Patent Publication Number: US-2007118963-A1

Title: Body mitt and apparatus for molding the same

Description:
COPYRIGHT NOTICE  
      Portions of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material that is subject to copyright and/or mask work protection. The copyright and/or mask work owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright and/or mask work rights whatsoever.  
     BACKGROUND  
      Body massage mitts made of elastomeric material are conventionally made by a dip molding process. Particularly, metal dies are made in reverse so as the mitt is stripped from the die, the mitt is turned right side out. Prior to stripping the mitt from the die, it is lubricated with powder to prevent snagging as the mitt drags against itself while being stripped from the die. After removal from the die, the body mitt is trimmed to size at the cuff, and thumb openings are cut into the side of the mitt. Sharp edges and material weakness around the edges result from this process with the mitt being easily torn at the thumb openings when pulled off the hand.  
      There is no easy way to selectively reinforce around the thumb openings using the dip molding process. To overcome this inherent material weakness around the edges of the thumb openings, manufacturers have been increasing the overall thickness of the body mitt, which, unfortunately, makes the final product relatively heavy and more costly to produce.  
      Body mitts adapted to hold a vibrator internally have traditionally been made by gluing a separate molded part to the inside of the mitt. Achieving a permanent bond that will stand up to stretching and flexing has always been problematic and costly. When no vibrator is present, the separately molded parts that hold vibrators extend up into the mitt cavity and are generally uncomfortable or cumbersome to the touch.  
      Individuals traditionally use exfoliation media to remove dead surface skin cells and stimulate the body to grow new softer skin cells, as well as to put emollients into the skin to make it smooth and soft. In the medical arena this process is known as dermabrasion and many methods have been devised to remove surface skin. To date, skin exfoliators are typically applied by hand with no devices being available to make the process more efficient other than thin rubber gloves that are used to protect the hands from being abraded. Exfoliators most commonly contain granulated sugar or salt in an oil base. To prevent exfoliation media from sticking and balling up on the skin during application, water is often mixed into the exfoliation media instead of oil. The added water dissolves the sugar or salt crystals, which are the media responsible for the abrasive process, thereby compromising the exfoliation process itself.  
      Industrial use of abrasive media suspended in oil or water is quite common, whereby surface particles that are being reduced or polished would stick and clog up the abrasive media itself. Devices used to convey the media over the surface to be abraded or polished typically spin with hair or cloth that moves the abrasive media. Abrasive slurry is applied to the surface and worked with a spinning disc. These devices lack reservoirs to contain abrasive slurry and do not embody squeegees. There are currently two methods to use abrasive media, glued fast, as in sandpaper, or freely moving as in polishing compounds.  
      Using sugar or salt-based exfoliation scrubs which are mixed with oil is cumbersome to use and is mainly practiced in spa settings where the exfoliation media is applied by hand by a professional masseuse. A considerable amount of exfoliation media is wasted, i.e. rolls off the body during such application. This is particularly the case during self-administered use in a home setting where the application is typically done in the bath or shower. Oily exfoliation media may fall on the floor and create a slip-and-fall hazard.  
      It would be desirable to utilize an abrasive methodology which is generally a cross between the two known methods. Particularly, the abrasive media would be confined, yet still able to move resulting in a more effective way to overcome the clogging problem of sandpaper and other glued-on abrasive media devices. In such a method, abrasive media particles would rub against other media particles within an enclosed area thereby releasing abraded material into an associated water or oil solution.  
     SUMMARY  
      Some embodiments disclosed herein are generally directed to a body mitt and apparatus for molding the same.  
      In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the body mitt comprises a top skin care surface, a bottom skin care surface, a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion. The body mitt further comprises at least one interior pocket integrally formed on the inside of the top skin care surface. The interior pocket is adapted to securely hold a portable vibrator during use.  
      In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the body mitt comprises a top skin care surface, a bottom skin care surface, a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion. The body mitt further comprises at least one interior pocket integrally formed on the inside of the bottom skin care surface. The interior pocket is adapted to securely hold a portable vibrator during use.  
      In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for molding a body mitt comprises a top portion and a bottom portion. The top and bottom portions are configured respectively to mold integrally a pair of oppositely disposed body mitt thumb openings, a body mitt cuff portion, and two body mitt skin care surfaces. The apparatus also comprises a middle insert operatively sandwiched between the top and bottom portions. The middle insert is adapted to mold integrally at least one interior pocket on the inside of at least one of the two skin care surfaces. The interior pocket is adapted to securely hold a portable vibrator during use.  
