Abstract: An apparatus for compressing a blank into a compressed tampon is provided. In the direction of its central axis, the apparatus comprises in succession a push rod, a transmitting device, a tampon press and an ejector mandrel. The carrier jaws of the transmitting device are concentrically movable with respect to the axis and have a closed passage channel whose cross-section is suitable for the blank or the pressed tampon. The cross-section of the push rod is notably smaller than the passage opening provided in the open portion of the carrier jaws for the tampon blank. The carrier jaws have in the direction of the axis, a width corresponding to at least the length of the blank. The tampon press has pressing jaws which are radially movable with respect to the axis between a receiving position of the tampon blank and a pressed position. The ejector mandrel serves to eject the tampon out of the tampon press back into the transmitting device and against the push rod.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for attaching a withdrawal tape to a catamenial tampon. The apparatus is designed so that the withdrawal cord is frictionally wound up upon a centering mandrel in a controlled manner and then pressed against the withdrawal end of a tampon to provide a spiral of withdrawal cord in the same uniform shape and quality while manufacturing such tampons at high speed. The withdrawal cord is picked up by a driver and wound up in an annular chamber between a centering mandrel and the driver. The driver comprises two cylindrical driver shelves arranged concentrically to one another at a radial distance and each having a driver tooth. The cooperation between the driver teeth and the two driver shelves makes it possible to perfectly guide the withdrawal cord during the course of winding the same.

Abstract: Between a pre-shaping device and a pressing device for tampons there is interposed a delivery device. The longer parallel legs of the L-shaped pressing jaws are set at a distance which corresponds to the diameter of the tampon. The shorter legs of the pressing jaws are oriented towards the longer leg of the other pressing jaw. The width of the pressing jaws corresponds at least to the length of the tampon and of the withdrawal cord. The delivery device is arranged for reciprocating movement transversely of the pressing jaws and has a transmitting channel which corresponds to the opened pressing device as well as a receiving channel which corresponds to the closed pressing device. Also interposed along with the delivery device, and in alignment with the transmitting channel, there is a transmitting device, and there is also a transmitting device in alignment with the receiving channel and the ejecting channel.

Abstract: Topical compositions comprising an active ingredient selected from at least two of the following three classes of compounds:(a) N-methyl-substituted xanthines containing at least two methyl substituents;(b) .alpha.-estradiol and certain derivatives thereof; and(c) the mucopolysaccharideshave surprisingly beneficial effects on the skin and the scalp. These compositions may be prepared in the form of lotions, emulsions, ointments, gels and like forms for topical administration, and may be used to treat such conditions as acne, wrinkles, and androgen baldness.

Abstract: A tampon pack is provided for containing a tampon of the type having a coated insertion end and an uncoated rear end. In accordance with the invention, a constriction is provided in that portion of the pack adapted to contain the rear end of the tampon and by virtue of this constriction, the insertion end of the tampon is held out of substantial contact with the container walls.

Abstract: A catamenial tampon is provided in the form of absorbent material enveloped by a liquid permeable cover which is then folded and compressed into a cylindrical shape. The enveloped absorbent material is in the form of a flat cushion and is first folded into front, central and rear sections with the front and rear sections overlying the central section. A withdrawal cord is looped around the first folded cushion which is then folded around the withdrawal cord and compressed into the final tampon shape. The resulting tampon expands when wet into a cup-shaped configuration.

Abstract: A combination tampon and packaging therefor is provided for which a lubrication may be applied to the tampon only immediately before use. The combination provides a separating sleeve slideably surrounding the periphery of the forward portion of the tampon and being spaced away from the forward portion of the tampon. A lubricant is deposited on that portion of the sleeve spaced away from the forward end of the tampon and a wrapper is provided enclosing both tampon and the sleeve. On removing the wrapper, the tampon may be slid forward relative to the sleeve and the lubricant automatically transferred to the tampon immediately prior to use.

Abstract: A catamenial tampon is provided in the form of absorbent material enveloped by a liquid permeable cover which is then folded and compressed into a cylindrical shape. The enveloped absorbent material is in the form of a flat cushion and is first folded into front, central and rear sections with the front and rear sections overlying the central section. A withdrawal cord is looped around the first folded cushion which is then folded around the withdrawal cord and compressed into the final tampon shape. The resulting tampon expands when wet into a cup-shaped configuration.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for transferring a cylindrical work piece from a first work station to a second work station is provided. The apparatus comprises a transfer element extending substantially in one main plane, and moveable in said plane. The transfer element is provided with a plurality of openings therethrough in which bushes for receiving and transferring work pieces are mounted to be moveable with the transfer element. A device moves each bush into approximate axial alignment with the first work station for receiving a work piece and then in approximate axial alignment with the second work station for discharging a work piece. The bushes are floatingly mounted within the openings to compensate for errors in axial alignment.