U.S. patent application number 13/305836 was filed with the patent office on 2012-03-29 for facial mask.
Invention is credited to Heidi Beatty, Dan Formosa, Julie Francoeur, Sachiko Uozumi.
Application Number | 20120073030 13/305836 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40832335 |
Filed Date | 2012-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120073030 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Beatty; Heidi ; et
al. |
March 29, 2012 |
FACIAL MASK
Abstract
The present invention features a facial mask comprising a
water-insoluble substrate sized and shaped to lie against and
substantially coincident with a face of a human user. The
water-insoluble substrate includes separation features that form
laterally-extending tabs capable of overlapping the facial mask,
improving its adaptability and fit. Methods of treating the skin
using facial masks are also provided.
Inventors: |
Beatty; Heidi;
(Hillsborough, NJ) ; Formosa; Dan; (Piermont,
NY) ; Francoeur; Julie; (Montreal, CA) ;
Uozumi; Sachiko; (New York, NY) |
Family ID: |
40832335 |
Appl. No.: |
13/305836 |
Filed: |
November 29, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12059273 |
Mar 31, 2008 |
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13305836 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/206 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61P 17/00 20180101;
A61M 35/003 20130101; A61K 8/0212 20130101; A45D 44/002 20130101;
A61M 35/10 20190501; A61Q 19/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/206 |
International
Class: |
A42B 1/00 20060101
A42B001/00 |
Claims
1-21. (canceled)
12. A facial mask comprising: a water-insoluble substrate sized and
shaped to lie against and substantially coincident with a face of a
human user, said water-insoluble substrate defined by a perimeter
and comprising a forehead region, a mid region, and a chin region,
wherein said water-soluble substrate comprises at least one
separation feature extending from said perimeter into either said
forehead region or said chin region, and wherein said separation
feature has an angle of disposition greater than 0.degree..
13. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein the water-insoluble
substrate is unitary and sized and shaped to lie against and
substantially coincident with an entire face of the user.
14. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein the water-insoluble
substrate comprises two or more pieces, each of said pieces adapted
to cover different portions of the user's face.
15. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein the angle of disposition
is greater than about 15.degree..
16. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein the separation feature
forms a laterally-extending tab having a hinge area of at least 0.5
cm.sup.2.
17. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein the water-insoluble
substrate comprises a pair of separation features reflected about
an axis of symmetry, wherein each separation feature forms a
laterally-extending tab having a hinge area of at least 0.5
cm.sup.2.
18. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein the water-insoluble
substrate further comprises openings for the eyes and mouth of the
user.
19. The facial mask of claim 12, further comprising a liquid
impregnate absorbed on the water-insoluble substrate, wherein said
liquid impregnate is present in an amount of at least about 5% by
weight of the water-insoluble substrate.
20. The facial mask of claim 12, further comprising a liquid
impregnate absorbed on the water-insoluble substrate, wherein said
liquid impregnate is present in a amount of at least about 50% by
weight of the water-insoluble substrate.
21. The facial mask of claim 12, wherein said water-insoluble
substrate comprises a nonwoven fabric, a hydrogel, or combinations
thereof
22. The facial mask of claim 12 free of straps adapted to wrap
around the back of the head or back of the neck of the user.
23-35. (canceled)
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a facial mask and uses
thereof to treat skin.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Products such as cleansers and moisturizers formulated with
vitamins and other skin benefit agents have been used for many
years to treat the skin. Employing a water-insoluble substrate such
as wipe or mask to assist in the process of cleansing, moisturizing
and delivery of certain benefit agents to the skin is also known.
For example, consumers typically use hydrating facial mask products
for treatment of various skin conditions as well as to improve the
physical appearance and texture of the facial skin. This can be
accomplished while the user relaxes, such as in a prone position,
while the mask contacts the skin of the face, and provides benefits
thereto.
[0003] The dimensions of the human face vary considerably from
individual to individual. Conventional facial mask products can be
grossly inadequate in their ability to fit a wide variety of facial
shapes and sizes, yet still lie flatly against the face. In
particular, conventional approaches to accommodate variance in
facial size, i.e., the inclusion of conventional slits, does little
to meet this pressing need.
[0004] For example, a conventional facial mask spread out fully on
small face, will touch the hairline. This is problematic especially
for typical users who use the mask immediately before sleeping and
do not want their hair wet with a skin treatment composition. If
the facial mask is applied so as not to wet the hairline it must be
"bunched up," thereby leaving bubbles between the mask and the
skin. This situation could give rise to uneven treatment of the
face with the skin care composition. Such uneven treatment is
especially problematic for facial masks that are designed to
lighten or even the tone of the skin. For users with larger faces,
the situation is also problematic since conventional facial masks
are not be able to cover the entire face--also leaving portions of
the skin untreated. Furthermore, conventional facial masks tend to
hang on the face and provide little gripping and firming, and are
prone to fall off during use.
[0005] Applicants have now developed a facial mask that is
adaptable in size and shape for a variety of faces and also adheres
well to the face. The facial mask comprises a water-insoluble
substrate having one or more separation features, such as slits,
adapted to allow portions of the water-insoluble substrate to
overlap and adhere to one another. In one embodiment, the
water-insoluble substrate comprises at least one separation feature
that forms a laterally-extending tab having a hinge area of at
least 0.5 cm.sup.2. In another embodiment, the separation feature
defines an angle of disposition greater than 0.degree.. The
separation features enable the creation of substantial hinges in
the facial mask that function to increase its adaptability for a
wide variety of faces, resulting in greater comfort, better overall
adherence to the skin, and a pleasant lifting/firming sensation.
Furthermore, in certain embodiments, one or more of these
advantages can be achieved with the convenience of a single-piece
mask.
[0006] It is known in the art to provide small slits in facial
masks. For instance, U.S. 20060104931A1, U.S. 20050013784A1, U.S.
20040018166A1, and EP1357819B1 disclose such facial masks. Several
commercially available facial masks comprising slits also exist.
