Abstract:
An attachment for a dermal resurfacing tool. A cap has a wall defining a volume and a porous mass attached thereto. The cap may engage a head of the tool.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION  
       [0001]     The application is a Continuation of co-pending application, Ser. No. 09/802,425, filed Mar. 9, 2001 which is a Continuation-In-Part of issued U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,888. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     The invention relates to skin treatment.  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0003]     Facial skin rejuvenation has been accomplished by chemical treatment referred to as “chemical peels” or laser treatment referred to as “laser surgery” and exfoliation by machine driven means, such as with emery paper. Such methods generally require medical supervision and involve some risk of deleterious side effects as well as pain and discomfort during treatment. These methods all require long recovery time between treatments.  
         [0004]     Microdermabrasion (e.g., microexfoliation, particle skin resurfacing) is a technique in skin care in which a controlled exfoliation of the skin is performed to improve and remove skin abnormalities. A typical microdermabrasion machine consists of a compressor to project inert crystals of corundum (aluminum oxide or alumina) through a tube into a hand piece manipulated by a technician over the skin of the subject. The compressor projects the corundum across the skin with variable pressure while the hand piece is in contact with the skin. This induces an abrasion action which removes the top layer of skin. At the same time, through another tube within the hand piece, the used corundum and a braided skin are vacuumed into another container for disposal. As can be appreciated, the need for the compressor, the supply of corundum, and a vacuum source and disposal container are suitable for a specialty clinic with trained technicians.  
         [0005]     What is desired is an inexpensive method that may be safely applied upon a human subject&#39;s own skin to achieve the desired rejuvenation without pain or discomfort during treatment.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0006]      FIGS. 1 and 2 , a powered (dc battery or ac power driven) applicator apparatus (vibrator) including a vibrating device encased in head portion  10  of the apparatus (vibrator) housing.  
         [0007]      FIG. 3  shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 , specifically the vibrator portion of the apparatus.  
         [0008]      FIG. 4  shows an exploded side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 .  
         [0009]      FIG. 5  shows another embodiment of a manually-manipulated or operated apparatus.  
         [0010]      FIG. 6  shows a flow chart illustrating practicing a method utilizing either the apparatus comprising the motor-driven vibrating mechanism or the manually-manipulated device. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0011]     A composition is disclosed including a base and a plurality of abrasive particles. In one aspect, the composition includes a base comprising as a principal component a moisturizer suitable for application to the human skin and a plurality of abrasive particles. Suitable abrasive particles include inorganic particles such as corundum, aluminum oxide, alumina, Al 2 O 3  and magnesium oxide (MgO). In one embodiment, the abrasive particles are microcrystals of corundum having an average particle size on the order of 34 microns (μm) to 556 μm (320 to 30 grit). More preferably, the average particle size of the microcrystals is on the order of about 42 μm to 198 μm (280 to 60 grit).  
         [0012]     The abrasive nature of the particles in the composition render the composition suitable as an exfoliator to improve the look and feel of an area of human skin and remove skin abnormalities. More specifically, the abrasive particles tend to remove the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) to expose an underlayer of skin. The human body responds by producing a new layer of skin. With one or more (and preferably a series) of these exfoliation treatments, it is believed that the skin subject to the treatment may be improved. Such improvements include improvement in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, non-inflammatory acne, acne scars, surgical scars, rough or coarse textured skin, age spots, blotchy skin conditions, and sun damaged skin.  
         [0013]     In one embodiment, the composition comprises a base that is capable of suspending the plurality of abrasive particles within the base. One particular component, that in one embodiment is included as a principal component in the base, is a moisturizer. Moisturizers are believed to reduce water loss from the skin and draw moisture from inner skin layers up into the outer skin layer. In this regard, in one embodiment, the moisturizer includes a substance that attracts moisture to the top skin layer (a humectant). Suitable humectants include glycerin, propylene glycol, alpha hydroxy acids, urea, and lactic acid. The moisturizer may also include substances that tend to reduce water loss by creating a barrier. Such substances include petrolatum, mineral oil, lanolin and silicone derivatives.  
         [0014]     Suitable moisturizers may be in various forms as known in the art. Such forms include but are not limited to, liquids, including but not limited to, creams, gels, pastes and emolients. In addition to the moisturizer, the base of the composition may further include, but is not limited to, antioxidants, aromas/ fragrances, vitamins (particularly vitamins A, C and E), emulsifiers, toners, acids (e.g., glycolic acid), scrubs, serums, lotions, liquids, elixirs, sun screens, and tonics.  
         [0015]     In another embodiment, the base of the composition is a liquid including a cleansing component, including, but not limited to, soaps, salicylic acid, a lauryl sulfate (e.g. sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate). The cleansing component base may also be combined with a moisturizer. Other components such as surfactants and emulsifiers may further be included. Antimicrobial or bactericidal agents may still further be included. An example of a suitable composition is a composition comprising 20 to 70 percent by weight corundum, 20 to 70 percent aloe gel, and five to 20 percent sodium lauryl sulfate. A thickening agent may also be added where desired.  
