The present invention relates generally to applicators for cosmetics. More particularly, the present invention relates to ergonomic applicators for applying a cosmetic composition to eyelashes.

Conventional applicators for applying mascara compositions to eyelashes generally include a brush held on an elongated rod that is connected to a handle. The bristles of the brush project radially from the rod. The brush and rod are usually housed in a cylindrical container. The brush handle forms a closure for the container when the mascara applicator is not in use.

When use of the mascara applicator is desired, the handle is pulled away from the container to remove the mascara-laden brush. During application of mascara to the eyelashes, the brush rod is generally positioned parallel to the face, and oriented horizontally with the brush handle held beside a cheek or temple for purposes of manipulation and alignment of the brush with the eyelashes.

During transfer of mascara to the eyelashes, the brush is twisted or rotated along its central axis and moved in a vertical up and down motion, while held in the horizontal position, such as up to the forehead to do the top eyelashes, and down from the forehead to do the bottom eyelashes.

Some users will hold the mascara brush handle in the right hand to apply mascara to the right eyelashes, and switch the brush handle to the left hand to apply mascara to the left eyelashes. Other users favor the right or left hand and use the favored hand to apply mascara to the eyelashes of both the right and left eyes.

However, even when the favored hand is used for the eyelashes of both eyes, it may be necessary to hold the mascara applicator in the opposite hand to get to the extreme ends of the eyelash that are furthest from the favored hand or closest to the nose bridge.

It should be noted that the application of mascara with conventional mascara applicators usually requires dozens of repeated strokes and rotations or twists to achieve the desired eyelash appearance. Because of the manner in which a conventional mascara applicator is held and manipulated the application of mascara can be a difficult and tiresome exercise.

It is thus desirable to provide a mascara applicator that can be easily manipulated with a favored or non-favored hand for applying mascara. It is also desirable to provide a mascara applicator that can be conveniently held with the hand positioned directly in front of the face rather than off to one side of the head. It is further desirable to provide a mascara applicator that can be easily manipulated in the same hand to apply mascara to the full range of eyelash for both eyes. EP0861616 A1 discloses an applicator with the features summarized in the preamble of claim 1.

An ergonomic applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes is provided comprising (i) a handle portion and (ii) a head portion. The handle portion is suitably dimensioned to permit the applicator to be held between the thumb and fingers on opposing faces thereof. The opposing faces are of sufficient width relative to the thickness separating the faces to prevent rotation of the handle when held between the thumb and fingers. Preferably, the maximum thickness separating the faces of the handle portion compared to the maximum width of the handle portion is at a ratio from about 1:5 to about 1:50. The head portion has at its distal end at least one transfer element comprising a textured surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it to the eyelashes on contact therewith. The transfer element extends substantially across the width of the head portion and in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the handle. The longitudinal axis of the head portion is oriented, or is rotatable to be oriented, at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of said handle. The obtuse angle is preferably from about 120 degree to about 170 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the applicator has a total length from its proximal end to its distal end from about 35 mm to about 80 mm.

The head portion has a terminal arcuate edge at the distal end thereof, said arcuate edge being concave with respect to the head portion. The head portion may also have an arcuate cross-section about its longitudinal axis. Additionally, the handle portion may include finger grip enhancements or cut-outs to increase friction between the handle portion and the thumb or fingers.

The transfer element may be included on one or both opposing faces of the head portion, and the transfer element is disposed along the terminal edge at the distal end of the head portion. The transfer element includes at least one textured surface. The textured surface includes fins or bristles. More preferably, the bristles have a length less than 5 mm.

In certain embodiments, the head portion is rotatably adjustable with respect to said handle portion so as to adjust the obtuse angle between said longitudinal axis of said head portion and said longitudinal axis of said handle portion. Preferably, the head portion and the handle portion are rotatable about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the head portion and the longitudinal axis of the handle portion. The applicator may further include a hinge permitting rotation of the head portion with respect to the handle portion.

