COSMETIC APPLICATOR

Abstract

A cosmetic package comprising a cosmetic applicator for applying a product including a cosmetic, care, or pharmaceutical product onto the keratinous substrate. The cosmetic applicator comprises an application member that includes a flexible zone at a proximal portion of the application member. The flexible zone further includes at least two horizontal grooves that extend on a first face of the application member, and at least two horizontal grooves that extend on a second face opposite to the first face. When a pressure is exerted on the application member during the application of the cosmetic product, the flexible zone enables the application member to flex towards either the first face or the second face.

Description

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202011013451, filed on Mar. 27, 2020, and Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202011015538, filed on Apr. 9, 2020. The disclosure of each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure generally relates to a cosmetic applicator for applying a product including a cosmetic, care or pharmaceutical product, onto keratinous substrate such as skin, lips, under eyes, eyelids, cheeks, nails or any other part of the body.

Description of the Related Art

Many Cosmetic applicators in particular for application to the facial skin or lips are generally available in different packaged in reservoirs of an elongate shape and of a small size, provided with an applicator or application member; the reservoir-product-applicator unit is generally called a cosmetic package. Certain applicators exist for dispensing cosmetic or medicinal products. Such devices usually consists of a container carrying cosmetic or medicinal products, a delivery mechanism for displacement of the cosmetic or medicinal products, and an applicator. For example, in the medical industry, applicators are employed for applying medicinal products, such as ointments, to portions of the body. In the cosmetics and personal care industries, applicators are used to apply lipstick, lip balm, skin creams, lotions, and other cosmetic products to portions of the body.

These cosmetic applicators are desirably designed to provide the consumer user with the perception that the applicator is soft in its feel on the skin. In foam applicators, e.g. such as applicators tipped with a latex foam or other foam, the sensation of softness is provided by the resilience of the foam. However, such foam applicators are not as durable as might be desired, and foam, particularly latex foam, is a relatively expensive element for use in a cosmetic applicator. It would be desirable to permit the use of lower-cost, non-foam materials, such as low density polyethylene (“LDPE”) and high density polyethylene (“HDPE”), and polyesters such as HYTREL® polyester, or polypropylene or elastomers, in cosmetic applicators, if the applicator could be designed to provide a feel that the consumer did not find excessively hard when used on facial skin. Plastic applicators coated with flocking have been used, however, they do not have the same soft feel as foam tipped applicators. In some designs they are perceived by the consumer user as having a hard, unpleasant feel. Tubular containers having applicator whose angle can be adjusted according to the contour of skin are already known.

Commonly, a cosmetic applicator is provided at the end of a stem carried by a cap which seats on and closes the mouth or opening of a container, the cosmetic applicator being immersed in the cosmetic material contained in the container when the cap is in the container-closing position. The cap serves as a handle for the user when the cosmetic applicator, bearing a quantity of the cosmetic product, is withdrawn from the container and applied to the skin. Applicators for cosmetics or other substances, such as drugs, are known in various designs and forms. For example, reference is made to the U.S. Pat. No. 6,070,598, the U.S. Pat. No. 6,220,254 and the U.S. Pat. No. 5,123,431.

KR101411990B1 discloses a tube body which stores contents and is provided with a discharging part so as to discharge contents at an upper portion thereof; a support body which is coupled to the discharging part and forms a contents movement passage at an interior thereof; an applicator which is coupled, encasing an upper portion of the support body and applies contents onto user's facial skin, forming a contents discharging hole which is connected with the contents movement passage; and an over cap which is coupled to the discharging part, encasing the support body. The support body is composed of an elastic material, has a structure wherein the upper portion thereof can be rotated 360 degrees on an axis of a lower portion thereof such that the angle of the applicator can be changed according to the contour of the skin.

However, the registered patent has a problem wherein assimilability with the applicator decreases due to deformation of the support body made of elastic material, thereby causing the applicator to be easily separated.

Thus, there exists a need for a cosmetic applicator which provides a soft feel on skin of a user during application and which flexes in at least two opposing directions.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a cosmetic package that can be easily configured to contain a product and a cosmetic applicator.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a cosmetic applicator that is very simple to use, economical to manufacture, and aesthetically pleasing.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a cosmetic applicator that provides a soft feel on the skin of a user during application.

It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a cosmetic applicator that a soft application experience during use.

Accordingly, there is provided a cosmetic package comprising a cosmetic applicator coupled to a housing. The housing is configured to contain a product including a cosmetic, care, or pharmaceutical product. The cosmetic applicator includes an application member at its distal portion and a connector at its proximal portion. Further, the application member comprises a flexible zone is formed at a proximal portion of the application member and a dispensing surface is formed at a portion of a distal portion of the application member. The application member is configured to flex in at least two opposite directions due to the presence of the flexible zone, when pressure is exerted on the application member during the application of the cosmetic product. The flexible zone includes at least two horizontal grooves on a first face of the application member that comprises the dispensing surface and at least two horizontal grooves on a second face opposite to the first face.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the cosmetic, care, or pharmaceutical product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair color, cheek blush, skin care, under eye cosmetics, pharmaceutical and like products.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the cosmetic package includes a cap that encapsulates the cosmetic applicator when the cosmetic package is not in use and may include a plug that seals a dispensing aperture of the cosmetic applicator. The cap is configured to couple to the housing such as by the use of a snap-fit attachment, a threaded attachment, a press or friction fit, one or more hinges, or any other suitable means of attachment.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member and the connector of the cosmetic applicator are formed integrally to decrease manufacturing costs, or for any other desired reason.

In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the connector of the cosmetic applicator is connected to an upper portion of the housing to seal the opening of the housing. In alternate embodiments, the connector of the cosmetic applicator is connected to the housing by a collar or any other part which is fixed to the housing.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the connector may have suitable connecting features on its outer surface or inner surfaces for fitment to the housing and wherein the connector of the cosmetic applicator may be coupled to the housing by snap-fitment, crimping, adhesive, threads, press-fit, retaining ribs or barbs or by any other suitable attachment means.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic applicator is preferably formed of an elastomeric material e.g. in a material selected from the following list: elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers. However, in alternate embodiments, the cosmetic applicator may be formed from any suitable flexible material known in the art.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the application member extends along a central longitudinal axis between a proximal end and a distal end.

Further, at least a portion of an outer surface of the distal portion of the application member is the dispensing surface and the rest of the outer surface of the distal portion of the application member is a blending surface. The application member includes the dispensing aperture and a product delivery passageway to transport the cosmetic product housed in the housing onto the dispensing surface via the dispensing aperture.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member includes at least four faces, namely the first face, the second face opposing the first face, a third face, and a fourth face opposite the third face. The dispensing surface is defined at a distal end surface of the application member on the first face. At least a portion of an outer surface of the application member on the second face defines the blending surface.