         [0016]     In one embodiment, abrasive particles of corundum (alumina) microcrystals are combined with a creme moisturizer base in an amount of about 5 to 100 grams of corundum per ounce of creme, preferably 10 to 50 grams per ounce, and more preferably 10 to 20 grams per ounce.  
         [0017]     The abrasive articles suspended in the cream moisturizer provide gentle microdermabrasion of the skin for resurfacing/rejuvenating the skin, leaving it smooth and soft after each treatment without the need of any recovery time so that it may be repeated as often as on a daily basis, in order to reduce and erase fine lines and wrinkles, reduce pore size, reduce or erase sun damage, age spots and skin discoloration, firm skin and muscle tone, thereby to reduce sagging, enhance new epidermal cells and decongest acne skin conditions. This method of rejuvenating the skin, and particularly the facial skin, is ideal for those unwilling or unable to undergo laser surgery, a chemical peel, or machine driven exfoliation.  
         [0018]     One example of a suitable composition including corundum (alumina) microcrystals and a cream moisturizer at approximately 14 grams microcrystals per ounce of cream includes:  
                                                                 Ingredients   Percentage                                        Aluminum Oxide   35.000           Purified Water   14.288           Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride   11.500           Octyl Palmitate   10.000           Safflower Oil   10.000           Cetearyl Alcohol   3.000           Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate   2.100           Stearic Acid   5.000           Wheat Germ Oil   3.000           Propylene Glycol   2.900           Panthenol   1.000           Lecethin   0.500           Cetyl Alcohol   0.500           Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E)   0.100           Retinyl Palmitate (vitamin A)   0.100           Ascorbyl Palmitate   0.100           Extract of Carrot   0.050           Wheat Germ   0.050           Wheat Bran   0.050           Aminomethyl Propanediol   0.050           Beta Carotene   0.010           Methylparaben   0.200           Propylparaben   0.100           Phenoxyethanol   0.200           FDC Yellow 5   0.001           FDC Yellow 6   0.001           Fragrance   0.200                      
 
         [0019]     In one embodiment, the composition is provided in a jar (not shown) having a mouth large enough for an applicator of the applicator apparatus described below to be dipped into the composition in the jar. Alternatively, the composition may be scooped out of the jar by hand and applied to the skin area to be treated. Pump mechanisms or squirt bottle tube configurations for dispensing the compositions are also suitable.  
         [0020]     In another embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed. A suitable apparatus includes a portable device having a vibrating head and an applicator coupled to the vibrating head. The applicator has dimensions suitable for contacting localized areas of human skin.  
         [0021]     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a powered (dc battery or ac power driven) applicator apparatus (vibrator) including a vibrating device encased in head portion  10  of the apparatus (vibrator) housing. The apparatus (vibrator) also includes handle portion  11  which is adapted to house in an interior volume, a removable/replaceable power source, such as batteries (e.g., multiple AA batteries), optional circuitry for coupling to an AC power source, and circuitry to operate a motor (e.g., DC) driven apparatus (vibrator). The apparatus, in one embodiment, is formed of a plastic formed casing.  
         [0022]     The apparatus (vibrator) also includes applicator  12  coupled to head portion  10  of the apparatus (vibrator). Applicator  12  is a porous material such as a cloth or sponge having dimensions suitable for contacting an area of human skin, for example, a sponge pad, e.g., a polyurethane sponge pad, a latex sponge pad, or other closed-cell sponge material. One suitable sponge material is commonly referred to as “make-up” sponge material used representatively in the makeup arts. Other open-celled sponge material may also be used. Alternatively, applicator  12  is a non-porous material such as synthetic rubber, plastic or latex.  
         [0023]      FIG. 3  shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 , specifically the vibrator portion of the apparatus. In cross-section, the operation of the vibrating mechanism is described. The apparatus (vibrator) includes, in this embodiment, a removable power source. In this case, the apparatus (vibrator) includes handle portion  11  having interior chamber  25  to accommodate the removable power source. In one example, the power source to operate the vibrator is two AA batteries that fit within interior chamber  25  of handle portion  11 . Conductors  23  and  24  define ends of the interior chamber. Leads  26  and  28  coupled to conductor  23  bring current to/from motor  40 . Lead  26  is coupled to circuit board  30  that includes switch  35  to control the operation of motor  40 . Switch  35  may be a two-position switch (ON/OFF) or a multiple position switch for operating motor  40  at multiple speeds.  
         [0024]     Motor  40  is disposed in an interior portion  20  of head portion  10  of vibrator  10  and includes shaft  42  extending from one end of motor  40 . Shaft  42  is rotated (as illustrated) with the operation of motor  40 .  
         [0025]     Coupled to an end of shaft  42  of motor  40  is eccentric mass  45 . In this embodiment, eccentric mass  45  is a semi-cylindrical body coupled at its axis to post  42 . In this manner, as eccentric mass  45  rotates, its shape generates a rhythmic motion in head portion  10  of the apparatus (vibrator) producing a vibration.  