      In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, the body mitt comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially long and thin bristles adapted to provide soft brush-like appearance, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of proportionally arranged raised cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body mitt also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion.  
      In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, the body mitt comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially diamond-shaped cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body mitt also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion.  
      In accordance with a still further aspect of the present invention, the body mitt comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface provided with a zigzag-like texture configured for spreading liquid cleansing media over the skin of a user. The zigzag-like texture defines a plurality of channels adapted to enhance the flow of liquid cleansing media over the skin of the user. The channels are also adapted to enhance the spreading of abrasive exfoliation media over the skin of a user. The body mitt also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion.  
      In accordance with a different aspect of the present invention, the body mitt comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of raised cells arranged in a substantially rectangular pattern. The raised cells are adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body mitt also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion.  
      In accordance with a still different aspect of the present invention, a body glove comprises a top skin care surface, and a bottom skin care surface, with at least one of the top and bottom skin care surfaces being adapted for use in body massage, body cleansing or exfoliation scrub activities. The body glove also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one interior pocket integrally formed on the inside of at least one of the top and bottom skin care surfaces. The interior pocket is adapted to securely hold a portable vibrator during use.  
      In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a body glove comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially long and thin bristles adapted to provide soft brush-like appearance, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of proportionally arranged raised cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body glove also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces.  
      In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, a body glove comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially diamond-shaped cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body glove further comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces.  
      In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a body glove comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface provided with a zigzag-like texture configured for spreading liquid cleansing media over the skin of a user. The zigzag-like texture defines a plurality of channels adapted to enhance the flow of liquid cleansing media over the skin of the user. The body glove further comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces.  
      In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a body glove comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of raised cells arranged in a substantially rectangular pattern and adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body glove also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces.  
      In accordance with a still further aspect of the present invention, a finger cot comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially long and thin bristles adapted to provide soft brush-like appearance, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of proportionally arranged raised cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user.  
      In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a finger cot comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially diamond-shaped cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user.  
      In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, a finger cot comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface provided with a zigzag-like texture configured for spreading liquid cleansing media over the skin of a user. The zigzag-like texture defines a plurality of channels adapted to enhance the flow of liquid cleansing media over the skin of the user.  
      In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a finger cot comprises a top skin care surface populated with a plurality of substantially short bristles adapted to provide enhanced stimulation during use, and a bottom skin care surface populated with a plurality of raised cells arranged in a substantially rectangular pattern and adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells has a substantially open-box configuration configured to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user.  
      In accordance with a different aspect of the present invention, a body mitt comprises a first surface and a second surface disposed substantially opposite the first surface. At least one of the first and second surfaces has a plurality of raised cells adapted to provide the appearance of a textured surface. Each of the raised cells is adapted to retain abrasive exfoliation media when the textured surface is used on the skin of a user. The body mitt also comprises a cuff portion extending away from the top and bottom skin care surfaces, and at least one lateral thumb opening defined between the top and bottom skin care surfaces proximate to the cuff portion.  
      These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from a review of the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of the invention. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
      The present invention is generally shown by way of reference to the accompanying drawings in which:  
       FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a body mitt in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of the body mitt of  FIG. 1 ;  
       FIG. 3  is a front perspective view showing the body mitt of  FIG. 1  turned inside out;  
       FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of a body mitt in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the body mitt being worn by a user;  
       FIG. 5  is a bottom perspective view of the body mitt of  FIG. 4  with the body mitt being worn by the same user;  
       FIG. 6  is a top perspective view of a body mitt in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 7  is a bottom perspective view of the body mitt of  FIG. 6 ;  
       FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of a body mitt in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 9  is a bottom perspective view of the body mitt of  FIG. 8 ;  
       FIG. 10  is a top perspective view of a body mitt in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 11  is a bottom perspective view of the body mitt of  FIG. 10 ;  
       FIG. 12  is a top view of an apparatus for molding a body mitt in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 13  is a bottom view of the molding apparatus of  FIG. 12 ;  
       FIG. 14  is an exploded view of the molding apparatus of  FIG. 12 ;  
       FIG. 15  shows the molding apparatus of  FIG. 12  in a partially disassembled state;  
       FIG. 16  is a top perspective view of one component of the molding apparatus of  FIG. 12 ;  
       FIG. 17  shows the component of  FIG. 16  being prepared for molding a body mitt in accordance with the present invention; and  
       FIG. 18  is a side view of a molding apparatus in accordance with the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
      The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the exemplary embodiments may be constructed and/or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the exemplary embodiments in connection with the illustrated embodiments. However, it is to be understood that the same or equivalent functions and/or sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present invention.  
