U.S. patent application number 11/812754 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-31 for preloaded cosmetic applicators.
This patent application is currently assigned to AKI, Inc. dba Arcade Marketing. Invention is credited to Thomas R. Burtzlaff, Catholyn T. Griffiths, Cathleen M. Leauby.
Application Number | 20080023025 11/812754 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38543760 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080023025 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burtzlaff; Thomas R. ; et
al. |
January 31, 2008 |
Preloaded cosmetic applicators
Abstract
A cosmetic sampler used for both the application of a cosmetic
product and for the subsequent blending of the applied cosmetic
product is disclosed. The cosmetic sampler is comprised of an
applicator formed of a shaft with two opposing end sections. One of
the end sections is coated (preferably saturated or impregnated)
with at least one desired cosmetic product, for example eye shadow
and/or face powder, while the other end section is clean and
uncontaminated. An applicator that contains a pre-loaded cosmetic
product (such as lipstick) on an end of the applicator, and that
further comprises a top that is used to cover the sample cosmetic
product and to also reverse to go on the other end to extend the
handle is also disclosed. A preloaded applicator that contains a
cosmetic product (such as powder) already on/in the surface of the
applicator and that is also contained in a clear top pouch or bag
is further disclosed.
Inventors: |
Burtzlaff; Thomas R.;
(Clarksville, MD) ; Griffiths; Catholyn T.;
(Phoenix, MD) ; Leauby; Cathleen M.; (Elkridge,
MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DICKSTEIN SHAPIRO LLP
1825 EYE STREET NW
Washington
DC
20006-5403
US
|
Assignee: |
AKI, Inc. dba Arcade
Marketing
|
Family ID: |
38543760 |
Appl. No.: |
11/812754 |
Filed: |
June 21, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60816589 |
Jun 27, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/320 ;
206/229; 206/581 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 2200/1018 20130101;
A45D 40/0087 20130101; A45D 2200/1036 20130101; A45D 40/24
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/320 ;
206/229; 206/581 |
International
Class: |
A45D 40/26 20060101
A45D040/26; B65D 71/00 20060101 B65D071/00 |
Claims
1. A cosmetic sampler, comprising: a shaft; and a first end and an
opposing second end, the first and second ends being attached to
the shaft, wherein one of the first and second ends comprises at
least two surfaces provided with at least two different cosmetic
products.
2. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the other of the first
and second ends is uncontaminated to allow blending of the at least
two different cosmetic products.
3. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the at least two
different cosmetic products are selected from the group consisting
of eye shadow, powder, cream, lipstick, fragrance, lotion and
pharmaceutical.
4. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the at least two
different cosmetic products comprise a solid or semi-solid
formulation.
5. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the at least two
surfaces comprise two surfaces, each of the two surfaces being
impregnated with a different shade of an eye shadow.
6. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the sampler is packaged
in a pouch.
7. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the sampler is packaged
in a wrap selected from the group consisting of cellophane,
metallized film, aluminum foil, clear thermoform,
moisture-impermeable paper, moisture-resistant paper, laminates and
plastic.
8. The cosmetic sampler of claim 1, wherein the first and second
opposing ends are independently formed of a material selected from
the group consisting of foam, non woven, membrane, flock, felt,
paper, sponge and bristles.
9. A cosmetic sampler assembly, comprising: a plurality of
disposable cosmetic samplers, each of the samplers comprising an
applicator having a shaft, a first end section and a second
opposing end section, wherein one of the first and second end
sections is coated with at least a first and a second cosmetic
product; and a packaging assembly comprising a plurality of
individual compartments, each individual compartment housing each
of the plurality of disposable cosmetic samplers.
10. The cosmetic sampler assembly of claim 9, wherein the first and
second cosmetic product is selected from the group consisting of
eye shadow, powder, cream, lipstick, fragrance, lotion and
pharmaceutical.
11. The cosmetic sampler assembly of claim 9, wherein each
individual compartment of the packaging assembly comprises a clear
window and a graphic imprint portion.
12. A cosmetic applicator assembly, comprising: an applicator body
having a proximal end connected to a handle portion, and a distal
end with a cosmetic product provided thereon; and a top configured
to cover the distal end and the cosmetic product of the applicator
body when in a first position, and to extend the handle portion of
the applicator body at the proximal end when in a second
position.
13. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 12, wherein the top
has a substantially cylindrical configuration.
14. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 12, wherein the top
is clear.
15. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 12, wherein the
cosmetic product is selected from the group consisting of eye
shadow, powder, cream, lipstick, fragrance, lotion and
pharmaceutical.
16. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 12, wherein the top
has a length which is about similar to the length of the applicator
body.
17. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 12, wherein the total
length of the assembly, when the top is in the second position, is
about twice the length of the applicator body.
18. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 12, wherein the
assembly is disposable.
19. A cosmetic applicator assembly, comprising: at least one
disposable pre-loaded applicator having a cosmetic product provided
thereon or at least partially contained within; and a tear open
package for encapsulating the at least one pre-loaded applicator to
prevent contamination of the cosmetic product.
20. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 19, wherein the tear
open package is a clear top bag and the cosmetic product is face
powder, baby powder, blush or cream.
21. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 19, wherein the
applicator is a sponge applicator.
22. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 19, wherein the
applicator comprises a material selected from the group consisting
of sponge, foam, non woven, membrane, flock, felt, paper and
bristles.
23. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 19, wherein the
pre-loaded applicator is provided in the tear open package adjacent
a cosmetic sampler.
24. The cosmetic applicator assembly of claim 23, wherein the
cosmetic sampler comprises a shaft, a first end, and an opposing
second end, the first and second ends being attached to the shaft,
wherein one of the first and second ends comprises at least two
surfaces provided with at least two different cosmetic products.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/816,589, filed Jun. 27, 2006, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to cosmetic applicators and,
more particularly, to cosmetic samplers which are used for both the
application of a cosmetic product and for the subsequent blending
of the applied cosmetic product.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Various creams, gels and other cosmetics and/or cosmetic
removers have been packaged in jars, tubes and other containers.
Typically, the user is required to open the container, dip a cotton
swab, tissue or other applicator into the container to absorb some
of the cosmetic, and then apply that cosmetic to the eyes or other
facial areas. For example, one jar may contain an eye or face
make-up remover, while another (completely separate) jar may
contain a moisturizing lotion. Similarly, in make-up applications,
the user is often required to combine at least two colors or at
least two shades of a color, that are located either in different
containers or in different areas of the same container.
[0004] Typically, only a portion of the cosmetics or cosmetic
removers is used over a given period of time, and the user
eventually discards the jars containing the remainder of the
cosmetics or cosmetic removers. In addition, it is not convenient
to carry several jars in one's purse or while traveling.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for readily-available cosmetics
and/or cosmetic applicators that are conveniently available in a
hygienic individually-wrapped swab or other applicator, and that
are preloaded with at least two different materials, such as two
different shades or colors, or two different lotions. A cosmetic
sampler that is prepackaged in a ready-to-use, disposable, single
package is also needed.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a cosmetic sampler which is
used for both the application of a cosmetic product and for the
subsequent blending of the applied cosmetic product. The cosmetic
sampler is comprised of an applicator formed of a shaft with two
opposing end sections. One of the end sections is coated
(preferably saturated or impregnated) with at least one desired
cosmetic product, for example eye shadow and/or face powder, while
the other end section is clean and uncontaminated.
[0007] The invention also provides an applicator that contains a
pre-loaded cosmetic product (such as lipstick) on an end of the
applicator, and that further comprises a top that is used to cover
the sample cosmetic product and to also reverse to go on the other
end to extend the handle.
[0008] The invention further provides a pre-loaded sponge
applicator that contains powder already on/in the surface of the
sponge. The pre-loaded sponge applicator comprises a sponge with
the product already pre-loaded and contained in a clear top
bag.