NEUTROGENA Deep Hydrating Mask comprises a slit between the eye and
mouth regions. It comprises a 3.5 cm slit on the side at the chin
at an angle of less than about 5.degree.. The PEARL SILK W-Cut, Oil
Control & White Clear Mask facial mask is a two-piece mask with
a 2.5 cm slit and a 1 cm kink in the chin portion. The kink bends
backwards, away from the centerline of the mask.
[0007] None of these facial masks, however, comprise slits or other
features adapted to form tabs or hinges capable of overlapping
other parts of the masks. As such, their utility for different
facial shapes is limited.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a facial mask in accordance
with a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the facial mask of FIG. 1,
showing additional features thereof;
[0010] FIG. 3 is side perspective view of a user wearing the facial
mask of FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a facial mask in accordance
with a second embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 5 is side perspective view of a user wearing the facial
mask of FIG. 4;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a facial mask in accordance
with a third embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a facial mask in accordance
with a fourth embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 8 is side perspective view of a user wearing the facial
mask of FIG. 7; and
[0016] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a two-part facial mask in
accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] In one aspect of the invention, a facial mask is provided
comprising a unitary, water-insoluble substrate sized and shaped to
lie against and substantially coincident with an entire face of a
human user, said water-insoluble substrate defined by a perimeter
and comprising a forehead region, a mid region, and a chin region,
wherein said water-insoluble substrate further comprises at least
one separation feature that forms a laterally-extending tab having
a hinge area of at least 0.5 cm.sup.2.
[0018] The present invention also provides a facial mask comprising
a water-insoluble substrate sized and shaped to lie against and
substantially coincident with a face of a human user, said
water-insoluble substrate defined by a perimeter and comprising a
forehead region, a mid region, and a chin region, wherein said
water-soluble substrate comprises at least one separation feature
extending from said perimeter into either said forehead region or
said chin region, and wherein said separation feature defines an
angle of disposition greater than 0.degree..
[0019] The present invention further provides a method of treating
the facial skin of a human user, comprising placing a
water-insoluble substrate against the facial skin of said user such
that said water-insoluble substrate covers substantially all of
said facial skin, wherein a first portion of said water-insoluble
substrate overlaps a second portion of said water-insoluble
substrate, whereby said first portion and said second portion
adhere to one another.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] It is believed that one of ordinary skill in the art can,
based upon the description herein, utilize the present invention to
its fullest extent. The following specific embodiments of the
invention are to be construed as merely illustrative, and not
limitative of the remainder of the disclosure in any way
whatsoever.
[0021] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Whenever
used, any percentage is weight by weight (% w/w) unless otherwise
indicated.
Water-Insoluble Substrate
[0022] The facial mask comprises a water-insoluble substrate. As
used herein, "water-insoluble" means the substrate, upon immersion
in distilled water at 25.degree. C., does not readily dissolve or
readily break apart. While portions of the water-insoluble
substrate may be leachable or readily soluble in the distilled
water, at least one portion of the water-insoluble substrate
remains intact. For example, the intact portion may be readily
manipulated, such as picked up and transported as an interconnected
cohesive unit, by a user.
[0023] A wide variety of materials can be used as the
water-insoluble substrate. Examples of suitable substrates include,
but are not limited to, fibrous and/ or porous substrates such as
substrates including or formed from non-woven fibers, woven fibers,
hydro-entangled fibers, or air-entangled fibers. The
water-insoluble substrate may include natural sponges, synthetic
sponges, and polymeric netted meshes.
[0024] The water-insoluble substrate is preferably formed to retain
a liquid impregnate (such as by absorbing the liquid impregnate
among, along, and/or between fibers comprising the water-insoluble
substrate) for a period of time at least as long as from when the
product is manufactured to a time when the product is used by a
consumer (i.e., a shelf storage period). In this embodiment of the
invention, during this shelf storage period the water-insoluble
substrate should generally maintain its mechanical integrity such
that a user can lay the water-insoluble substrate onto the skin and
transfer liquid impregnate thereto. Furthermore the water-insoluble
substrate is generally capable of holding portions of the liquid
impregnate against the facial skin when used.
[0025] FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of a facial mask consistent
with embodiments of the invention described herein. Facial mask 1
is generally sized and shaped to lie against the face of a user. It
is preferred that the facial mask 1 lie substantially flatly
against the face of the user, i.e., the facial mask 1 is capable of
draping across the face and generally conforming to the curvature
of the face. The facial mask is generally further capable of lying
substantially coincident with the face of the user, i.e., it
generally only requires simple manipulation such as unfolding or at
most slight tearing of preformed perforations in order to assume a
shape that coincides with a human face. In a preferred embodiment,
the facial mask is sized and shaped to lie substantially flatly
against the entire face of a user. As used herein, "entire face"
means the majority, e.g., at least about 90%, of the face,
including the nose, cheeks, around the eyes, and the forehead, as
well as under and above the mouth.
[0026] The facial mask 1 may further comprise a vertical
centerline, preferably a vertical axis of symmetry 2 that separates
a left side 4 from a right side 6 of the facial mask 1.
Furthermore, the facial mask 1 comprises a perimeter 3 that defines
the outer boundary of the facial mask when it is laid flat such as
on a tabletop.
[0027] The facial mask 1 may include, within the perimeter 3, at
least one opening. The opening may be pre-cut, in which case it
will be visible as area devoid of water-insoluble substrate.
Alternatively, the opening may be defined by a perforated or
weakened line. In this embodiment, the use can readily separate,
that, using little force and in a controlled fashion, the
water-insoluble substrate along the perforated or weakened line.
For example, a user may "punch" or "tear" the water-insoluble
substrate along such a line or other shape in a controlled fashion
prior to use.
[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the facial mask 1 includes pre-cut
openings 7 for the eyes of a user. It is further desirable that
facial mask 1 include a pre-cut opening 11 for the mouth of the
user.
[0029] The facial mask may further include at least one interior
slit. As used herein, an "interior slit" is a pre-cut line in the
water-insoluble material within but not touching the perimeter.