Further, the flexible zone includes at least two horizontal grooves located at the proximal portion of the application member both on the first face and the second face of the application member. According to an aspect of the embodiment, the at least two horizontal grooves on the first face extend in a complete width of the first face, and similarly, the at least two horizontal grooves on the second face extend in a complete width of the second face of the application member. The at least two horizontal grooves of the first face are in alignment with the at least two horizontal grooves on the second face of the application member. The at least two horizontal grooves on the first face and the second face allow the application member to flex toward the first face and the second face when pressure is exerted on the second face and the first face respectively during the application of the cosmetic product against the keratinous substrate. Particularly, the application member flexes away from the central longitudinal axis of the application member due to the presence of the flexible zone during its application against the keratinous substrate to exert optimum pressure during the application of the application member onto the keratinous substrate. When the application pressure ceases, the application member automatically returns to its original position.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the application member is substantially inflexible toward the third face and the fourth face of the application member.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the flow of the product through the product delivery passageway of the application member is not hindered when the application member flexes towards the first face or the second face during application.

The presence of the flexible zone of the application member provides softness on the application. Due to the presence of the flexible zone, contact of the application member with the keratinous substrate is elastic, pleasant, and comfortable. At the time of application, the contact between the application member and the keratinous substrate is softened and the elasticity of the flexible zone of the cosmetic applicator proves to be beneficial for the application of the cosmetic product.

According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member is constituted to have an approximately cylindrical-shape, and has an inclined distal end surface. The inclined distal end surface of the application member defines the dispensing surface of the application member. More particularly, the dispensing surface is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis and is convexly curved in a longitudinal direction. However, in alternate embodiments, the dispensing surface may not be curved and inclined and may be of any other shape known in the art.

According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing surface has a drop shaped surface with a pointed tip defined at the distal end of the application member. More particularly, a peripheral edge of the dispensing surface of the application member has a drop shape. The pointed tip of the application member is particularly advantageous, as it helps in reaching corners or areas of the keratinous substrate which are difficult to reach. However, in alternate embodiments, the application member, the dispensing surface may be of any other shape known in the art and the tip may not be pointed.

According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing aperture is round in shape. However, in alternate embodiments, the dispensing aperture may take any shape or form so long as it provides an effective conduit to dispense out the cosmetic product.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing surface extends at least up to 15% of a length of the application member and at most up to 85% of the length of the application member on the first face. The dispensing surface extends from the pointed tip up to a certain length of the application member. Particularly, the dispensing surface may extend from the pointed tip up to 70% of the length of the application member and has an angular span in a range of 20 degrees to 120 degrees around the central longitudinal axis of the application member. More particularly, the dispensing surface extends from the pointed tip up to 50% of the length of the application member.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, at least 60% of the outer surface of the distal portion of the application member is the blending surface and the dispensing surface extends over a remaining portion of the outer surface of the application member.

According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing surface is offset relative to the blending surface of the application member of the cosmetic applicator because of a break in slope of the dispensing surface. In various embodiments, not shown, a break in slope, a discontinuity, an axial or angular offset may be provided between or on either one of the dispensing surface and the blending surface of the application member. Thus, the dispensing surface and the blending surface of the application member are both shaped so that, when applying the application member onto the keratinous substrate, the dispensing aperture dispenses on the dispensing surface, and hence the cosmetic product can be applied onto the keratinous substrate, without the blending surface coming in contact with the dispensing surface simultaneously. Further, the applied cosmetic product onto the keratinous substrate can be blended by using the blending surface of the application member which comes into contact with the keratinous substrate by turning the cosmetic package by a hand of the user. The blending surface on the application member blends the cosmetic product using swiping or patting gesture onto the keratinous substrate, which is dispensed on the dispensing surface. Therefore, a voluntary manipulation of the hand of the user should be performed to turn the cosmetic package in order to change the orientation thereof relative to the dispensing surface and the blending surface of the application member.

According to an aspect of the first embodiment, the dispensing aperture in the dispensing surface is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator. However, in alternate embodiments, the dispensing aperture in the dispensing surface may be offset relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator.

The present disclosure is not limited by the shape of the application member. For example, a cosmetic applicator according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an application member having a distal portion that is substantially spherical in shape. A dispensing surface is defined on a portion of the spherical distal portion of the application member and the rest of the portion of the distal portion of the application member defines a blending surface. In the second embodiment, the dispensing surface of the application member has an angular span in a range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees around the central longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator, and wherein the dispensing surface is inclined and is concavely curved in a longitudinal direction.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing surface extends longitudinally on the distal portion of the application member and extends at least up to 40% of a length of the application member on the distal portion. A proximal portion of the application member is cylindrical in shape and comprises a flexible zone comprising at least two horizontal grooves that extend on a first face of the application member and at least two horizontal grooves on the second face opposite to the first face of the application member. A distal portion of the first face also defines the dispensing surface and the second face defines a major portion of the blending surface of the application member.

According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member comprises a rounded tip at a distal end of the application member, and wherein the dispensing surface does not extend up to the distal end of the application member.

According to an aspect of the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing surface and a dispensing aperture on the dispensing surface both are of a drop shape, and wherein the dispensing aperture is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator.

Moreover, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, a portion or the entire dispensing surface and the blending surface may be textured to provide a desirable feel to a user. For example, a cosmetic applicator according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure has surface features on a dispensing surface of an application member. More particularly, the dispensing surface comprises multiple massaging ribs.

Furthermore, the massaging ribs may surround a dispensing aperture formed on the dispensing surface of the application member. The massaging ribs are disposed on the dispensing surface in a yin yang like fashion, however, in alternate embodiments, the massaging ribs may be disposed on the dispensing surface in any other manner. According to an aspect of the third embodiment, the shape of the dispensing surface is an inverse drop shape, and wherein the dispensing surface extends up to a distal end of the application member and defines a rounded distal tip at the distal end of the application member. Like other embodiments, a distal portion of the application member has an inclined distal end surface that defines the dispensing surface, and wherein the rest of an outer surface of the distal portion of the application member defines a blending surface. A proximal portion of the application member includes a flexible zone.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the application member may be flocked with fibers. Further, an entire outer surface of the application member may be flocked with fibers. The fibers for flocking which may be of any commonly used material, such as nylon, polyester or any natural fiber are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish to the outer surface of the application member may be achieved by an appropriately chosen known technique, such as electrostatic flocking. The outer surface of the application member before being flocked may be smooth on its entire surface. Preferably, the flocking process takes place in an electrostatic field, which results in the proper orientation of the fibers. The flock on the outer surface of the application member provides a convenient “reservoir” that can hold a small amount of the cosmetic product adequate for one or two applications.