A kit including the applicator of the present invention and a container charged with a liquid cosmetic for application to a keratin fiber is also provided. The container is configured to receive the head portion of the applicator when inserted into the container so as to bring said transfer element into contact with the composition. A wiper is attached to the container for removing excess composition from the transfer element upon removal of the applicator from the container.

In addition, the applicator is used in a method for applying mascara to the eyelashes. The method includes metering a charge of mascara onto the transfer element of the applicator and transferring the composition to the eyelashes by contacting the transfer element with the eyelashes while holding the applicator in a substantially vertical position.

These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art after a reading of the following detailed description of the invention, including the figures and appended claims.

• Figure 1 shows a side view of a mascara applicator according to a general embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention having bristles on opposing faces of the head portion and fin-like projections at the distal end of the applicator.
• Figure 3 shows a different perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 2.
• Figure 4 shows a front perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 2.
• Figure 5 shows a front perspective view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the invention having a reduced brush density and having bristles on only one face of the head portion.
• Figure 6 shows a front perspective view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the invention having a further reduced brush density and having bristles on only one face of the head portion.
• Figure 7 shows a different front perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 4.
• Figure 8 shows a different front perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 5.
• Figure 9 shows a different front perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 6.
• Figure 10 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 6.
• Figure 11 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 5.
• Figure 12 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 4.
• Figure 13 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment not covered by the invention having the parallel fins that wrap around the terminal edge at the distal end of the applicator.
• Figure 14 shows a side perspective view of the head portion of the exemplary applicator shown in Figure 13.
• Figure 15 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment not covered by the invention having a concave terminal edge in the head portion forming side legs for attaching to the ends of an elongated transfer element.
• Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the exemplary applicator shown in Figure 13 wherein the transfer member is removed.

The inventive applicator for applying a cosmetic composition generally includes angles and/or curvatures that provides an ergonomic shape to improve a user's comfort in applying the cosmetic composition. Specifically, the applicator according to the invention is particularly useful for application of a cosmetic composition, such as mascara, to the eye. The applicator according to the invention may also be useful for application of a variety of cosmetic and personal care products to keratin fibers or to the skin, including without limitation, eyeliner, hair dye, lipliner, lipstick, lipcolor, lip gloss, etc. As used herein, the term "keratin fibers" may include, without limitation, eyelashes, eyebrows, or hair of any part of the body, including the scalp. It is believed that the applicator of the present invention has an advantageous shape that allows the applicator to be more conveniently held in the hand of a user and more easily manipulated by a single hand to apply the cosmetic composition in an efficient and even manner as compared to conventional cosmetic applicators. In addition, it is believed that the applicator of the present invention is capable of providing increased coverage of eyelashes with each stroke and more uniform distribution of mascara compositions across the length of the eyelashes as compared to conventional cosmetic applicators. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that increased coverage of eyelashes with each stroke is achieved by the advantageous size and shape which provides for increased contact area with the eyelashes. Accordingly, it is believed that the applicator can effectively deposit mascara to the eyelashes using fewer strokes than with a conventional applicator.

A general embodiment of the applicator 10 according to the invention is shown in Figure 1. The applicator 10 for applying a cosmetic composition, such as a mascara composition, to the eyelashes includes a handle portion 16 at the proximal end 80 and a head portion 14 at a distal end 70. The handle portion 10 may be operably linked to the head portion 14 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16 may be integral and formed together in one piece. Alternatively, the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16 may be formed as separate structures and joined together using any suitable technique in the art. For example, the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16 may be joined by a hinge, by a friction-fit mechanism, by a locking mechanism, by an adhesive, or by fusing a distal end of the handle portion 16 with a proximate end of the head portion 14. In one embodiment, the head portion 14 may be detachably attached to the handle portion 16. In particular, the handle portion 16 may be detachable from and interchangeably attachable to a plurality of head portions 14.