      Some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to a body mitt and apparatus for molding the same, as generally shown in  FIGS. 1-18 . Additional embodiments, features and/or advantages of the invention will become apparent from the ensuing description or may be learned by practicing the invention. In the figures, the drawings are not to scale with like numerals referring to like features throughout both the drawings and the description.  
       FIGS. 1-3  generally show a body glove or mitt  20  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Body mitt  20  may be molded from suitable elastomeric material(s), such as, but not limited to vinyl, stretchy silicone, synthetic rubber and/or the like. Body mitt  20  may be used to massage or cleanse the body using a suitable lubricant such as baby oil, massage oil, shower gel, exfoliation scrub, body lotion or the like.  
      Body mitt  20  extends over the hand of a user exposing the thumb via one of two oppositely disposed lateral openings  22 ,  24 , respectively, while completely covering the remaining fingers. Each of thumb openings  22 ,  24  is reinforced on the inside of its respective outer edge for durability. In this regard,  FIG. 3  generally depicts a somewhat rounded thickening  25  that reinforces the inside of outer edge  21  ( FIG. 3 ) of thumb opening  22 . A person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that the provision of two (oppositely disposed) thumb openings ( 22 ,  24 ) allows the use of body mitt  20  on either hand, as needed.  
      Body mitt  20  includes a cuff portion  26  ( FIGS. 1-3 ) which is also reinforced on the inside of its outer edge  23  ( FIG. 3 ) for durability. In this regard,  FIG. 3  generally shows a somewhat rounded and elongated thickening  27  that reinforces the inside of outer edge  23  of cuff portion  26 , as well as on the inside of the outer edge of each thumb opening ( 22 ,  24 ), respectively. A person skilled in the art would appreciate that rounded edges generally exhibit a more finished, cleaner look, as well as feel soft to the touch compared to conventional punched out edges which are slightly serrated and thus somewhat rough to the touch, as well as prone to premature wear and tear. The provision of reinforced rounded openings for the thumb and cuff portions makes for a sleek appealing body mitt product that is also strong and effective when used in accordance with the general principles of the present invention.  
      Body mitt  20  also includes top and bottom skin care surfaces  28 ,  30  ( FIGS. 1-2 ), respectively. Each of top and bottom surfaces  28 ,  30  ( FIGS. 1-2 ) may be adapted for use in body massage and/or cleansing.  
      Top surface  28  ( FIG. 1 ) is populated with relatively long nubs or bristles  29  which are integrally formed thereon during the molding process. Long bristles  29  are generally longer and thinner than conventional body massage implements so that top surface  28  appears softer and more brush-like to the user. Bottom surface  30  ( FIG. 2 ) is populated, in turn, with relatively short nubs or bristles  31  which are also integrally formed thereon during the molding process. Short bristles  31  are designed to provide enhanced stimulation during use.  
      The number of bristles on each side of body mitt  20  is generally greater than conventional body massage implements to ensure more effective use of each mitt side during a body massage or cleansing activity. The feeling imparted when using body mitt  20  is relatively more gentle and soothing due to the increase in length and number of bristles. When used with soap or shower gel, this increase in length and number of bristles promotes bubbling action as the mitts (one worn on each hand) are rubbed together or over the skin to generate lather.  
      An interior pocket  32  is integrally formed on the inside of top surface  28  during the molding process. Interior pocket  32  is adapted to hold a portable vibrator (not shown), as needed. With no vibrator inserted, interior pocket  32  lies substantially flat with the inside of top surface  28  because of its integral molding construction. This makes body mitt  20  easy to use without a vibrator. When fully inserted in pocket  32 , the vibrator is held snugly (via friction) by the walls of integral interior pocket  32 .  