In yet alternate embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the outer surface of the application members may not be covered by the flock coating, for example, the dispensing surface of the application members may not be covered by a flock coating. In yet alternate embodiments, an entire outer surface of the application member may not be covered by the flock coating.

In some embodiments, the flexible zone is also covered with flocking and in particularly, the two horizontal grooves on the first and the second faces of the cosmetic applicator also have flocked disposed therein.

The present disclosure is not limited by a shape of the dispensing surface and the blending surface of the application member, and wherein in various embodiments, the dispensing surface and the blending surface may include planar, convex, and/or concave surface features.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the housing may have any type of suitable dispensing means for transporting the cosmetic product housed in the housing to the dispensing surface of the cosmetic applicator. For example, the dispensing means may include an airless pump mechanism.

According to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic product may be transported through the product delivery passageway of the cosmetic applicator by rotating the housing such that the cosmetic product is dispensed through the cosmetic applicator by way of a check valve comprised of a ball and a spring.

According to yet another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic product may be transported through the product delivery passageway by using a click or a reverse click operation, whereby the user may operate the cosmetic package by moving the cosmetic applicator relative to the housing in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

According to yet another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic product may be transported through the product delivery passageway by squeezing. When pressure is applied to the housing containing the reservoir, the cosmetic product in the reservoir may be forced by the squeezing action, through the cosmetic applicator via a product delivery passageway for application to the user's skin.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the cosmetic package is comprised of a separate cosmetic applicator and housing. However, in alternate embodiments, to decrease manufacturing costs, or for any other desired reason, the cosmetic applicator and some or all of the housing may be formed integrally.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the housing and the cap may be made of a rigid material like glass, metal, plastic or any other material known in the art. However, in alternate embodiments, the housing and the cap may be made of a flexible material like flexible polymeric material or any other material known in the art.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing is of an elongated cylindrical configuration. However, in alternate embodiments, the housing may be of an elongated square, polygonal configuration, oval, triangular, heart, or any other configuration known in the art.

According to an aspect of the third embodiment, the cosmetic applicator may not have a product delivery passageway extending there through and may be configured to be directly dipped in to a receptacle of the cosmetic package containing a cosmetic product. The cosmetic package associated with the fourth embodiment, comprises the receptacle for holding a product and an applicator assembly. The applicator assembly comprises the cosmetic applicator, a stem, and a cap. The cap has threads that can be screwed onto threads, formed on a neck of the receptacle. The cosmetic applicator is retained at a distal end of the stem for applying the product; and the cap at a proximal end of the stem. Like other embodiment, the cosmetic applicator according to the fourth embodiment comprises a flexible zone near the proximal portion thereof, which enables the flocked application member to flex from the proximal portion during application. The flexible zone includes at least two pairs of opposing horizontal grooves on two opposing faces of the application member. A wiper may be provided in the neck of the receptacle for wiping off excess product from the cosmetic applicator.

According to the fourth embodiment, the cosmetic applicator comprises the application member at its distal portion and a connector at its proximal portion. The connector is configured to be received and retained within the longitudinal cavity of the stem. Further, an outer surface of the application member may be flocked.

According to an aspect of the fourth embodiment, the application member is elongated along a central longitudinal axis of the cosmetic applicator. The applying member is elongated, that is to say its extent in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis is larger than its largest extension perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis. Particularly, the largest extension of the applying member in the direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis by at least a factor of 1.5, more preferably is greater by at least a factor of 2 than the greatest extension of the applying member in a direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

According to yet another aspect of the fourth embodiment, the application member includes at least two opposite faces, namely a first face and a second face opposite to the first face. The flexible zone on the application member includes at least two horizontal grooves which extend along a width of the first face of the application member and at least two horizontal grooves which extend along a width of the second face of the application member. Further, the at least two horizontal grooves of the first face are in alignment with the at least two horizontal grooves on the second face of the application member. The at least two horizontal grooves on the first face and the at least two horizontal grooves on the second face allow the application member to flex toward the first face and the second face, when a pressure is exerted on the second face and the first face respectively during application of the cosmetic product against the keratinous substrate. Particularly, the application member flexes away from a central longitudinal axis of the application member due to the presence of the flexible zone during its application against the keratinous substrate to exert optimum pressure during application of the application member onto the keratinous substrate. When the application pressure ceases, the application member automatically returns to its original position.

According to an aspect of the fourth embodiment, the application member further comprises a third face and a fourth face substantially opposite to the third face. The application member is substantially inflexible toward the third face and the fourth face of the application member. The at least two horizontal grooves of the first face and at least two horizontal grooves of the second face form at least two pairs of opposing horizontal grooves, namely a first pair of opposing horizontal grooves and a second pair of opposing horizontal grooves. The first pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a first region of reduced thickness on the application member and the first region of reduced thickness is defined at the proximal end portion of the application member. Similarly, the second pair of opposing horizontal grooves defines a second region of reduced thickness on the application member. Thus, the at least two opposing horizontal grooves define at least two regions of reduced thickness on the application member. Further, the first region of reduced thickness on the application member lies adjacent to the stem and has a thickness less than a thickness of a portion of the stem that lies immediately adjacent to the application member. Preferably, the first region of reduced thickness has a thickness at least two times less than the thickness of the portion of the stem that lies immediately adjacent to the application member. The first region of reduced thickness and the second region of reduced thickness are separated axially by a portion of the application member which has a thickness greater than the thicknesses of the first region of reduced thickness and the second region of reduced thickness.

According to an aspect of the fourth embodiment, the flexible zone is also covered with flocking and in particular, the two horizontal grooves on the first face and the two horizontal grooves on the second face of the application member also have flocked disposed therein.

According to alternate embodiments, application member of the present disclosure comprises more than two horizontal grooves both on the first face and on the second face, and wherein the horizontal grooves on each of the first face and the second face are uniformly spaced. However, in yet other alternate embodiments, the horizontal grooves on the first face and on the second face may not be uniformly spaced.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, through the at least two horizontal grooves on the first face and at least two horizontal grooves on the second face, a kind of reservoir for the product may be provided in the applying member. The reservoir can be of the shape of the at least two horizontal grooves on the first face and at least two horizontal grooves on the second face and is able to store sufficient amount of the product, which when using the applying member can significantly reduce the frequency of rewetting the applying member.