The handle portion 16 and the head portion 14 may be connected in any suitable orientation. In one embodiment, the handle portion 16 may be co-linear with the head portion 14 of the applicator 10. Preferably, the handle portion 16 is connected to or integral with the head portion 10 at an angle forming a bended shape, having a generally convex shape on one side where the head portion 14 is linked to the handle portion 16 and a generally concave shape on an opposing side. The bended shape may be a slight or an exaggerated deviation from a co-linear formation, forming an offset between the head portion 10 and the handle portion 16. It is believed that this offset provides a more ergonomic shape to the applicator 10 and can facilitate application of mascara to the eyelashes in a more efficient and uniform manner as compared to conventional mascara applicators. In certain embodiments, the applicator 10 may be the widest at the distal end 70 and taper to the narrowest point on the applicator 10 at the bend where the head portion 14 is linked to the handle portion 16. It is also believed that the ergonomic shape of the applicator 10 can improve comfort, allow the applicator 10 to be more conveniently held in the hand of a user, and provide better ability for manipulating the applicator 10 with a single hand.

The applicator 10 of the present invention may be in any suitable size and shape. Preferably, the size and shape of the applicator 10 make it convenient and comfortable for use with either hand, regardless of whether a user has a favored hand for applying mascara to the eyelashes. In situations where a user holds the applicator 10 only with the favored hand for application of mascara to the eyelashes on both the left and right eyes, the applicator 10 is capable of easily accessing the full range of eyelashes for both eyes, including those eyelashes that are furthest from the favored hand or closest to the nose bridge.

Preferably, the applicator 10 may be in a relatively small and convenient size for portable use by a consumer. More preferably, the applicator 10 may be in a size that allows the applicator 10 to be held firmly between the thumb and fingers and prevents radial movements of the applicator 10 during use and manipulation by a consumer. For example, the total length (L) of the applicator 10 at the longest point from the proximal end 80 to the distal end 70 may range from about 15 mm to about 80 mm, from about 25 mm to about 80 mm, from about 25 mm to about 75 mm, from about 35 mm to about 80 mm, from about 35 mm to about 65 mm, or from about 40 mm to about 60 mm. In a specific embodiment, the total length (L) of the applicator 10 at the longest point may be approximately two inches (or about 50.8 mm), with the handle portion 16 being slightly more than one inch (about 25.4 mm) in length and the head portion 14 being slightly less than one inch (about 25.4 mm) in length. As used herein, the total length of the applicator 10 is determined by measuring the length of a third side of a triangle defined on two sides by the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16. In certain embodiments where the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16 are co-linear and do not overlap in length, the total length (L) is the sum of the length of the head portion 14 and the length of the handle portion 16. Other suitable dimensions for a relatively small and convenient size include a width of the distal end 70 of the head portion 14 ranging from about 10 mm to about 50 mm, from about 12.5 mm to about 45 mm, from about 15 mm to about 40 mm, from about 17.5 mm to about 35 mm, or from about ¾ inch (about 19.1 mm) to about 1 ¼ inch (about 31.8 mm) and a width of the applicator 10 at its narrowest point ranging from about 5 mm to about 30 mm, from about 7.5 to about 20 mm, from about 8 mm to about 15 mm, or from about five sixteenths of an inch (about 7.9 mm) to about three eighths of an inch (about 9.5 mm).

It is contemplated by the present invention that the head portion 14 and handle portion 16 of the applicator 10 may include other shapes and sizes that are ergonomically comfortable to hold and manipulate.

In a preferred embodiment, the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16 is positioned or capable of being positioned at an obtuse angle θ with respect to the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 10. By obtuse angle, it is meant that the angle is greater than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees. The handle portion 16 and the head portion 10 of the applicator 10 may be fixed at, rotatably adjustable to, or capable of being deformed along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16 and the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14 to form the angle θ. In one embodiment, the handle portion 16 may be connected to the head portion 14 via an adjustable hinge (not shown). Specifically, the range of motion of the adjustable hinge may be limited to form only obtuse angles. In another embodiment, the applicator 10 may be formed from a deformable material to allow a user to bend and deform the applicator 10 to a suitable angle 0. Preferably, the angle θ between the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16 and the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14 range from about 95 to about 175 degrees, more preferably from about 115 to about 170 degrees, even more preferred from about 120 to about 170 degrees, still more preferred from about 130 to about 165 degrees, and most preferably from about 140 to about 160 degrees.

