U.S. patent application number 11/180845 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-10 for attachment for resurfacing tool.
Invention is credited to Rhoades, Dean L..
Application Number | 20050250076 11/180845 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25183681 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050250076 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rhoades, Dean L. |
November 10, 2005 |
Attachment for resurfacing tool
Abstract
An attachment for a dermal resurfacing tool. A cap has a wall
defining a volume and a porous mass attached thereto. The cap may
engage a head of the tool.
Inventors: |
Rhoades, Dean L.; (Beverly
Hills, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BLAKELY SOKOLOFF TAYLOR & ZAFMAN
12400 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
SEVENTH FLOOR
LOS ANGELES
CA
90025-1030
US
|
Family ID: |
25183681 |
Appl. No.: |
11/180845 |
Filed: |
July 12, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11180845 |
Jul 12, 2005 |
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09802425 |
Mar 9, 2001 |
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09802425 |
Mar 9, 2001 |
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09411712 |
Oct 4, 1999 |
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6652888 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
433/217.1 ;
15/107 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 34/041 20130101;
A61K 8/26 20130101; A61B 2017/00734 20130101; A61H 2201/1692
20130101; A61H 23/0263 20130101; A61K 2800/28 20130101; A45D
2200/1018 20130101; A61B 2217/005 20130101; A61B 2017/00398
20130101; A45D 2200/207 20130101; A61Q 19/00 20130101; A61B 17/54
20130101; A61B 2017/00747 20130101; A61B 2017/320004 20130101; A45D
34/042 20130101; A61Q 19/08 20130101; A45D 2200/1054 20130101; A61H
7/005 20130101; A61B 2017/00761 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
433/217.1 ;
015/107 |
International
Class: |
A61K 007/15; A47L
013/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus comprising: a cap having at least one wall that
alone or in combination with at least one additional surface
defines a volume; and a porous material coupled to the cap.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a plurality of
protrusions extending from an interior surface of the wall.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the wall defining a
circumferential interior groove.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the volume is substantially
cylindrical.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the porous material is one of:
a polyurethane sponge pad; a latex sponge pad; and a makeup
sponge.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the wall is deformable to snap
fit onto a head having a volume greater than the volume.
7. The applications of claim 6 wherein the value is one of
cylindrical and conic.
8. An attachment for use in combination with a motorized tool
having a head, the attachment comprising: a cap having at least one
wall that alone or in combination with at least one additional
surface defines a volume; and a porous material coupled to the
cap.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 further comprising: a plurality of
protrusions extending from an interior surface of the wall to
engage the head.
10. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the wall defines a
circumferential interior groove.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The application is a Continuation of co-pending application,
Ser. No. 09/802,425, filed Mar. 9, 2001 which is a
Continuation-In-Part of issued U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,888.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to skin treatment.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Facial skin rejuvenation has been accomplished by chemical
treatment referred to as "chemical peels" or laser treatment
referred to as "laser surgery" and exfoliation by machine driven
means, such as with emery paper. Such methods generally require
medical supervision and involve some risk of deleterious side
effects as well as pain and discomfort during treatment. These
methods all require long recovery time between treatments.
[0004] Microdermabrasion (e.g., microexfoliation, particle skin
resurfacing) is a technique in skin care in which a controlled
exfoliation of the skin is performed to improve and remove skin
abnormalities. A typical microdermabrasion machine consists of a
compressor to project inert crystals of corundum (aluminum oxide or
alumina) through a tube into a hand piece manipulated by a
technician over the skin of the subject. The compressor projects
the corundum across the skin with variable pressure while the hand
piece is in contact with the skin. This induces an abrasion action
which removes the top layer of skin. At the same time, through
another tube within the hand piece, the used corundum and a braided
skin are vacuumed into another container for disposal. As can be
appreciated, the need for the compressor, the supply of corundum,
and a vacuum source and disposal container are suitable for a
specialty clinic with trained technicians.
[0005] What is desired is an inexpensive method that may be safely
applied upon a human subject's own skin to achieve the desired
rejuvenation without pain or discomfort during treatment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIGS. 1 and 2, a powered (dc battery or ac power driven)
applicator apparatus (vibrator) including a vibrating device
encased in head portion 10 of the apparatus (vibrator) housing.
[0007] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an
embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1, specifically the vibrator
portion of the apparatus.
[0008] FIG. 4 shows an exploded side view of the apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0009] FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of a manually-manipulated or
operated apparatus.