Interior slits are formed by slicing the water-insoluble substrate
when laid flat and are often visible only as lines or boundaries
when the facial mask is laid flat. For example, facial mask 1
includes one or more interior slits 13 that permit the nostril area
or the mouth of the user to be exposed (for instance, uncovered) in
use.
[0030] Interior slits 13 may be straight or curved. In one
embodiment, in order to provide better fit, one or more interior
slits 13 for the nose may include a plurality of arcuate portions
to facilitate adherence to an underside of the user's nasal ridge,
rather than, in the case of a user with a small nose, dangling or
hanging off of the nose.
[0031] The facial mask 1 includes a forehead region 8 comprising
that portion of the facial mask 1 entirely above the openings 7 for
the eyes; a chin region 12 comprising that portion entirely below
the opening 11 for the mouth; and a mid region 10 that includes all
other portions of the facial mask 1.
[0032] Note that the perimeter 3 is generally of a gently curving,
primarily arcuate shape that generally outlines or conforms to the
shape of a typical human face. In accordance with the invention,
the perimeter 3 may also encompass various features in order to
enhance the fit and comfort for users having a wide range of facial
shapes and sizes.
[0033] Specifically, in one embodiment, the facial mask comprises
at least one separation feature. As used herein, a "separation
feature" is a feature defined by a perforated or weakened line that
can be readily separated by the user, or a pre-cut line, in the
water-insoluble substrate that touches the perimeter. The
separation feature may, for example, be a slit, notch or wedge, or
other indentation or protrusion along the perimeter having a
regular or irregular shape.
[0034] For example, the facial mask may include one or more slits
touching the perimeter as separation features. As shown in FIG. 1,
facial mask 1 includes a pair of slits 15 that are symmetric about,
i.e., "reflected about" the axis of symmetry 2. Slits 15 are such
that they form laterally-extending tabs 19 in the forehead region
8.
[0035] FIG. 2 is another plan view of the facial mask 1 of FIG. 1
showing additional features thereof. Slit 15 is defined by an
initiation point A where the slit intersects perimeter 3, and a
vertex V where the slit 15 terminates. Slit 15 generally has a
component that is tangent to the perimeter 3 and directed towards
the axis of symmetry 2. The degree of the tangency of slit 15 can
be determined by the magnitude of its angle of disposition 23. The
angle of disposition 23 is determined by locating the geometric
centroid 31 of the facial mask 1. The geometric centroid 31 is the
"center of area" point of the mask, as it lays flat on a table top.
Although the geometric centroid may vary depending upon the design
of the facial mask, it is often near the nose slits. Geometric
centroid, r.sub.x,y can be calculated by integrating over the area
having spatial coordinates x,y of the mask:
r.sub.x,y=1/Area (.intg..sub.Ar.sub.x,ydArea)
[0036] In FIG. 2 ray 25 connects the geometric centroid 31 and the
initiation point A of the slit 15. A second ray 29 connects
initiation point A and vertex V. If the slit is curved, ray 29 is
constructed tangent to slit 15. Angle of disposition 23 at any
point on slit 15 is determined as the angle between ray 25 and ray
29. The sense (sign) of the angle of disposition 23 is positive if,
in effecting a rotation from ray 25 to ray 29 about initiation
point A, one rotates towards the axis of symmetry 2.
[0037] Referring again to FIG. 2, angle of disposition 23 is
positive. In contrast, if slit 15 instead connected points A and B,
the angle of disposition would be negative. In general, if the
separation feature initiates on the left side 4 of the forehead
region 8 or on the right side 6 in the chin region 12, a
counterclockwise rotation from ray 25 to ray 29 indicates a
positive angle of disposition 23. In contrast if these rotations
are clockwise, the angle of disposition is negative. Similarly, in
general, if the separation feature initiates on the right side 4 of
the forehead region 8 or on the left side 6 in the chin region 12,
a clockwise rotation from ray 25 to ray 29 indicates a positive
angle of disposition 23. In contrast if these rotations are
counterclockwise, the angle of disposition is negative.
[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the angle of disposition 23 of
the separation feature is at least about +5.degree.. In a further
preferred embodiment the angle of disposition 23 is at least about
+15.degree., more preferably from about at least about +20.degree.,
even more preferably at least about +30.degree., even more
preferably at least about +40.degree., and even more preferably at
least about 50.degree.. to +90.degree.. Advantageously, a
separation feature having such an angle of disposition enables the
laterally-extending tabs created by the separation feature to
rotate about vertex V and overlap other portions of the facial
mask. The angle of disposition 23 as shown in FIG. 2 is about
70.degree..
[0039] FIG. 3 depicts the facial mask 1 of FIGS. 1-2 being worn by
a user. During use, each laterally-extending tab 19 rotates about
its vertex so that the user can overlap the laterally-extending
tabs 19 on other portions of the facial mask in the forehead region
8, and perhaps, if the laterally-extending tabs 19 are long enough,
even on points in the mid region 10. This generally provides
better, more widely variable adjustment of the facial mask
dimensions, as well as better adherence to the face and a firming
feeling of the facial mask against the skin.
[0040] To further increase the "substrate-to-substrate overlap," it
is desirable that the separation feature, particularly a slit, have
a length that is at least about 20 cm, preferably at least about 2
cm, such as from about 2 cm to about 15 cm, preferably from about 2
cm to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 3 cm to about 10 cm,
and most preferably from about 3 cm to about 8 cm. The length of
slit 15 is the distance from vertex V to initiation point A, the
distance AV, as shown in FIG. 2. If the separation feature is
curved, the length of the entire curved separation feature is
measured.
[0041] In a particularly preferred embodiment, in order to maximize
the performance of the separation feature, its angle of disposition
is at least about +15.degree. and its length is from about 2 cm to
about 15 cm. In yet another particularly preferred embodiment, its
angle of disposition is at least about +15.degree. and its length
is from about 2 cm to about 15 cm; more preferably its angle of
disposition is at least about +20.degree. and its length is from
about 2 cm to about 10 cm; and even more preferably its angle of
disposition is at least about +30.degree. and its length is from
about 3 cm to about 10 cm; and even more preferably its angle of
disposition is at least about +40.degree. and its length is from
about 3 cm to about 10 cm.