         [0026]      FIG. 4  shows an exploded side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 . The vibrator includes handle portion  11  that is sized in one portion to be grasped by a human subject. Handle portion  11  includes interior volume  25  for accommodating a removable/replaceable power source, such as one or more batteries  50  (e.g., two AA batteries). Cover  55  snaps into the body of handle portion  11  to enclose the power source within the interior volume of handle portion  11 .  
         [0027]      FIG. 4  also shows the configuration of applicator  12  to head portion  10  of the apparatus (vibrator). In one embodiment, applicator  12  is coupled to cap  13  (such as by an adhesive between applicator  12  and one surface of cap  13 ). Cap  13 , as illustrated, is a circular body having a diameter similar to the diameter of vibrating head  27  of head portion  10  of the vibrator. In one embodiment, vibrating head  27  has a diameter on the order of about one to two inches (about 2.5-5 centimeters). In one embodiment, the diameter of vibrating head  27  is slightly larger on the order of, for example, 0.01 to 0.03 inches (1-2 millimeters) then the main body of head portion  10  as represented by lip  19 .  
         [0028]     An underside of cap  13  has interior volume  17 . One or more protrusions  18  extend from the side walls of cap  13  (defining interior volume  17 ) so that cap  13  does not fit easily over lip  19  of head portion  10 . Cap  13  is made of a thin plastic material, in one embodiment, which allows the cap to be deformed and snapped over lip  19 , vibrating head  27 , and onto head portion  10  to securely hold cap  13  in place. Alternatively, the cap may have a groove that snaps over a ridge around the inside wall of the head.  
         [0029]     Applicator  12 , which is secured to the top of cap  13  may be replaced after many uses. In one embodiment, applicator  12  and cap  13  may be removed from the apparatus after use and cleaned. When it is considered to be no longer useful after, for example, one or more cleanings, applicator  12  (and cap  13 ) may be discarded and replaced.  
         [0030]     In the embodiment described with reference to  FIGS. 1 through 4 , an apparatus including a vibrating mechanism is described. It is believed that in applying a composition to an area of human skin and manipulating the composition with a vibrating apparatus, as described with reference to  FIG. 6  and the accompanying text, the vibrating action of the apparatus (e.g., of the applicator) helps stimulate skin, muscle, and tissue to revitalize the treated area. It is appreciated that, in use, the vibrating mechanism may or may not be used. In this regard,  FIG. 5  shows another embodiment of a manually-manipulated or operated apparatus. Apparatus  50  includes handle  55  suitable for gripping by a hand of a human subject. Handle  55  includes, at one end, head portion  58  having dimensions suitable for accommodating cap  13  and applicator  12  in a manner similar, in one embodiment, to the manner described with reference to  FIGS. 1 through 4 .  
         [0031]      FIG. 6  shows a flow chart illustrating practicing a method utilizing either the apparatus comprising the motor-driven vibrating mechanism or the manually-manipulated device. Initially, a human user attaches an applicator to the apparatus (vibrator) (block  400 ). Next, the composition of, for example, moisturizer and abrasive particles, is disposed on the applicator (block  420 ). This can be accomplished either by dipping the applicator into a container with the composition disposed inside or by disposing the composition directly onto the applicator (i.e., with a dispenser, a squirt bottle tube, spatula or other suitable means). The user then applies the composition disposed on the applicator to the area of skin to be treated (block  440 ). On example is applying approximately one-quarter inch of the composition across the entire surface of a porous applicator. The user then dots the area to be treated at locations on the order of, for example, three inches apart. Subsequently, the user manipulates the composition over the area of skin to be treated with the apparatus (vibrator) (block  460 ). In an embodiment, manipulation of the composition (block  460 ) is characterized by moving the apparatus (vibrator) over the area of skin using firm, upward, circular strokes. In one example, the manipulation of the composition is continued for one to ten minutes or until the composition has been worked into the skin and the skin appears soft and smooth. Finally, the user wipes off any unabsorbed portion of the composition (block  480 ) and may optionally rinse or cleanse the area. In one embodiment, the composition comprising a moisturizer as a principal component may be worked in until substantially all of the moisturizer (and any other components) is taken up by the skin and only the corundum remains on the surface of the skin. The corundum may be brushed off and the area of skin cleansed with a mild cleanser. In an alternative embodiment, before applying the composition to the skin, the user cleanses the area of skin with a mild cleanser using gentle circular strokes, rinses the skin with tepid water, and pat the skin dry with a soft towel.  
         [0032]     It should be noted that in applying the composition to the skin  440 , the user may dab the composition on certain areas of the skin before switching the apparatus (vibrator) on to manipulate the composition over the skin. Alternatively, the user may simultaneously apply the composition to the skin and manipulate the composition over the area of skin to be treated. Alternatively, the user may simultaneously apply the composition to the applicator, dot the area to be treated and manipulate in rotary strokes. Using the vibrator applicator, the user may manipulate the applicator with the vibrator in the on (vibrate) position, or in the off position for a lighter treatment.  
         [0033]     Other formulations of suitable compositions may occur to those skilled in the art which, upon suspending abrasive particles in the base in accordance with the invention, would be within the scope of the following claims.