      This frictional fit prevents the inserted vibrator from moving around and/or slipping out of interior pocket  32  during use. The thickness of the stretchy molded pocket walls is designed for effective transmission of vibration. A person of skill in the art would recognize that finger and hand mobility is not lost during massage activities since the vibrator is securely trapped inside integral mitt pocket  32 . By molding, instead of separately attaching, interior pocket  32  on the inside of top surface  28 , a smoother and less obtrusive vibrator containment structure is readily achieved.  
       FIGS. 4-5  generally illustrate a body glove or mitt  40  in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Body mitt  40  extends over the hand of a user  42  exposing thumb  44  via one of two oppositely disposed lateral openings  46 ,  48 , respectively, while completely covering the remaining fingers. Each of thumb openings  46 ,  48  is reinforced, in the manner generally shown and described hereinabove in reference to  FIG. 3 , on the inside of its respective outer edge ( 47 ,  49 ) for durability. Body mitt  40  may be used on one hand with thumb  44  being inserted in either lateral opening  46 , or lateral opening  48 , as needed ( FIGS. 4-5 ). Body mitt  40  includes a cuff portion  50  which is also reinforced, in the manner generally shown and described hereinabove in reference to  FIG. 3 , on the inside of its outer edge  51  for durability.  
      Body mitt  40  comprises top and bottom skin care surfaces  52 ,  54 , respectively. Top surface  52  ( FIG. 4 ) is generally configured like top surface  28  of  FIG. 1 . Bottom surface  54  ( FIG. 5 ) is provided with a plurality of proportionally arranged and generally raised cells  56  made of intersecting and outwardly (away from bottom surface  54 ) projecting cell walls, respectively. For example, cell  57  on diagonal row  58  is made of outwardly bulging (raised) cell walls  60 ,  62 ,  64  and  66 , whereby each of cell walls  60  and  64  intersects cell walls  62  and  66 , respectively, as generally depicted in reference to  FIG. 5 . Each of raised cells  56  has a substantially open-box configuration with the cells being arranged in a generally diagonal pattern that is bounded on all sides by a continuous outwardly projecting terminal wall  68  (FIG.  5 ). The overall look and feel is that of a textured surface that is well suited for application of abrasive exfoliation media on the skin of user  42 .  
      Textured bottom surface  54  ( FIG. 5 ) retains exfoliation scrub which is used to remove dead skin cells. The retained exfoliation scrub is dragged over the skin of the user and prevented from rolling across the skin by the raised cell walls during application. Exfoliation scrub (media) clings into cells  56  of body mitt  40  turning bottom mitt surface  54  into a flexible abrasive surface that conforms to the contours of the body and is non-clogging. Open-box cells  56 , when filled with exfoliation media, inhibit the same from rolling across the skin and cause exfoliation media particles to interlock (with themselves) and be dragged over the skin surface effecting a more efficient abrasive action. Flexible abrasive surface  54  distributes pressure exerted by the hand of a user over a great number of abrasive particles, thereby decreasing gouging with a substantially uniform removal of dead skin. Flexible abrasive surface  54  enables more aggressive stroking without gouging to effect a quicker and more efficient dead skin removal.  
      As the bottom side of body mitt  40  is stroked across the skin, the exfoliation media moves with the mitt and stays with the mitt as it is removed from the skin. Only a relatively small amount of exfoliation media is left behind on the skin. This is in contrast to traditional hand application method(s) in which the exfoliation media stays on the skin and is just moved around somewhat with stroking motions of the hand. Body mitt  40  extends the useful life of the abrasive exfoliation media being used as it retains the same in cells  56  for continuing use over various parts of the body. With proper use of body mitt  40 , exfoliation media stays trapped in the mitt and dramatically reduces the amount of exfoliation media that is wasted by falling to the floor.  
      Rubber gloves are commonly used by masseuses at spa settings to prevent severe abrasion of the hands by exfoliation media. Body mitt  40  eliminates this hazard and the need to use protective gloves as the mitt walls provide a safe barrier between the exfoliation media and the hand. Confining the abrasive exfoliation media into raised cells  56  improves the speed and effectiveness by which skins cells are removed. The exfoliation media is retained by cells  56 , dragged across the surface of the skin for the most part and prevented from rolling off.  