[0042] Note that while in the above description the angle of
disposition is calculated using the point of initiation of a slit,
it is also possible to calculate the angle of disposition from any
point along the separation feature.
[0043] Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, the facial mask 1 may further
include additional separation features. For example, facial mask 1
includes slits 37 that terminate in the chin region 12 and slits 41
that terminate in a mid portion 10. Facial mask 1 also comprises
interior slits 43 that terminate at openings 7 for the eyes, and
interior slits 42 that terminate at opening 11 for the mouth. Slits
37, 41 may have lengths and/or angles of disposition as described
above, or their particular angle(s) of disposition may be
considerably smaller. In FIGS. 1-2, slits 37 have angles of
disposition that are essentially zero.
[0044] While FIGS. 1-3 depict a separation feature that is a slit,
one can achieve the same functional benefits with separation
features having other geometries. For example, rather than a slit,
the separation feature may be a notch. As used herein, a "notch"
means a separation feature that generally has parallel sides and a
finite width, such as may be formed by removing a rectangle of
material from the water-insoluble substrate. Preferably, the notch
has an aspect ratio that is from about 100:1 to about 1:1.
[0045] Similar functionality can be created by a separation feature
that has tapering or irregular or curved boundaries that otherwise
make it difficult to determine a "direction" or angle of
disposition associated therewith. Applicants denote such separation
features as "wedges," as illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting another
embodiment of the invention. Facial mask 45 includes many features
that are more or less identical to those described with respect to
FIGS. 1-3. Facial mask 45 includes a pair of wedges 47, 48. The
wedges 47, 48 each define an area of indentation 21 that is from
about 0.5 cm.sup.2 to 20 cm.sup.2, preferably from about 1 cm.sup.2
to about 10 cm.sup.2, such as from about 2 cm.sup.2 to about 5
cm.sup.2.
[0046] The wedges 47 are located in chin region 12. The wedges 47,
48 result in a pair of laterally-extending tabs 49, 50. Rays 51, 52
may be constructed through geometric centroid 31 and vertices V of
each wedge 47, 48. Rays 51, 52 also intersect second points 55 on
the perimeter 3. Preferably rays 51, 52 do not pass through any
points on the perimeter other than other than vertices V and second
points 55.
[0047] The boundary of laterally-extending tab 49 is defined by
segment 57 (defined by ray 51 between its vertex V and its second
point 55) and portion 59 of the perimeter 3. Portion 59, by nature
of its curved or cup-like shape, provides a high degree of freedom
of motion for laterally-extending tab 49 to rotate about vertex V
and second point 55 while allowing the remainder of facial mask 45
to remain flat against the skin. Segment 57 may have a length that
is at least about 1 cm, such as at least about 1.5 cm.
[0048] Specifically, laterally-extending tab 49 creates a vertical
hinge having a hinge area 61 shown in cross-hatch in FIG. 4. Hinge
area 61 comprises that portion of the laterally-extending tab 49
bounded by a line parallel to the axis of symmetry 2 and
intersecting perimeter 3.
[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, the hinge area of the
laterally-extending tab is at least about 0.5 cm.sup.2, preferably
at least about 0.75 cm.sup.2, more preferably at least about 1.5
cm.sup.2, even more preferably at least about 2.0 cm.sup.2. This
sized hinge area enables the user to easily expand or reduce the
dimensions of the facial mask.
[0050] Note that while the determination of hinge area is shown for
the laterally-extending tab 49 of FIG. 4, hinge area can be
determined in a similar manner for a slit or notch, such as the
slit 15 of FIG. 1. In this case a ray is drawn from the geometric
centroid through a point on the slit. The portion of the facial
mask defined by the perimeter and a line parallel to the axis of
symmetry and intersecting the perimeter comprises the hinge
area.
[0051] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the facial mask
comprises a slit in the forehead region having a length of about
2.5 cm and providing an angle of disposition of about 70.degree.. A
laterally-extending tab has a width of about 1.4 cm and a hinge
area of about 2.4 cm. The facial mask may also comprise a
laterally-extending tab in the chin region having a length of 2.5
cm and a width of 2 cm (hinge area 3.6 cm)
[0052] FIG. 5 depicts the facial mask 45 worn by a user, depicting
a function of laterally extending tab 50. In use, each of the
laterally-extending tabs 49, 50 are able to rotate about respective
vertexes 53 and second points 55 so that the user can position the
laterally-extending tabs 49, 50 on top of other portions of the
mask in the chin region 12, and perhaps, if the laterally-extending
tabs 49, 50 are long enough, even in the mid region 10.
[0053] FIG. 6 depicts a plan view of another embodiment of the
invention. Facial mask 61 includes a pair of slits 63A, 63B in
forehead region 8. Slits 63A, 63B result in the formation of a pair
of laterally-extending tabs 64A, 64B. Facial mask 61 also includes
a pair of slits 65A, 65B located in the chin region 12. Slits 65A,
65B result in the formation of a pair of laterally-extending tabs
66A, 66B.
[0054] In one embodiment, slits 63A and 65A are long enough that
laterally-extending tabs 64A and 66A overlap. Similarly, slits 63B
and 65B are long enough that laterally-extending tabs 64B and 66B
overlap. Any of slits 63A, 63B, 65A, or 65B may have an angle of
disposition similar to that described above for slit 15 of FIGS.
1-3. Any of slits 63A, 63B, 65A, or 65B may be replaced with
notches or wedges, such as wedges 47, 48 of FIGS. 4-5.