The handle portion 14 of the applicator 10 may have any suitable dimensions that permit the applicator to be held between the thumb and fingers and prevent rotation of the handle when held between the thumb and fingers. Preferably, the handle portion 16 is narrower than the head portion 14. In one embodiment, as shown in the exemplary embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 2 through 16, the handle portion 14 includes two opposing faces 86, 88 having sufficient width relative to the thickness separating the faces to prevent rotation of the handle portion 14 when held between the thumb and fingers. The thickness separating the two faces may be uniform throughout or may be variable. Particularly, the ratio of the dimension of the maximum thickness separating the faces to the width of the widest point of the handle portion 14 may range from about 1:2 to about 1:50, from about 1:5 to about 1:50, from about 1:3 to about 1:25, or from about 1:4 to about 1:20, from about 1:5 to about 1:10. In certain embodiments, the maximum thickness separating the faces may range from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.25 mm to about 5 mm, from about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm. In certain embodiments, the handle portion 14 may be substantially within a linear or curved plane. In another embodiment, the handle portion 14 may be flat.

The handle portion 14 may also include any suitable modifications that improve the comfort and/or stability of the applicator 10 when held between the thumb and fingers. One suitable modification includes a convex contour on at least one of the opposing faces 86 and 88 of the handle portion 14. Another suitable modification may be a convex contour on face 88 of the handle portion 14, which is adapted to be held by a thumb, and a concave contour on the opposing face 86 of the handle portion 14, which is adapted to be held by the fingers. Alternatively, another suitable modification to the handle portion 14 is shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 through 12. The modification may include finger grip enhancements 94 that are attached to or formed integrally with the handle portion 14. The finger grip enhancements 94 may include any means for increasing the friction of the handle portion 14 against the thumb and/or fingers, such as but are not limited to, raised semi-circles, ridges, depressions, other shaped projections or void spaces between such projection. The finger grip enhancements 94 may be formed unitarily with the handle portion 14 or may be attached by any suitable means, including an adhesive or fusion of the enhancements 94 with the handle portion 14. The finger grip enhancements 94 may be formed using any suitable technique, including molding and finishing techniques such as soft touch finish or co-extrusion of polymers.

Another suitable modification is shown in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 13, 15 and 16. The handle portion 14 may be modified to include cut-outs or openings 58 that increase friction between the handle portion 14 and the thumb and/or fingers, thereby facilitate gripping of the handle 16. The cut-outs or openings 58 may be in any suitable shape. Preferably, the cut-outs or openings 58 are narrow or elongated. In the specific embodiments shown in Figures 13, 15 and 16, the cut-outs or openings 58 have an oval shape. In addition, as shown in Figures 13, 15 and 16, the cut-outs or openings 58 may be arranged parallel to each other. More preferably, the cut-outs or openings 58 having a length perpendicular to the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 14.

The head portion 16 is the part of the applicator 10 in contact with at least one transfer element 56 for applying the cosmetic composition. Preferably, the head portion 14 is narrower at its proximal end, where it is linked to the handle portion 16, than at the distal end 70. The head portion 16 provides structural support for the transfer element 56. Additionally, the surface(s) of the head portion 16 may be textured to form a transfer element 56. Preferably, the transfer element 56 extends substantially across the width of the head portion 14 and in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16. By substantially across the width, it is meant that the transfer element 56 extends more than 70%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably more than 90% and most preferably more than 95% of the width of the head portion 14. The transfer element 56 may also extend across the entire width of the head portion 14. In addition, the transfer element 56 may have any suitable shape. Specifically, the transfer element 56 may have an arcuate exterior shape that substantially conforms or conforms to at least a quarter, at least a third, at last half or all of the contours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid. In certain embodiments, the arcuate exterior shape is convex while in other embodiments, the arcuate exterior shape may be concave. In some embodiments, the head portion 16 and the transfer element 56 may be unitary such as in the case where the transfer element 56 constitutes textured surfaces integral with the head portion 16. For example, the head portion 16 and the transfer element 56 may be molded as a solitary piece by injection-molding.

