FR3152228A1 - Skin treatment device - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (1) for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin of the user, the treatment device (1) comprising: - a support layer (2) comprising a first face (2a) and a second face (2b) opposite the first face (2a); - a first main electrode (221) and a first counter-electrode (231) arranged on the first face (2a) of the support layer (2); - a second main electrode (222) and a second counter-electrode (232) arranged on the second face (2b) of the support layer (2); - a current generator (24) adapted to be electrically connected to the first main electrode (221) as well as to the first counter-electrode (231), and/or to the second main electrode (222) as well as to the second counter-electrode (232). Figure for abstract: Figure 6.

Description

Skin treatment device FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of skin treatment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device for skin treatment, in particular by iontophoresis and/or electroporation and/or electrostimulation, preferably non-therapeutic.

STATE OF THE ART

Iontophoresis, electroporation, or electrostimulation treat the skin using electrical currents. Skin treatment devices such as facial masks are known to deliver an electrical current to a user's face.

However, these devices have a short lifespan and are therefore not very environmentally friendly.

One aim of the invention is to improve the durability and recyclability of skin treatment devices using iontophoresis or electrostimulation.

According to a first aspect, there is provided a device for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin of the user, the treatment device comprising:
- a support layer comprising a first face and a second face opposite the first face;
- a first main electrode and a first counter-electrode arranged on the first face of the support layer;

- a second main electrode and a second counter-electrode arranged on the second face of the support layer;
- a current generator adapted to be electrically connected to the first main electrode as well as to the first counter-electrode, and/or to the second main electrode as well as to the second counter-electrode. The treatment device is therefore double-sided and each of its faces can be applied to the skin of a user. The treatment device therefore has greater autonomy than a treatment device comprising electrodes on only one of its faces. The treatment device also makes it possible to implement two successive treatments, for example complementary ones, without having to wash or change the treatment device.

• Le dispositif de traitement comprend un premier générateur de courant agencé sur la première face de la couche support et un deuxième générateur de courant agencé sur la deuxième face de couche support, chacun des premier et deuxième générateurs de courant comprenant au moins un couple galvanique, le couple galvanique étant formé d’un premier pôle conducteur qui est un pôle positif et d’un deuxième pôle conducteur qui est un pôle négatif séparés l’un de l’autre par un espace libre. Le dispositif de traitement ne nécessite pas le chargement d’une batterie, facilitant ainsi son utilisation. En outre, le dispositif de traitement est facilement transportable.
• Le premier générateur de courant et/ou le deuxième générateur de courant sont imprimés à partir d’encres conductrices sur le film support. Le premier générateur de courant et/ou le deuxième générateur de courant sont légers et il n’y a pas de risque que les générateurs se désolidarisent du dispositif de traitement qui est ainsi facilement transportable.
• Les première et deuxième électrodes principales et les première et deuxième contre-électrodes sont imprimées à partir d’encres conductrices sur le film support. Les électrodes sont légères et il n’y a pas de risque que les électrodes se désolidarisent du dispositif de traitement qui est ainsi facilement transportable.
• La couche support comprend un seul film support comprenant une première face et une deuxième face opposée à la première face, la première électrode principale et la première contre-électrode étant agencées sur la première face et la deuxième électrode principale et la deuxième contre-électrode étant agencées sur la deuxième face. Le dispositif de traitement est plus économique et plus respectueux de l’environnement car il suffit d’un film support pour supporter les électrodes.
• La couche support comprend un premier film support et un deuxième film support, le premier film support comprenant une première face et une deuxième face opposées, le deuxième film support comprenant une première face et une deuxième face opposées, la première électrode principale et la première contre-électrode étant agencées sur la première face du premier film support et la deuxième électrode principale et la deuxième contre-électrode étant agencées sur la première face du deuxième film support, les films support étant connectés l’un à l’autre au niveau de leurs deuxièmes faces. On prévient ainsi tout risque de migration de produit d’activation d’une face à l’autre de la couche support ce qui prévient l’apparition de courts-circuits lors du traitement.
• L’au moins un film support est imperméable. On prévient ainsi tout risque de migration de produit d’activation d’une face à l’autre de la couche support ou entre des électrodes d’une même face ce qui prévient l’apparition de courts-circuits lors du traitement.

According to advantageous and non-limiting characteristics, taken alone or in any combination:

• The treatment device comprises a first current generator arranged on the first face of the support layer and a second current generator arranged on the second face of the support layer, each of the first and second current generators comprising at least one galvanic couple, the galvanic couple being formed of a first conductive pole which is a positive pole and a second conductive pole which is a negative pole separated from each other by a free space. The treatment device does not require charging a battery, thus facilitating its use. In addition, the treatment device is easily transportable.
• The first current generator and/or the second current generator are printed using conductive inks on the support film. The first current generator and/or the second current generator are lightweight and there is no risk of the generators becoming detached from the treatment device, which is thus easily transportable.
• The first and second main electrodes and the first and second counter electrodes are printed from conductive inks on the support film. The electrodes are lightweight and there is no risk of the electrodes becoming detached from the treatment device, which is thus easily transportable.
• The support layer comprises a single support film comprising a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first main electrode and the first counter electrode being arranged on the first face and the second main electrode and the second counter electrode being arranged on the second face. The treatment device is more economical and more environmentally friendly because only one support film is needed to support the electrodes.
• The support layer comprises a first support film and a second support film, the first support film comprising a first face and a second opposite face, the second support film comprising a first face and a second opposite face, the first main electrode and the first counter electrode being arranged on the first face of the first support film and the second main electrode and the second counter electrode being arranged on the first face of the second support film, the support films being connected to each other at their second faces. This prevents any risk of migration of activation product from one face to the other of the support layer, which prevents the occurrence of short circuits during treatment.
• The at least one support film is impermeable. This prevents any risk of activation product migrating from one side of the support layer to the other or between electrodes on the same side, which prevents the occurrence of short circuits during treatment.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

• laFIG. 1illustre un dispositif de traitement de la peau en forme de goutte ;
• laFIG. 2illustre un dispositif de traitement de la peau de forme circulaire ;
• laFIG. 3illustre une couche support d’un dispositif de traitement de la peau en forme de goutte ;
• laFIG. 4illustre une couche support d’un dispositif de traitement de la peau de forme circulaire ;
• laFIG. 5illustre une couche support d’un dispositif de traitement de la peau de forme triangulaire ;
• laFIG. 6schématise le fonctionnement du dispositif, selon une vue en coupe, lorsqu’il est appliqué sur la peau d’un utilisateur ;
• laFIG. 7schématise une vue agrandie d’une partie d’une couche support d’un dispositif, selon une vue en coupe ;
• laFIG. 8illustre un générateur de courant d’un dispositif selon un premier mode de réalisation ;
• laFIG. 9illustre un générateur de courant d’un dispositif selon un deuxième mode de réalisation ;
• laFIG. 10illustre un générateur de courant d’un dispositif selon un troisième mode de réalisation ;
• laFIG. 11illustre la couche support de laFIG. 3recouverte d’une couche d’imprégnation d’un dispositif ;
• laFIG. 12représente les étapes d’un procédé d’utilisation du dispositif ;
• laFIG. 13représente les étapes d’un procédé de fabrication du dispositif ;
• laFIG. 14représente la couche support de laFIG. 11suite à une première étape du procédé de fabrication de la couche support ;
• laFIG. 15représente la couche support de laFIG. 14suite à une deuxième étape du procédé de fabrication de la couche support ;
• laFIG. 16représente la couche de laFIG. 15suite à une troisième étape du procédé de fabrication de la couche support ;
• laFIG. 17un dispositif, selon une vue en coupe, lorsqu’il est appliqué sur la peau d’un utilisateur.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the following description of a preferred embodiment. This description will be given with reference to the appended figures including:

• there FIG. 1 illustrates a drop-shaped skin treatment device;
• there FIG. 2 illustrates a circular-shaped skin treatment device;
• there FIG. 3 illustrates a support layer of a drop-shaped skin treatment device;
• there FIG. 4 illustrates a support layer of a circular-shaped skin treatment device;
• there FIG. 5 illustrates a support layer of a triangular-shaped skin treatment device;
• there FIG. 6 diagrams the operation of the device, in a cross-sectional view, when applied to a user's skin;
• there FIG. 7 schematizes an enlarged view of a portion of a support layer of a device, according to a sectional view;
• there FIG. 8 illustrates a current generator of a device according to a first embodiment;
• there FIG. 9 illustrates a current generator of a device according to a second embodiment;
• there FIG. 10 illustrates a current generator of a device according to a third embodiment;
• there FIG. 11 illustrates the support layer of the FIG. 3 covered with a layer of impregnation of a device;
• there FIG. 12 represents the steps of a method of using the device;
• there FIG. 13 represents the steps of a manufacturing process of the device;
• there FIG. 14 represents the support layer of the FIG. 11 following a first step in the manufacturing process of the support layer;
• there FIG. 15 represents the support layer of the FIG. 14 following a second step in the manufacturing process of the support layer;
• there FIG. 16 represents the layer of the FIG. 15 following a third step in the manufacturing process of the support layer;
• there FIG. 17 a device, as seen in a sectional view, when applied to a user's skin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Device

In reference to the FIG. 1 , according to a first aspect, there is proposed a device 1 for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis (also called iontophoresis) and/or electrostimulation. The treatment device 1 is intended to be applied to the skin of the user, in particular and preferably to the face. The treatment device 1 could be applied to any dermal part of the user's body. However, as will be detailed later, the invention proposes different forms of device which are remarkably well suited for particular areas of the face which are often the subject of a desire for treatment by users. The treatment device 1 advantageously allows a cosmetic treatment of the skin, preferably non-therapeutic, for example by optimizing and/or improving the effectiveness of a cosmetic formulation. Different methods are conceivable for doing this, typically the generation of microcurrents, for example iontophoresis and/or electroporation. By optimizing and/or improving the effectiveness of a cosmetic formulation, it is understood that at least one active agent contained in the cosmetic formulation is likely to see its diffusion in the skin optimized and/or improved by the treatment device 1, in order to increase the effectiveness of the cosmetic treatment of the skin.

