Cosmetic applicator

Abstract

Cosmetic applicators, and methods of making the same, are described. The applicators are selectively scored so as to enable an outer surface layer of the applicator to be removed, e.g., after the outer surface layer has been soiled, thus exposing a new and unsoiled underlying surface layer. The applicators are also selectively scored so as provide handles to allow the user to prevent the soiling of their hands.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The instant application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/498,713 filed Aug. 28, 2003, the entire specification of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to cosmetic applicators and more particularly to cosmetic applicators, and methods of making and using the same, that are selectively scored so as to provide multiple operative surfaces, including but not limited to selectively peelable surface layers, handles, and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Conventional cosmetic applicators are typically employed to selectively apply cosmetics as well to selectively remove cosmetics. These applicators are sometimes comprised of foam materials that are shaped into various configurations that are adapted for different applications.

[0004] In practice, the applicator is typically used to accumulate a suitable amount of cosmetic material on an outer major surface (i.e., an operative surface) of the applicator, whereupon the accumulated cosmetic material is then applied by a user or to a subject, e.g., during the application of make-up. The soiled applicator is then typically disposed of, as the operative surface is generally saturated with the cosmetic material that was previously applied.

[0005] Likewise, when it is desired to remove the cosmetic material from the user or the subject, a new (i.e., unsoiled) applicator is typically used to physically remove, typically by wiping, the cosmetic material. Again, the thus soiled applicator is then typically disposed of, as the operative surface is generally saturated with the cosmetic material that was previously wiped off.

[0006] The single use nature of conventional cosmetic applicators is extremely wasteful in that it increases consumer's cosmetic supply costs and contributes to pollution concerns due, in part, to the limited available operative surface areas of these applicators.

[0007] Accordingly, there exists a desire for new and improved cosmetic applicators and methods of making and using the same. Additionally, there exists a desire for new and improved cosmetic applicators, and methods of making and using the same, that selectively provide multiple operative surfaces. Furthermore, there exists a desire for new and improved cosmetic applicators, and methods of making and using the same, that are selectively scored so as to provide multiple operative surfaces, including but not limited to selectively peelable surface layers, selectively deployable handles, and the like.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In accordance with the general teachings of the present invention, cosmetic applicators, and methods of making and using the same, are provided.

[0009] In accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cosmetic applicator comprising a body and at least one removable layer adjacent to the body.

[0010] In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cosmetic applicator comprising a body and at least one removable operative surface adjacent the body.

[0011] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for making a cosmetic applicator comprising providing a body. At least one removable layer is provided adjacent to the body.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for making a cosmetic applicator comprising providing a body. At least one removable operative surface is provided adjacent to the body.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of using a cosmetic applicator including a base and at least one removable layer. The method comprises applying a cosmetic material to the removable layer on the applicator. The cosmetic material is applied on a user. The removable layer is then removed.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of using a cosmetic applicator including a base and at least one removable layer. The method comprises contacting the applicator with the user to apply a cosmetic material to the removable layer. The removable layer is then removed.