According to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member is constituted to have an approximately cylindrical-shape which has an inclined distal end surface. However, in alternate embodiments, the application member may have any other cross-section and shape, and may not have an inclined distal end surface.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member is preferably formed of an elastomeric material e.g. in a material selected from the following list: elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers. However, in alternate embodiments, the application member may be formed from any suitable flexible material known in the art.

Further, the first face and the opposing second face of the application member may also have different surface properties, in particular application properties.

According to an embodiment, receptacle and the cap may be made of a rigid material like glass, metal, plastic or any other material known in the art. However, in alternate embodiments, the receptacle and the cap may be made of a flexible material like flexible polymeric material or any other material known in the art.

According to an embodiment, the receptacle is of an elongated cylindrical configuration. However, in alternate embodiments, the receptacle may be of an elongated square, polygonal configuration, oval, triangular, heart, or any other configuration known in the art.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the stem can have a longitudinal axis that is rectilinear. However, in alternate embodiments, it could be curved.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a longitudinal axis of the stem coincides with the central longitudinal axis of the application member. However, in alternate embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the stem may not coincide with the central longitudinal axis of the application member.

According to fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic applicator may at a distal portion of the application member includes a cavity on at least one of the faces of the application member for precise application, for example on the corners of eyes and lips. The cavity may be a concave cavity. The cavity is spaced apart from a flexible zone of the application member.

It will be understood that the foregoing is only illustrative of the principles of the disclosure, and that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. For example, the shapes and/or sizes of various components can be different from the shapes and sizes described herein. As another example, the materials used for various components can be different from those mentioned specifically herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of the present disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a cosmetic package in an open position with a cap removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a cosmetic applicator of the cosmetic package of FIG. 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 illustrates a back view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 2 with flocking on its outer surface;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a cosmetic applicator according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 illustrates a back view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a cosmetic applicator according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross sectional view of a cosmetic package equipped with a cosmetic applicator according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a cosmetic applicator of the cosmetic package of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 illustrates a front view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 illustrates a back view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of the cosmetic applicator of the cosmetic package of FIG. 14;

FIG. 20 illustrates a front view of a cosmetic applicator according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 illustrates a back view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 illustrates a side view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 20;

FIG. 24 illustrates a top view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 23; and

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of the cosmetic applicator of FIG. 21 along with flocking on its outer surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As shown throughout the drawings, like reference numerals designate like or corresponding parts.

Throughout this specification, the terms “comprise,” “comprises,” “comprising” and the like, shall consistently mean that a collection of objects is not limited to those objects specifically recited.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a cosmetic package 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cosmetic package 100 comprises a housing 20 and a cosmetic applicator 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The housing 20 comprises a reservoir (not shown) for containing a product (not shown) including a cosmetic, care or pharmaceutical product. The cosmetic, care or pharmaceutical product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair color, cheek blush, skin care, under eye cosmetics, pharmaceutical and like products.

The cosmetic package 100 includes a cap 30 that encapsulates the cosmetic applicator 10 when the cosmetic package 100 is not in use and may include a plug (not shown) that seals a dispensing aperture 12a of the cosmetic applicator 10. The cap 30 is configured to couple to the housing 20 such as by the use of a snap-fit attachment, a threaded attachment, a press or friction fit, one or more hinges, or any other suitable means of attachment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the cosmetic applicator 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cosmetic applicator 10 comprises an application member 4, and a connector 6. More particularly, the application member 4 is located at a distal portion of the cosmetic applicator 10 and the connector 6 is located at a proximal portion of the cosmetic applicator 10. The application member 4 includes a flexible zone 5 formed at a proximal portion of the application member 4.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member 4 and the connector 6 of the cosmetic applicator 10 are formed integrally to decrease manufacturing costs, or for any other desired reason.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic applicator 10 is preferably formed of an elastomeric material e.g. in a material selected from the following list: elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers. However, in alternate embodiments, the cosmetic applicator 10 may be formed from any suitable flexible material known in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 3 & 4, the application member 4 extends along a central longitudinal axis X between a proximal end 7a and a distal end 7b. The application member 4 includes a proximal portion 17a and a distal portion 17b. The flexible zone 5 is provided on the application member 4 at a proximal portion 17a of the application member 4. A dispensing surface 14 and a blending surface 15 are defined on the distal portion 17b of the application member 4. Particularly, at least a portion of an outer surface of the distal portion 17b of the application member 4 is the dispensing surface 14 and the rest of the outer surface of the distal portion 17b of the application member 4 is the blending surface 15.

Further, the application member 4 includes the dispensing aperture 12a and a product delivery passageway 12b to transport the cosmetic product housed in the housing 20 onto the dispensing surface 14 via the dispensing aperture 12a, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 2-5, the application member 4 includes at least four faces, namely a first face 4a, a second face 4b opposing the first face 4a, a third face 4c, and a fourth face 4d opposite the third face 4c (not shown). The dispensing surface 14 is defined at a distal end surface of the application member 4 on the first face 4a. Also, the flexible zone 5 includes at least two horizontal grooves 18 located at the proximal portion 17a of the application member 4 both on the first face 4a and the second face 4b of the application member 4. The at least two horizontal grooves 18 on the first face 4a extend in a complete width of the first face 4a and similarly, at least two horizontal grooves 18 on the second face 4b extend in a complete width of the second face 4b of the application member 4. The at least two horizontal grooves 18 of the first face 4a are in alignment with the at least two horizontal grooves 18 on the second face 4b of the application member

The at least two horizontal grooves 18 on the first face 4a and the second face 4b allow the application member 4 to flex toward the first face 4a and the second face 4b, when a pressure is exerted on the second face 4b and the first face 4a respectively during application of the cosmetic product. Particularly, the application member 4 flexes away from the longitudinal X due to the presence of the flexible zone 5 during its application against the keratinous substrate to exert optimum pressure during application of the application member 4 onto the keratinous substrate. When the application pressure ceases, the application member 4 automatically returns to its original position that is the central longitudinal axis X of the application member 4.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the application member 4 is substantially inflexible toward the third face 4c and the fourth face 4d of the application member 4.

The presence of the flexible zone 5 of the application member 4 provides softness on the application. Due to the presence of the flexible zone 5, contact of the application member 4 with the keratinous substrate is elastic, pleasant, and comfortable. At the time of application, the contact between the application member 4 and the keratinous substrate is softened and the elasticity of the flexible zone 5 of the cosmetic applicator 10 proves to be beneficial for the application of the cosmetic product.