The treatment device 1 is adapted to be activated, i.e. placed in operating conditions, by an activation product that is electrically conductive. In other words, the generation of electric currents is triggered by the application of a product to at least certain areas of the treatment device 1. The treatment device 1 is therefore inactive in the absence of the activation product, and only becomes active when the activation product is in contact with at least one predefined area, as will be detailed later. This makes it possible to control the moment of activation of the current generator, and in particular to match this moment to the actual use of the treatment device 1 by the user. Thus, during the storage (or transport) phase of the treatment device 1, the latter is not activated, thus preserving its lifetime, and in particular the lifetime of the current generator, as will be detailed later.

The activation product may comprise an active agent for treating the skin. This active agent allows a cosmetic treatment of the skin, preferably non-therapeutic, the diffusion of which in the skin is increased by the treatment device 1, thanks to the current that it generates, as will be detailed later. Preferably, said active agent is ionized at the pH of the activation product, for example between 4 and 10, and substantially equal to 7, in order to obtain an electromigration mechanism.

The treatment device 1 which is the subject of the invention will make it possible to improve the diffusion of the active agent in the skin, thanks to the principle of iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation and/or electroporation. These principles, using electric current to transport an active agent in the skin, are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be detailed in more detail. The activation product may for example comprise a cosmetic product, preferably non-therapeutic, such as a cosmetic cream, a serum, comprising an active agent such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or any other active agent beneficial for the skin and compatible with treatment by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation and/or electroporation. The activation product may also be a therapeutic product such as a cream for treating burns.

The treatment device 1 may also be used to eliminate or reduce various types of pain or other sensory discomfort, including, but not limited to, back pain, joint pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, tingling or numbness of the skin, muscle pain, muscle cramps, joint stiffness, etc. To this end, the treatment device 1 may then make it possible to improve the diffusion of an analgesic thanks to the principles set out above.

With reference to Figures 1, 2 and 5, the treatment device 1 may therefore have different shapes depending on the area to which it is designed to be applied. For example, a treatment device 1 intended to be applied to the temple may have a general drop shape as illustrated in FIG. 1 . Thus, the contours of the device are rounded and a first portion of the device, when viewed from above, is wider than a second portion of the device. A treatment device 1 intended to be applied to the cheekbone may have a circular shape as illustrated in FIG. 2 . Thus, when viewed from above the device forms a disc. A device intended to be applied to the forehead and/or glabella may have a triangular shape, the FIG. 5 illustrating a layer 2 of this device. Thus, thanks to the different shapes proposed by the invention, each area of the face traditionally treated by care (cheekbone, forehead, temple) has a device particularly well adapted to the shape of the area in question, which makes it possible to increase the comfort of use, the ergonomics and the effectiveness of the treatment. However, other shapes could be imagined, without departing from the scope of the invention, which would be adapted to other areas of the face or other dermal areas of the body such as for example the tops of the hands, the neckline, etc.

Support layer

With reference to figures 3 to 5, the treatment device 1 comprises a support layer 2. By support layer is meant any layer serving as a support for other layers, in this case the impregnation and stencil layers which will be detailed later. FIG. 3 illustrates the support layer 2 of a drop-shaped treatment device 1. The FIG. 4 illustrates the support layer 2 of a processing device 1 of circular shape. The FIG. 5 illustrates the support layer 2 of a triangular-shaped device.

In reference to the FIG. 3 , the support layer 2 comprises at least one support film 21. The support layer 2 of the FIG. 6 comprises two support films 211, 212 and the support layer 2 of the FIG. 17 comprises a single support film 21. The support film 21, and consequently, the treatment device 1 which is the subject of the invention, is sufficiently flexible to be able to adapt to the shapes and reliefs of the skin of the area to be treated, and in particular to the cheekbones, temple, and forehead, as explained previously. The support film 21 is preferably insulating, that is to say that it does not allow current to pass. This makes it possible to avoid any risk of short circuit within the device, by preventing the current from circulating in the support film 21, therefore forcing it to take another path, in this case that passing through the user's skin, as will be detailed later.

The support film 21 is for example made of a flexible plastic such as polyurethane (PU) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Preferably, the support film 21 has a thickness greater than or equal to 20 µm, preferably greater than or equal to 40 µm, and less than or equal to 90 µm, for example substantially equal to 50 µm or 80 µm. Indeed, such thicknesses allow the support film 21, and therefore the treatment device 1, to conform well to the area of skin on which it is intended to be placed.

The treatment device 1 may comprise a plurality of support films 21 assembled together, for example by gluing, as illustrated for example in FIG. 6 (in this case two support films). On the contrary, the support layer 2 can be monolithic, that is to say formed from a single support film 21 as illustrated for example in FIG. 17 .

As illustrated in figures 6 and 17, the support layer 2 comprises a first face 2a and a second face 2b opposite the first face 2a.

The support layer 2 comprises two main electrodes 22 and two counter-electrodes 23. More specifically, the support layer 2 comprises a first main electrode 221 and a first counter-electrode 231 arranged on the first face 2a of the support layer 2. The support layer 2 further comprises a second main electrode 222 and a second counter-electrode 232 arranged on the second face 2b of the support layer 2. As illustrated, the first main electrode 221 is arranged opposite the second main electrode 222, the latter being separated by the support film(s) 21; and the first counter electrode 231 is arranged opposite the second counter electrode 232, the latter being separated by the support film(s) 21. However, it is possible to reverse the positioning of these electrodes so as, for example, to arrange the first main electrode 221 opposite the second counter electrode 232, the latter being separated by the support film(s) 21. It is understood that by “electrodes 22, 23” is meant the assembly of the first main electrode 221, second main electrode 222, first counter electrode 231, second counter electrode 232.

Thus, the treatment device 1 comprises two treatment faces, one comprising the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231, the other comprising the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232. It remarkably constitutes a double-sided treatment device.

The treatment device 1 comprises at least one current generator 24 adapted to be electrically connected to the first main electrode 221 as well as to the first counter-electrode 231 (i.e. the electrodes 221, 231 of the first face 2a of the support layer 2) and/or to the second main electrode 222 as well as to the second counter-electrode 232 (i.e. the electrodes 222, 232 of the second face 2b of the support layer 2), so as to create an electrical potential differential (i.e. an electrical voltage) between the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 and/or between the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232.

According to one embodiment, the treatment device 1 comprises at least one current generator 24 adapted to be electrically connected either to the first main electrode 221 and to the first counter-electrode 231, or to the second main electrode 222 and to the second counter-electrode 232. In other words, in this case, a single current generator supplies a single pair of main electrodes 221, 222 and counter-electrodes 231, 232. These two embodiments will be detailed in more detail later.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are distinct from the current generator 24. In other words, the first main electrode 221, the first counter-electrode 231, the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 are distinct elements from the current generator 24.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are intended to be applied opposite the user's skin and are adapted to allow the circulation of an electric current in the user's skin, when the treatment device 1 is placed in contact with the user's skin. Indeed, the user's skin behaves in particular as a resistor. The skin of a mammal, in particular human skin, typically behaves as a resistor having a value between 10 kΩ and 10 MΩ, the value being very variable depending on the individuals and the environmental and measurement conditions. To this end, the first main electrode 221, the second main electrode 222, the first counter-electrode 231 and/or the second counter-electrode 232 is formed at least from one main metal, a good electrical conductor.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are intended to be in direct or indirect contact with the skin. By indirect contact, it is meant that an element is arranged between the electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 and the skin such as an activation product, an absorbent layer and/or a fabric, etc.

Consequently, the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232, in particular the main electrodes 221, 222, advantageously have a size greater than that of a conductive pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24 (the galvanic couples 240 will be detailed later), in the case where the device comprises a current generator 24 comprising at least one galvanic couple 240. Also preferably, the main electrodes 221, 222 have a size greater than that of such a current generator 24 to which they would be connected. This makes it possible to maximize the contact surface (direct or indirect) between the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 and the skin, the treatment device 1 thus allowing the circulation of more active agent of the activation product in the skin. This also implies that the size of the main electrodes 221, 222 and/or the counter electrodes 231, 232 can be adapted to that of the area of the human or animal body to be treated.

The treatment device 1 is in a so-called “operating” state when it is applied to the skin of a user and when the current generator 24 is activated so as to generate an electric current. The expression “in operation” will subsequently be used to designate a situation in which the treatment device 1 is in operation, that is to say that it generates a potential differential (i.e. an electric voltage) between the electrodes, then an electric current when the device is applied to the skin.

In operation, the electric current generated by the current generator 24 flows between the electrodes 221, 231 or between the electrodes 222, 232 and into the user's skin. As illustrated in FIG. 6 , the electric current (illustrated in dotted lines) flows via the current generator 24 to the second main electrode 222, then penetrates the user's skin P to reach the second counter-electrode 232. The current can also flow in a direction opposite to that illustrated. Thus, according to this embodiment, only the face 2b of the support layer 2 is active, the face 2a is not (it therefore does not produce current). The user therefore has, thanks to the invention, a treatment device 1 with two treatment faces, one of which can be used after the other, for example if one of the faces is exhausted (and can therefore no longer generate current). The service life of the treatment device 1 is therefore doubled. The user will therefore replace his treatment device less often, so that the latter is more environmentally friendly.