In a preferred embodiment, such as those exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 through 14, the head portion 16 has two opposing faces 40, 42 with a thickness in between. The thickness between opposing faces 40 and 42 may be uniform throughout or may be variable. In one preferred embodiment, the thickness of the head portion 16 is at a maximum along its longitudinal axis II-II and decreases as the distance from the longitudinal axis II-II increases. The transfer element 56 extends from one or both of the opposing faces 40, 42. The transfer element 56 also extends from the distal end 70 of the head portion 14 of the applicator 10. The maximum thickness of the head portion 16 may be less than the width of the widest point of the head portion 16. In particular, the maximum thickness separating the opposing faces 40, 42 as compared to the width of the widest point of the head portion 16 may have a ratio from about 1:2 to about 1:50, from about 1:5 to about 1:25, or from about 1:10 to about 1:20. In specific embodiments, the maximum thickness separating the opposing faces of the head portion 16 may range from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.25 mm to about 5 mm, from about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm.

The head portion 16 may also include an additional axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 (not shown). The head portion 16 may be further adjustable about this additional axis. Specifically, the head portion 16 may be formed from two pieces rotatably attached to each other by an adjustable hinge along this additional axis. The range of motion of the adjustable hinge may be limited to form only obtuse angles. Preferably, the adjustable hinge may be limited to movements between from about 95 to about 175 degrees, more preferably from about 100 to about 170 degrees, even more preferred from about 100 to about 170 degrees, more preferred still from about 105 to about 165 degrees, and most preferably from about 110 to about 160 degrees.

Preferably, the head portion 16 may have any suitable shape that substantially conforms to or conforms to at least a quarter of the contours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid. In one preferred embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 through 12 any cross-section about the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 may have an arcuate shape. Preferably, the arcuate shape substantially conforms to or conforms to at least a quarter, at least a third, at last half or all of the contours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid. The arcuate cross-section of the head portion 16 about the longitudinal axis II-II may be convex along the top face 40 and concave along the bottom face 42. Alternatively, the cross-section of the head portion along the top and bottom faces 40, 42 may be concave/concave, convex/convex, planar/planar or any combinations thereof. The head portion 16 has a terminal arcuate concave edge, at the distal end 70 as shown in Figures 4 through 6 and 13. The terminal concave edge substantially conforms to or conforms to at least a quarter, at least a third, at last half or all of the contours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in the exemplary embodiment not covered by the present invention shown in Figures 15 and 16, the head portion 16 may include a first support, such as a first side leg 30, on a right side of the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 and a second support, such as a second side leg 32, on the left side of the longitudinal axis II-II. The first and second supports form an opening therebetween for receiving and supporting a transfer element 56. In the specific embodiment show in Figures 15 and 16, the first and second supports may be formed from a concave terminal edge at the distal end 70 of the head portion 16. The transfer element 56 may be rotatably or non-rotatably mounted along its length between the first and second supports. The transfer element 56 may have an elongated shape, such as, but not limited to a cylinder or an elongated oval shape having a circular cross section.

The transfer element 56, includes means for holding and releasing a cosmetic composition, such as mascara, and includes a textured surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it to a keratin fiber, e.g., eyelashes, or the skin on contact. The textured surfaces may also be capable of imparting various types of aesthetically pleasing appearances to the eyelashes, such as a volumized appearance, a separated appearance (i.e., the eyelashes being individually separated from each other), a curly appearance, etc. sponges, or flocked surfaces. The textured surfaces may be formed from any suitable substance. In some embodiments, the textured surfaces are formed from silicone or other soft touch materials. However, it will be understood where bristles become a sufficient length to be readily bent such as, for example, in a paint brush, the bristles will no longer be considered to constitute a textured surface, and in such case should not be included on the terminal edge of the head portion. However, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that longer bristles, for example, from about 10 to about 20 mm are within the scope of the invention provided that they are not on the terminal edge of the head portion, for example, longer bristles may be suitable included on one or more of the opposing face of the head portion. Bristles according to the invention will typically be less than 10 mm in length, less than 7.5 mm in length, less than 5 mm in length, less than 2.5 mm in length. The bristles may be, without limitation integral with the body of the head or may be synthetic fibers implanted in the head. In one embodiment, the transfer element 56 is not unitary with the head portion 14 and the bristles less than about 5 mm from the base of the transfer element 56. In certain embodiments, any bristles extending out of a terminal end of the applicator parallel to a plane containing substantially the head portion 14 will be less than about 5 mm, less than about 4.5 mm, less than about 4 mm, less than about 3.5 mm, less than about 3 mm, less than about 2 mm, or less than about 1 mm. In other embodiments, the transfer element 56 will be free of bristles extending parallel to the plane containing substantially the head portion 14. In another embodiment, the terminal edge of said head portion is substantially free of bristles by which is meant that the number of bristles extending from the terminal edge in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14 are suitably low such that such bristles cannot materially contribute to the application of mascara over a substantial number of eyelashes during regular use. In other embodiments, the terminal edge will be free of bristles.