      During a typical hand application, without restraint, much of the abrasive exfoliation media tumbles and rolls along the surface of the skin with only a limited amount of abrasive media sticking to the skin and being dragged across. The inefficiency of the hand application method has led to the use of relatively large abrasive media or grit that sometimes gouges the skin rather than uniformly removing the surface of dead skin. With abrasive media confined in raised cells  56  of body mitt  40 , the use of much finer media affords the same amount of skin removal as course media applied by hand and without deep gouging. Body mitts with fine media may be used much more aggressively and with greater pressure since fine media is too small to gouge and create abrasions. Body mitt  40  removes more uniformly just the surface skin without gouging.  
      Textured bottom surface  54  ( FIG. 5 ) allows raised cells  56  to act as reservoirs while the outwardly projecting side walls of cells  56  act as squeegees. Specifically, the outwardly projecting side walls of cells  56  define a matrix of flexible squeegees that conform to body contours which facilitates the uniform spreading of a thin layer of lotion, massage oil, shower gel and/or the like. The outermost edge of the cell wall may be flat, rounded, knife edged, serrated, or of any other configuration suitable to control the amount of fluid left behind.  
      When raised cells  56  are filled with lotion, massage oil, shower gel and/or the like, they function as reservoirs that supply liquid to the skin surface as bottom surface  54  ( FIG. 5 ) is stroked over the skin by a user. When textured bottom surface  54  is molded from suitable elastomeric material(s), these reservoirs deform and collapse when surface  54  is pressed against the skin causing the lubricant or lotion contained in each cell ( 56 ) to move toward the outer edges of the cell and be spread by the squeegee edges. Raised cells  56  may be progressively emptied by increasing the amount of pressure used to collapse the cells. Alternatively, body mitt  40  may be tapped against the skin or another mitt to move liquid toward the squeegee edges for spreading.  
      More lotion can be applied to cells  56  in one step than can be applied traditionally by hand as the walls of cells  56  generate surface tension that holds the liquid that is being spread. Spreading oil or lotion over the skin by hand requires repeated stroking to even out the distribution as the hand provides no method to precisely control how much liquid is left behind. When using body mitt  40 , excess lotion on the skin surface is skimmed and deposited back into cells  56  while a thin film is left behind on the surface of the skin. Moreover, spreading lotions, oils, and shower gels over the skin via textured bottom surface  54  of body mitt  40  enhances and simplifies the traditional hand-spreading process.  
       FIGS. 6-7  generally illustrate a body glove or mitt  70  in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Body mitt  70  is configured generally like body mitt  40  of  FIGS. 4-5  except for the provision of different surface pattern/texture on its top and bottom skin care surfaces  72 ,  74 , respectively. Top surface  72  ( FIG. 6 ) is configured largely like bottom surface  30  of  FIG. 2 . Bottom surface  74  ( FIG. 7 ) is textured somewhat differently compared to textured bottom surface  54  of  FIG. 5 , while preserving substantially the same functionality.  
      Particularly, bottom surface  74  ( FIG. 7 ) is provided with a plurality of proportionally arranged generally diamond-shaped raised cells  76  made of intersecting and outwardly (away from bottom surface  74 ) projecting cell walls, respectively. Each of cells  76  is open at the top with the cells being arranged generally in a diagonal pattern that is bounded on all sides by a continuous outwardly projecting terminal wall  78  ( FIG. 7 ). Cells  76  ( FIG. 7 ) are somewhat larger in size than cells  56  of  FIG. 5 . The overall look and feel is that of a textured surface that is well suited for application of abrasive exfoliation media on the body of a user. Textured bottom surface  74  is able to retain exfoliation scrub. The retained exfoliation scrub is dragged over the skin of the user and prevented from rolling across the skin by the cell walls during application.  
      Exfoliation scrub (media) clings into raised cells  76  making textured bottom surface  74  into a flexible abrasive surface that conforms to the contours of the body and is non-clogging. Raised cells  76 , when filled with exfoliation media, inhibit the same from rolling across the skin and cause exfoliation media particles to interlock (with themselves) and be dragged over the skin surface effecting a more efficient abrasive action. Flexible abrasive surface  74  distributes pressure exerted by the hand of a user over greater numbers of abrasive particles, thereby decreasing gouging with a substantially uniform removal of dead skin. Flexible abrasive surface  74  enables more aggressive stroking without gouging to effect a quicker and more efficient dead skin removal.  