[0009] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the following description of exemplary
embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a top view of a plurality of cosmetic applicators
according to a first embodiment of the present invention, the
applicators being packaged in a pouch;
[0011] FIG. 1a is a side view of the pouch with cosmetic
applicators of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 1b is another side view of the pouch with cosmetic
applicators of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of one cosmetic applicator
of FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 3 is top view of a plurality of cosmetic applicators
according to the first embodiment of the present invention but
packaged in a pouch formed according to another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0015] FIG. 3a is a side view of the pouch with cosmetic
applicators of FIG. 3;
[0016] FIG. 3b is another side view of the pouch with cosmetic
applicators of FIG. 3;
[0017] FIG. 4a is a front view of a cosmetic applicator according
to a second embodiment of the present invention and in a closed
position;
[0018] FIG. 4b is a front view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG.
4a but in an open position;
[0019] FIG. 4c is a top view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG.
4a;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a front view of a cosmetic applicator according to
a third embodiment of the present invention; and
[0021] FIG. 5a is a side view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG.
5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The present invention provides applicators which are
pre-loaded with a product, for example a cosmetic product, and
which are portable, convenient to use, and hygienic.
[0023] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a cosmetic
sampler which is used for both the application of a cosmetic
product and for the subsequent blending of the applied cosmetic
product. The cosmetic sampler is comprised of an applicator formed
of a shaft with two opposing end sections. One of the end sections
is coated (preferably saturated or impregnated) with at least one
desired cosmetic product, for example eye shadow and/or face
powder, while the other end section is clean and uncontaminated. In
an exemplary embodiment, a double-ended cosmetic swab applicator
may be provided with one end impregnated with at least one cosmetic
powder product and the other end provided without cosmetic for use
as a blending swab. In exemplary embodiments, the cosmetic sampler
has only one end which is partially coated with a desired cosmetic
product and which is used for both the application of the cosmetic
product and for the subsequent blending of the applied cosmetic
product.
[0024] In another embodiment, the invention provides an applicator,
for example a flocked doe foot applicator, that contains lipstick
on an end of the applicator. The applicator comprises a clear top
that is used to cover the sample lipstick (in a closed position)
and it also reverses to go on the other end to extend the handle
(in an open position). The lipstick applicator allows the user to
have a ready to use, disposable, single or several use lipstick
that is new, clean and easily portable. The lipstick applicator may
contain a pre-loaded cosmetic product such as lipstick, lip gloss,
lip protectant, acne spot treatment, concealer, lip liner, eye
liner, solid fragrance or other type of cosmetic product that has a
solid or semi solid formulation.
[0025] In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a
pre-loaded sponge applicator that contains powder already on/in the
surface of the sponge. The pre-loaded sponge applicator comprises a
sponge with the product already pre loaded and is contained in a
clear top bag. The user has a ready to use, easy to apply,
disposable, single or several use applicator that is new, clean and
easily portable. The user need not carry the entire compact or
product package. The materials for pre-loaded sponge applicator
could be, for example, foam, non woven, membrane, flock, felt,
paper, sponge, bristles, or combinations of these materials. The
cosmetic powder may be blush, face powder or any other decorative
or functional powder.
FIGS. 1-3
[0026] Referring now to the drawings, where like elements are
designated by like reference numerals, FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a first
embodiment of the present invention, wherein a cosmetic sampler 10
is used for both the application of a cosmetic product and for the
subsequent blending of the applied cosmetic product. The cosmetic
sampler 10 is comprised of an applicator formed of a shaft with two
opposing end sections 11, 13. As described below, one of the end
sections is coated (preferably saturated or impregnated) with at
least one desired cosmetic product, for example eye shadow or face
powder, while the other end section is clean and uncontaminated. In
other embodiments, only one part of one end section is provided
with the desired cosmetic product, whereas the other part of the
same end section is left clean and uncontaminated.
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a plurality of cosmetic applicators 10
being packaged in a pouch 20. As illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b,
pouch 20 is provided with a clear window 16 (for example, a clear
thermoform window), a lidding stock 17 (to reveal individual
compartments when open) and a graphic imprint side 18 (also shown
in FIG. 1). In an exemplary embodiment only, pouch 20 contains six
cosmetic applicators 10 (each individual applicator having
exemplary dimensions of about 1.times.2.5 inches) with exemplary
dimensions of about 6.times.2.5 inches. However, the invention is
not limited to these exemplary embodiments and has applicability to
pouches having any number of applicators and of any dimensions.