[0055] FIG. 7 depicts yet another embodiment of the invention in
which a facial mask 71 includes openings 73 for the eyes. Adjoining
each opening 73 is a slit 75 that extends to the perimeter 3. The
slits 75 each extend from a point 76 on the perimeter to a point 78
at the opening 73. Laterally-extending tabs 79 are bounded by (1)
ray 80 that connects geometric centroid 31, point 81 on the opening
73, and point 83 on the perimeter 3; (2) the boundary of opening
73; (3) slit 75; and (4) the perimeter. Laterally-extending tabs 79
have a vertical hinge area 77, exemplified for the left side as the
cross-hatched region. Unlike conventional slits used in middle
areas of conventional facial masks, laterally-extending tabs 79
that result from the connection of the openings 73 and the slit 75
create a large hinge area in facial mask 71.
[0056] As depicted in FIG. 8, facial mask 71 in use is adjustable
and further permits the overlap of a top section 8 with section 10
of the facial mask 71 to create an overlapping zone 85 (shown in
cross-section of FIG. 8).
[0057] Further, in order to provide ease of use and comfort the
facial mask is preferably free of straps (e.g., elastic or rubber
straps) and the like that are adapted to wrap around the back of
the head or back of the neck of the user.
[0058] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-insoluble
substrate includes a non-woven material. As used herein,
"non-woven" means that the substrate, or a layer of the substrate,
is comprised of fibers that are not woven into a fabric but rather
are formed into a sheet, mat, or pad layer. The fibers can either
be random (i.e., randomly aligned) or they can be carded (i.e.,
combed to be oriented in primarily one direction). Furthermore, the
non-woven substrate can be composed of a combination of layers of
random and carded fibers.
[0059] In order to enhance the durability of the substrate, the
non-woven material is formed such that it is not "paper" or
"paper-like." As such, in this embodiment of the invention, the
non-woven structure is such that more than about 50% of the fibrous
mass are made of fibers having a length to diameter ratio greater
than about 300. While the fibers may be staple fibers or continuous
filaments, it is preferred that the fibers are staple fibers.
[0060] Non-woven substrates may be comprised of a variety of
natural and/or synthetic materials. By "natural" it is meant that
the materials are derived from plants, animals, insects, or
byproducts of plants, animals, and insects. By "synthetic" it is
meant that the materials are obtained primarily from various
man-made materials or from natural materials, which have been
further altered. Non-limiting examples of natural materials useful
in the present invention are silk fibers, keratin fibers (such as
wool fibers, camel hair fibers) and cellulosic fibers (such as wood
pulp fibers, cotton fibers, hemp fibers, jute fibers, and flax
fibers).
[0061] Examples of synthetic materials include, but are not limited
to, those selected from the group containing acetate fibers,
acrylic fibers, cellulose ester fibers, cotton fibers, modacrylic
fibers, polyamide fibers, polyester fibers, polyolefin fibers,
polyvinyl alcohol fibers, rayon fibers, polyurethane foam, and
mixtures thereof
[0062] Substrates made from one ore more of the natural and
synthetic materials useful in the present invention can be obtained
from a wide variety of commercial sources such as Freudenberg &
Co. (Durham, N.C. USA), BBA Nonwovens (Nashville, Tenn. USA), PGI
Nonwovens (North Charleston, S.C. USA), Buckeye
Technologies/Walkisoft (Memphis, Tenn. USA), Sansho Shigyo K.K.
(Tosa City, Kouchi, Japan), and Fort James Corporation (Deerfield,
Ill. USA).
[0063] Methods of making non-woven substrates are also well known
in the art. Such methods include, but are not limited to,
air-laying, water-laying, melt-blowing, spin-bonding, or carding
processes. The resulting substrate, regardless of its method of
production or composition, is then generally subjected to at least
one of several types of bonding operations to anchor the individual
fibers together to form a self-sustaining web. The non-woven
substrate can be prepared by a variety of processes including
hydro-entanglement, thermally bonding, chemical bonding and
combinations of these processes. Moreover, the substrates can have
a single layer or multiple layers. In addition, a multi-layered
substrate can include film layer(s) (e.g., aperture or non-aperture
film layers) and other non-fibrous materials.
[0064] Strength or firmness of the non-woven material may be a
desirable attribute. This can be achieved, for example, by the
addition of binding materials, such as wet strength resins, or the
material may be made of polymer binder coatings, stable fibres,
e.g. based on cotton, wool, linen and the like. Examples of wet
strength resins include, but are not limited to, vinyl
acetate-ethylene (VAE) and ethylene-vinyl chloride (EVCL) Airflex
emulsions (Air Products, Lehigh, Pa.), Flexbond acrylic polymers
(Air Products, Lehigh, Pa.), Rhoplex ST-954 acrylic binder (Rohm
and Haas, Philadelphia, Pa.), and Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)
emulsion (DUR-O-SET.RTM. by National Starch Chemicals, Bridgewater,
N.J.). The amount of binding material in the substrate may range
from about 5% to about 20%, by weight, of the substrate. In one
embodiment, the water-insoluble substrate is flushable, i.e., the
substrate will pass through at least 10 feet of waste pipe in two
toilet flushes. The material may also be biodegradable.
[0065] Non-woven materials of increased strength can also be
obtained by using the so-called spunlace or hydro-entanglement
technique. In this technique, the individual fibers are twisted
together so that an acceptable strength or firmness is obtained
without the need to use binding materials. The advantage of the
latter technique is the excellent softness of the non-woven
material.
[0066] In another embodiment, the water-insoluble substrate may
include a hydrogel. By "hydrogel" it is meant a continuous network
of polymer chains that are water-insoluble, sometimes found as a
colloidal gel in which water is the dispersion medium, e.g., a
multicomponent system consisting of a three-dimensional network of
polymer chains and water that fills the space between
macromolecules.
[0067] In one particularly preferred embodiment, the
water-insoluble substrate is composed predominantly of a nonwoven
fabric, a hydrogel, or combinations thereof; e.g., the
water-insoluble substrate may be at least about 25% by weight
(exclusive of any liquid impregnate) of such materials, more
preferably at least about 50% by weight.
[0068] Furthermore, the water-insoluble substrate may include
thermoplastic films (e.g., polyolefin) with or without apertures.