In certain cases, the main electrodes 221, 222 are called “treatment electrodes”. In other words, advantageously, the main electrodes 221, 222 can specifically allow the improvement of the effectiveness of an activation product when the first main electrode 221 or the second main electrode 222 covers a part of the user’s skin on which activation product containing a particular active agent is applied. In operation, the active agent of the activation product is thus specifically absorbed by the skin at the first main electrode 221 or the second main electrode 222, the shape of which can then advantageously be chosen to correspond as precisely as possible with the area to be treated. Thus, the main electrodes 221, 222 of the device can advantageously have the same shape as the general shape of the treatment device 1, as defined and explained previously. This allows the main electrodes 221, 222 to be placed as close and as precisely as possible to the specific area to be treated (cheekbone, temple, forehead, etc.)

The main electrodes 221, 222 may be a positive electrode or a negative electrode and, correspondingly and inversely, the counter electrodes 231, 232 may be a negative electrode or a positive electrode.

Preferably, the nature of the main electrodes 221, 222 (positive electrode or negative electrode), and therefore of the counter-electrodes 231, 232, is adapted according to the type of activation product that it is desired to use in combination with the treatment device 1. In particular, the main electrodes 221, 222 will be adapted to be a negative electrode for certain types of activation products such as a vitamin C-based cream while the main electrodes 221, 222 will be adapted to be a positive electrode for certain other types of activation products.

More specifically, the activation product may comprise molecules that are positively or negatively charged at a given pH. If the main electrodes 221, 222 have the same polarity as the polarity of the molecules, the molecules are repelled by the main electrodes 221, 222 and thus pushed towards the user's skin. For example, vitamin C molecules are negatively charged for a pH between 5 and 7. A treatment device 1 aimed at improving the absorption by the skin of vitamin C molecules present in an activation product will therefore preferably have at least one main electrode being a negative electrode.

As can be seen in the various figures, the first main electrode 221 preferably comprises carbon, advantageously in the form of a plurality of carbon points, for example arranged under the main metal constituting the main electrode. This makes it possible to give the user a visual indication of the first main electrode 221 (or active electrode as explained previously) to help him correctly position the latter on the area of the skin that he wishes to treat, without degrading the electrical conductivity of the first main electrode 221. It is understood that this concerns the second main electrode 222 equally.

The first counter electrode 231 has a polarity opposite to that of the first main electrode 221. The first counter electrode 231 is therefore a positive electrode if the first main electrode 221 is a negative electrode and the first counter electrode 231 is therefore a negative electrode if the first main electrode 221 is a positive electrode. This applies respectively to the second main electrode 222 and to the second counter electrode 232.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are made from conductive materials, typically metals. Preferably, the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 23 comprise the same material and/or the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 comprise the same material. This allows a particularly simple construction of the device while minimizing the number of different materials in contact with the skin, and therefore the risk of undesirable reactions of the latter. Advantageously, the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 23 are made, i.e. formed, from the same material or set of materials and/or the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 are made, i.e. formed, from the same material or set of materials.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 preferably comprise silver and/or silver chloride. More preferably, the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are made of silver and/or silver chloride. Silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being hypoallergenic and interacting well with the skin. In addition, silver and silver chloride have the advantage of being good conductors of electricity. Silver chloride is less prone to oxidation than silver, so that combined with silver, it helps to limit oxidation and therefore improve the durability of the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232.

Preferably, the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are made of silver and silver chloride. More specifically, the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are each composed of 55% silver and 45% silver chloride.

Alternatively, the first main electrode 221, the second main electrode 222, the first counter electrode 231 and/or the second counter electrode 232 are made of carbon. Carbon is conductive and not very oxidizable.

Alternatively, the first main electrode 221, the second main electrode 222, the first counter electrode 231 and/or the second counter electrode 232 are made of stainless steel. Stainless steel has the advantage of being hypoallergenic and interacting well with the skin and being particularly durable. In addition, since it does not oxidize, it can be washed. Thus, the support layer 2 and the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 can be washable and therefore have a longer service life.

In the case where the treatment device 1 comprises at least one current generator 24 comprising at least one galvanic couple 240 (this type of generator is detailed below), the main electrodes 221, 222 and the counter-electrodes 231, 232 are distinct from such a current generator 24 to which they would be connected. Consequently, the main electrodes 221, 222 and the counter-electrodes 231, 232 may comprise materials different from the materials included in the current generator 24. The main electrodes 221, 222 and the counter-electrodes 231, 232 may therefore be particularly suitable for contact with the skin in that they may comprise skin-friendly materials.

Advantageously, the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are printed on the support film 21 using conductive inks, and preferably metallic inks. The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are preferably printed on the support film 21 using electronic printing techniques such as inkjet, offset, gravure printing, screen printing. The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 are preferably printed on the support film 21 by screen printing.

As explained, the treatment device 1 advantageously comprises at least one current generator 24 adapted to be electrically connected to the electrodes 221, 231 of the first face 2a of the support layer 2 and/or to the electrodes 222, 232 of the second face 2b of the support layer 2. According to a certain embodiment, the current generator 24 comprises at least one galvanic couple 240. The galvanic couple 240 is formed of a first conductive pole 241 being a positive pole and a second conductive pole 242 being a negative pole separated from each other by a free space 243.

The free space 243 is preferably insulating, i.e. it does not allow electric current to pass through it. This can, for example, be made possible by the fact that the support film 21 is insulating and that the free space 243 consists of an area of the support film 21 on which no material is printed.

Alternatively, an insulating material could be disposed on the support film 21 at the free space 243.

Preferably, the first conductive pole of a galvanic couple and the second conductive pole of a galvanic couple are separated by a distance of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example equal to 2 mm. In other words, the free space 243 has a length of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example equal to 2 mm.

The free space 243 is intended to be filled, at the time of activation (of putting into operation) of the treatment device 1, by an electrically conductive activation product to connect together the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

The first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240 are adapted to, when connected by the activation product, allow the flow of electrons between them. The electrons are generated by the difference between the standard (electrical) redox potentials of the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242.

A galvanic couple 240 is thus adapted to generate an electric current when the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 are connected so as to allow an oxidation-reduction reaction between said poles. An electrochemical cell is formed.

More specifically, when the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of the galvanic couple 240 are connected by the activation product, upon contact with the activation product, constituent atoms of the second conductive pole 242 (being a negative pole) oxidize and electrons are released. The electrons then flow via the activation product to the second conductive pole 242. As illustrated in FIG. 6 , the activation product PA between the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 allows the circulation of electrons and the generation of an electrical circuit.

Thus, in operation, the treatment device 1 is traversed by an electric current without requiring an external battery or any other source of electrical power external to the treatment device 1. This results in a remarkably limited size of the treatment device 1, and remarkable freedom of use (no need for a power outlet, external battery, etc.).

The constituent materials of the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 advantageously comprise conductive materials, typically metals.

The first conductive pole 241 (being a positive pole) advantageously comprises silver and/or silver chloride. Preferably, the first conductive pole 241 is made of silver and/or silver chloride.

The second conductive pole 242 (being a negative pole) advantageously comprises zinc. Preferably, the second conductive pole 242 is made of zinc. In this case, the zinc is the reducing agent of the oxidation-reduction chemical reaction and the second conductive pole 242 (the zinc ink in this case) will be consumed during the use of the treatment device 1.

Thus, advantageously, when the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 are connected by an activation product, the zinc atoms are oxidized and therefore release electrons according to the following reaction: Zn → Zn ²⁺ + 2 ^e- .

The electrons will flow from the first conductive pole 241 to the second conductive pole 242. This is made possible by the fact that the standard electrical redox potentials of zinc and silver are different. In this case, the theoretical standard electrical potential of zinc is -0.76 V and that of silver is +0.80 V. Thus, each galvanic couple 240 formed of zinc and silver theoretically results in a 1.56 V battery.

Galvanic couples 240 may include other materials. For example, these pairs can be formed from: zinc-copper, zinc-copper/copper halide, zinc-copper/copper oxide, magnesium-copper, magnesium-copper/copper halide, zinc-silver, zinc-silver-silver oxide, zinc-silver-silver halide, zinc-silver-silver chloride, zinc-silver-silver bromide, zinc-silver-silver iodide, zinc-silver-silver fluoride, zinc-gold, magnesium-gold, aluminum-gold, magnesium-silver, magnesium-silver-silver oxide, magnesium-silver-silver halide, magnesium-silver-silver chloride, magnesium-silver-silver bromide, magnesium-silver-silver iodide, magnesium-silver-silver fluoride, magnesium-gold, aluminum-copper, aluminum-silver, aluminum-silver-silver oxide, aluminum-silver/silver halide, aluminum-silver/silver chloride, aluminum-silver/silver bromide, aluminum-silver iodide, aluminum-silver fluoride, copper-silver halide, copper-silver chloride, copper-silver bromide, copper-silver iodide, copper-silver fluoride, iron-copper, iron-copper/copper oxide, iron-copper, iron-copper/copper oxide, iron-copper/copper halide, iron-silver, iron-silver/silver oxide, iron-silver/silver halide, iron-silver/silver chloride, iron-silver/silver bromide, iron-silver/silver iodide, iron-silver/silver fluoride, iron-gold, conductive iron-carbon, conductive zinc-carbon, conductive copper-carbon, magnesium-carbon, and aluminum-carbon.

The galvanic couples 240 and the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 may also comprise alloys.

As explained previously, the current generator 24 is adapted to be electrically connected to the first main electrode 221 on the one hand and to the first counter-electrode 231 on the other hand and/or to the second main electrode 222 on the one hand and to the second counter-electrode 232 on the other hand.

More specifically, the first main electrode 221 and/or the second main electrode 222 is electrically connected to a first conductive pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 or to a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240.

In a first variant, the first main electrode 221 and the second main electrode 222 are both electrically connected to the same conductive pole 241, 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

In a second variant, the first main electrode 221 is electrically connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240 and the second main electrode 222 is electrically connected to another conductive pole 241, 242 of another galvanic couple 240.

