easily recyclable and produce little waste, notably when they are made of cellulosic material, as described above.

[0161] In a variant, shown in Figure 4, the first ends 20 and the gripping portions 24 of the applicators 14 extend along a curved line, along a portion of an arc of a circle or ellipse, for example.

[0162] The applicators 14 of the string 12 are thus arranged in a fan shape, with their second ends 22 more spaced apart than their first ends 20.

[0163] The manufacture and operation of this string 12 of applicators 14 is otherwise similar to that of the string shown in Figure 1. The risk of contact between the fibers 28 of adjacent applicators 14 is further reduced in this type of string 12, as the guard spaces 31 have an increasing width from the gripping portions 24 towards the second ends 22.

[0164] In the variant shown in Figure 5, the plurality of applicators 14 includes at least two applicators 14A, 14B with product support portions 26 having different areas from one applicator 14A, 14B to another and / or fiber bundles 27 of fibers 28 with different areas from one applicator 14A, 14B to another,

[0165] For example, at least one applicator 14A has a large product support portion 26, covered by a large bundle 27 of fibers 28, advantageously for application on a large area, and at least one applicator 14B has a refined product support portion 26, covered with a refined bundle 27 of fibers 28, for precise application on a restricted area.

[0166] In the variant shown in Figure 6, the plurality of applicators 14 comprises at least one applicator 14C, 14D having the shape of a body surface covered with keratin fibers on which the product, particularly fibers 28, is to be deposited, particularly a shape of eyebrows.

[0167] For example, at least one first applicator 14C has a product support portion 26 in the shape of eyebrows of a first size and / or following a first template, and at least one second applicator 14D has a product support portion 26 in the shape of eyebrows of a second size different from the first size and / or following a second template different from the first template.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An assembly (10) for applying a cosmetic product, particularly fibers, comprising a plurality of applicators (14), each applicator (14) comprising a gripping portion (24) and a product support portion (26) carrying a protruding product, particularly a plurality of protruding fibers (28), and a retaining material (30) detachably holding the product on the product support portion (26), characterized in that adjacent applicators (14) are connected to each other by frangible links (16) located away from the product support portions (26), the product support portions (26) of adjacent applicators (14) delimiting a guard space (31) between them.

2. The assembly (10) according to claim 1 , wherein each applicator (14) extends in an elongated manner along a longitudinal axis (A-A’) between a first end (20) defined by the gripping portion (24), and a second end (22) defined by the product support portion (26), the second ends (22) of adjacent applicators (14) being transversely separated relative to the longitudinal axis (A-A’).

3. The assembly (10) according to claim 2, wherein the second end (22) of at least one applicator (14) is tapered.

4. The assembly (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the first ends (20) are aligned along a transverse axis (B-B’) to the longitudinal axis.

5. The assembly (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first ends (20) are located on a non-linear curve, notably an arc of a circle or ellipse, the second ends (22) of adjacent applicators (14) being further apart than the first ends (20) of adjacent applicators (14).

6. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gripping portion (24) of at least one applicator (14) has a maximum width greater than the maximum width of the product support portion (26) of the at least one applicator (14).

7. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of each product support portion (26) of at least one applicator (14) is greater than the length of each gripping portion (24) of the at least one applicator (14).

8. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the product support portion (26) comprises a central depression (40) receiving the retaining material (30) and the product, the product support portion (26) comprising a rim (42) protruding at least on either side of the central depression (40), the rim (42) being devoid of product, or wherein the product support portion (26) is devoid of relief up to its lateral edges (37A, 37B).

9. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each applicator (14) is formed of at least one layer of cellulosic material, particularly a layer of cardboard.

10. The assembly (10) according to claim 9, wherein each applicator (14) includes a first lower layer (32) of cellulosic material, defining corrugations with an amplitude (Fl) and a wave period (PI), and a second upper layer (34) of cellulosic material, supporting the product, the second upper layer (34) having corrugations with an amplitude (FS) less than the amplitude (Fl) of the corrugations of the first lower layer (32) and / or having a wave period (PS) less than the wave period (PI) of the corrugations of the first lower layer (32).

11. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frangible link (16) is formed of lines of lesser thickness, grooves, perforated dotted cuts, or continuous cuts at mid-layer.

12. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a case (18) defining a bottom (60) receiving the plurality of applicators (14).

13. The assembly (10) according to claim 12, wherein the case includes a flap (62) maneuverable between a closed configuration of the case (18), covering the products of the applicators (14), and an open configuration for access to the applicators (14), the flap (62) being connected to the bottom (60) by a rim (64) of height greater than the cumulative height of the product and the product support portion (26), the flap (22) being positioned completely away from the product in the closed configuration.

14. The assembly (10) according to claim 13, wherein the case (18) includes a step (66), delimiting with the bottom (60) a housing (68) for receiving the applicators (14), the flap (62) laying on the step (66) in the closed configuration, the height of the step (66) being greater than the cumulative height of the product and the product support portion (26), the flap (22) being positioned completely away from the product in the closed configuration.

15. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of applicators (14) includes at least two applicators (14A, 14B) with product support portions (26) having different areas from one applicator (14A, 14B) to another and / or products, particularly bundles (27) of fibers (28), with different areas from one applicator (14A, 14B) to another, or wherein the plurality of applicators (14) comprises at least one applicator (14C, 14D) having the shape of a body surface covered with keratin fibers on which the product is to be applied, particularly a shape of eyebrows.

16. A method of applying a cosmetic product, particularly fibers (28) on a body surface comprising the following steps: providing a user with an assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims; application by a user of an adhesive composition on the body surface; detachment by a user of an applicator (14) from the plurality of applicators (14) by breaking the frangible link (16); grasping by the user of the gripping portion (24), and bringing the product support portion (26) in front of the adhesive composition on the body surface to bring the product, particularly the free ends (52) of fibers (28), into contact with the adhesive composition; detachment of the product from the product support portion (26) by moving the applicator (14) away from the body surface.

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