In one embodiment, the water-insoluble substrate includes a
stretchable or elastic material or film that is capable of fully
recovering after being placed under tension of 50% or 100% strain,
such as may be included for use on the laterally-extending tabs or
across the entire facial mask.
[0069] The basis weight of the water-insoluble substrate may range
from about 10 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 200 gsm, such
as between about 30 gsm and about 100 gsm. The water-insoluble
substrate may have an average thickness that is less than about 5
mm, such as between about 0.1 mm and about 1 mm.
[0070] In one embodiment of the invention, the non-woven material
may include a superabsorbent polymer. For the purposes of the
present invention, the term "superabsorbent polymer" refers to
materials which are capable of absorbing and retaining at least
about 10 times their weight in water under a 0.5 psi pressure. The
superabsorbent polymer particles of the invention may be inorganic
or organic crosslinked hydrophilic polymers, such as polyvinyl
alcohols, polyethylene oxides, crosslinked starches, guar gum,
xanthan gum, and other material known to the art of absorbent
article manufacture.
[0071] Additives may also be added in order to increase the
softness of the substrates. Examples of such additives include, but
are not limited to, polyols such as glycerol, propylene glycol and
polyethylene glycol, phthalate derivatives, citric esters,
surfactants such as polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan esters, and
acetylated monoglycerides.
[0072] Sensory attributes may also be incorporated to the insoluble
non-woven substrates. Examples of such sensory attributes include,
but are not limited to color, texture, pattern, and embossing of
the substrate.
[0073] The water-insoluble substrate when laid flat, may cover an
area that is from about 100 cm.sup.2 to about 1000 cm.sup.2, such
as from about 200 cm.sup.2 to about 500 cm.sup.2, such as between
about 200 cm.sup.2 to about 360 cm.sup.2.
Liquid Impregnate
[0074] The facial mask may include a liquid impregnate, such as may
be used to moisten or wet the water-insoluble substrate. In one
embodiment of the invention, the liquid impregnate is present in an
amount sufficient to wet a user's facial skin when laid onto such
skin. In another embodiment, the liquid impregnate is present in an
amount sufficient to permit a first portion of the water-insoluble
substrate to cohesively attach to a second portion of the
water-insoluble substrate, wherein the first portion of the
water-insoluble substrate is distant from the second portion of the
water-insoluble substrate. Such cohesive attachment may be for a
period of time of at least about 5 minutes when the water-insoluble
substrate is laid on the face and the user face is in an upright,
vertical orientation.
[0075] In order to provide sufficient drapeability of the facial
mask, the liquid impregnate may be present in an amount that is at
least about 5% by weight of the weight of the water-insoluble
substrate alone. More preferably the liquid impregnate is present
in an amount that is at least about 50%, even more preferably at
least about 100%, even more preferably at least about 200%, such as
from about 200% to about 300% of the weight of the water-insoluble
substrate. By having the liquid impregnate present in this amount,
the liquid impregnate may be readily transferred to skin placed in
contact with the water-insoluble substrate. To further enhance the
transfer of the liquid impregnate to the skin of the user, such as
for a hydrating facial mask, the liquid impregnate may be present
in an amount greater than about 50% by weight, such as greater than
about 65%, such as between about 65% to about 95% by weight of the
water-insoluble substrate.
[0076] The liquid impregnate may include an aqueous phase, an
oily/hydrophobic phase, a gel phase, or a mixture of these phases.
In one desirably embodiment, the liquid impregnate includes an
aqueous phase, and even more preferably, the aqueous phase is an
external phase (in which an oily phase or particulate phase may be
dispersed, suspended or emulsified).
[0077] In one embodiment, the liquid impregnate has a viscosity
that is less than about 10,000 centipoise (cps), when measured
using a Brookfield digital viscometer, Model DV-II+ Version 3.2
according to the operating instructions set forth in Manual No.
M/92-161-H895, such as having a viscosity less than about 5000 cps,
such as less than about 1000 cps. Such low viscosity liquid
impregnates tend to be aesthetically pleasing to the user.
[0078] The liquid impregnate may include solvents such as water,
including those that are humectant such as glycols including
glycerin or propylene glycol, or alcohols such as isopropyl alcohol
or ethanol. In one preferred embodiment, the liquid impregnate
includes water, such as in a concentration of at least about 40%,
more preferably at least about 60%, and even more preferably at
least about 80% in the liquid impregnate.
[0079] The liquid impregnate may include any of various ingredients
known to the art of facial mask preparations, including:
hydrophobic emollients such as fatty esters including esters of
glycerin, fatty alcohols, hydrophobic polymeric emollients; sensory
agents such as menthol and methyl lactate), chelating agents such
as EDTA), preservatives such as parabens, and other conventional
cosmetic adjuvants, such as dyes, opacifiers (e.g., titanium
dioxide and zinc oxide), pigments, fragrances, and microcapsules,
such aminoplast microcapsules. One particular example of suitable
microcapsules are polyoxymethyene melamine urea (PMU)
microcapsules, commercially available as Pontenza Dimethicone from
Reed-Pacific of Dural, Austrialia. Another such example is PMU
Microcapsules (32 Micron Encapsulated Mineral Oil and Jojoba Oil),
available from 3M Company of St. Paul, Minn.
Benefit Agents
[0080] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-insoluble
substrate includes one or more benefit agents. What is meant by an
"benefit agent" is a compound (e.g., a synthetic compound or a
compound isolated from a natural source) that has a cosmetic or
therapeutic effect on the skin including, but not limited to,
lightening agents, darkening agents such as self-tanning agents,
anti-acne agents, shine control agents, anti-microbial agents,
anti-inflammatory agents, antifungals, anti-parasite agents,
external analgesics, sunscreens, photoprotectors, antioxidants,
keratolytic agents, moisturizers, nutrients, vitamins, energy
enhancers, anti-perspiration agents, astringents, deodorants, hair
growth inhibitors, anti hair-loss agents, hair growth promoters,
hair removers, skin-firming agents, anti-callous agents, anti-aging
agents such as anti-wrinkle agents, skin conditioning agents,
allergy inhibitors, antiseptics, external analgesics,
antipruritics, antihistamines, antiinfectives, anticholinergics,
vasoconstrictors, vasodilators, wound-healing promoters, peptides,
polypeptides, proteins, deodorants, anti-perspirants, film-forming
polymers, counterirritants, enzymes, enzyme inhibitors, poison ivy
treatment agents, poison oak treatment agent, burn treatment
agents; anti-diaper rash treatment agents; prickly heat agents;
herbal extracts; flavenoids; sensates; anti-oxidants, keratolytics;
sunscreens; and anti-edema agents; and combinations thereof.