The texture surface comprises an array of bristles arranged in any suitable shape or pattern and need not be symmetrical. Examples of suitable patterns include spaced and parallel rows, staggered rows and columns, linear rows and columns. An array of projections arranged in parallel rows in the same direction as the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14, may impart a separated appearance to the eyelashes. In contrast, an array of projections arranged in staggered rows and columns, may impart a voluminous appearance to the eyelashes. The density of the array may vary as shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 3 through 5, depending on the characteristics of the cosmetic composition being applied. Differences in the densities of the array of projections may also impart different aesthetic looks to the eyelashes.

The cosmetic applicator 10 of the present invention may be placed in a kit with or used in combination with a reservoir containing or charged with a cosmetic composition, preferably a liquid cosmetic composition such as a mascara. The reservoir may include at least one wiper for eliminating excess mascara from the transfer elements 56. In one embodiment, the applicator 10 may serve as a closure element for the reservoir, without the use of a separate closure device, such as a cap or a cover. The applicator 10 may be used in combination with the reservoir by first placing the head portion 14 into the reservoir so as to bring the transfer element into contact with the mascara composition and subsequently withdrawing the head portion 14 from the reservoir to meter a charge of mascara onto the transfer element 56. While the head portion 14 of the applicator 10 is being withdrawn from the reservoir, the wiper removes excess mascara from the transfer element 56 by a smoothing motion and pushing the excess mascara back into the reservoir.

To use the applicator 10 for applying a mascara composition to the eyelashes, a user may hold the handle portion 16 of the applicator 10 between the thumb and fingers and place the head portion 14 directly in front of the eyelashes in a substantially vertical position, where the transfer element 56 would be parallel or substantially parallel to the eyelid. By substantially vertical it is meant generally parallel to the line of the nose. The applicator 10 is then easily moved upwardly (towards the top of the head) or downwardly (toward the chin) in a single motion such that the transfer element 56 engages and deposits the mascara composition in a uniform manner.

The size and shape of the handle portion 16 permits the user to ergonomically and stably hold the applicator 10 between the thumb and forefingers and manipulate the applicator 10 for application of a mascara composition to the eyelashes. In particular, the applicator 10 may be suitably sized such that the hand of the user may lean on the cheek or the forehead for additional support during application of the mascara composition. The ability to lean on portions of the face such as the cheek or the forehead provides increased stability and allows the user to more precisely apply mascara to the eyelashes and avoid a smudged appearance.

Figures 2 through 12 illustrates some of the currently preferred embodiments of the applicator 10 according to the invention. The applicator 10 includes a head portion 14 linked to a handle portion 16 at an obtuse angle, forming a generally convex surface 22 on one side where the head portion 14 is linked to the handle portion 16 and a generally concave surface 24 on an opposing side. The head portion 14 has a side edge 32 on the right side of the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14 and an opposite side edge 30 on the left side of the longitudinal axis II-II. The head portion 14 includes an distal end 70 having a slightly concave contour between the opposite side edges 30 and 32. As shown in the exemplary embodiments of Figures 2 through 12, the head portion 14 is narrower at its proximal end where it is linked to the handle portion 16 as compared to the distal end 70 of the head portion 14.

The embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 also includes a head portion 14 having a top face 40 and a bottom face 42. The top face 40 can be planar but is preferably convex between the opposite side edges 30 and 32. The bottom face 42 is preferably concave between the opposite side edges 30 and 32. The top and bottom faces 40, 42 can also have a concave/concave, convex/convex, planar/planar relationship or any combinations thereof.

The thickness between of the top face 40 and the bottom face 42 of the head portion 14 may be uniform or variable. Preferably, the thickness of the head portion 14 between the top face 40 and the bottom face 42 is at a maximum midway between the opposite side edges 30 and 32 of the head portion 14. The head portion 14 may have a minimum thickness at the opposite side edges 30 and 32.

The top face 40 of the head portion 14 includes a transfer element 56 that extends substantially from the right side edge 32 to the left side edge 30. The transfer element 56 also extends a predetermined distance from the distal end 70 towards the proximal end 80. The transfer element 56 includes a textured surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it to the eyelashes on contact. The textured surface includes an array of bristles 57 arranged in staggered or linear rows and columns or random patterns. The density of the bristles 57 may vary as shown in Figures 4 through 12, depending on the characteristics of the cosmetic composition being applied.

In the specific embodiments shown in Figures 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 12, the bottom face 42 of the head portion 14 includes a transfer element 56 that extends substantially from the right side edge 32 to the left side edge 30. The transfer element 56 on the bottom face 42 also extends downwardly a predetermined amount from the distal end 70 toward the proximal end 80. The transfer element 56 on the bottom face 42 also includes a surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it the eyelashes on contact, which includes the array of the bristles 57 arranged in a manner similar to the arrangement of the stub-like projections or bristles 57 on the top face 40.

In other embodiments of the invention, either the transfer element 56 on the top face 40 or the transfer element 56 on the bottom face 42 may be omitted.

In the specific embodiments shown in Figures 2 through 12, the distal end 70 of the head portion 14 may also include a transfer element 56. The transfer element 56 include any type of textured surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it the eyelashes on contact. Specifically, the textured surface may be formed with spaced fin-like projections that project from the edge at the distal end 70 and extend from the top face 40 to the bottom face 42. Alternatively, the edge at the distal end 70 may include the type of texture surfaces describes for the top face 40 and the bottom face 42. The textured surfaces, including fin-like projections, on the applicator 10 at the edge at the distal end 70 provide a further area on the applicator 10 for applying mascara to the eyelashes. Specifically, the fin-like projections may have a height from the base of the texture surface ranging from about 0.001 to about 0.5 inches. The fin-like projections may be arranged in an array with spacing ranging from about 0.001 to about 0.25 inches.

The handle portion 16 of these exemplary embodiments have a side edge 76 on the left side of the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16 and an opposite side edge 78 on the right side of the longitudinal axis I-I. These exemplary embodiments of the applicator 10 also include a handle portion 16 having a proximal end 80 with a convex contour between the left side edge 76 and the right side edge 78.

The exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 through 12 also include a top handle face 86 and a bottom handle face 88. The top handle face 86 is preferably convex between the left side edge 76 and the right side edge 78 and the bottom handle face 88 is preferably planar between the left side edge 76 and the right side edge 78. The handle portion 16 is wider at the proximal end 80 than its distal end where the handle portion 16 is linked to the head portion 14. These exemplary embodiments of the applicator 10 also include finger grip enhancements 94 formed on the top handle face 86 and the bottom handle face 88.

Figures 13 and 14 illustrate an alternative preferred embodiment of the applicator 10 not covered by the invention including a head portion 14 and a handle portion 16 operably linked at an obtuse angle, the applicator 10 having the same general shape as previously described for the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 through 12.

The embodiment illustrated in Figures 13 and 14 provide an alternative embodiment of a head portion 14 of the applicator 10. Similar to the exemplary embodiments of Figures 2 through 12, the alternative embodiment shown in Figures 13 and 14 includes a head portion 14 with a distal end 70 having a slightly concave contour between the opposite side edges 30 and 32, the head portion 14 being narrower at its proximal end where it is linked to the handle portion 16 as compared to the distal end 70 of the head portion 14. The head portion 14 also includes a generally flat top face 40 and a generally flat bottom face 42.