[0015] A further understanding of the present invention will be had in view of the description of the drawings and detailed description of the invention, when viewed in conjunction with the subjoined claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a sectional view of a cosmetic applicator having cosmetic materials applied thereto, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a sectional view of a cosmetic applicator having a soiled surface layer partially removed from the underlying surface, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional view of a cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a first alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates a sectional view of a first alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a second alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates a sectional view of a first alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a third alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates a sectional view of a second alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of a third alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a fifth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 9 illustrates a sectional view of a fourth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a sixth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 10 illustrates a sectional view of the applicator depicted in FIG. 9, wherein the surface layer is partially removed, in accordance with a sixth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 11 illustrates a sectional view of the applicator depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, wherein the underlying surface has been exposed, in accordance with a sixth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 12 illustrates a sectional view of a fourth alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a seventh alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 13 illustrates a sectional view of a fifth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with an eighth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 14 illustrates a sectional view of a sixth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a ninth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 15 illustrates a sectional view of a seventh alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a tenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 16 illustrates a sectional view of an eighth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with an eleventh alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 17 illustrates a partial top plan view of a die operable for manufacturing various cosmetic applicators, in accordance with a twelfth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 18 illustrates a partial top plan view of a kit containing various cosmetic applicators, in accordance with a thirteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] FIG. 19 illustrates a sectional view of an ninth alternative cosmetic applicator containing a first cosmetic material, in accordance with a fourteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] FIG. 20 illustrates a sectional view of a tenth alternative cosmetic applicator containing a second cosmetic material, in accordance with a fifteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] FIG. 21 illustrates a sectional view of an eleventh alternative cosmetic applicator containing both first and second cosmetic materials, in accordance with a sixteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] FIG. 22 illustrates a first step in the use of a twelfth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a seventeenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 23 illustrates a second step in the use of a twelfth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a seventeenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] FIG. 24 illustrates a third step in the use of a twelfth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a seventeenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] FIG. 25 illustrates a fourth step in the use of a twelfth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a seventeenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] FIG. 26 illustrates a fifth step in the use of a twelfth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a seventeenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] FIG. 27 illustrates a sectional view of a thirteenth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with an eighteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] FIG. 28 illustrates a sectional view of the deployment of the handles of the applicator depicted in FIG. 27, in accordance with an eighteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] FIG. 29 illustrates a partial elevational view of a user grasping the handles of the applicator depicted in FIG. 28, in accordance with an eighteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 30 illustrates a sectional view of a fifth alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a nineteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] FIG. 31 illustrates a sectional view of a sixth alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a twentieth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] FIG. 32 illustrates a sectional view of a fourteenth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a twenty-first alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] FIG. 33 illustrates a sectional view of a seventh alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a twenty-first alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] FIG. 34 illustrates a sectional view of an eighth alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a twenty-first alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] FIG. 35 illustrates a partial top plan view of a die operable for manufacturing various cosmetic applicators, in accordance with a twenty-second alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] FIG. 36 illustrates a partial top plan view of a kit containing various cosmetic applicators, in accordance with a twenty-third alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] FIG. 37 illustrates a sectional view of a fifteenth alternative cosmetic applicator, in accordance with a twenty-fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] FIG. 38 illustrates a sectional view of a ninth alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a twenty-fifth alternative embodiment of the present invention; and

[0054] FIG. 39 illustrates a sectional view of a tenth alternative cosmetic applicator system, in accordance with a twenty-six alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] The same reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the various Figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0056] While the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter, it is to be understood at the outset that persons of skill in the art may modify the invention herein described while still achieving the favorable results of this disclosure. Accordingly, the description that follows is to be understood as being a broad teaching disclosure directed to persons of skill in the appropriate arts, and not as limiting upon the present invention.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, there is generally shown a cosmetic applicator 10, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Although a wedge-shaped configuration is shown, it should be appreciated that other configurations may be employed in the practice of the present invention, such as but not limited to ovals, circles, rectangles, squares, parallelograms, cubes, pyramids, cones, frusto-conical shapes, and the like.

[0058] Applicator 10 can be comprised of any number of suitable materials, including but not limited to foams, foam-like materials, and the like. Regardless of the composition of applicator 10, it is preferred to employ materials that will not harm or damage the user or subject's skin. Thus, materials that are relatively deformable and/or resilient are preferred. It will be appreciated that all applications and removable layers set forth herein may comprise any suitable material, such as those set forth above.

[0059] Applicator 10 primarily includes a body 12 having at least one outer surface that is intended to function as an operative surface 14. By "operative surface," as that term is used herein, it is meant to include any surface that is capable of being used to either apply and/or remove cosmetics and the like from the skin of a user or subject.

[0060] A nick, perforation, serration, discontinuity, rule, and/or score 16 is provided along an area below operative surface 14 to define a surface layer 18. The intended purpose of score 16 is to provide a method for allowing surface layer 18 to be removed, thus exposing an underlying surface 20 (which also is intended to act as an additional operative surface), the benefit of which will be explained herein. Accordingly, surface layer 18 is said to be peelable, in that it is operable to be peeled away from underlying surface 20. Score 16 is preferably at least partially discontinuous in that the respective adjacent layers should not become completely separated prior to use by the user. Thus, by way of a non-limiting example, a relatively small amount of material (e.g., foam) should connect adjacent layers of applicator 10.