The application member 4 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 2-7. The application member 4 is constituted to have an approximately cylindrical-shape, and an inclined distal end surface. The inclined distal end surface of the application member 4 is the dispensing surface 14. As shown in FIG. 5, the dispensing surface 14 is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis X and is convexly curved in a longitudinal direction. However, in alternate embodiments, the dispensing surface 14 may not be curved and inclined and may be of any other shape known in the art.

As shown in FIG. 3, the dispensing surface 14 has a drop shaped surface with a pointed tip 13 defined at the distal end 7b of the application member 4. More particularly, a peripheral edge 16 of the dispensing surface 14 is of a drop shape. The pointed tip 13 of the application member 4 helps in reaching corners or areas of the keratinous substrate which are difficult to reach. However, in alternate embodiments, the application member 4, the dispensing surface 14 may be of any other shape known in the art and the tip 13 may not be pointed.

Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the dispensing surface 14 extends at least up to 15% of a length of the application member 4 and at most up to 85% of the length of the application member 4. Particularly, the dispensing surface 14 extends from the pointed tip 13 till a certain length of the application member 4. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the dispensing surface 14 may extend from the pointed tip 13 up to 70% of the length of the application member 4 and has an angular span in a range of 20 degrees to 120 degrees around the central longitudinal axis X of the application member 4. More particularly, the dispensing surface 14 extends from the pointed tip 13 up to 50% of the length of the application member 4. At least 60% of the outer surface of the distal portion 17b of the application member 4 is the blending surface 15 and the dispensing surface 14 extends over a remaining portion of the outer surface of the application member 4.

As shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 5, the dispensing surface 14 is offset relative to the blending surface 15 of the application member 4 of the cosmetic applicator 10 because of a break in slope of the dispensing surface 14. In various embodiments, not shown, a break in slope, a discontinuity, an axial or angular offset may be provided between or on either one of the dispensing surface 14 and the blending surface 15 of the application member 4. Thus, the dispensing surface 14 and the blending surface 15 are both shaped so that, when applying the application member 4 onto the keratinous substrate, the dispensing aperture 12 dispenses on the dispensing surface 14, and hence the cosmetic product can be applied onto the keratinous substrate, without the blending surface 15 coming in contact with the dispensing surface 14 simultaneously. Further, the applied cosmetic product onto the keratinous substrate can be blended by using the blending surface 15 of the application member 4 which comes into contact with the keratinous substrate by turning the cosmetic package 100 by a hand of the user. The blending surface 15 on the application member 4 blends the cosmetic product using swiping or patting gesture onto the keratinous substrate, which is dispensed on the dispensing surface 14. Therefore, a voluntary manipulation of the hand of the user should be performed to turn the cosmetic package 100 in order to change the orientation thereof relative to the dispensing surface 14 and the blending surface 15 of the application member 4.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the dispensing aperture 12a in the dispensing surface 14 is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis X of the cosmetic applicator 10. However, in alternate embodiments, the dispensing aperture 12a in the dispensing surface 14 may be offset relative to the central longitudinal axis X of the cosmetic applicator 10.

As shown in FIG. 3, the dispensing aperture 12a is round in shape. However, in alternate embodiments, the dispensing aperture 12a may take any shape or form so long as it provides an effective conduit to dispense out the cosmetic product.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the connector 6 of the cosmetic applicator 10 is connected to an upper portion 21 of the housing 20 to seal the opening of the housing 20. In alternate embodiments, the connector 6 of the cosmetic applicator 10 is connected to the housing 20 by a collar or any other part which is fixed to the housing 20. The connector 6 may have suitable connecting features on its outer surface or inner surfaces for fitment to the housing 20, and wherein the connector 6 of the cosmetic applicator 10 may be coupled to the housing 20 by snap-fitment, crimping, adhesive, threads, press-fit, retaining ribs or barbs or by any other suitable attachment means.

The present disclosure is not limited by the shape of the application member 4. For example as shown FIGS. 8-11, a cosmetic applicator 40 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an application member 42 having a distal portion 47b that is substantially spherical in shape. A dispensing surface 44 is defined on a portion of the spherical distal portion 47b of the application member 40 and the rest of the portion of the distal portion 47b of the application member 42 is a blending surface 45. The dispensing surface 44 has an angular span in a range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees around the central longitudinal axis Y of the cosmetic applicator 40 and the dispensing surface 44 is inclined and is concavely curved in a longitudinal direction.

Further, the dispensing surface 44 extends longitudinally on the distal portion 47b of the application member 42 and extends at least up to 40% of a length of the application member 42 on the distal portion 47b. A proximal portion 47a of the application member 42 is cylindrical in shape and comprises a flexible zone 46 comprising at least two horizontal grooves 48 on the first face 40a of the application member 42 that comprises the dispensing surface 44 and at least two horizontal grooves 48 on a second face 40b opposite to the first face 40a of the application member 42.

Furthermore, the application member 42 comprises a rounded tip 43 at a distal end 41a of the application member 42, and wherein the dispensing surface 44 does not extend up to the distal end 41a of the application member 42.

As shown in FIG. 9, a dispensing aperture 14a is of a drop shape in the dispensing surface 44 and the dispensing aperture 14a is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis Y of the cosmetic applicator 40.

Moreover, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, a portion or the entire dispensing surface and the blending surface may be textured to provide a desirable feel to a user. For example, FIGS. 12-13 show a cosmetic applicator 50 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. The cosmetic applicator 50 of the third embodiment is similar to the cosmetic applicator 10 of the first embodiment except in that a shape and surface features of a dispensing surface 54 of an application member 52 of the cosmetic applicator 50 differ. The shape of the dispensing surface 54 is an inverse drop shape, and comprises multiple massaging ribs 55 formed thereon. The dispensing surface 54 extends up to a distal end 51a of the application member 52 and defines a rounded distal tip 53 at the distal end 51a of the application member 52. Furthermore, the massaging ribs 55 surround a dispensing aperture 56 formed on the dispensing surface 54. The massaging ribs 55 are disposed on the dispensing surface 54 in a yin yang like fashion, however, in alternate embodiments, the massaging ribs 55 may be disposed on the dispensing surface 54 in any other manner. As shown in FIGS. 12-13, a distal portion 57b of the application member 52 has an inclined distal end surface that defines the dispensing surface 54, and wherein the rest of an outer surface of the distal portion 57b of the application member 52 defines a blending surface 59. A proximal portion 57a of the application member 52 includes a flexible zone 58.