[0081] In one embodiment of the invention, the benefit agent is
selected from, but not limited to, hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide,
sulfur resorcinol, ascorbic acid and its derivatives, D-panthenol,
hydroquinone, octyl methoxycinnimate, titanium dioxide, octyl
salicylate, homosalate, avobenzone, polyphenolics, carotenoids,
free radical scavengers, spin traps, retinoids such as retinol and
retinyl palmitate, ceramides, polyunsaturated fatty acids,
essential fatty acids, enzymes, enzyme inhibitors, minerals,
hormones such as estrogens, steroids such as hydrocortisone,
2-dimethylaminoethanol, copper salts such as copper chloride,
peptides containing copper, coenzyme Q10, lipoic acid, amino acids
such a proline and tyrosine, lipo amino acids such as capryloyl
glycine and sarcosine, vitamins, lactobionic acid, acetyl-coenzyme
A, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, ribose, electron transporters such
as NADH and FADH2, and other botanical extracts, and salt, esters,
and derivatives thereof The benefit agent will typically be present
in an amount of from about 0.001% to about 20% by weight of the
liquid impregnate, e.g., about 0.01% to about 10% such as about
0.1% to about 5%.
[0082] Examples of vitamins include, but are not limited to,
vitamin A, a vitamin B such as vitamin B3, vitamin B5, and vitamin
B 12, vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin E, and salts, esters, and
derivatives thereof (e.g., retinyl palmitate, ascorbyl acetate, and
tocopherol acetate).
[0083] Examples of hydroxy acids include, but are not limited, to
glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, salicylic acid, citric
acid, and tartaric acid.
[0084] Examples of antioxidants include, but are not limited to,
water-soluble antioxidants such as sulfhydryl compounds and their
derivatives (e.g., sodium metabisulfite and N-acetyl-cysteine),
lipoic acid and dihydrolipoic acid, resveratrol, lactoferrin, and
ascorbic acid and ascorbic acid derivatives (e.g., ascorbic acid
glucoside, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, and ascorbyl palmitate and
ascorbyl polypeptide). Oil-soluble antioxidants suitable for use in
the compositions of this invention include, but are not limited to,
butylated hydroxytoluene, retinoids (e.g., retinol and retinyl
palmitate), tocopherols (e.g., tocopherol acetate), tocotrienols,
and ubiquinone. Natural extracts containing antioxidants suitable
for use in the compositions of this invention, include, but not
limited to, extracts containing flavonoids and isofavonoids and
their derivatives (e.g., genistein and diadzein), extracts
containing resveratrol and the like. Examples of such natural
extracts include grape seed, green tea, pine bark, and
propolis.
[0085] Examples of botanical extracts include, but are not limited
to legumes such as Soy, Aloe Vera, Feverfew, Hedychium, Rhubarb,
Portulaca, Cedar Tree, Cinnamon, Witch Hazel, Dandelion, Chinese
Angelica, Turmeric, Ginger, Burnet, Houttuynia, Coix Seed, and
Thyme. What is meant by a "botanical extract" is a blend of two or
more compounds isolated from a plant.
[0086] In one embodiment of the invention, the benefit agent is
designed for application on the forehead region and includes, but
is not limited to: oil-control agents such as titanium dioxides,
alcohols, botanical extracts, and talc; pore refining agents such
as alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, and enzymes; anti-acne
agents such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, trichlorcarban,
triclosan, azelaic acid, clindamycin, adapalene, erythromycin,
sodium sulfacetamide, retinoic acid, and sulfur; oil-absorbing
agents such as titanium dioxides and clays; shine control agents
such as silicones, alcohols, talc, and clays; dark spot reduction
agents such as vitamin C, hydroquinone, botanical extracts,
alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, and retinoids; and/or
wrinkle/fine-line reduction agents such as retinoids, alpha-hydroxy
acids, and enzymes.
[0087] In another embodiment of the invention, the benefit agent is
designed for application around the mouth and includes, but is not
limited to: hydration/moisturization agents such a glycerin,
silicone, glycols, botanical extracts, and esters; pore-refining
agents; anti-acne agents; vasodilators such as niacinamide and
horsechesnut extract; vasoconstrictors such as caffeine and
botanical extracts; skin-lifting agents such as (e.g., copper
containing peptides, dimethyaminoethanol, and polymers);
skin-firming polymers; wrinkle/fine-line reduction agents;
depigmenting/skin lightening agents such as vitamin C,
hydroquinone, botanical extracts, alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy
acids, retinoids, arbutin, and kojic acid; and depilatory/hair
reducing agents such as soy extracts, n-acetyl-cysteine, and
isoflavones.
[0088] While various combinations are contemplated, under one
non-limiting example, one or more benefit agents are selected from
the group consisting of ascorbic acid and its derivatives,
alpha-hydroxy-acids, beta-hydroxyacids, alkanolamines, proteins,
enzymes, and enzyme activators, and combinations thereof are in the
liquid impregnate, and one or more benefit agents are selected from
the group consisting of retinoids, tocopherols, enzymes, enzyme
activators, and combinations thereof are within the liquid
core.
[0089] In one embodiment of the invention, the product comprises an
enzyme such as a lignin peroxidase and a suitable activator such as
a peroxide (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) as described in WO
2004/052275.