Depending on the nature of the main electrode 221, 222 (negative electrode or positive electrode), the main electrode 221, 222 is electrically connected to one or the other of a first conductive pole 241 of a galvanic couple 240 and a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240.

For example, if the main electrode 221, 222 is a negative electrode, it will be connected to a second conductive pole 242 since the latter is a negative pole. Generally, each of the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 is of the same polarity as the first or second conductive pole 241, 242.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 can be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of the same galvanic couple 240 or of different galvanic couples 240. In the case where the current generator 24 comprises a single galvanic couple 240, the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 and/or the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 are connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of this same galvanic couple 240.

One of the electrodes 221, 231 and/or one of the electrodes 222, 232 is electrically connected to a first conductive pole 241 by a first connector 244. The other of the electrodes 221, 231 and/or the electrodes 222, 232 is electrically connected to a second conductive pole by a last connector 245.

In other words, the first conductive pole 241 connected to an electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 is connected to the electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 via the first connector 244. The second conductive pole 242 connected to an electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 is connected to the electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 via the last connector 245.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 can be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 via connectors 244, 245 advantageously comprising carbon, and preferably made of carbon. A connector 244, 245 comprising carbon, referred to hereinafter as a carbon connector 244, 245, allows the circulation of an electric current.

A carbon connector 244, 245 is advantageously a carbon strip. A carbon connector 244, 245 preferably has a length of less than 5 mm and greater than 1 mm and a width of the order of 2 mm. The length of a carbon connector 244, 245 is preferably less than 5 mm to allow good current conductivity, a carbon connector that is too long having significant resistance. In the case where a connector is required over a longer distance, in particular greater than 5 mm, it will be preferable to use another better conductive material, preferably the material used for the first main electrode 221, the second main electrode 222, the first counter-electrode 231 or the second counter-electrode 232.

Preferably, a connector 244, 245 is printed on the support film 21 using a conductive ink comprising carbon, preferably by screen printing. A carbon connector 244, 245 comprises carbon but may additionally comprise other materials, preferably conductive materials.

The electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 may be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 via connectors 244, 245 comprising other electrically conductive materials. For example, a connector 244, 245 may comprise the same material as a material included in an electrode 221, 222, 231, 232.

Alternatively, the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 may be connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 by direct contact between an electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 and a conductive pole 241, 242.

According to a non-illustrated embodiment, the first connector 244 comprises a material identical to a material included in the electrode 221, 222, 231, 232. Preferably, the first conductive pole 241 and the electrode 221, 222, 231, 232 to which the first conductive pole 241 is connected comprise silver and/or silver chloride and the first connector 244 comprises silver and/or silver chloride. Also preferably, the last connector 245 is made of carbon.

According to an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 , the first counter electrode 231 is connected to the first conductive pole 241, the first counter electrode 231 and the first conductive pole 241 are made of silver and/or silver chloride and the first connector 244 which connects the first counter electrode 231 and the first conductive pole 241 is made of silver and/or silver chloride. Since the first counter electrode 231 and the first conductive pole 241 are made of the same material, they can be continuously connected by a first connector 244 of the same material. The printing of the first counter electrode 231, the first conductive pole 241 and first connector 244 on the support film 21 is thus facilitated and does not require a different material for the first connector 244. This can apply identically to the second counter electrode 232.

Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 , the first main electrode 221 is connected to the second conductive pole 242, the first main electrode 221 is made of silver and/or silver chloride, the second conductive pole 242 is made of zinc and the last connector 245 which connects the first main electrode 221 and the second conductive pole 242 is made of carbon. This can be applied identically to the second main electrode 222.

Alternatively, the main electrode 221, 222 could be in direct contact with the second conductive pole 242 and there would be no additional connector.

Advantageously, the current generator 24 comprises a plurality of galvanic couples 240. It is then understood that the main electrode 221, 222 is connected to a conductive pole 241, 242 of a galvanic couple 240a different from the galvanic couple 240d of which a conductive pole 241, 242 is connected to the counter-electrode 23. More precisely, a conductive pole 241, 242 of a first galvanic couple 240a is electrically connected to the main electrode 221, 222 and a conductive pole 241, 242 of a last galvanic couple 240d is electrically connected to the counter-electrode 231, 232.

The current generator 24 comprises a plurality of galvanic couples 240 connected in series. The galvanic couples 240 are thus adjacent two by two and are electrically connected two by two. This makes it possible to make a series connection of said plurality of galvanic couples 240, and therefore to increase the voltage potential, as will be detailed later.

Preferably, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are separated by a distance equal to the distance which separates the two conductive poles 241, 242 of the same galvanic couple 240.

More precisely, two adjacent galvanic couples 240b, 240c are connected by connecting the second conductive pole 242b of one galvanic couple 240b and the first conductive pole 241c of the other galvanic couple 240c.

Advantageously, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are electrically connected via a couple connector 246 advantageously comprising carbon. Preferably, the couple connector 246 is made of carbon. The couple connectors 246 make it possible to circulate an electric current from one galvanic couple 240 to another adjacent galvanic couple 240. Alternatively, the couple connector 246 may comprise other materials, such as for example electrically conductive metals. However, as illustrated in the various figures, it will be preferred to use carbon couple connectors 246 for their low cost, ease of implementation and safety for the skin.

Preferably, with reference to Figures 3 and 7, the torque connector 246 extends below at least one conductive pole 241, 242 that it connects. In other words, the at least one conductive pole 241, 242 partially covers the torque connector 246.

More preferably, the couple connector 246 comprises a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface of a conductive pole 241, 242. Advantageously, the couple connector 246 comprises a portion extending below at least 80% of the surface of a second conductive pole 242. This makes it possible to improve the electrical conductivity between two adjacent galvanic couples 240. Advantageously, each couple connector 246 has, in top view, a p-shape (or symmetrically q-shape), that is to say that it has a solid, substantially square zone and a tail (or thin zone), the solid zone extending below the surface of a second conductive pole 242 while the tail is not covered. Such an arrangement makes it possible to optimize the passage of current between two adjacent 240 galvanic couples without impacting the redox reaction, or even by optimizing it.

Indeed, in the case, for example, of a couple connector 246 made of carbon and a second conductive pole 242 made of zinc, the conductivity is improved because carbon is more conductive than zinc. It has been measured that the conductivity could be multiplied by two when the couple connector 246 has a solid area under a conductive pole 241, 242.

According to one embodiment, the solid area of the torque connector 246 corresponds to 100% of the surface area of a second conductive pole 242. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 for example, the surface area of a second conductive pole 242 is greater than the solid area of the torque connector 246, that is to say that the second conductive pole 242 (in this case zinc) covers the torque connector 246 (in this case carbon) and protrudes from said torque connector 246. This makes it possible to ensure that, despite manufacturing tolerances, the second conductive pole 242 (in this case zinc) will completely cover the torque connector 246 (in this case carbon), in particular in order to guarantee a good aesthetic appearance of the treatment device 1.

The couple connectors 246 are advantageously arranged on the support film 21 so that, when activation product is applied to the free spaces 243 of the current generator 24 and the treatment device 1 is applied to the user's skin, the electric current flows between the different galvanic couples 240 via the couple connectors 246. In other words, the couple connectors 246 are arranged in such a way as to ensure good circulation of the electric current within the electric generator 24. This also applies to the connectors 244, 245 which are also arranged on the support film 21 and which are therefore correctly arranged to ensure good circulation of the electric current between the electric generator 24 and the electrodes 22, 23.

Alternatively, according to an embodiment not illustrated, two adjacent galvanic couples 240 are electrically connected by direct contact between the second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240 and the first conductive pole 241 of an adjacent galvanic couple 240. This makes it possible to achieve the series connection of said plurality of galvanic couples 240, without having to use another material.

Arranging a plurality of galvanic couples 240 in series makes it possible to generate, when the treatment device 1 is in operation, a voltage (measured between the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 or between the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232) greater than the voltage generated by a single galvanic couple 240. Indeed, the voltages generated by each galvanic couple 240 of a series of galvanic couples 240 are cumulative. For example, theoretically, a zinc-silver galvanic couple 240 generates a voltage of 1.56 V. Consequently, theoretically, a current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 will generate a voltage of 3.12 V (1.56 V multiplied by 2) and a current generator 24 comprising three galvanic couples 240 will generate a voltage of 4.68 V (1.56 V multiplied by 3). Empirically, it has been measured that a current generator 24 comprising a zinc-silver galvanic couple 240 generates a voltage of 1.1 V. Thus, empirically, a current generator 24 comprising two galvanic couples 240 generates a voltage of 2.2 V (1.1 V multiplied by 2) and a current generator 24 comprising three galvanic couples 240 generates a voltage of 3.3 V (1.1 V multiplied by 3). The current generator 240 of the support layer 2 illustrated in FIG. 3 comprises five 240 galvanic couples. Empirically, this 24 current generator generates a voltage of 5.5 V (1.1 multiplied by 5).

Consequently, in operation, the intensity of the electric current generated by the plurality of galvanic couples 240 in series is greater than the electric current generated by a single galvanic couple 240. Indeed, the resistance of the skin (which will consume the current) remaining identical, by increasing the voltage compared to the devices of the prior art, thanks to the series connection of said plurality of galvanic couples 240, the current (principle of Ohm's law) which will circulate in the skin is necessarily increased, when the treatment device 1 of the invention is activated and placed on the skin. From an experimental point of view, it remains difficult to actually measure the current delivered by the treatment device 1 when it is actually placed on the skin. Also, it is possible to provide a simple to reproduce measurement protocol, making it possible to measure the current circulating in the treatment device 1 when it is activated, without it actually being placed on the skin. For example, a resistance of 10 kΩ can be applied in the electrical circuit for the measurement, then the processing device 1 can be activated, which will then allow the appearance of a current. Therefore, a current generator 24 comprising a single galvanic couple 240 will generate a current of 110 µA (1.1 V / 10,000 Ω). Similarly, a current generator 24 comprising five galvanic couples 240 will generate a current of 550 µA (5.5 V / 10,000 Ω). However, due to current losses (for example at the contact between the skin and the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232), the actual current measured is lower than the theoretical current. Thus, for example, the current generator 24 illustrated in FIG. 8 comprising a galvanic couple 240 generates a current with an intensity of up to 100 µA. The current generator 24 illustrated in FIG. 9 comprising two galvanic couples 240 generates a current with an intensity of up to 150 µA. The current generator 24 of the drop-shaped support layer 2 illustrated in FIG. 3 generates a current of up to 300 µA. The current generator 24 of the circular support layer 2 illustrated in FIG. 4 generates a current of up to 180 µA.