      Textured bottom surface  74  ( FIG. 7 ) allows raised diamond-shaped cells  76  to act as reservoirs while the outwardly projecting side walls of cells  76  act as squeegees. Specifically, the outwardly projecting side walls of cells  76  define a matrix of flexible squeegees that conform to body contours which facilitates the uniform spreading of a thin layer of lotion, massage oil, shower gel and/or the like. The outermost edge of the cell wall may be flat, rounded, knife edged, serrated, or of any other configuration suitable to control the amount of fluid left behind.  
      When raised diamond-shaped cells  76  are filled with lotion, massage oil, shower gel and/or the like, they function as reservoirs that supply liquid to the skin surface as bottom surface  74  ( FIG. 7 ) is stroked over the skin by a user. When textured bottom surface  74  is molded from suitable elastomeric material(s), these reservoirs deform and collapse when surface  74  is pressed against the skin causing the lubricant or lotion contained in each cell ( 76 ) to move toward the outer edges of the cell and be spread by the squeegee edges. Raised diamond-shaped cells  76  may be progressively emptied by increasing the amount of pressure used to collapse the cells. Alternatively, body mitt  70  may be tapped against the skin or another mitt to move liquid toward the squeegee edges for spreading. More lotion can be applied to cells  76  in one step than can be applied traditionally by hand as the walls of cells  76  generate surface tension that holds the liquid that is being spread.  
       FIGS. 8-9  generally illustrate a body glove or mitt  80  in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Body mitt  80  is configured generally like body mitt  70  of  FIGS. 6-7  except for the provision of a different surface pattern/texture on its bottom skin care surface. Top skin care surface  82  ( FIG. 8 ) is configured largely like top surface  72  of  FIG. 6 . Bottom skin care surface  84  ( FIG. 9 ), however, is textured differently compared to textured bottom surface  74  of  FIG. 7 .  
      Specifically, bottom surface  84  is provided with a zigzag-like texture/pattern  86  made of proportionally spaced and outwardly (away from bottom surface  84 ) projecting zigzag-like walls  87 ,  88 ,  90 ,  92 ,  94 ,  96 ,  98  ( FIG. 9 ). Zigzag pattern  86  is bounded on two sides by discontinuous outwardly projecting terminal walls, such as, for example, terminal walls  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106  of  FIG. 9 . Textured bottom surface  84  may be used to spread a thin film of shower gel or lotion over the skin of a user. Outwardly bulging zigzag walls  87 ,  88 ,  90 ,  92 ,  94 ,  96 ,  98  ( FIG. 9 ) are spread apart to define channels (e.g., channel  101 ) there between which help increase the flow of shower gel or lotion over the skin of the user. These channels may also be used effectively in abrasive exfoliation media applications. Textured bottom surface  84  is flexible enough to conform to the contours of the body during application of lotion, shower gel or abrasive exfoliation media.  
       FIGS. 10-11  generally illustrate a body glove or mitt  120  in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Body mitt  120  is configured generally like body mitt  70  of  FIGS. 6-7  except for the provision of different surface pattern/texture on its bottom skin care surface. Top skin care surface  122  ( FIG. 10 ) is configured largely like top surface  72  of  FIG. 6 . Bottom skin care surface  124  ( FIG. 11 ) is textured somewhat differently than bottom surface  74  of  FIG. 7 , while preserving substantially the same functionality.  
      Specifically, bottom surface  124  ( FIG. 11 ) is provided with a plurality of proportionally arranged generally box-like cells  126  made of intersecting and outwardly (away from bottom surface  124 ) projecting cell walls, respectively. Each of cells  126  is open at the top with cells  126  being arranged generally in a rectangular pattern that is bounded on all sides by a continuous outwardly projecting terminal wall  128  ( FIG. 11 ). Textured bottom surface  124  is well suited for the application of abrasive exfoliation media on the body of a user. Textured bottom surface  124  is able to retain exfoliation scrub which is used to remove dead skin cells. The retained exfoliation scrub is dragged over the skin of the user and prevented from rolling across the skin by the cell walls during application. Exfoliation scrub (media) clings into box-like cells  126  turning bottom textured surface  124  into a flexible abrasive surface that conforms to the contours of the body and is non-clogging.  