[0010] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating practicing a method
utilizing either the apparatus comprising the motor-driven
vibrating mechanism or the manually-manipulated device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] A composition is disclosed including a base and a plurality
of abrasive particles. In one aspect, the composition includes a
base comprising as a principal component a moisturizer suitable for
application to the human skin and a plurality of abrasive
particles. Suitable abrasive particles include inorganic particles
such as corundum, aluminum oxide, alumina, Al.sub.2O.sub.3 and
magnesium oxide (MgO). In one embodiment, the abrasive particles
are microcrystals of corundum having an average particle size on
the order of 34 microns (.mu.m) to 556 .mu.m (320 to 30 grit). More
preferably, the average particle size of the microcrystals is on
the order of about 42 .mu.m to 198 .mu.m (280 to 60 grit).
[0012] The abrasive nature of the particles in the composition
render the composition suitable as an exfoliator to improve the
look and feel of an area of human skin and remove skin
abnormalities. More specifically, the abrasive particles tend to
remove the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) to expose an
underlayer of skin. The human body responds by producing a new
layer of skin. With one or more (and preferably a series) of these
exfoliation treatments, it is believed that the skin subject to the
treatment may be improved. Such improvements include improvement in
the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks,
non-inflammatory acne, acne scars, surgical scars, rough or coarse
textured skin, age spots, blotchy skin conditions, and sun damaged
skin.
[0013] In one embodiment, the composition comprises a base that is
capable of suspending the plurality of abrasive particles within
the base. One particular component, that in one embodiment is
included as a principal component in the base, is a moisturizer.
Moisturizers are believed to reduce water loss from the skin and
draw moisture from inner skin layers up into the outer skin layer.
In this regard, in one embodiment, the moisturizer includes a
substance that attracts moisture to the top skin layer (a
humectant). Suitable humectants include glycerin, propylene glycol,
alpha hydroxy acids, urea, and lactic acid. The moisturizer may
also include substances that tend to reduce water loss by creating
a barrier. Such substances include petrolatum, mineral oil, lanolin
and silicone derivatives.
[0014] Suitable moisturizers may be in various forms as known in
the art. Such forms include but are not limited to, liquids,
including but not limited to, creams, gels, pastes and emolients.
In addition to the moisturizer, the base of the composition may
further include, but is not limited to, antioxidants, aromas/
fragrances, vitamins (particularly vitamins A, C and E),
emulsifiers, toners, acids (e.g., glycolic acid), scrubs, serums,
lotions, liquids, elixirs, sun screens, and tonics.
[0015] In another embodiment, the base of the composition is a
liquid including a cleansing component, including, but not limited
to, soaps, salicylic acid, a lauryl sulfate (e.g. sodium lauryl
sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate). The cleansing component base
may also be combined with a moisturizer. Other components such as
surfactants and emulsifiers may further be included. Antimicrobial
or bactericidal agents may still further be included. An example of
a suitable composition is a composition comprising 20 to 70 percent
by weight corundum, 20 to 70 percent aloe gel, and five to 20
percent sodium lauryl sulfate. A thickening agent may also be added
where desired.
[0016] In one embodiment, abrasive particles of corundum (alumina)
microcrystals are combined with a creme moisturizer base in an
amount of about 5 to 100 grams of corundum per ounce of creme,
preferably 10 to 50 grams per ounce, and more preferably 10 to 20
grams per ounce.
[0017] The abrasive articles suspended in the cream moisturizer
provide gentle microdermabrasion of the skin for
resurfacing/rejuvenating the skin, leaving it smooth and soft after
each treatment without the need of any recovery time so that it may
be repeated as often as on a daily basis, in order to reduce and
erase fine lines and wrinkles, reduce pore size, reduce or erase
sun damage, age spots and skin discoloration, firm skin and muscle
tone, thereby to reduce sagging, enhance new epidermal cells and
decongest acne skin conditions. This method of rejuvenating the
skin, and particularly the facial skin, is ideal for those
unwilling or unable to undergo laser surgery, a chemical peel, or
machine driven exfoliation.