The performance of the current generator 24 is thus improved. Thus, more current flows through the user's skin, which will increase the treatment by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation and/or electroporation. The performance and effectiveness of the treatment device 1 are therefore improved. This allows, among other things, better diffusion of an active agent of an activation product into the user's skin.

Advantageously, the current generator 24 comprises at least three galvanic couples 240. Preferably, the current generator 24 comprises at least four galvanic couples 240 as in the examples illustrated in figures 3 to 5.

According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 , the current generator 24 comprises five galvanic couples 240.

According to a certain embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 , the current generator 24 comprises at least two current generation assemblies 247 each comprising a plurality of galvanic couples 240 connected in series and the two current generation assemblies 247 are connected in parallel.

Arranging the current generation assemblies 247 in parallel makes it possible to combine the intensities of the electric currents generated by each current generation assembly 247. Thus, the intensity of the electric current generated by the current generator 24 is increased. Indeed, the particular arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10 for example, allows a current of up to 200 µA to be generated.

The treatment device 1 may comprise a single current generator 24 adapted to be electrically connected on the one hand to the first main electrode 221 as well as to the first counter-electrode 231, and on the other hand, to the second main electrode 222 as well as to the second counter-electrode 232. This connection may be temporary or preferably permanent. If the current generator 24 comprises at least one galvanic couple 240, it may be arranged on the first face 2a of the support layer 2 or on the second face 2b of the support layer 2. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3 , the current generator 24 is arranged on the first face 2a of the support layer 2 and the treatment device 1 illustrated could comprise, on the second face 2b of the support layer 2, only electrodes 222, 232, without a current generator 24. The connection between the current generator 24 and the second main electrode 222 and between the current generator 24 and the second counter-electrode 232 can for example be implemented via connectors 244, 245 electrically connected to the current generator 24, passing through the support film 21 and electrically connected respectively to the electrodes 222, 232. Alternatively, connectors 244, 245 can extend from the first face 2a to the second face 2b, passing over the edge of the support film 21 so as to electrically connect the current generator 24 with the electrodes 222, 232.

Thus, the treatment device 1 can be used via its two faces. Consequently, two treatments, for example complementary, can be implemented successively by the user using the same device by simply turning the treatment device 1 over. For example, the user can apply a first activation product to the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 and apply these electrodes 221, 231 to his skin for a first treatment. Then the user can apply a second activation product, for example different from the first activation product, to the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 and apply these electrodes 222, 232 to his skin for a second treatment, for example different from the first treatment. The treatment device 1 is thus very simple to use, and it is possible to carry out two successive treatments without having to carry out complex manipulations (no cleaning, no replacement, but simply turning the treatment device 1 over).

According to an advantageous embodiment, the treatment device 1 comprises two current generators 24, including a first current generator 24a arranged on the first face 2a of the support layer 2 and a second current generator 24b arranged on the second face 2b of the support layer 2. Advantageously, each current generator 24a, 24b comprises at least one galvanic couple 240. In this way, the same treatment device 1 can advantageously have an autonomy up to twice as great as a treatment device 1 comprising a single current generator 24.

According to a certain embodiment, the treatment device 1 comprises a current generator 24 which is a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery is adapted to be electrically connected in a removably manner to the first main electrode 221 on the one hand and to the first counter-electrode 231 on the other hand and/or to the second main electrode 222 on the one hand and to the second counter-electrode 232 on the other hand. The connection can be made by any known means. For example, the treatment device 1 may comprise connectors electrically connected to the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 and connectors electrically connected to the battery intended to be electrically connected to the connectors electrically connected to the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232. This embodiment has the advantage of extending the lifetime of the treatment device 1. Indeed, galvanic couples 240 can produce electricity as long as a redox reaction can take place. Once the reducing agent is completely oxidized or the oxidant is completely reduced, the redox reaction is complete and the current generator 24 no longer produces electricity. On the other hand, if the current generator 24 is a rechargeable battery, it is sufficient to recharge the battery for the treatment device 1 to be able to generate electricity again. Furthermore, the support film 21 and the electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 can be washed easily, whereas this may prove more complicated in the case where the current generator 24 comprises galvanic couples 240 which could wear out in contact with water.

According to one embodiment, the rechargeable battery is adapted to be electrically connected in a removable manner to the first main electrode 221 on the one hand and to the first counter-electrode 231 on the other hand and also to the second main electrode 222 on the one hand and to the second counter-electrode 232 on the other hand. In other words, the user can connect the battery to one or the other of the faces 2a, 2b, of the support layer 2, that is to say to one of the pair formed by the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 and the pair formed by the second main electrode 222 and the first counter-electrode 231. Consequently, if the electrodes of one face of the support layer 2 deteriorate, it is still possible to use the treatment device 1 by connecting the battery to the electrodes of the other face which are still functioning.

According to a certain embodiment, the treatment device 1 comprises two current generators 24, a first current generator 24a comprising at least one galvanic couple 240 and being arranged on the first face 2a of the support layer 2 and a second current generator 24b being a rechargeable battery and being adapted to be electrically connected to the electrodes 222, 232 of the second face 2b of the support layer 2. The electrodes 221, 231 of the first face 2a of the support layer 2 may further be adapted to be connected to a rechargeable battery. The treatment device 1 may comprise suitable connectors for this purpose. Thus, when the user applies the electrodes 221, 231 to his skin, he could choose as the source of electric current the generator comprising galvanic couples 240 or a rechargeable battery. It is therefore understood that the treatment device 1 could comprise four different current generators including a first current generator 24a comprising at least one galvanic couple 240 and electrically connected to the first electrodes 221, 231, a second current generator 24b comprising at least one galvanic couple 240 and electrically connected to the second electrodes 222, 232, a first rechargeable battery adapted to be electrically connected to the first electrodes 221, 231 and a second rechargeable battery adapted to be electrically connected to the second electrodes 222, 232. Thus, the user has several choices of electric current sources. If the galvanic couples 240 no longer work, a rechargeable battery can be used and vice versa.

The treatment device 1 may comprise a single support film 21 comprising a first face 21a and a second face 21b, a current generator 24 being arranged on each face 21a, 21b of the support film 21 as illustrated in FIG. 17 Advantageously, the support film 21 is impermeable so as to prevent any migration of activation product from one face 21a, 21b of the support film 21, and therefore from one face 1a, 1b of the treatment device 1, to the other face 21b, 21a of the support film 21 to the other face 1b, 1a of the treatment device 1. Advantageously, the support film 21 is electrically insulating so as to prevent short circuits.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6 , the processing device 1 may comprise two support films 21 including a first support film 211 and a second support film 212. The first support film 211 comprises a first face 211a and a second face 211b. The second support film 212 comprises an opposite first face 212a and a second face 212b. The first main electrode 221 and the first counter electrode 231 are arranged on the first face 211a of the first support film 211. The second main electrode 222 and the second counter electrode 232 are arranged on the first face 212a of the second support film 212. The support films 211, 212 are connected to each other at their second faces 211b, 212b. This embodiment further guarantees any migration of activation product from one support film 21 to another and therefore from one face 2a, 2b of the support layer 2 to another. Advantageously, the support films 211, 212 are connected to each other via an impermeable material, for example a impermeable glue. According to another advantageous embodiment, the support films 21 are laminated to each other, allowing their flexibility to be retained.

Preferably, the elements printed on the support film 21 (electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232, current generator 24 and connectors 244, 245, 246) have a thickness of between 10 µm and 20 µm. The support film 21 has, as already mentioned, a thickness of between 20 µm and 90 µm, or 40 µm and 90 µm. Consequently, if the support layer comprises a single support film 21, the support layer 2 preferably has a thickness of between 40 µm and 130 µm, or between 60 µm and 130 µm. The thickness in this case corresponds to the sum of the thickness of the printed elements multiplied by two and the thickness of the support film 21. If the support layer comprises two support films 21, the support layer 2 preferably has a thickness of between 60 µm and 220 µm, or between 100 µm and 220 µm. The thickness in this case corresponds to the sum of the thickness of the printed elements multiplied by two and the thickness of the support film 21 multiplied by two. The support layer 2 thus offers a remarkable compromise between electrical conductivity, flexibility, and duration of use (in particular for the zinc ink which is consumed during processing as explained previously).

Impregnation layer

Advantageously, the treatment device 1 further comprises at least one impregnation layer 4 comprising at least one impregnation film 41. The impregnation layer 4 covers at least one main electrode 221, 222 and one counter-electrode 231, 232, and possibly a current generator 24.

Subsequently, the main electrode 22, the counter electrode 23 and the current generator 24 are discussed. It is understood that the main electrode 22 may be the first main electrode 221 or the second main electrode 222. Similarly, it is understood that the counter electrode 23 may be the first main counter electrode 231 or the second counter electrode 232. The current generator 24 may be the first current generator 24a or the second current generator 24b.

Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises two impregnation layers 4, including a first impregnation layer 4a and a second impregnation layer 4b. Thus, subsequently, “impregnation layer 4” may correspond to the first impregnation layer 4a and/or to the second impregnation layer 4b. The first impregnation layer 4a covers at least the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231. The first impregnation layer 4a is therefore arranged on the first face 2a of the support layer 2. The second impregnation layer 4b covers at least the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232. The second impregnation layer 4b is therefore arranged on the second face 2b of the support layer 2. To operate the treatment device 1, it is desired that activation product be impregnated at the level of zones 42 of the impregnation layer 4, called “activation zones 42”.

First of all, in the case where the treatment device 1 comprises a current generator 24 comprising at least one galvanic couple 240, it is necessary to activate the current generator 24 and therefore its galvanic couples 240. To do this, the conductive poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240 must be connected together so that an oxidation-reduction reaction takes place, as explained previously. This can be implemented thanks to the presence of the activation product at the free spaces 243 between the conductive poles 241, 242 of each galvanic couple 240. Thus, it is desired that activation product be placed at the free spaces 243 and that activation product remain during a certain operating time of the treatment device 1 at the free spaces 243. The impregnation layer 4 at the current generator 24 plays in particular the role of a reservoir of activation product and thus allows the activation of the galvanic couples 240 of the current generator 24 for a certain period of time. Thus, current is generated for a certain period of time, preferably for the time necessary for the treatment of the area of the face to be treated. First activation zones 42a therefore correspond to the zones of the impregnation layer 4 arranged at the level of the free spaces 243. By “at the level”, it is understood that first activation zones 42a therefore correspond to the zones of the impregnation layer 4 arranged opposite and/or on and/or above the free spaces 243.

Preferably, each first activation zone 42a extends from the first conductive pole 241 to the second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. More preferably, each first activation zone 42a is arranged opposite a part of a first conductive pole 241, a part of the free space 243 and a part of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. In such a way, when activation product is applied at the level of the first activation zone 42, the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 of each galvanic couple 240 are correctly connected to allow an oxidation-reduction reaction. More precisely, at the time of activation (when the device is put into operation), the activation product will make it possible to bring the first and second conductive poles 241, 242 into electrical contact by filling the free space 243, initially insulating.

According to a certain embodiment, for a galvanic couple 240, a first activation zone 42a comprises a zone of the impregnation layer 4 located opposite (i.e. covering) the entire galvanic couple 240, namely its first conductive pole 241, its second conductive pole 242 and its free space 243.

Preferably, in operation, it is preferable that activation product is also present between each electrode 22, 23 and the user's skin to facilitate the flow of electric current between the treatment device 1 and the skin. This also makes it possible to limit the risk of redness of the skin upon contact with the electrodes 22, 23 and to increase the comfort of use. Furthermore, in the case where the activation product comprises an active agent for treating the skin, it is necessary to apply activation product between the skin and at least one of the electrodes 22, 23, preferably between the main electrode 22 and the skin, to ensure good absorption of the activation product (more precisely of an active ingredient contained in the activation product) at the level of at least one of the electrodes 22, 23 (preferably of the main electrode 22). Therefore, we understand the interest of the impregnation layer 4 at the electrodes 22, 23 which also makes it possible to play the role of reservoir of activation product, more precisely of active agent, for a certain period of time. Thus, a second activation zone 42b corresponds to the zone of the impregnation layer 4 arranged at the main electrode 22, as can be seen in FIG. 1 for example. A third activation zone 42c corresponds to the zone of the impregnation layer 4 arranged at the level of the counter-electrode 23.

By “at the level”, it is understood that the third and second activation zones 42b, 42c correspond respectively to the zones of the impregnation layer 4 arranged opposite and/or on and/or above the main electrode 22 and the counter-electrode 23.

Thus, the impregnation film 41 of the impregnation layer 4 has the particular role of being impregnated with an activation product advantageously comprising an active agent intended to be diffused into the skin by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation. The impregnation film 41 is therefore manufactured from at least one porous material, that is to say a material which absorbs the activation product.

Preferably, the impregnation film 41 is made from a non-woven fabric, for example non-woven cotton. A non-woven fabric has the advantage of being absorbent and is generally hypoallergenic so that it can be brought into contact with the skin of a user without risk of skin reaction.

Furthermore, a non-woven textile has the advantage of being very flexible and therefore does not limit the flexibility of the treatment device 1.

The impregnation film 41, and consequently the impregnation layer 4, preferably have a thickness greater than or equal to 100 µm, preferably greater than or equal to 800 µm, and less than or equal to 2 mm. The thickness of the impregnation film 41, and consequently of the impregnation layer 4, will be chosen in particular as a function of the desired absorption capacity of the impregnation layer 4.

The impregnation film 41 may be made from materials adapted to the viscosity of the activation product. For example, if the activation product is very low in viscosity and therefore very liquid (as would be the case, for example, with physiological serum or saline solution), it would be desirable for the impregnation film 41 to be made from a highly absorbent material to prevent, when an activation product is applied to the treatment device 1, the activation product from spreading (by capillarity) in an undesired manner in the treatment device 1 or from flowing out of the treatment device 1 (for example, onto the ground). Conversely, if the activation product is very viscous (as would be the case, for example, with a cosmetic cream or gel), it would be desirable for the impregnation film 41 to be made from a low-absorbent material to allow the impregnation film 41 to become sufficiently impregnated.

The impregnation layer 4 may comprise a single impregnation film 41 which covers the assembly comprising the main electrode 22, the counter-electrode 23 and the current generator 24. In this case, the impregnation layer 4 is said to be monolithic. For example, this embodiment, particularly simple and easy to implement during the manufacture of the treatment device 1, is well suited in the case where the activation product has a high viscosity (it is therefore pasty, for example in the form of a cosmetic cream). Indeed, in this case, when the activation product is applied to the activation zone 42 (i.e. to all of this zone 42 or to part of this zone 42) of the impregnation layer 4, the activation product remains substantially on this activation zone 42 and does not spread in an undesired manner to other zones of the impregnation layer 4, in particular to zones which are not activation zones 42.

In this case of a monolithic impregnation layer 4, the latter may comprise at least one capillary action limiting device, such as for example a groove, a throat or a slot. Such a device makes it possible to cut capillary paths within the impregnation layer 4 and thus to locally limit the diffusion of the activation product within the impregnation layer 4 by capillarity. It is thus possible to control the diffusion of the activation product within this monolithic impregnation layer 4. This makes it possible to envisage the use of a relatively fluid activation product while simplifying the manufacturing process of the treatment device 1. Advantageously, the impregnation layer comprises two capillary action limiting devices, arranged on either side of the current generator 24.

According to another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 , the impregnation layer 4 comprises a plurality of impregnation films 41. In other words, the impregnation layer 4 is then not monolithic but comprises at least two, preferably three, impregnation films 41 distinct and separated from each other. In the example illustrated, the impregnation layer 4 comprises three impregnation films 41 including a first impregnation film 41a intended to cover the main electrode 22, a second impregnation film 41b intended to cover the counter-electrode 23 and a third impregnation film 41c intended to cover the current generator 24. Advantageously, the first, second and third impregnation films 41a, 41b, 41c are not in contact with each other. This embodiment is for example suitable in the case where the activation product has a low viscosity (it is therefore liquid, fluid, for example in the form of serum or solution). Indeed, in this case, when the activation product is applied to an activation zone 42 (i.e. to the entire zone 42 or to a part of this zone 42) of the impregnation layer 4, the activation product has a tendency to spread. The fact that the impregnation films 41a, 41b and 41c are not in contact makes it possible to prevent the activation product from spreading undesirably to other zones of the impregnation layer 4, in particular to zones which are not activation zones 42.

In the case where the impregnation layer 4 comprises a plurality of impregnation films 41, the impregnation films 41 are not necessarily made of the same material. However, for reasons of simplicity and cost, three separate but identical films (in the same material) may be used.

It should be noted that different activation products could be used depending on the different activation zones 42. Therefore, the impregnation films 41 could each be made of materials adapted to the viscosity of the activation product that they are intended to receive.

Preferably, at least one impregnation film 41 is not pre-impregnated. The pre-impregnation may allow the treatment device 1 to be used by a user without any prior step other than applying the treatment device 1 to the skin.

However, pre-impregnation may reduce the operating time of the treatment device 1 for treating the user's skin. For example, this may result in premature activation of the current generator 24 if the corresponding activation area 42a is pre-impregnated. Thus, the current generator 24 and thus the treatment device 1 would have a reduced operating time since the current generator 24 would have already been operating for a certain period of time before the user applied it to his skin.

It is therefore preferred that the impregnation film(s) 41 are not pre-impregnated. Consequently, it is preferred that the user impregnates the activation zones 42 as little time as possible before applying the treatment device 1 to his skin. Indeed, it is particularly advantageous that the first or second conductive pole 244, 245 comprising the reducing agent (in this case zinc) is not pre-impregnated so as not to trigger the redox reaction before the actual use of the treatment device 1.

As can be seen on the FIG. 11 in particular, the impregnation layer 4 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the treatment device 1, and in particular to the drop, disc or triangle shapes described previously. More precisely, in the preferred mode where the impregnation layer comprises a plurality of impregnation films 41a, 41b, 41c, each of the first, second and third impregnation films 41a, 41b, 41c respectively has the same shape as each of the main electrode 22, counter-electrode 23 and current generator 24. More precisely, in the case of the treatment device 1 in the form of a drop, the first impregnation film 41a has a drop shape, the second impregnation film 41b has a circular arc shape, the third impregnation film has a circular arc shape. In the case of the circular-shaped treatment device 1, the first impregnation film has a disc shape, the second impregnation film has a circular arc shape, the third impregnation film has a circular arc shape. It will thus be understood that the shape of each impregnation film corresponds to the shape of the area that it is intended to impregnate.