[0061] In practice, applicator 10 is intended to apply and remove cosmetic materials 22 from the skin of the user and/or subject. Toward this end, cosmetic materials 22 are preferably applied, disposed, accumulated, or otherwise placed on operative surface 14, as shown in FIG. 2. Cosmetic materials 22 are then preferably applied to the user's/subject's skin, whereupon cosmetics materials 22 tend to soil a substantial portion of the surface area of operative surface 14 during the application process.

[0062] In order to utilize the remainder of body 12 of applicator 10, surface layer 18 is removed (e.g., by peeling or pulling), thus exposing new unsoiled underlying surface 20, as shown in FIG. 3. In this manner, additional and/or different cosmetic materials may be applied to underlying surface 20, thus allowing the user to gain more efficient and economical use of applicator 10.

[0063] Likewise, applicator 10 may be employed to remove previously applied cosmetic materials from the skin of users/subjects. By way of a non-limiting example, unsoiled operative surface 14 is preferably wiped, rubbed or otherwise manipulated against the user's/subject's skin such that the cosmetic materials adhere thereto.

[0064] Once operative surface 14 becomes soiled by becoming relatively saturated with the cosmetic materials, surface layer 18 is preferably removed, e.g., peeled away, thus exposing new unsoiled underlying layer 20. Accordingly, underlying layer 20 is now operable to function as an additional operative surface. Unsoiled underlying surface 20 is preferably wiped, rubbed or otherwise manipulated against the user's/subject's skin such that any remaining cosmetic materials adhere thereto. This process may be repeated until the cosmetic materials are completely removed.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 4, there is generally shown a cosmetic applicator system 100, in accordance with a first alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 100 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 4.

[0066] In this view, two wedge-shaped configurations are shown. It should be appreciated that other configurations may be employed in the practice of the present invention, such as but not limited to ovals, circles, rectangles, squares, parallelograms, cubes, pyramids, cones, frusto-conical shapes, and the like.

[0067] In this embodiment, system 100 includes "twin" applicators, i.e., a first applicator 102 and a second applicator 104 that are removably joined together along a scored centerline 106. However, as previously shown in FIG. 1, each of applicators 102, 104, respectively, are provided with scores 108, 110, respectively, so as to form surface layers 112, 114, respectively. In this manner, the user can conveniently have two applicators that are removably joined together, instead of having to carry individual applicators. Thus, the user simply separates applicator 102 from applicator 104 by gently tearing along centerline 106. The user can then use either applicator 102 and/or applicator 104 to either apply and/or remove cosmetic materials, as previously described. In manufacturing the applicators of the present invention, it is preferred to utilize dies/forms that are capable of producing multiple sets of applicators, as opposed to repetitively producing individual applicators.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5, there is generally shown a cosmetic applicator sheet system 200, in accordance with a second alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 200 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 5.

[0069] In this view, a plurality of wedge-shaped configurations is shown. It should be appreciated that other configurations may be employed in the practice of the present invention, such as but not limited to ovals, circles, rectangles, squares, parallelograms, cubes, pyramids, cones, frusto-conical shapes, and the like.

[0070] In this embodiment, system 200 includes a sheet 202 consisting of a plurality of twin applicators 204 (similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4) that are removably joined together along a plurality of horizontal and vertical scores 206. However, as previously shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, each individual applicator 208 is provided with a score 210 so as to form a surface layer 212. In this manner, the user can conveniently have multiple applicators that are removably joined together, instead of having to carry individual or twin applicators. Thus, the user simply separates twin applicator 204 from sheet 202 by gently tearing along the requisite number of scores 206. The twin applicator 204 can then be further separated into the individual applicators 208, as previously described. The user can then use applicator 208 to either apply and/or remove cosmetic materials, as previously described. In manufacturing the applicators of the present invention, it is preferred to utilize dies/forms that are capable of producing large sheets of applicators, as opposed to repetitively producing individual applicators. Alternatively, system 200 can be sold in sheet form to high-volume users of cosmetic applicators, such as make-up artists, cosmetics salespersons, beauty parlors, and the like.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 6, there is generally shown a first alternative cosmetic applicator 300, in accordance with a third alternative embodiment of the present invention. The applicator 300 primarily includes a wedge-shaped body portion 302 and a handle portion 304. Optionally, a selectively removable surface layer (not shown) may also be provided. In this case, the wedge-shaped portion 302 is intended to function as an operative surface for applying/removing the cosmetic materials, whereas handle portion 304 is intended to be grasped by the user to manipulate the applicator 300, as well as to keep the user's hands from becoming soiled with cosmetic materials.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 7, there is generally shown a second alternative cosmetic applicator system 400, in accordance with a fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 400 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 7.