[0018] One example of a suitable composition including corundum
(alumina) microcrystals and a cream moisturizer at approximately 14
grams microcrystals per ounce of cream includes:
1 Ingredients Percentage Aluminum Oxide 35.000 Purified Water
14.288 Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride 11.500 Octyl Palmitate 10.000
Safflower Oil 10.000 Cetearyl Alcohol 3.000 Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate
2.100 Stearic Acid 5.000 Wheat Germ Oil 3.000 Propylene Glycol
2.900 Panthenol 1.000 Lecethin 0.500 Cetyl Alcohol 0.500 Tocopheryl
Acetate (vitamin E) 0.100 Retinyl Palmitate (vitamin A) 0.100
Ascorbyl Palmitate 0.100 Extract of Carrot 0.050 Wheat Germ 0.050
Wheat Bran 0.050 Aminomethyl Propanediol 0.050 Beta Carotene 0.010
Methylparaben 0.200 Propylparaben 0.100 Phenoxyethanol 0.200 FDC
Yellow 5 0.001 FDC Yellow 6 0.001 Fragrance 0.200
[0019] In one embodiment, the composition is provided in a jar (not
shown) having a mouth large enough for an applicator of the
applicator apparatus described below to be dipped into the
composition in the jar. Alternatively, the composition may be
scooped out of the jar by hand and applied to the skin area to be
treated. Pump mechanisms or squirt bottle tube configurations for
dispensing the compositions are also suitable.
[0020] In another embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed. A suitable
apparatus includes a portable device having a vibrating head and an
applicator coupled to the vibrating head. The applicator has
dimensions suitable for contacting localized areas of human
skin.
[0021] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a powered (dc battery or ac
power driven) applicator apparatus (vibrator) including a vibrating
device encased in head portion 10 of the apparatus (vibrator)
housing. The apparatus (vibrator) also includes handle portion 11
which is adapted to house in an interior volume, a
removable/replaceable power source, such as batteries (e.g.,
multiple AA batteries), optional circuitry for coupling to an AC
power source, and circuitry to operate a motor (e.g., DC) driven
apparatus (vibrator). The apparatus, in one embodiment, is formed
of a plastic formed casing.
[0022] The apparatus (vibrator) also includes applicator 12 coupled
to head portion 10 of the apparatus (vibrator). Applicator 12 is a
porous material such as a cloth or sponge having dimensions
suitable for contacting an area of human skin, for example, a
sponge pad, e.g., a polyurethane sponge pad, a latex sponge pad, or
other closed-cell sponge material. One suitable sponge material is
commonly referred to as "make-up" sponge material used
representatively in the makeup arts. Other open-celled sponge
material may also be used. Alternatively, applicator 12 is a
non-porous material such as synthetic rubber, plastic or latex.
[0023] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an
embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1, specifically the vibrator
portion of the apparatus. In cross-section, the operation of the
vibrating mechanism is described. The apparatus (vibrator)
includes, in this embodiment, a removable power source. In this
case, the apparatus (vibrator) includes handle portion 11 having
interior chamber 25 to accommodate the removable power source. In
one example, the power source to operate the vibrator is two AA
batteries that fit within interior chamber 25 of handle portion 11.
Conductors 23 and 24 define ends of the interior chamber. Leads 26
and 28 coupled to conductor 23 bring current to/from motor 40. Lead
26 is coupled to circuit board 30 that includes switch 35 to
control the operation of motor 40. Switch 35 may be a two-position
switch (ON/OFF) or a multiple position switch for operating motor
40 at multiple speeds.
[0024] Motor 40 is disposed in an interior portion 20 of head
portion 10 of vibrator 10 and includes shaft 42 extending from one
end of motor 40. Shaft 42 is rotated (as illustrated) with the
operation of motor 40.
[0025] Coupled to an end of shaft 42 of motor 40 is eccentric mass
45. In this embodiment, eccentric mass 45 is a semi-cylindrical
body coupled at its axis to post 42. In this manner, as eccentric
mass 45 rotates, its shape generates a rhythmic motion in head
portion 10 of the apparatus (vibrator) producing a vibration.
[0026] FIG. 4 shows an exploded side view of the apparatus of FIG.
1. The vibrator includes handle portion 11 that is sized in one
portion to be grasped by a human subject. Handle portion 11
includes interior volume 25 for accommodating a
removable/replaceable power source, such as one or more batteries
50 (e.g., two AA batteries). Cover 55 snaps into the body of handle
portion 11 to enclose the power source within the interior volume
of handle portion 11.