The present disclosure is not limited by a shape of the dispensing surface 14, 44, 54 and the blending surface 15, 45, 59, and wherein in various embodiments, the dispensing surface 14, 44, 54 and the blending surface 15, 45, 59 may include planar, convex, and/or concave surface features.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing 20 may have any type of suitable dispensing means for transporting the cosmetic product housed in the housing 20 to the dispensing surface 14, 44, 54 of the cosmetic applicator 10, 40, 50. For example, the dispensing means may include an airless pump mechanism.

According to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, not shown here, the cosmetic product is transported through the product delivery passageway 12b of the cosmetic applicator 10 by rotating the housing 20 such that the cosmetic product is dispensed through the cosmetic applicator 10 by way of a check valve comprised of a ball and a spring.

According to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, not shown here, the cosmetic product is transported through the product delivery passageway 12b by using a click or a reverse click operation, whereby the user may operate the cosmetic package 100 by moving the cosmetic applicator 10 relative to the housing 20 in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

According to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, not shown here, the cosmetic product is transported through the product delivery passageway 12b by squeezing. When pressure is applied to the housing 20 containing the reservoir, the cosmetic product in the reservoir may be forced by the squeezing action, through the cosmetic applicator 10 via a product delivery passageway for application to the user's skin.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cosmetic package 100 is comprised of a separate cosmetic applicator 10 and housing 20. However, in alternate embodiments, to decrease manufacturing costs, or for any other desired reason, the cosmetic applicator 10 and some or all of the housing 20 may be formed integrally.

According to an embodiment, the housing 20 and the cap 30 may be made of a rigid material like glass, metal, plastic or any other material known in the art. However, in alternate embodiments, the housing 20 and the cap 30 may be made of a flexible material like flexible polymeric material or any other material known in the art.

According to an embodiment and as shown in FIG. 1, the housing 20 is of an elongated cylindrical configuration. However, in alternate embodiments, the housing 20 may be of an elongated square, polygonal configuration, oval, triangular, heart, or any other configuration known in the art.

FIG. 14 illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of a cosmetic package 200 including a cosmetic applicator 60 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. The cosmetic applicator 60 has resemblance with the previous embodiments in terms of having a flexible zone, and the cosmetic applicator 60 differs from previous embodiments as it does not comprise a product delivery passageway and is intended to be dipped in a receptacle of a cosmetic package. As shown in FIG. 14, the cosmetic package 200 associated with the cosmetic applicator 60 comprises a receptacle 207 for holding a product (not shown) and an applicator assembly 203. The applicator assembly 203 comprises the cosmetic applicator 60, a stem 204, and a cap 206. The cap 206 of the applicator assembly 203 has threads 206a which can be screwed onto threads 201, formed on a neck 205 of the receptacle 207. The cosmetic applicator 60 retained at a distal end of the stem 204 for applying the product; and the cap 206 at a proximal end of the stem 204.

In general, the use of the terms “distal” and “proximal” herein is supposed to mean that the distal side/end is the side/end facing towards the inside of the storage receptacle 207, whereas the proximal side/end is the side/end facing towards the removal opening of the receptacle 207.

Further, the distal end of the stem 204 includes an interior longitudinal cavity 204a for receiving and retaining the cosmetic applicator 60.

Inserted in the neck 205 of the receptacle 207 is a wiper 208 for wiping off excess product from the applicator assembly 203.

Further, the cosmetic applicator 60 of the applicator assembly 203 may be used to apply the product including a cosmetic or care product. The cosmetic or care product includes viscous cosmetics, mascara, eyebrow powder, lip gloss, hair color, skin care, under eye cosmetics, pharmaceutical and like products.

As shown in FIGS. 15-18, the cosmetic applicator 60 comprises an application member 62 at its distal portion and a connector 64 at its proximal portion. The connector 64 is configured to be received and retained within the longitudinal cavity 204a of the stem 204 (see FIG. 14).

In the present embodiment, the connector 64 and the application member 62 are integral, however in alternate embodiments that may be two separate parts. The application member 62 is designed to apply the product to a target surface.

Referring to FIGS. 15-18, an outer surface of the application member 62 is flocked. The cosmetic applicator 60 is configured to be inserted into the receptacle 207 so as to become loaded with the product and transport the product onto a surface where the product needs to be applied. The application member 62 includes at least two opposite faces, namely a first face 67 and a second face 68 opposite to the first face 67.

Further, the application member 62 includes a flexible zone 66 near a proximal portion thereof which enables the flocked application member 62 to flex from the proximal portion during application. The flexible zone 66 includes at least two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b which extend on the first face 67 along a width of the first face 67 of the application member 62 and at least two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b which extend on the second face 68 along a width of the second face 68 of the application member 62.

Further, the at least two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b of the first face 67 are in alignment with the at least two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b on the second face 68 of the application member 62. The at least two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b on the first face 67 and the at least two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b on the second face 68 allow the application member 62 to flex toward the first face 67 and the second face 68, when a pressure is exerted on the second face 68 and the first face 67 respectively during application of the cosmetic product against the keratinous substrate. Particularly, the application member 62 flexes away from a central longitudinal axis X of the application member 62 due to the presence of the flexible zone 66 during its application against the keratinous substrate to exert optimum pressure during application of the application member 62 onto the keratinous substrate. When the application pressure ceases, the application member 62 automatically returns to its original position.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 16, the application member 62 further comprises a third face 69 and a fourth face 70 substantially opposite to the third face 69. The application member 62 is substantially inflexible toward the third face 69 and the fourth face 70 of the application member 62.

The at least two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b of the first face 67 and at least two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b of the second face 68 form at least two pairs of opposing horizontal grooves, namely a first pair of opposing horizontal grooves 67a, 68a and a second pair of opposing horizontal grooves 67b, 68b.

The first pair of opposing horizontal grooves 67a, 68a define a first region of reduced thickness on the application member 62 and the first region of reduced thickness is defined at the proximal end portion of the application member 62. Similarly, the second pair of opposing horizontal grooves 67b, 68b define a second region of reduced thickness on the application member 62. Thus, the at least two opposing horizontal grooves define at least two regions of reduced thickness on the application member 62.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the first region of reduced thickness on the application member 62 lies adjacent to the stem 204 and has a thickness less than a thickness of a portion of the stem 204 that lies immediately adjacent to the application member 62. Preferably, the first region of reduced thickness has a thickness at least two times less than the thickness of the portion of the stem 204 that lies immediately adjacent to the application member 62.