Packaging of Product
[0090] In one embodiment of the invention, the product is in
finished packaged form inside a package. In one embodiment, the
package is a container such as a plastic, metal or glass tube, tub,
pouch or jar containing the water-insoluble substrate. The product
may further contain additional packaging such as a plastic or
cardboard box for storing one or more of such containers (e.g., a
package of two to twenty individual products). Non-limiting
examples of material that may be used to manufacture such
containers include aluminum, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or
polyesters. In one embodiment of the invention, the package is
substantially air-impermeable.
[0091] In one embodiment of the invention, the product includes
instructions directing the user to apply the facial mask to the
skin, such as to the face. In one embodiment, where the
water-insoluble substrate contains a liquid impregnate that is
present in an amount at least about 5% by weight of the weight of
the water-insoluble substrate, the instructions direct the use to
apply the product directly to the skin. In another embodiment where
the water-insoluble substrate contains a liquid impregnate that is
present in an amount at least about 5% by weight of the weight of
the water-insoluble substrate or a product that does not contain
any liquid impregnate, the instructions direct the use to apply a
liquid to the facial mask prior to application to the skin (e.g. to
add water, a toner, or a cleanser to the product).
[0092] In one embodiment, the instructions direct the user to apply
the product for the benefit of changing the appearance of the tone
and/or color of the skin.
[0093] The instructions may direct contacting the facial mask with
the skin (e.g., the face) for a period of time, such as from about
10 seconds to about 1 hour (e.g., such as from about 1 minute to
about 15 minutes). The user may also be directed to massage any
liquid remaining on the skin after removal of the water-insoluble
substrate. Such massaging may facilitate imparting improved
color/tone uniformity in the skin of the subject.
Method of Making and Using the Product
[0094] Facial masks of the present invention may be made by various
conventional methods, known to those skilled in the art. For
example, a water-insoluble substrate, such as a sheet of non-woven
material optionally perforated or cut to a pre-determined size to
form a "blank," such a size and shape suitable to fit over a human
face, may be formed by methods already discussed. Openings may
optionally be cut out of the blank corresponding to the eyes, nose,
and/or mouth. Using a "subtractive" method one or more separation
features such as slits, notches, and wedges may be sliced, cut or
punched out of the blank. In one embodiment, the separation feature
is formed by weakening or perforating the substrate rather than by
slitting or removing material. Consistent with these embodiments,
the facial mask may be of an "integrated" structure, in that the
entire facial mask is essentially uniform throughout its area, as
viewed from the top in a plan view.
[0095] In an alternative embodiment, the facial mask may be at
least partially formed by an "additive" process, i.e. portions of
the mask are stitched, bonded, or adhered together to create the
separation features. After forming the water-insoluble substrate,
the substrate may then be folded and placed in a plastic pouch
housing or other suitable container.
[0096] It is generally preferred that facial masks of the present
invention are unitary, i.e., a one-piece mask that can be readily
picked up with a user's hands and transported as single cohesive
unit, and this single cohesive unit is generally adapted to cover
substantially the entire face of a user. However, the facial mask
may also be formed from two or more pieces, for example as shown in
FIG. 9. Suitable two piece mask designs with slits include a top
piece that includes most or all of the forehead portion and a
bottom piece that includes most or all of the chin portion. For
embodiments in which there are two pieces, in order to determine
the geometric centroid, angle of disposition, etc., the two pieces
are placed in relative positions with respect to one another that
are suitable for in-use. For embodiments of the invention in which
the facial mask has a slit having an angle of disposition
substantially greater than 0.degree., the facial mask may be either
a single piece mask or a multi-piece mask, such as a two piece
mask.
[0097] The optional liquid impregnate may be prepared by mixing
ingredients such as water and one or other ingredients and/or more
benefit agents together to form a uniform liquid. The resulting
liquid impregnate may then be poured into the housing.
Alternatively, the impregnate may be sprayed or otherwise
distributed about the substrate.
[0098] The resulting facial mask may be individually sealed in the
housing or placed along with other water-insoluble substrates
together into a single housing. Multiple packaged substrates may be
grouped together in an outer container, such as a box.
[0099] The user may place or position the one or more
water-insoluble substrates on the facial skin so as to cover
substantially the entire face. The user may overlap a first
portion, such as a laterally extending tab of the one or more
water-insoluble substrates onto a second portion of the one or more
water-insoluble substrates such that first portion of overlaps the
second portion (see for example, FIGS. 3, 5 and 8). The overlapping
may be sufficient to provide adherence between said first portion
and said second portion. As such, the user may walk around or
perform other actions without the facial mask dislodging.
[0100] The following example illustrates details of embodiments of
the invention, without limiting it in any matter.
Example
[0101] The following is an example of a hydrating mask that
includes a water-insoluble substrate for application to the face
according to the invention.
[0102] A water-insoluble substrate formed from a sheet of nonwoven
fibers, (KP9560, a blend of 35% rayon and 45% pulp and 10% PET, 60
grams per square meter, commercially available from Sansho Shigyo
K.K. of Tosa City, Kouchi, Japan) was cut to size a shape to fit a
human face. The outer dimensions were about 20.3 cm.times.23.2 cm.
Openings were cut out of the sheet corresponding to the eyes, nose,
and mouth. A facial mask having a design similar to that shown in
FIG. 1 was made. Using the same materials, others having a design
similar to that described in FIGS. 4, 6 and 7 were made.
[0103] A liquid impregnate was prepared similar to the liquid
impregnate used in commercially available NEUTROGENA Fine Fairness
Mask with Vitamin C, commercially available from Neutrogena
Corporation, Los Angeles, Calif. Each of the masks above was
impregnated with this impregnate. The liquid-insoluble substrate
was folded and placed in a plastic pouch housing.
[0104] The facial masks were worn by one or more users. Each of the
facial masks were well-received with respect to their ease of use,
adjustability, and ability to adhere well to the skin.
[0105] It is understood that while the invention has been described
in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, that the
foregoing description is intended to illustrate and not limit the
scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the
appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are
within the claims.
* * * * *