[0073] In this embodiment, system 400 includes a sheet 402 consisting of a plurality of applicators 404 (similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6) that are removably joined together along a plurality of diagonal scores 406. However, as previously shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, at least one of individual applicators 404 is provided with a score 408 so as to form a surface layer 410. In this manner, the user can conveniently have multiple applicators that are removably joined together, instead of having to carry individual or twin applicators. Thus, the user simply separates applicator 404 from sheet 402 by gently tearing along the requisite number of scores 406. The user can then use applicator 404 to either apply and/or remove cosmetic materials, as previously described. In manufacturing the applicators of the present invention, it is preferred to utilize dies/forms that are capable of producing sheets of applicators, and more preferably large sheets of applicators, as opposed to repetitively producing individual applicators. Alternatively, system 400 can be sold in sheet form to high-volume users of cosmetic applicators, such as make-up artists, cosmetics salespersons, beauty parlors, and the like.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 8, there is generally shown a third alternative cosmetic applicator system 500, in accordance with a fifth alternative embodiment of the present invention that is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 500 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 8.

[0075] Two wedge-shaped applicators 502, 504, respectively, are shown. However, in this view, operative surface 506 covers two major faces, 508, 510, respectively, as opposed to only one major face of applicators, 502, 504, respectively. In this manner, more efficient use of operative surface 506 can be achieved. By way of a non-limiting example, different cosmetic materials can be applied to either major surface of operative surface 506 without commingling occurring, thus obviating the need to remove surface layer 512 prematurely to apply another cosmetic material. By way of another non-limiting example, greater amounts of cosmetic materials can be removed by utilizing both of the major surfaces of operative surface 506, thus obviating the need to remove surface layer 512 prematurely to remove additional amounts of cosmetic material.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 9, there is generally shown a fourth alternative cosmetic applicator 600, in accordance with a sixth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view a cone-shaped configuration is shown, and is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1. Applicator 600 includes a body 602, an operative surface 604, a score 606, and an underlying surface 608. A layer of cosmetic material 610 is shown applied to operative surface 604. The operation of applicator 600 is identical to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1. By way of a non-limiting example, cosmetic material 610 is applied to operative surface 604 and applied to the user's skin; soiled surface layer 612 is removed from underlying surface 608 (see FIG. 10), thus exposing underlying surface 608 (see FIG. 11) which can then be used to apply more cosmetic materials or remove the previously applied cosmetic materials.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 12, there is generally shown a fourth alternative cosmetic applicator system 700, in accordance with a seventh alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 700 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 12.