      Textured bottom surface  124  ( FIG. 11 ) allows box-like cells  126  to act as reservoirs while the outwardly projecting side walls of cells  126  act as squeegees. Specifically, the outwardly projecting side walls of cells  126  define a matrix of flexible squeegees that conform to body contours which facilitates the uniform spreading of a thin layer of lotion, massage oil, shower gel and/or the like. The outermost edge of the cell wall may be flat, rounded, knife edged, serrated, or of any other configuration suitable to control the amount of fluid left behind.  
      When box-like cells  126  are filled with lotion, massage oil, shower gel and/or the like, they function as reservoirs that supply liquid to the skin surface as bottom surface  124  ( FIG. 11 ) is stroked over the skin by a user. When textured bottom surface  124  is molded from suitable elastomeric material(s), these reservoirs deform and collapse when surface  124  is pressed against the skin causing the lubricant or lotion contained in each cell ( 126 ) to move toward the outer edges of the cell and be spread by the squeegee edges. Box-like cells  126  may be progressively emptied by increasing the amount of pressure used to collapse the cells. Alternatively, body mitt  120  may be tapped against the skin or another mitt to move liquid toward the squeegee edges for spreading. More lotion can be applied to cells  126  in one step than can be applied traditionally by hand as the walls of cells  126  generate surface tension that holds the liquid that is being spread.  
       FIGS. 12-18  illustrate various aspects of an apparatus  130  for injection molding a body mitt of the type generally described hereinabove. Molding apparatus  130  is assembled from a top portion  132 , a bottom portion  134 , and a middle insert  136 , which is sandwiched there between, as generally shown in reference to  FIGS. 12-15 ,  18 . Middle insert  136  is made of two overlapping portions  137 ,  139  ( FIG. 14 ) adapted to accommodate a plurality of cooling lines  141  ( FIGS. 12-18 ) feeding at a terminal end thereof.  
      Top portion  132  ( FIG. 15 ) is configured on one side to form a textured body mitt surface, as generally shown, for example, in reference to  FIGS. 2, 6 ,  8 ,  10 . Top portion  132  is also configured on the same side to form the top half of the right and left thumb openings, as well as the top half of the cuff section of a body mitt constructed in accordance with the general principles of the present invention. Particularly, interior surface  142  of top portion  132  includes a body mitt surface texture-forming section  144  ( FIG. 15 ), top right and left thumb opening-forming sections, such as thumb section  146 , and top cuff-forming section  148 . Section  144  is configured to form the texture (during the injection molding process) on the top surface of a body mitt constructed in accordance with the present invention.  
      Bottom portion  134  ( FIGS. 14-15 ) is configured on one side to form the bottom half of the thumb, cuff and body mitt surface texture sections, respectively. A person skilled in the art would appreciate that each of the top and bottom texture-forming sections may be configured to generate (during the injection molding process) any one of the body mitt textured surfaces shown generally in reference to  FIGS. 1-11 . Other surface texture/pattern designs or configurations may be utilized, as long as there is no departure from the intended purpose of the present invention. Top portion  132 , bottom portion  134  and middle insert  136  may be made of metal and/or other suitable material(s), as needed.  
      Top and bottom portions  132 ,  134  are recessed at one end ( FIG. 15 ) to accommodate a first section  150  ( FIGS. 15-17 ) of middle insert  136 . First section  150  has a generally rectangular configuration with cooling lines  141  feeding at a terminal end therein. A second section  152  ( FIGS. 15-17 ) of middle insert  136  has a generally arcuate configuration with a front end  153  ( FIG. 16 ) adapted to shape the front (finger) portion of a body mitt constructed in accordance with the general principles of the present invention.  
      An elongated depression  154  ( FIGS. 15-16 ) disposed at the border between first and second sections  150 ,  152  is adapted to form the somewhat rounded and thickened inside edge portion  27  on the inside of outer edge  23  of cuff portion  26  ( FIG. 3 ), during the injection molding process. A generally half-circular depression  155  ( FIGS. 16-17 ) on a thumb forming cutout portion  157  ( FIGS. 16-17 ) of second section  152  of middle insert  136  is adapted to form the somewhat rounded and thickened portion  25  on the inside of outer edge  21  of thumb opening  22  ( FIG. 3 ), during the injection molding process. Another oppositely disposed half-circular depression  159  ( FIGS. 16-17 ) on a thumb forming cutout portion  161  ( FIGS. 16-17 ) of second section  152  is adapted to mold the somewhat rounded and thickened portion on the inside of the outer edge of the respective thumb opening on the opposite side of a body mitt constructed in accordance with the general principles of the present invention.  