The first region of reduced thickness and the second region of reduced thickness are separated axially by a portion of the application member 62 which has a thickness greater than the thicknesses of the first region of reduced thickness and the second region of reduced thickness.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the flexible zone 66 is also covered with flocking and in particularly, the two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b on the first face 67 and the two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b on the second face of the application member 62 also have flocked disposed therein.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an entire outer surface of the application member 62 is flocked with fibers. The fibers for flocking which may be of any commonly used material, such as nylon, polyester or any natural fiber are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish to the outer surface of the application member 62 may be achieved by an appropriately chosen known technique, such as electrostatic flocking. Preferably, the flocking process takes place in an electrostatic field, which results in the proper orientation of the fibers. The flock on the outer surface of the application member 62 provides a convenient “reservoir” that can hold a small amount of the cosmetic product adequate for one or two applications.

In yet alternate embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the outer surface of the application member 62 may not be covered by the flock coating. According to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, the applying member 62 may or may not be flocked or partially flocked.

According to alternate embodiments (not shown), the application member 62 of the present disclosure comprises more than two horizontal grooves both on the first face 67 and on the second face 68, and wherein the horizontal grooves on each of the first face 67 and the second face 68 are uniformly spaced. However, in yet other alternate embodiments, the horizontal grooves on the first face 67 and on the second face 68 may not be uniformly spaced.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, through the at least two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b on the first face 67 and at least two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b on the second face 68, a kind of reservoir for the product may be provided in the applying member 62. The reservoir can be of the shape of the at least two horizontal grooves 67a, 67b on the first face 67 and at least two horizontal grooves 68a, 68b on the second face 68 and is able to store sufficient amount of the product, which when using the applying member 62 can significantly reduce the frequency of rewetting the applying member 62.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member 62 is constituted to have an approximately cylindrical-shape which has an inclined distal end surface. However, in alternate embodiments, the application member 62 may have any other cross-section and shape, and may not have an inclined distal end surface.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the application member 62 is preferably formed of an elastomeric material e.g. in a material selected from the following list: elastomers; thermoplastic elastomers. However, in alternate embodiments, the application member 62 may be formed from any suitable flexible material known in the art.

The first face 67 and the opposing second face 68 of the application member 62 may also have different surface properties, in particular application properties.

According to an embodiment, receptacle 207 and the cap 206 may be made of a rigid material like glass, metal, plastic or any other material known in the art. However, in alternate embodiments, the receptacle 207 and the cap 206 may be made of a flexible material like flexible polymeric material or any other material known in the art.

According to an embodiment and as shown in FIG. 14, the receptacle 207 is of an elongated cylindrical configuration. However, in alternate embodiments, the receptacle 207 may be of an elongated square, polygonal configuration, oval, triangular, heart, or any other configuration known in the art.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the stem 204 can have a longitudinal axis that is rectilinear. However, in alternate embodiments, it could be curved.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the application member 62 is elongated along the central longitudinal axis X of the cosmetic applicator 62, refer to FIG. 14. The application member 62 is elongated, that is to say its extent in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis X is larger than its largest extension perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis X. Particularly, the largest extension of the application member 62 in the direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis X by at least a factor of 1.5, more preferably is greater by at least a factor of 2 than the greatest extension of the application member 62 in a direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis X of the cosmetic applicator 203.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a longitudinal axis of the stem 204 coincides with the central longitudinal axis X of the application member 62, see FIG. 14. However, in alternate embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the stem 204 may not coincide with the central longitudinal axis X of the application member 62.

FIGS. 20-25 show a cosmetic applicator 80 according to fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. The cosmetic applicator 80 is similar in construction to the cosmetic applicator 60 except in that the cosmetic applicator 80 differs in shape. The cosmetic applicator 80 comprises an application member 82 at its distal portion 82a and a connector 84 at its proximal portion 82b. The connector 84 is configured to be configured to be received and retained within the longitudinal cavity of a stem (not shown). The application member 82 includes a first face 87 and a second face 88 opposite to the first face 87, a third face 89, and a fourth face 90 (not shown) opposite to the third face 89.

Further, the application member 82 includes a flexible zone 86 near a proximal portion 82b thereof which enables the application member 82 to flex from the proximal portion 82b during application. The application member 82 includes at least one pair of horizontal grooves 87a, 87b that extends along the first face 87 and at least one pair of horizontal grooves 88a, 88b along the second face 88 of the application member 82 respectively. The at least two longitudinal grooves 87a, 87b of the first face 87 are in alignment with the at least two horizontal grooves 88a, 88b on the second face 88 of the application member 82. The at least two horizontal grooves 87a, 87b on the first face 87 and the at least two horizontal grooves 88a, 88b on the second face 88 allow the application member 82 to flex toward the first face 87 and the second face 88.

Particularly, the application member 82 flexes away from a central longitudinal axis X of the application member 82 due to the presence of the flexible zone 86 during its application against the keratinous substrate to exert optimum pressure during application of the application member 82 onto the keratinous substrate. When the application pressure ceases, the application member 82 automatically returns to its original position. The application member 82 is substantially inflexible toward the third face 89 and the fourth face 90 (not shown) of the application member 82.

As shown in FIGS. 20-23, the application member 82 is convexly curved in the shape of a spoon towards a distal portion 82a of the application member 82. As shown in FIG. 20-21, the application member 82 includes a concave cavity 85 extending along the longitudinal axis X of the application member 82. The cavity 85 holds the cosmetic product for application on to the keratinous substrate. The second face 88, third face 89 and the fourth face 90 (not shown) of the application member 82 is deprived of the cavity 85 and is a smooth surface used for uniform blending application.

As shown in the embodiment, the cavity 85 is formed on the first face 87 of the application member 82 and is preferably oval in shape, the cavity 85 extends in an inclined surface on the first face 87. The oval shaped cavity 85 extends from the distal tip 82c of the application member 82 on the first face 87 and covers ¾ of the length of the face 87 along the longitudinal axis X. The cavity 85 extends substantially along the width of the first face 85 of the application member 82.

As shown in FIG. 22, a greatest width of the distal portion 82a of the second face 88 of the application member 82 has is greater than a greatest width of the proximal portion 82b of the application member 82. The distal tip 82c of the second face 88 of the application member 82 is rounded. The greatest width of the distal portion 82a is 1.5 times greater than the greatest width of the proximal portion 82b of the application member 82.

As shown in FIG. 23, a width towards the distal portion 82a of the third face 89 and the fourth face 90 (not shown) of the application member 82 is reduced forming a narrower distal tip 82c for precise application. The width at the distal tip 82c of third face 89 and fourth face 90 (not shown) of the application member 82 ranges from 0.2 to 0.5 of the proximal tip 82d of the respective faces.