[0027] FIG. 4 also shows the configuration of applicator 12 to head
portion 10 of the apparatus (vibrator). In one embodiment,
applicator 12 is coupled to cap 13 (such as by an adhesive between
applicator 12 and one surface of cap 13). Cap 13, as illustrated,
is a circular body having a diameter similar to the diameter of
vibrating head 27 of head portion 10 of the vibrator. In one
embodiment, vibrating head 27 has a diameter on the order of about
one to two inches (about 2.5-5 centimeters). In one embodiment, the
diameter of vibrating head 27 is slightly larger on the order of,
for example, 0.01 to 0.03 inches (1-2 millimeters) then the main
body of head portion 10 as represented by lip 19.
[0028] An underside of cap 13 has interior volume 17. One or more
protrusions 18 extend from the side walls of cap 13 (defining
interior volume 17) so that cap 13 does not fit easily over lip 19
of head portion 10. Cap 13 is made of a thin plastic material, in
one embodiment, which allows the cap to be deformed and snapped
over lip 19, vibrating head 27, and onto head portion 10 to
securely hold cap 13 in place. Alternatively, the cap may have a
groove that snaps over a ridge around the inside wall of the
head.
[0029] Applicator 12, which is secured to the top of cap 13 may be
replaced after many uses. In one embodiment, applicator 12 and cap
13 may be removed from the apparatus after use and cleaned. When it
is considered to be no longer useful after, for example, one or
more cleanings, applicator 12 (and cap 13) may be discarded and
replaced.
[0030] In the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1
through 4, an apparatus including a vibrating mechanism is
described. It is believed that in applying a composition to an area
of human skin and manipulating the composition with a vibrating
apparatus, as described with reference to FIG. 6 and the
accompanying text, the vibrating action of the apparatus (e.g., of
the applicator) helps stimulate skin, muscle, and tissue to
revitalize the treated area. It is appreciated that, in use, the
vibrating mechanism may or may not be used. In this regard, FIG. 5
shows another embodiment of a manually-manipulated or operated
apparatus. Apparatus 50 includes handle 55 suitable for gripping by
a hand of a human subject. Handle 55 includes, at one end, head
portion 58 having dimensions suitable for accommodating cap 13 and
applicator 12 in a manner similar, in one embodiment, to the manner
described with reference to FIGS. 1 through 4.
[0031] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating practicing a method
utilizing either the apparatus comprising the motor-driven
vibrating mechanism or the manually-manipulated device. Initially,
a human user attaches an applicator to the apparatus (vibrator)
(block 400). Next, the composition of, for example, moisturizer and
abrasive particles, is disposed on the applicator (block 420). This
can be accomplished either by dipping the applicator into a
container with the composition disposed inside or by disposing the
composition directly onto the applicator (i.e., with a dispenser, a
squirt bottle tube, spatula or other suitable means). The user then
applies the composition disposed on the applicator to the area of
skin to be treated (block 440). On example is applying
approximately one-quarter inch of the composition across the entire
surface of a porous applicator. The user then dots the area to be
treated at locations on the order of, for example, three inches
apart. Subsequently, the user manipulates the composition over the
area of skin to be treated with the apparatus (vibrator) (block
460). In an embodiment, manipulation of the composition (block 460)
is characterized by moving the apparatus (vibrator) over the area
of skin using firm, upward, circular strokes. In one example, the
manipulation of the composition is continued for one to ten minutes
or until the composition has been worked into the skin and the skin
appears soft and smooth. Finally, the user wipes off any unabsorbed
portion of the composition (block 480) and may optionally rinse or
cleanse the area. In one embodiment, the composition comprising a
moisturizer as a principal component may be worked in until
substantially all of the moisturizer (and any other components) is
taken up by the skin and only the corundum remains on the surface
of the skin. The corundum may be brushed off and the area of skin
cleansed with a mild cleanser. In an alternative embodiment, before
applying the composition to the skin, the user cleanses the area of
skin with a mild cleanser using gentle circular strokes, rinses the
skin with tepid water, and pat the skin dry with a soft towel.
[0032] It should be noted that in applying the composition to the
skin 440, the user may dab the composition on certain areas of the
skin before switching the apparatus (vibrator) on to manipulate the
composition over the skin. Alternatively, the user may
simultaneously apply the composition to the skin and manipulate the
composition over the area of skin to be treated. Alternatively, the
user may simultaneously apply the composition to the applicator,
dot the area to be treated and manipulate in rotary strokes. Using
the vibrator applicator, the user may manipulate the applicator
with the vibrator in the on (vibrate) position, or in the off
position for a lighter treatment.
[0033] Other formulations of suitable compositions may occur to
those skilled in the art which, upon suspending abrasive particles
in the base in accordance with the invention, would be within the
scope of the following claims.
* * * * *