[0078] In this embodiment, system 700 includes a sheet 702 consisting of a plurality of applicators 704 that are removably joined together along a plurality of diagonal scores 706. The individual applicators 704 are provided with scores 708 so as to form surface layers 710. In this manner, the user can conveniently have multiple applicators that are removably joined together, instead of having to carry individual or twin applicators. Thus, the user simply separates applicator 704 from sheet 702 by gently tearing along the requisite number of scores 706. The user can then use applicator 704 to either apply and/or remove cosmetic materials, as previously described. In manufacturing the applicators of the present invention, it is preferred to utilize dies/forms that are capable of producing sheets of applicators, and more preferably large sheets of applicators, as opposed to repetitively producing individual applicators. Alternatively, system 700 can be sold in sheet form to high-volume users of cosmetic applicators, such as make-up artists, cosmetics salespersons, beauty parlors, and the like.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 13, there is generally shown a fifth alternative cosmetic applicator 800, in accordance with an eighth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view a cone-shaped configuration is shown, and is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9. However, this embodiment differs in that there are two operative surfaces 802, 804, respectively. Thus, operative surfaces 802, 804, respectively, can be sequentially removed during cosmetic material application/removal procedures before reaching underlying surface 806.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 14, there is generally shown a sixth alternative cosmetic applicator 900, in accordance with a ninth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view a wedge shaped configuration is shown, and is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4. However, this embodiment differs in that there is a plurality of operative surfaces 902. Thus, each individual operative surface 902 can be sequentially removed during cosmetic material application/removal procedures before reaching the respective underlying surfaces 904. FIG. 14 shows two applicators. The applicators can preferably be separated along the scored centerline.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 15, there is generally shown a seventh alternative cosmetic applicator 1000, in accordance with a tenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view a wedge shaped configuration is shown, and is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8. However, this embodiment differs in that there is a plurality of operative surfaces 1002 that extend along the surface contours of applicator 1000. By way of a non-limiting example, each operative surface 1002 includes end portions 1004, 1006, respectively, that form sharp and/or blunt edges, 1008, 1010, respectively. As with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 14, each individual operative surface 1002 can be sequentially removed during cosmetic material application/removal procedures before reaching the respective underlying surfaces 1012. FIG. 15 shows two applicators. The applicators can preferably be separated along the scored centerline.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 16, there is generally shown an eighth alternative cosmetic applicator 1100, in accordance with an eleventh alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view a wedge shaped configuration is shown, and is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8. However, this embodiment differs in that there is a plurality of operative surfaces 1102 that extend along the surface contours of the applicator 1000. By way of a non-limiting example, each operative surface 1102 includes end portions 1104, 1106, respectively, that form two sharp edges, 1108, 1110, respectively. As with the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 14 and 15, each individual operative surface 1102 can be sequentially removed during cosmetic material application/removal procedures before reaching the respective underlying surfaces 1112. FIG. 16 shows two applicators. The applicators can preferably be separated along the scored centerline.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 17, there is generally shown a die 1200 that is operable to manufacture the various cosmetic applicators described herein, in accordance with a twelfth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, die 1200 includes three individual die forms 1202, 1204, 1206, respectively, that are operable to form the applicators depicted in FIGS. 14, 15, and 16, respectively. However, it should be appreciated that the present invention contemplates that alternative dies may be used to manufacture any of the applicators described herein, in accordance with the general teachings of the present invention.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 18, there is shown a kit 1300 containing various cosmetic applicators, in accordance with a thirteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, kit 1300 includes three individual applicators 1302, 1304, 1306, respectively, that are identical to the applicators depicted in FIGS. 14, 15, and 16, respectively. However, it should be appreciated that the present invention contemplates that alternative applicators described herein may be included in the kit 1300, in accordance with the general teachings of the present invention. FIG. 18 shows two applicators. The applicators can preferably be separated along the scored centerline.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 19, there is shown a ninth alternative cosmetic applicator 1400 containing a first cosmetic material 1402, in accordance with a fourteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, first cosmetic material 1402 has been applied to, disposed on, embedded in, or otherwise provided for on or in one or more operative surfaces 1404 of applicator 1400.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 20, there is shown a tenth alternative cosmetic applicator 1500 containing a second cosmetic material 1502, in accordance with a fifteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, second cosmetic material 1502 has been applied to, disposed on, embedded in, or otherwise provided for on or in one or more operative surfaces 1504 of the applicator 1500.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 21, there is shown an eleventh alternative cosmetic applicator 1600 containing both first and second cosmetic materials 1402, 1502, respectively, in accordance with a sixteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, both first and second cosmetic materials 1402, 1502, respectively, have been applied to, disposed on, embedded in, or otherwise provided for on or in one or more operative surfaces 1602 of applicator 1600.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 22-26, there is shown an illustrative method for using an eleventh alternative cosmetic applicator 1700, in accordance with a seventeenth alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 22, applicator 1700 comprises a first section 1702 containing both new and clean (i.e., unsoiled) operative surfaces 1704, respectively, in conjunction with a second section 1706 cosmetic material containing operative surfaces 1708, respectively. However, it should be appreciated that the following description of the intended use of the present invention can be applied to any type of applicator or applicator system described herein.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 23, section 1702 is preferably removed from section 1706 by pulling the respective sections apart, to expose the respective operative surfaces 1704, 1708. Thus, operative surfaces 1704, 1708, respectively, can now be used to either apply cosmetics or remove cosmetics, as the case may be.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 24, the top layer of each operative surface 1704, 1708, respectively, has been preferably removed (e.g., by peeling) to expose first underlying operative surface, 1704A, 1708A, respectively.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 25, the first underlying operative surfaces 1704A, 1708A, respectively, have been preferably removed (e.g., by peeling) to expose second underlying operative surfaces, 1704B, 1708B, respectively.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 26, the second underlying operative surfaces 1704B, 1708B, respectively, have been preferably removed (e.g., by peeling) to expose the underlying surfaces, 1710, 1712, respectively.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 27, there is generally shown a thirteenth alternative cosmetic applicator system 1800, in accordance with an eighteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 1800 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 27.