[0028] Preferably, pouch 20 is a protective, sealed bag or pouch,
which in certain embodiments and depending on the specific
application, may be liquid resistant. Alternatively, and/or
additionally, pouch 20 may consist of a wrap that may comprise, for
example, cellophane, aluminum foil, metalized film, laminates,
clear thermoform, moisture-impermeable paper, moisture-resistant
paper, plastic, or combination of such materials, among others.
[0029] FIGS. 3, 3a and 3b illustrate pouch 20a provided with a
clear window 16a (for example, a clear thermoform window) having
different dimensions and configuration from the window 16 of FIG.
1, a lidding stock 17a (to reveal individual compartments when
open) and a graphic imprint side 18a (also shown in FIG. 1). As in
the previous embodiment, the pouch 20a may contain any number of
compartments or pouches for housing any number of applicators of
any dimensions. Preferably, pouch 20a is a protective, sealed bag
or pouch, which in certain embodiments and depending on the
specific application, may be liquid resistant. Alternatively,
and/or additionally, pouch 20a may consist of a wrap that may
comprise, for example, cellophane, aluminum foil, metalized film,
laminates, clear thermoform, moisture-impermeable paper,
moisture-resistant paper, plastic, or combination of such
materials, among others.
[0030] Referring back to FIG. 2, an enlarged side view of the
cosmetic applicator 10 of FIG. 1 is provided (in an exemplary
embodiment) in the form of an applicator swab having a first end 11
and a second end 13. First end 11 of cosmetic applicator 10 may be
provided with at least two surface sides that are coated, saturated
or impregnated with at least two different cosmetic products.
Preferably, the section that is coated, saturated or impregnated
with the cosmetic product is provided with at least two surface
sides (for example, first and second surface sides 11a, 11b of FIG.
2) that are coated, saturated or impregnated with at least two
different cosmetic products. For example, if the applicator is an
eye shadow applicator, first surface side 11a may be saturated with
a green color eye shadow (shade 1 in FIG. 2), whereas second
surface side 11b may be saturated with a color different from the
green color used on the first surface side, for example, a brown
color (shade 2 in FIG. 2).
[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, end 13 of applicator 10 may be
provided clean. In this manner, subsequent to the application of
the cosmetic products, the clean end section 13 may be employed to
blend the applied shade colors (blending swab). The cosmetic
sampler may be prepackaged in a ready-to-use, disposable, single
package. Multiple samples may be housed in a secondary package.
Alternatively, and/or additionally, multiple cosmetic samplers may
be prepackaged in a pouch or package, such as the protective,
sealed pouch 20 described above.
[0032] The user applies the product and uses the other end that
does not contain any cosmetic product (end 13) to "blend" and
extend the already applied powder. In this manner, the user has a
ready to use, disposable, single use application that is always new
and therefore clean and uncontaminated. The samples may be placed
in protective secondary packaging that protects the product from
damage.
[0033] Application of the powder to one end of the applicator may
be conducted in various ways, for example, by dipping, screen
printing, pad application, spraying, stenciling, die deposit etc.
Combination of dry powder and solvent may be formed into slurry
that is directly applied to the applicator tips. The method of
making the eyeshadow slurry may be similar to, or different from,
the currently known eyeshadow technology.
[0034] In one embodiment, an already-made double ended eyeshadow
applicator with material in the desired shape, density and
thickness may be provided. The materials for one or both ends 11,
13 of the applicator 10 could be, for example, foam, non woven,
membrane, flock, felt, paper, sponge, bristles, or combinations of
these materials etc. One method that may be employed comprises the
step of spraying of the powder slurry onto the substrate. Similar
to the known slurry processes in the art, additions can be made to
the slurry to alter the characteristics of the deposit. Additional
binders, powders, colorants, etc. may be incorporated to give
subtleties to the finished product. The cosmetic powder could be
eye shadow, blush, face powder or any other decorative powder,
among others. The materials, sizes, and methods of manufacture may
vary for different types and formulations of cosmetic powder
products. Options for the cosmetic applicator include any type of
cosmetic that can benefit from a preloaded single use disposable
application such as cream to powder formulations: blushes,
concealers and other products like, eyeliners, lip liners,
lipsticks, etc. The materials and methods for applying may be
different than those for powder type products. Portable, convenient
application, hygienic, eliminates the need for the entire eye
shadow/powder compact.