Stencil layer

Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises at least one stencil layer 6 at least partially covering the impregnation layer 4, i.e. the first impregnation layer 4a or the second impregnation layer 4b. The stencil layer 6 comprises at least one stencil film 61.

In the same way as in the part concerning the impregnation layer 4, subsequently, we deal with the main electrode 22, the counter-electrode 23 and the current generator 24. It is understood that the main electrode 22 can be the first main electrode 221 or the second main electrode 222. Likewise, it is understood that the counter-electrode 23 can be the first main counter-electrode 231 or the second counter-electrode 232. The current generator 24 can be the first current generator 24a or the second current generator 24b.

Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises two stencil layers 6, including a first stencil layer and a second stencil layer. Thus, subsequently, “stencil layer 6” may correspond to the first stencil layer and/or to the second stencil layer. The first stencil layer at least partially covers the first impregnation layer 4a. The second stencil layer at least partially covers the second impregnation layer 4b. Thus, when the stencil layer 6 and the impregnation layer 4 are mentioned, it is understood that this may correspond to the first impregnation layer 4a and the first stencil layer 6 or to the second impregnation layer 4b and the second stencil layer.

The stencil layer 6 comprises at least one permeable zone 62 adapted to allow electrically conductive activation product to pass only at the level of predefined zones of the impregnation layer 4 called “free zones 44”.

Preferably, the stencil layer 6 comprises a plurality of permeable zones 62 and each permeable zone 62 of the stencil layer 6 corresponds to a free zone 44 of the impregnation layer 4. In other words, the free zone 44 of a permeable zone 62 is the zone of the impregnation layer 4 at which the permeable zone 62 is located. By “at” is meant “facing”, “above” and/or “on”. The free zone 44 has a surface and a shape identical to the permeable zone 62. The permeable zone 62 makes the free zone 44 accessible to an activation product which would be applied to the permeable zone 62.

The stencil layer 6 has the role of allowing the activation of only the activation zones 42, and of protecting the other zones from the activation product. The stencil layer 6 aims to prevent the application of activation product to zones of the impregnation layer 4 which are not activation zones 42. This therefore allows the designers of the devices 1 to determine which zones will or will not be in contact with the activation product, regardless of the user's handling and skills. This results in great simplicity of use of the treatment device 1 and great reliability.

Indeed, it is desired to avoid short circuits as much as possible within the treatment device 1, to limit the current generator 24 from “emptying” too quickly and to ensure that the current passes fully through the skin (treatment effectiveness). Typically, if an activation product were applied to the entire surface of the impregnation layer 4, and therefore the entire surface of the support layer 2 were in contact with an activation product, numerous short circuits would occur, the current preferring to pass through the activation product (the “simplest” path) rather than through the skin. It is therefore desired to precisely target the areas of the impregnation layer 4 on which the activation product must be applied to avoid as many short circuits as possible and to control and optimize the path of the electric current.

For this, the stencil layer 6 comprises permeable zones 62. The permeable zones 62 allow the circulation of activation product through the stencil layer 6, towards the impregnation layer 4 during an application of activation product on the stencil layer 6. The permeable zones 62 are for example made of a porous material.

The remainder of the stencil layer 6, i.e. the impermeable zones 63, are preferably made of a material which would prevent any circulation of activation product towards the impregnation layer 4 during an application of activation product on the stencil layer 6 at the level of these impermeable zones 63.

Advantageously, as can be seen in the various figures, the permeable zones 62 are openwork zones, preferably formed by holes (or openings or cutouts) made in the stencil film 61. In other words, the permeable zones 62 are empty zones. A stencil film 61 is therefore openwork, i.e. perforated, at the level of a permeable zone 62. In other words, the permeable zones 62 reveal the free zones 44 of the impregnation layer 4. The permeable zones 62 are thus, in terms of shape, complementary to the free zones 44.

Each free zone 44 comprises at least one activation zone 42. A free zone 44 typically has a surface area smaller than or identical to that of a corresponding activation zone 42.

The free zones 44 are adapted to allow impregnation with activation product at the activation zones 42. By applying activation product to a permeable zone 62 and therefore at the level of a corresponding free zone 44, it is expected that the activation product impregnates a corresponding activation zone 42. More precisely, the free zone 44 may be smaller than the activation zone 42 in the case of a liquid activation product. Indeed, in this case, it is expected that the activation product having reached the free zone 44 will spread (by capillarity) beyond the free zone 44 and impregnate at least the corresponding activation zone 42. Furthermore, the free zone 44 may have a size substantially identical to that of the activation zone 42 in the case of a viscous activation product, such as for example a gel or a cream for example cosmetic. Indeed, in this case, it is not expected that the activation product having reached the free zone 44 will spread beyond the free zone 44 so that it is preferred that the free zone 44 corresponds substantially to the activation zone 42.

Preferably, at least one free zone 44, called “first free zone 44a”, comprises at least a portion of the first activation zone 42a. In other words, a permeable zone 62, called “first permeable zone 62a”, is located opposite at least a portion of the first activation zone 42a. Thus, at least one first permeable zone 62 is located opposite at least a portion of the free space 243 of a galvanic couple 240.

Advantageously, a first permeable zone 62a, and therefore a corresponding first free zone 44a, is located opposite each free space 243 of the support layer 2. In such a way, the stencil layer 6 is provided to allow the activation of each galvanic couple 240.

According to one embodiment, a first permeable zone 62a, and therefore a corresponding first free zone 44a, is only arranged opposite a part of a free space 243 and the length of the first permeable zone 62 (and therefore also of the first free zone 44a) is less than the length of the free space 243. The surface area of the first permeable zone 62a, and therefore of the first free zone 44a, is thus less than the surface area of the first activation zone 42a. This scenario is suitable, for example, when an activation product is not very viscous and therefore very liquid, such as, for example, a physiological serum or a saline solution. Indeed, in this case it is sufficient to initially apply the activation product to a first free zone 44a corresponding to a small part of the first activation zone 42a because the activation product will spread so as to impregnate at least the first activation zone 42a of the impregnation layer 4.

According to another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , a first permeable zone 62a is arranged opposite at least 20% of the total surface area of the first activation zone 42a. The corresponding first free zone 44a therefore has a surface area of at least 20% of the total surface area of the first activation zone 42a. In other words, the first permeable zone 62a, and therefore also the first free zone 44a, is arranged opposite a part of a galvanic couple 240 which extends from the first conductive pole 241 to the second conductive pole 242. The first permeable zone 62a can also be arranged opposite a part of a galvanic couple 240 so as to be opposite a part of a first conductive pole 241, a part of the free space 243 and a part of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240. This scenario is for example suitable when an activation product is viscous. Indeed, in this case it is necessary to initially apply activation product to the first free zone 44a which has a surface area of at least 20% of the surface area of the first activation zone 42a to impregnate at least the first activation zone 42a with the impregnation layer 4 because the activation product will spread little.

It is thus understood that the sizing of the permeable zones 62 of the stencil layer 6 is correlated, in particular, with the viscosity of the activation product. Indeed, the more viscous, pasty, thick the activation product is, as would be the case for example with a cream or a gel, the less it will spread (diffuse) in the impregnation layer 4, therefore it is appropriate to maximize the size of the permeable zones 62. Conversely, the more liquid, fluid the activation product is, the more it will spread (diffuse) in the impregnation layer 4, in particular by capillarity, therefore it is appropriate to minimize the size of the permeable zones 62.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 1 , the first permeable zones 62a are rectangular in shape. Each first permeable zone 62a has a length approximately equal to 7 mm and a width approximately equal to 2 mm. Each first permeable zone 62a is designed so that each corresponding first free zone 44a is arranged opposite a portion of a first conductive pole 241, a portion of the free space 243 and a portion of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240, each of these portions having an advantageously similar surface area.

Advantageously, the stencil layer 6 further comprises permeable zones 62 arranged opposite the main electrode 22 and/or the counter-electrode 23. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises corresponding free zones 44.

Preferably, a second permeable zone 62b is arranged opposite the second activation zone 42b which is arranged at the level of the main electrode 22. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises at least one second free zone 44b corresponding to the second permeable zone 62b located opposite said second free zone 44b.

Also preferably, a third permeable zone 62c is arranged opposite the third activation zone 42c which is arranged at the level of the counter-electrode 23. The impregnation layer 4 therefore comprises at least one third free zone 44c corresponding to the third permeable zone 62c located opposite said third free zone 44c.

Thus, an activation product can be applied to these permeable zones 62b, 62c so that the activation product impregnates the second free zone 44b and third free zone 44c and, consequently, impregnates the second activation zone 42b and third activation zone 42c to allow the circulation of electric current via the electrodes 22, 23 when the treatment device 1 is applied to the skin of a user.

Preferably, the second permeable zone 62b has a shape similar to that of the main electrode 22. The second free zone 44b therefore has a shape similar to that of the main electrode 22. Also preferably, the third permeable zone 62c has a shape similar to that of the counter-electrode 23. The third free zone 44c therefore has a shape similar to that of the counter-electrode 23.

The stencil layer 6 preferably comprises a stencil film 61. The stencil layer 6 may also comprise a plurality of stencil films 61, each of which may comprise one or more permeable zones 62.

Whatever the embodiment of the stencil layer 6 detailed previously, it is clear that the latter allows the user to apply activation product to the entire treatment device 1, on the stencil layer 6, without having to worry about the areas to be activated or not. Indeed, it is the permeable areas 62 and the impermeable areas 63 of the stencil layer 6 which allow the activation product to pass through to the activation area(s) 42 or on the contrary prevent the activation product from reaching the other areas. In other words, the stencil layer 6 makes it possible to guide the activation product towards areas previously defined by the designers of the treatment device 1, in this case the activation areas 42.