[0095] In this embodiment, system 1800 includes "twin" applicators, i.e., a first applicator 1802 and a second applicator 1804 that are removably joined together along a scored centerline 1806. Each of applicators 1802, 1804, respectively, are provided with a pair of scores 1808, 1810, 1812, 1814, respectively, so as to form handle systems 1816, 1818, respectively. The handles 1816, 1818 can be separated from the body of the applicator and brought together in the manner shown in FIG. 28. In this manner, the user, after separating applicators 1802, 1804, respectively, can conveniently grasp the respective applicator by handle systems, 1816, 1818, respectively, in order to avoid soiling his/her hands as best shown in FIG. 29. The applicators 1802, 1804 also preferably include a reasonable layer 1820, 1822, respectively.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 30, a fifth alternative cosmetic applicator system 1900, which includes handle systems 1902, can be produced in multiple form as opposed to individual units, in accordance with a nineteenth alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 1900 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 30.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 31, there is generally shown a sixth cosmetic applicator system 2000, in accordance with a twentieth alternative embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing system 2000 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 31.

[0098] In this embodiment, system 2000 includes a sheet 2002 consisting of a plurality of twin applicators 2004 (similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 30) that are removably joined together along a plurality of horizontal and vertical scores 2006. However, as previously shown in previous embodiments, each individual applicator 208 is provided with a pair of scores 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, respectively, so as to form handle systems, 2018, 2020, respectively. In this manner, the user can conveniently have multiple applicators that are removably joined together, instead of having to carry individual or twin applicators. Thus, the user simply separates twin applicator 2004 from the sheet 2002 by gently tearing along the requisite number of scores 2006. The twin applicator 2004 can then be further separated into the individual applicators 2008, as previously described. The user can then use applicator 2008 to either apply and/or remove cosmetic materials, as previously described. In manufacturing the applicators of the present invention, it is preferred to utilize dies/forms that are capable of producing large sheets of applicators, as opposed to repetitively producing individual applicators. Alternatively, system 2000 can be sold in sheet form to high-volume users of cosmetic applicators, such as make-up artists, cosmetics salespersons, beauty parlors, and the like.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 32-34, the applicators depicted in FIGS. 27-31 can also be shaped in cone-like or pyramidal-like configurations, in accordance with a twenty-first alternative embodiment of the present invention. These applicators 2100 can be produced individually (see FIG. 32, fourteenth alternative cosmetic applicator 2102), in multiples (see FIG. 33, seventh alternative cosmetic applicator system 2104) and in pluralities (e.g., sheets) (see FIG. 34, eighth alternative cosmetic applicator system 2106). It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing applicators 2100 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIGS. 32-34.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 35, there is generally shown a die 2200 that is operable to manufacture the various cosmetic applicators described herein, in accordance with a twenty-second alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, die 2200 includes a "twin" die form 2202. However, it should be appreciated that the present invention contemplates that alternative dies may be used to manufacture any of the applicators described herein, in accordance with the general teachings of the present invention.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 36, there is shown a kit 2300 containing various cosmetic applicators, in accordance with a twenty-third alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, kit 2300 includes a "twin" applicator 2302. However, it should be appreciated that the present invention contemplates that alternative applicators described herein may be included in kit 2300, in accordance with the general teachings of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 37, the selectively peelable operative surface aspect and the selectively operable handle aspect of the present invention can be combined in a fifteenth alternative cosmetic applicator 2400, in accordance with a twenty-fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] In this view, the applicator 2400 includes at least one operative surface 2402 that defines a surface layer 2406, a score 2404, an underlying surface 2408, and a pair of scores 2410, 2412, respectively, that form a handle system 2414. It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing applicator 2400 would have a surface configuration substantially identical to the depiction of FIG. 37. It should also be appreciated that applicator 2400 could be incorporated into a kit, either with identical applicators or alternative applicator configurations.