[0035] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the cosmetic sampler
has only one end which is partially coated with a desired cosmetic
product, and not two ends, as previously described. The end portion
of the cosmetic sampler may be partially coated (preferably
saturated or impregnated) with at least one desired cosmetic
product, for example eye shadow or face powder, while the remaining
section of the end portion is clean and uncontaminated. In this
manner, the same end portion of the cosmetic sampler is used for
both the application of the cosmetic product and for the subsequent
blending of the applied cosmetic product.
FIGS. 4a-4b
[0036] In another embodiment, the invention provides an applicator
that contains a pre-loaded cosmetic product (such as lipstick) on
an end of the applicator, and that further comprises a top that is
used to cover the sample cosmetic product and to also reverse to go
on the other end to extend handle 54. As shown in FIGS. 4a-4c, a
flocked doe foot applicator 50 contains lipstick 55 on the end of
the applicator (on handle 54) and disposed on flock or other
material 53. The user applies the lipstick to the lips as with a
regular lipstick. As shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b, a top 58 is used to
cover the sample lipstick 55 (FIG. 4a) when in the closed position.
Top 58 is designed to also reverse to go on the other end of the
applicator, to extend the handle (FIG. 4b) when in the fully open
position. The top 58 may be formed of a clear or matte semi
transparent material, for example, or of other materials. The
handle 54 may comprise a poly moulded or other material.
[0037] The applicator body or handle 54 may have a length which is
about similar to, or different from, the length of top 58. For
example, and as shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b, the top 58 may have a
length which is about similar to the length of the body 54.
However, the invention is not limited to this exemplary embodiment
and contemplates additional embodiments, wherein the applicator has
any ratio of length of body 54/length of top 58.
[0038] Applicator 50 allows the consumer to have a ready to use,
disposable, single or several use lipstick that is new, clean and
easily portable. The flocked lipstick applicator 50 may be dipped
into molten lipstick bulk or has lipstick sprayed or otherwise
applied to the flocked tip. Several cycles of product processing
may be necessary to obtain the correct lipstick amount. The warm
lipstick may be allowed to set up by using a cooling cycle, for
example, and the cap is placed on the top to protect the lipstick
during shipment and usage.
[0039] The cosmetic product could be lipstick, lip gloss, lip
protectant, acne spot treatment, concealer, lip liner, eye liner,
solid fragrance or other type of cosmetic product that has a solid
or semi solid formulation. The portable, convenient application,
hygienic, cosmetic applicator of the present invention eliminates
the need for the entire tube or package of product.
FIGS. 5 and 5a
[0040] FIGS. 5 and 5a illustrate another embodiment of the
invention, according to which pre-loaded applicator 90 contains a
cosmetic product (such as powder or cream) already on/in the
surface of an applicator material 91. In an exemplary embodiment,
applicator 90 is a pre-loaded sponge applicator 90. However, the
applicator may comprise any other base material in lieu of the
sponge, wherein a cosmetic product may be applied on, or
impregnated therewith. For example, the applicator may be formed of
foam, non woven, membrane, flock, felt, paper, sponge, bristles, or
combinations of these materials.
[0041] The cosmetic product may be provided on the surface of the
applicator, and/or within at least a portion of the body of the
applicator, or only within at least a portion of the body of the
applicator, as desired. Preferably, one surface of the applicator
is provided attached to the package (for example, a bag with a
clear top) wherein the opposing surface is pre-loaded with a
cosmetic product, for example, powder such as blush, face powder,
baby powder or any other decorative or functional powder, cream,
cleansing products, or combination of these products
[0042] The user applies the product as with a traditional compact.
The sponge with the product 92 already pre-loaded is contained in a
clear top bag 93 provided with an optional seal (for example, seal
94) for the bag. As shown in FIG. 5, the clear top bag 93 may be
provided with an upper surface that is about completely clear
(i.e., the whole top surface is clear). Alternatively, the clear
top bag 93 may be provided with an open window having dimensions
similar to those of the applicator 90 (i.e., only applicator 90 is
seen through the clear window). In such case, the non-clear portion
may contain graphic imprints or identification information, as
desired.
