Abstract: A cosmetic applicator includes a handle, a drive coupled to the handle, an applicator head coupled to the drive, and a torque limiter coupled to or within at least one of the drive and the applicator head such that the torque applied via the applicator head does not exceed a predetermined allowable torque.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a cosmetic, such as mascara to eyelashes, includes a handle, a stem, and an applicator head coupled to the stem and supported for movement relative to the handle in a direction substantially parallel to the stem axis. An actuator moves the applicator head in an axial motion comprising a forward stroke and a reverse stroke. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator may move the applicator head in a composite motion including an axial component substantially parallel to the stem axis and having a forward stroke and a reverse stroke, and a rotational oscillating component. The actuator may be a motor having a rotating motor shaft, and the applicator may further include a transmission coupling disposed between the motor shaft and the applicator head for automatically converting rotation of the motor shaft in one direction into axially reciprocating movement of the applicator head.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a cosmetic, such as mascara to eyelashes, includes a handle, a stem, and an applicator head coupled to the stem and supported for rotation relative to the handle. An actuator moves the applicator head in a rotational oscillating motion, in which the applicator head automatically rotates in both a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction in response to operation of the actuator. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator may also radially translate the applicator head, move the applicator head through an angle of rotation less than 360 degrees, and vary the rotational speed-of the applicator head. The applicator head may include protrusions that are spaced to define gaps during rotation, thereby to promote coverage and separation of eyelashes.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a cosmetic, such as mascara to eyelashes, includes a handle, a stem, and an applicator head coupled to the stem and supported for rotation relative to the handle. An actuator moves the applicator head in a vibrational motion. Additionally or alternatively, the applicator head may include a first set of protrusions having a first stiffness and a second set of protrusions having a second stiffness, wherein the first stiffness is greater than the second stiffness. The actuator may further be coupled to the handle to provide a tactile vibratory signal to the user.