      A person of skill in the art would appreciate that thickening only the inside of the thumb and cuff openings during the injection molding process contributes to a reduced overall weight of the mitt when compared with conventional body mitts. Such mitts have greater mass and weight as a result of the need to thicken the entire mitt for durability during the dip process. These integral reinforcements on the inside of the thumb and cuff opening outer edges make the body mitt of the present invention aesthetically pleasing and durable.  
      An arch-like recessed portion  156  ( FIG. 16 ) on second section  152  of middle insert  136  and an associated removable plate  158  ( FIG. 15 ), which is shaped substantially like recessed portion  156 , are utilized to mold the interior integral body mitt pocket (e.g. interior pocket  32 ,  FIG. 3 ) of the present invention. Removable plate  158  is secured in place over recessed portion  156  during the injection molding process via magnetic coupling. Particularly, a magnet  160  is built into like recessed portion  156 , as generally depicted in  FIG. 16 . A back portion  162  ( FIG. 17 ) of removable plate  158  is held by built-in magnet  160  within an appropriately recessed area  164  ( FIG. 17 ) on second section  152  such that removable plate  158  is flush with top surface  166  ( FIG. 17 ) of middle insert  136  during the injection molding process. Various other suitable means of removably attaching plate  158  over arch-like recessed portion  156  ( FIG. 16 ) may be utilized, as needed.  
      Middle insert  136  may be readily configured to mold an integral pocket on the inside of either surface (bottom or top), or on both surfaces (bottom and top) of the body mitt of the present invention, as needed. The molding compound (e.g., liquid vinyl) is injected at high temperature via a front channel  168  ( FIG. 15 ) on bottom portion  134  and cooled via cooling lines  141  with top portion  132 , bottom portion  134  and middle insert  136  assembled, as shown in  FIGS. 12-13 ,  18 . Top portion  132  may be secured over bottom portion  134  via integral fasteners, such as fasteners  170   a ,  170   b  in  FIG. 14 .  
      During the injection molding process air bubbles may occasionally become entrapped into the molten plastic (molding compound) as it fills the mold cavity defined by top portion  132 , bottom portion  134 , and middle insert  136  ( FIG. 15 ). Depending on the color and/or design of the final product, these entrapped air bubbles may be visible to the extent that product appearance may be affected. Entrapment of air may occur when a stream of molten plastic flows around obstructions in the mold cavity and then abruptly comes into contact with other streams of molten plastic.  
      One example may be when the molten plastic flow is split into two streams as it goes around a solid block-like molding obstruction of square or rectangular cross-section. In such case, the two streams of molten plastic crash or merge into one while filling the void between adjacent obstructions, entrapping air. Such molding obstructions may be used, for example, to generate the rectangular raised cell pattern of textured bottom surface  124  of  FIG. 11 .  
      It has been found during testing of molding apparatus  130 , that air entrapment may be avoided by orienting the pointed ends of these solid obstructions in the direction of molten plastic flow or fill, enabling air to escape as the streams of molten plastic merge during the fill of the mold cavity. Such orientation is present, for example, in the diamond-like cell pattern of textured bottom surface  74  of  FIG. 7 , as well as in the generally diagonal cell pattern of textured bottom surface  54  of  FIG. 5 . In each embodiment ( FIG. 5  and  FIG. 7 ), two oppositely disposed (pointed) corners from each cell are oriented generally in the direction of molten plastic flow. The molten plastic is injected via front channel  168  ( FIG. 15 ) toward first section  150  ( FIG. 15 ).  
      The exemplary embodiments described hereinabove are merely illustrative of the general principles of the present invention. Various design modifications may be employed that would reside within the scope of the invention. For example, each of the embodiments described generally hereinabove in reference to  FIGS. 1-11 , as well as combinations of these embodiments, may be implemented in body gloves or finger cot(s) in accordance with the general principles of the present invention. Moreover, each of the embodiments described generally hereinabove in reference to  FIGS. 1-11  may be modified to include only one skin care surface, with the other mitt/glove/finger cot surface being plain, as needed. Thus, by way of example, but not of limitation, various alternative configurations may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, the drawings and description are illustrative and not meant to be a limitation thereof.  
      Moreover, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Thus, it is intended that the invention cover all embodiments and variations thereof as long as such embodiments and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.