The transfer element 56 is located at the distal end 70 of the applicator 10. The transfer element 56 include any type of textured surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it the eyelashes on contact. Specifically, the textured surface may include a row of spaced and substantially parallel fins 48. The fins 48 may have a curved contour, such as a convex contour, at the distal end 70. The curved contour can be rounded or of a teardrop shape. The fins 48 may be arranged in parallel to the longitudinal axis of II-II. Additionally, the fins 48 may be attached to or integral with the top face 40 and the bottom 42 and wrap around the edge at the distal end 70 between the opposite side edges 30 and 32. The fins 48 may have a top leg portion 52 that extends on the top face 40 a predetermined amount toward the proximal end 80. The fins 48 also have a bottom leg portion 50 that extends on the bottom face 42 a predetermined amount toward the proximal end 80. As shown in Figure 14, the bottom leg portion 50 may taper downwardly toward the bottom face 42 and the top leg portion 52 may project uniformly from the top face 40. Moreover, the leg portions 50 and 52 may be part of a continuous and unitary fin. The projections of the fins 48 from the distal end 70 may have a maximum height from the base of the texture surface, such as the top face 40, the bottom face 42 or the edge at the distal end 70, ranging from about 0.001 to about 0.5 inches. The fins 48 may be arranged with spacing ranging from about 0.001 to about 0.25 inches.

The embodiment illustrated in Figure 13 also provide an alternative embodiment of a handle portion 16 of the applicator 10. The handle portion 16 is narrower than the head portion 14 and includes cut-outs or openings 58 that facilitate gripping of the handle 16. The cut-outs or openings 58 may be in any suitable shape. Preferably, the cut-outs or openings 58 are narrow or elongated. In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 13, the cut-outs or openings 58 have an oval shape. In addition, as shown in Figure 13, the cut-outs or openings 58 may be arranged parallel to each other. More preferably, the cut-outs or openings 58 having a length perpendicular to the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 14.

Figures 15 and 16 illustrate another embodiment of the applicator 10 not covered by the invention including a head portion 14 and a handle portion 16 operably linked at an obtuse angle. The handle portion 16 of this particular embodiment is the same as that described or the exemplary embodiment show in Figure 13.

The exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 15 and 16 provides another alternative embodiment of the head portion 14 of the applicator 10. The head portion 16 may include a side leg 30 having an end portion 38, on a right side of the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 and a side leg 32 having an end portion 39, on the left side of the longitudinal axis II-II. The right side leg 30 and the left side leg 32 form an opening therebewteen for receiving a transfer element 56. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the side legs 30 and 32 may be formed from a concave cut-away at the distal end 70 of the head portion 16. A right support opening 46 is provided in the right end portion 38 and a corresponding left support opening 47 is provided in the left end portion 39.

The transfer element 56, supported by the side legs 30 and 32, includes opposite textured surfaces 54, 58 for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it the eyelashes on contact. Specifically, the transfer element 56 may be in the form of a conventional mascara brush, or can have the shape of a cylinder, or an elongated oval shape having a circular cross section. The transfer element 56 has opposite ends 64 and 66 with respective support pins 72 and 74 that respectively engage the support openings 46 and 47 in the side legs 30 and 32.

The engagement between the support pins 72 and 74 and the support openings 46 and 47 may be established to permit rotation of the transfer element 56 relative to the side legs 30 and 32. Alternatively, such engagement can be non-rotatable. In another embodiment the transfer element 56 can be rendered detachable from the side legs 30 and 32, and interchangeable with other transfer elements 56 of different shapes or sizes such as a roller shape transfer element 56 having a rounded cylindrical shape or a rounded elongated oval shape.

The invention described and claimed herein is not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments herein disclosed since these embodiments are intended as illustrations of several aspects of this invention. Any equivalent embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the claims. Indeed, various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modification are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.