[0043] The applicator may have dimensions similar to those of the
clear top bag, or smaller than those of the clear top bag (as shown
in FIG. 5). In addition, the clear top bag may comprise a plurality
of applicators, for example, a plurality of sponge applicators, at
least one of the applicators being a pre-loaded sponge applicator
such as pre-loaded sponge applicator 90 of FIG. 5. Further, each of
the plurality of applicators may be pre-loaded with the same or
different compounds or cosmetic products. Each applicator may be
also partially pre-loaded or totally pre-loaded, as desired.
Pre-loaded applicators may be provided next to un-loaded
applicators (i.e., uncontaminated applicators), in which case an
additional seal between the applicators may be desired.
[0044] In yet additional embodiments, the pre-loaded applicator 90
may be provided adjacent another applicator such as the cosmetic
sampler 10 (described above with reference to FIG. 2) or applicator
50 (described above with reference to FIG. 4a) or a combination of
these and other applicators, as desired. In such cases, all
applicators may be contained in the same clear top bag, for
example, but with an additional seal between the applicators, to
prevent cross-contamination of products. For example, a dual-pack
pre-loaded sponge applicator 90 and a swab applicator 10 may be
together packed in a same package and, if necessary, with a seal
between them that would protect against contamination.
[0045] Applicator 90 of FIG. 5 may be provided with product 92
which is pre-loaded by printing (for example, screen printing) a
particular design or pattern. For example, FIG. 5 illustrates an
exemplary embodiment according to which product 92 is pre-loaded
(screen printed) on the surface of the applicator 92 in the form of
word "BLUSH," but other patterns and designs may be used depending
on the particular application and/or kind of cosmetic product
used.
[0046] The product allows the user to have a ready to use, easy to
apply, disposable, single or several use applicator that is new,
clean and easily portable. The user need not carry the entire
compact or product package.
[0047] Various options for applying the product (for example,
powder) to the applicator include dipping, screen printing, pad
application, spraying, stenciling and die deposit, among others. A
combination of dry powder and solvent formed into slurry that is
directly applied to the applicator tips is preferred. The method of
making the eyeshadow slurry may be similar to, or different from,
that of the current eyeshadow technology. Another method may
include spraying of the powder slurry on to the substrate. The
materials for the applicator may include foam, non woven, membrane,
flock, felt, paper, sponge, bristles, or combinations of these
materials, for example. Similar to current slurry processes,
additions may be made to the slurry to alter the characteristics of
the deposit. Additional binders, powders and/or colorants, for
example, may be incorporated to give subtleties to the finished
product.
[0048] The cosmetic product 92 may be cosmetic powder such as
blush, face powder, baby powder or any other decorative or
functional powder. Alternatively, cosmetic product 92 may comprise
at least one cream, or a combination of cream and powder, for
example. The materials, sizes and/or methods of manufacture may
vary for different types and formulations of cosmetic/personal care
powder products.
[0049] In exemplary embodiments, the cosmetic product 92 may be
applied on at least a portion of a surface (for example, the top
surface) of the sponge 91. For example, the cosmetic product 92 may
cover/impregnate about half the surface of the sponge 91 visible
through the clear top bag 93. In alternative embodiments, the
cosmetic product 92 may cover/impregnate at least a portion of a
first surface of the sponge 91 and at least another portion of a
second surface of the sponge 91, leaving the clean portions for
subsequent blending of the cosmetic product (for use as a blending
sponge) or for other uses.
[0050] The pre-loaded cosmetic applicators of the present invention
are applicable to a wide range of cosmetic/personal care type
products. Additional options include any type of product that can
benefit from a pre-loaded single use disposable application such as
cream to powder formulations: blushes, concealer, foot powder and
other products. The materials and methods for applying may be
similar to, or different from, those for powder type products. The
portable, convenient application, hygienic, cosmetic applicator of
the present invention eliminates the need for the entire
cosmetic/personal care compact or package.
[0051] Although the present invention has been described in
relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations
and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those
skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is not intended that the
present invention be limited to the illustrated embodiments, but
only by the appended claims.
* * * * *