Abstract: An improved substrate for growing mono-layers of adherent-type cells and methods of growing tissue structures, ex vivo. The improved substrate, which comprises a silicon substrate coated with a photo cleavable polymer, releases adherent cells non-enzymatically. Also disclosed are methods for assembling complex layers of cells of various types.

Abstract: An applicator for applying a cosmetic to keratinous material is provided. The applicator is a single-piece molded unit formed of a single material and includes a slim, tapered head portion, having an arcuate configuration. The head portion comprises a support and at least two rows of projecting tines integrally molded therewith. The tines extend transversely away from one side of the support relative to the longitudinal axis of the head, the opposite side of the support being smooth and free from tines. The arcuate and tapered shape of the support facilitates the application of cosmetic product to the eyelash fringe including the shortest eyelashes located in the corners of the eye.

Abstract: An anhydrous powder composition wherein the ratio of platelet to non-platelet particulates is greater than about 5 to 1 respectively, which is preferably talc-free, oil-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free; and a method for preparing the powder composition of the invention.

Abstract: An immersion-type multi-applicator system, comprising a single container and a single handle. The container has two or more adjacent openings and each opening is capable of receiving its own applicator. Also provided is a selection mechanism that articulates the handle with exactly one applicator. The selection mechanism may be a rotary cam system, a rotary magnetic selector system, a sliding cam system, etc.

Abstract: Product applicators that are separable from a product reservoir and that heat a portion of product. A product applicator fitted with an electronic heating element capable of connecting to a low voltage power source. Most of the electric circuitry is incorporated into a circuit subassembly, for example a flexible substrate with printed-on circuit. The preferred heating element is a flexible heater. Heat emanates from the surface of the separable applicator so that the product that is closest to the applicator surface is heated prior to and/or during application.

Abstract: A vented wiper for a mascara bottle or other packaging and modified filling methods for containers that have vented wipers. During filling of a container, the vented wiper allows air to vent from the container, other than through the interior of the wiper.

Abstract: The invention pertains to topical, wax-based compositions comprising one or more flower waxes and candelilla wax, in the ratio of about 20:1 to about 1:20. Such compositions may have improved shear resistance or be substantially plasticizer free. Stick-type and stay-in-place topical preparations are contemplated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to topical skin whitening compositions comprising a whitening effective amount of a black yeast-derived melanin-degrading enzyme extract and a method of preparing the compositions. The compositions provide a whitening effect by degrading melanin on the surface of the skin, the hair and the nails. The enzyme extract can be derived from Exophiala mansonii. The compositions containing the enzyme extract are more effective than are similar compositions containing kojic acid in producing a whitening effect on the skin.

Abstract: A versatile, convenient-to-use, unitary, cosmetic compact of increased stability, having a base, a hinged cover capable of rotating with respect to the base and an article carrier that is capable of translation and rotation with respect to the base, via a selective rotation mechanism. The combination of a decoupled motion of the article carrier with respect to the base and the fact that the cover and article carrier move independently, creates a versatile, tri-fold compact that may be held in the hand similar to a bi-fold compact or placed on a surface in various useful configurations, including lying flat, extended base and stable A-frame configurations. The compact has an elegant, playful feel, while being versatile, stable, simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

Abstract: A mascara applicator with vibrating applicator head. The head is caused to vibrate in a controlled manner through electro-mechanical urging. The frequency, amplitude and geometry of the vibrating head are sufficient to significantly alter the rheological properties of thixotropic and anti-thixotropic mascara compositions, including an effect that persists after the vibration has stopped. The present invention allows the mascara to be manipulated for improved results, greater flexibility in formulation, benefits in manufacture, as well as other benefits.

Abstract: The present invention is a convenient-to-use cosmetic compact of increased stability, comprising a base, a cosmetic article carrier disposed within the base and a cap. With respect to the base, the cap is sometimes capable of translational movement and sometimes capable of rotational movement, but the cap can only perform one type of motion at a time. The type of movement that the cap may execute, depends on the relative orientation of the cap and base. There is one exception to this rule. There is exactly one orientation of the cap with respect to the base from which the user may execute either translation or rotation, but not both simultaneously. Translation of the cap with respect to the base causes translation of the cosmetic article carrier, either toward the bottom or toward the top of the base. In contrast, rotation of the cap with respect to the base does not affect the position of the cosmetic article carrier. Preferably, the cap is capable of rotating at least 180°.

Abstract: Product applicators that are separable from a product reservoir and that heat a portion of product and a product applicator fitted with an electronic heating element capable of connecting to a low voltage power source. Most of the electric circuitry is incorporated into a circuit subassembly, for example a flexible substrate with printed-on circuit. The preferred heating element is a flexible heater. Heat emanates from the surface of the separable applicator so that the product that is closest to the applicator surface is heated prior to and/or during application.