[0104] The applicator 2400 would be used substantially the same as previously described embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, applicator 2400 could be used to apply/remove cosmetics with operative surface 2402 and/or underlying surface 2408, as the case may be, while the user simultaneously grasps applicator 2400 by handle system 2414.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 38 and 39, the applicator depicted in FIG. 37 can also be produced in multiples (see FIG. 38, ninth alternative cosmetic applicator system 2500) and in pluralities (e.g., sheets) (see FIG. 39, tenth alternative cosmetic applicator system 2600). It should be appreciated that a die for manufacturing systems 2500 and 2600, respectively, will have surface configurations substantially identical to the depiction of FIGS. 38 and 39, respectively. It should also be appreciated that either of systems 2500 and/or 2600 can be incorporated into a kit, either with identical applicator systems or alternative applicator system configurations.

[0106] It will be appreciated that some embodiments above are shown in the Figures to have a single removable layer and some show no removable layers. It will be appreciated that any of the embodiments may include one or more removable layers.

[0107] The foregoing embodiments and examples are to be considered illustrative, rather than restrictive of the invention, and those modifications, which come within the meaning and range of equivalence of the claims, are to be included therein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cosmetic applicator, comprising: a body; and at least one removable layer adjacent to the body.

2. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 1 wherein said removable layer is detachably retained on said body.

3. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of removable layers.

4. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a handle portion secured to said body.

5. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 4 wherein said handle portion is integral with said body.

6. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 1 wherein said removable layer includes a cosmetic material.

7. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 1 wherein said removable layer comprises foam.

8. A cosmetic applicator, comprising: a body; and at least one removable operative surface adjacent to the body.

9. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 8 wherein said operative surface is detachably retained on said body.

10. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 8 further comprising a plurality of operative surfaces.

11. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 8 further comprising a handle portion secured to said body.

12. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 11 wherein said handle portion is integral with said body.

13. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 8 wherein said operative surface includes a cosmetic material.

14. A cosmetic applicator as set forth in claim 8 wherein said operative surfaces comprises foam.

15. A method for making a cosmetic applicator, comprising: providing a body; and providing at least one removable layer adjacent to the body.

16. A method as set forth in claim 15 further comprising scoring the applicator to create the removable layer.

17. A method as set forth in claim 15 further comprising scoring the applicator to create a handle portion on the base.

18. A method as set forth in claim 16 further comprising applying a cosmetic material in the removable layer.

19. A method as set forth in claim 15 further comprising scoring the applicator to create a plurality of removable layers.

20. A method for making a cosmetic applicator, comprising: providing a body; and providing at least one removable operative surface adjacent to the body.

21. A method as set forth in claim 20 further comprising scoring the applicator to create the operative surface.

22. A method as set forth in claim 20 further comprising scoring the applicator to create a handle portion on the base.

23. A method as set forth in claim 21 further comprising applying a cosmetic material in the operative surface.

24. A method as set forth in claim 20 further comprising scoring the applicator to create a plurality of operative surfaces.

25. A method of using a cosmetic applicator including a base and at least one removable layer comprising: applying a cosmetic material to the removable layer on the applicator; applying the cosmetic material on a user; and removing the removable layer.

26. A method as set forth in claim 25 further comprising detaching a portion of the base to provide a handle for the applicator.

27. A method of using a cosmetic applicator including a base and at least one removable layer comprising: contacting the applicator with a user to apply cosmetic material to the removable layer; and removing the removable layer.

28. A method as set forth in claim 27 further comprising detaching a portion of the base to provide a handle for the applicator.