Abstract: A test method is described for comparing the relative affinity of products for a target substance using a substrate ordinarily and visibly sensitive to the products. The test method is useful in one embodiment for comparing the ability of harsh cleansers to remove fatty acids from the skin with mild cleansers that do not remove fatty acids to the same extent using a visually compelling substrate, such as a fresh cut flower.

Abstract: A diagnostic article and method is disclosed wherein the article includes a mirror, a plurality of attribute selection sites arranged along or associated with the mirror with each of the sites having a plurality of choice selectors, and an output for recommending at least one personal care product based upon input from the choice selectors. A diagnostic for skin includes attribute selection sites hosting questions related to a customer's age, skin coloration, dryness, sunburn susceptibility, pimple breakout affinity, wrinkle formation and pore size. Hair, dental and underarm products may also be personalized by the diagnostic system. The mirror allows a customer in-store to more accurately answer attribute questions through reference to the customer's mirror reflection.

Abstract: A method and kit is provided for removing hair. The method includes applying to an area of skin from which hair is to be removed a skin pretreatment composition that includes a lipophilic material. Thereafter applied onto the pretreated area is a depilatory composition including a keratin degrading agent in an effective amount to chemically react with hair to allow wipe-away removal. A kit is also provided which includes a skin pretreatment product formed with a skin pretreatment composition including a lipophilic material delivered to the skin by a carrier. The kit further includes a depilatory product having a depilatory composition with a keratin degrading agent chemically reactive with hair to weaken the hair for removal, the depilatory composition being delivered from a carrier.

Abstract: A diagnostic article and method is disclosed wherein the article includes a mirror, a plurality of attribute selection sites arranged along or associated with the mirror with each of the sites having a plurality of choice selectors, and an output for recommending at least one personal care product based upon input from the choice selectors. A diagnostic for skin includes attribute selection sites hosting questions related to a customer's age, skin coloration, dryness, sunburn susceptibility, pimple breakout affinity, wrinkle formation and pore size. Hair, dental and underarm products may also be personalized by the diagnostic system. The mirror allows a customer in-store to more accurately answer attribute questions through reference to the customer's mirror reflection.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for identifying imperfections in a person's facial, forearm or hand skin and for recommending an appropriate remedial cosmetic. The method includes providing an apparatus having a programmable computer, a camera connected to the computer, at least one visible wavelength light source for separately generating at least two different color images and at least one ultraviolet wavelength light source for an ultraviolet light image. Further, the method includes placing the ultraviolet and color images into a program of the computer and processing the images for pinpointing areas of skin requiring preventative treatment including those with skin damage. A remedial set of cosmetic products can thereby be recommended.

Abstract: A cosmetic product system is provided which includes a cosmetic composition for improving skin texture, and a test device packaged with the composition. The device includes a mechanism for visualizing progressive improvement in texture imparted by the composition as the latter is applied over a period of time.

Abstract: A cosmetic article selection device and method is provided including a storage mechanism for holding at least one coupon and a dispensing mechanism for delivering the coupon to a consumer. The coupon includes either a physical test requiring contact with a body part or a plurality of questions. Results from the test or from the questions provide an output which may be correlated with a most suitable product from a plurality of similar type products. The coupon will also contain a discount offer on purchase of the most suitable product.