As shown in FIG. 24, the distal tip 82c of the application member 82 is rounded for precise application, for example on the corners of eyes and lips.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the application members 4, 42, 52, 62, 82 may be flocked with fibers. As shown in FIG. 7, an entire outer surface of the application member 4 is flocked with fibers 2. The fibers for flocking which may be of any commonly used material, such as nylon, polyester or any natural fiber are applied with an adhesive, such as an epoxy, to the surface to be flocked. The flocking finish to the outer surface of the application member 4 may be achieved by an appropriately Chosen known technique, such as electrostatic flocking. The outer surface of the application member 4 before being flocked may be smooth on its entire surface. Preferably, the flocking process takes place in an electrostatic field, which results in the proper orientation of the fibers. The flock on the outer surface of the application member 4 provides a convenient “reservoir” which can hold a small amount of the cosmetic product adequate for one or two applications.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the entire outer surface of the application member 4 is covered by a flock coating 2 as shown in FIG. 7. However in alternate embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface of the application member may not be covered by the flock coating, for example, the dispensing surface 14 of the application member 4 may not be covered by a flock coating (not shown). In yet alternate embodiments, the outer surface of the application member may not be covered by the flock coating as shown in FIGS. 8-12, 12-13, 15-19 and 25.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A cosmetic applicator for applying a cosmetic or a care product, the cosmetic applicator comprises:

an application member defined by a distal portion of the cosmetic applicator;

a connector defined by a proximal portion of the cosmetic applicator;

wherein the application member includes a first face, a second face opposite to the first face, a third face, and a fourth face opposite to the third face;

wherein the application member comprises a flexible zone at a proximal portion of the application member;

wherein the flexible zone comprises a first pair of horizontal grooves and a second pair of horizontal grooves opposing the first pair of horizontal grooves;

wherein the first pair of two horizontal grooves extend on the first face of the application member, and the second pair of two horizontal grooves extend on the second face of the application member;

wherein the first pair of horizontal grooves on the first face is in alignment with the second pair of horizontal grooves on the second face;

wherein a first horizontal groove of the first pair of the horizontal grooves and a corresponding first groove of the second pair of the horizontal grooves, which are in alignment, form a first pair of opposing horizontal grooves, and wherein the first pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a first region of reduced thickness on the application member;

wherein a second groove of the first pair of the horizontal grooves and a corresponding second groove of the second pair of the horizontal grooves, which are in alignment, form a second pair of opposing horizontal grooves, and wherein the second pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a second region of reduced thickness on the application member; and

wherein the first pair of horizontal grooves and the second pair of horizontal grooves enables the application member to flex from the proximal portion of the application member during use.

2. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application member is inflexible toward the third and fourth face of the application member.

3. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first pair of horizontal grooves and the second pair of horizontal grooves extend in a complete width of the first face and the second face of the application member respectively.

4. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application member is at least partially flocked.

5. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connector of the cosmetic applicator is configured to be attached to a distal end of a stem, and wherein a cap is retained at a proximal end of the stem.

6. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first region of reduced thickness and the second region of reduced thickness are separated axially by a portion of the application member which has a thickness greater than the thicknesses of the first region of reduced thickness and the second region of reduced thickness

7. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cosmetic applicator comprises a dispensing surface, and an internal product delivery passageway that extends from a proximal end of the cosmetic applicator and terminates in an orifice on the dispensing surface of the application member.

8. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 7, wherein at least a portion of an outer surface of the distal portion of the application member is the dispensing surface and the rest of the outer surface of the distal portion of the application member is a blending surface.

9. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 8, wherein the dispensing surface is offset relative to the blending surface.

10. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 7, wherein the cosmetic applicator is mounted on a neck of a cosmetic container.

11. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 8, wherein the dispensing surface has an angular span in the range of 20 degrees to 120 degrees around a central longitudinal axis of the application member.

12. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 8, wherein the dispensing surface extends at least up to 15% of a length of the application member and at most up to 85% of the length of the application member.

13. The cosmetic applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein horizontal grooves of the first pair of horizontal grooves are parallel to each other; and wherein horizontal grooves of the second pair of horizontal grooves are parallel to each other.

14. A cosmetic applicator for applying a cosmetic or a care product, the cosmetic applicator comprises:

an application member defined by a distal portion of the cosmetic applicator;

a connector defined by a proximal portion of the cosmetic applicator;

wherein the application member includes a first face and a second face opposite to the first face;

wherein the application member comprises a flexible zone at the proximal portion of the application member;

wherein a plurality of messaging ribs are provided on a distal portion of the application member;

wherein the flexible zone comprises a first pair of horizontal grooves and a second pair of horizontal grooves opposing said first pair of horizontal grooves;

wherein the first pair of two horizontal grooves extend on the first face of the application member, and the second pair of two horizontal grooves extend on the second face of the application member;

wherein the first pair of horizontal grooves on the first face is in alignment with the second pair of horizontal grooves on the second face;

wherein a first horizontal groove of the first pair of the horizontal grooves and a corresponding first groove of the second pair of the horizontal grooves, which are in alignment, form a first pair of opposing horizontal grooves, and wherein the first pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a first region of reduced thickness on the application member; and

wherein a second groove of the first pair of the horizontal grooves and a corresponding second groove of the second pair of the horizontal grooves, which are in alignment, form a second pair of opposing horizontal grooves, and wherein the second pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a second region of reduced thickness on the application member.

15. A cosmetic applicator for applying a cosmetic or a care product, the cosmetic applicator comprises:

an application member defined by a distal portion of the cosmetic applicator;

a connector defined by a proximal portion of the cosmetic applicator;

wherein the application member includes a first face, a second face opposite to the first face, a third face, and a fourth face opposite to the third face;

wherein the application member comprises a flexible zone at the proximal portion of the application member;

wherein the flexible zone comprises a first pair of horizontal grooves and a second pair of horizontal grooves opposing the first pair of horizontal grooves;

wherein the first pair of two horizontal grooves extend on the first face of the application member, and the second pair of two horizontal grooves extend on the second face of the application member;

wherein the first pair of horizontal grooves on the first face is in alignment with the second pair of horizontal grooves on the second face;

wherein a first horizontal groove of the first pair of the horizontal grooves and a corresponding first groove of the second pair of the horizontal grooves, which are in alignment, form a first pair of opposing horizontal grooves;

wherein a second groove of the first pair of the horizontal grooves and a corresponding second groove of the second pair of the horizontal grooves, which are in alignment, form a second pair of opposing horizontal grooves;

wherein the first pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a first region of reduced thickness on the application member and the second pair of opposing horizontal grooves define a second region of reduced thickness on the application member;

and

wherein the application member includes a cavity for holding a cosmetic product, and wherein the cavity is a non-through cavity that is spaced away from the flexible zone of the application member.