The stencil layer 6 is preferably adapted to be removed from the treatment device 1 before the treatment device 1 is applied to the skin of a user. Indeed, the stencil layer 6 aims in particular to allow the application of activation product to the free areas 44 of the impregnation layer 4 so as to allow the impregnation of the activation areas 42. Once the user has applied the activation product to the stencil layer 6 and indirectly to the free areas 44 of the impregnation layer 4, the stencil layer 6 can be removed.

This can in particular make it possible to discover the second and third activation zones 42b, 42c. Thus, according to one embodiment, the total surface of the electrodes 22, 23 can be applied in contact with the skin.

Furthermore, this makes it possible to keep on the treatment device 1 only the activation product necessary for the operation of the treatment device 1 and not the activation product which would have been applied to impermeable zones 63. This guarantees that no activation product remains on unwanted zones, which limits the risk of short circuits occurring when using the treatment device 1.

The stencil layer 6 is preferably flexible. The stencil layer 6 is for example made of a flexible plastic such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The stencil layer 6 preferably has a thickness of less than 50 µm. The thickness of the stencil layer 6 is typically greater than 30 µm, preferably approximately equal to 40 µm.

Thus, the stencil layer 6 makes it possible, thanks to a remarkable combination of permeable zones 62 and impermeable zones 63 judiciously sized and positioned, to guide (i.e. to let through) the activation product only towards the activation zones 42 comprising, in this case, a part of the free space 243, and preferably, a part of a first conductive pole 241, a part of a second conductive pole 242 of a galvanic couple 240, and advantageously the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23; and on the contrary, to preserve the other zones (other than the activation zones 42) from the activation product.

Contact method

Advantageously, the treatment device 1 comprises contact and holding means to ensure contact between the treatment device 1 and the user's skin and to hold the treatment device 1 on the skin despite possible external disturbances (wind, clothing, hair, etc.).

The contact means comprise, for example, an elastic band. For example, in the case of a treatment device 1 in the form of a face mask, the treatment device 1 may comprise an elastic band that would surround the head to press the treatment device 1 against the face.

Preferably, the contact means comprise an adhesive layer 5. The adhesive layer 5 is preferably arranged between the impregnation layer 4 and the stencil layer 6. The adhesive layer 5 comprises at least one adhesive film 51.

The treatment device 1 advantageously comprises two adhesive layers 5, including a first adhesive layer and a second adhesive layer. The first adhesive layer is preferably arranged between the first impregnation layer 4a and the first stencil layer. The first adhesive layer is preferably arranged between the second impregnation layer 4b and the second stencil layer.

The adhesive layer 5 preferably comprises at least one permeable zone 52 adapted to allow an activation product to pass only at the level of at least one activation zone 42. The permeable zone 52 is preferably perforated, for example by being formed by a hole (or an opening) made in the adhesive film 51.

The adhesive layer 5 preferably has a shape similar to the stencil layer 6.

Preferably, the adhesive layer 5 covers the impregnation layer 4 located on the current generator 24 (except the free zones 44). The adhesive layer 5 is arranged on and in contact with at least a part of the impregnation layer 4. The adhesive layer 5 does not cover the parts of the impregnation layer 4 located opposite the main electrode 22 and the counter electrode 23, in order to allow good current flow between the electrodes 22 and 23 and the skin.

Thus, the adhesive layer 5 ensures that the treatment device 1 is held on the skin while isolating the galvanic couples 240 from the skin and allowing the activation of each galvanic couple 240 via the free zones 44. The galvanic couples 240 being isolated from the skin by the adhesive layer 5, the risk of short circuit within the latter is eliminated and the risk of seeing redness appear on the skin is reduced.

The adhesive layer 5 has an external adhesive surface 53 intended to come into contact with the user's skin and to ensure the treatment device 1 is fixed to the skin for the entire duration of the treatment.

Advantageously, the stencil layer 6 constitutes a cover for the adhesive layer 5. In other words, when the stencil layer 6 is removed from the treatment device 1, the adhesive external surface 53 of the adhesive layer 5 is uncovered and can then be stuck to the user's skin.

The adhesive layer 5 therefore also remarkably allows the stencil layer 6 to be held on the treatment device 1 before the stencil layer 6 is removed from the treatment device 1. The stencil layer 6 and the adhesive layer 5 therefore play a respective role towards one another: the stencil layer 6 protects the adhesive outer surface 53 of the adhesive layer 5, in particular from dust, thus preserving its adhesive power, while the adhesive outer surface 53 ensures the holding of the stencil layer 6 while waiting for the user to remove it during the actual use of the treatment device 1.

The adhesive layer 5 advantageously also has an internal adhesive surface intended to come into contact with the impregnation layer 4, and thus ensure its attachment to the latter. Preferably, the adhesive layer 5 is then formed by a double-sided adhesive film 51, that is to say a film having an external adhesive surface 53 intended to be in contact with the skin and an internal adhesive surface intended to be in contact with the impregnation layer 4.

The adhesive layer 5 preferably has a thickness of less than 150 µm. The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, approximately equal to 140 µm.

Consequently, the total thickness of the treatment device 1 (i.e. of the stack of layers previously described) is less than 6 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, more preferably less than 4 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm and more preferably less than 2 mm. The treatment device 1 is thus flexible and can therefore conform to the shape of the area of the body on which it will be placed.

Method of use

According to a second aspect, a method of using the processing device 1 will be described with reference to the FIG. 12 . First, the user equips himself with the treatment device 1. He also obtains an electrically conductive activation product.

In a step a) of applying activation product, the user applies activation product to the treatment device 1 so as to cover at least the permeable zone(s) 62 of the stencil layer 6 and therefore the corresponding free zone(s) 44 of the impregnation layer 4. As the treatment device 1 comprises electrodes 221, 222, 231, 232 on each of its faces (the electrodes 221, 231 on its first face and the electrodes 222, 232 on its second face), the user can choose the face that he wishes to apply to his skin and therefore the face on which he applies product at the electrodes. For example, the user can choose to apply product to the electrodes that have already been used during another treatment to preserve the electrodes on the other side and keep them "new" as long as the electrodes already used are usable, that is to say they allow the circulation of electric current in the skin.

The activation product then impregnates the free zones 44 and, consequently, the activation zones 42 of the impregnation layer 4.

If the treatment device 1 comprises a current generator 24 in the form of a rechargeable battery, the user simply needs to electrically connect the battery to the electrodes covered with product in any known manner.

If the electrodes on which the user has applied the product are electrically connected to a current generator 24 comprising at least one galvanic couple 240, the user impregnates the first free zone(s) 44a located opposite each free space 243 of the support layer 2 so as to activate the current generator 24.

In a step b) of removing the stencil layer 6, the user removes the stencil layer 6 so that said stencil layer 6 no longer covers the impregnation layer 4. It is understood that the user removes the first stencil layer which then no longer covers the first impregnation layer 4a if the user decides to apply the treatment device 1 to his skin so that the first electrodes 221, 231 are in contact, direct or indirect, with his skin. Conversely, the user removes the second stencil layer which then no longer covers the second impregnation layer 4b if the user decides to apply the treatment device 1 to his skin so that the second electrodes 222, 232 are in contact, direct or indirect, with his skin. In other words, the user only removes the stencil layer 6 which covers the face of the treatment device 1 which he will apply to his skin for treatment, the other face thus remaining protected from any pollution for future use.

In a step c) of applying the treatment device 1 to the skin, the treatment device 1 is applied to the user's skin so that free areas 44, in particular the second and third free areas 44b and 44c, of the impregnation layer 4, are in contact with the user's skin. The user therefore applies the treatment device 1 to his skin so that the first electrodes 221, 231 or the second electrodes 222, 232 are opposite his skin.

The impregnation of the first activation zones 42a (located opposite the free spaces 243 of the galvanic couples 240) causes an oxidation-reduction reaction within the galvanic couples 240. This allows the activation of the galvanic couples 240 and therefore of the current generator 24.

An electric current is generated and passes through the user's skin P as for example illustrated in FIG. 6 .

Preferably, the materials in contact with the user's skin comprise only non-woven fabric (areas of the impregnation layer 4), activation product and possibly an adhesive material of the adhesive external surface 53 of the adhesive layer 5. As a result, the user's skin is only in contact with skin-friendly materials (i.e. it is unlikely that any allergic skin reaction will occur). This therefore improves the comfort of use of the treatment device 1 and considerably limits, or even eliminates, any risk of redness appearing on the area treated with the treatment device 1.

Manufacturing process

According to a third aspect, with reference to the FIG. 13 , a method for manufacturing the processing device 1 is proposed. Preferably, a set of devices 1 or a set of parts of devices 1 is manufactured on the same support and each processing device 1 or each part of devices 1 is then detailed by cutting the set.

In a step a) of forming the faces of the support layer, preferably initial, at least a first face 2a of a support layer 2 and a second face 2b of a support layer 2 are formed.

For this, at least one printed assembly comprising a first main electrode 221, a first counter-electrode 231 and possibly a first current generator 24a on at least one support film 21 is printed from conductive inks, preferably by screen printing. A plurality of assemblies can be printed on the same support to optimize manufacturing.

In the case where the first face 2a comprises a current generator 24a comprising at least one galvanic couple 240, step a) preferably comprises a step a1), preferably initial, of printing connectors, advantageously in carbon, as illustrated in FIG. 14 . The printed carbon connectors preferably comprise couple connectors 246 for electrically connecting the galvanic couples 240 of a current generator 240. The printed carbon connectors also preferably comprise the first connector 244 or the last connector 245 for connecting at least one of the first main electrode 221 and the first counter electrode 231 to one of a first conductive pole and a second conductive pole of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24a. As can be seen in the FIG. 14 , the couple connectors 246 and the last connector 245 have, in top view, a p-shape (or symmetrically q-shape), that is to say that they have a first solid zone, substantially square and a tail (or thin zone).

Step a1) may optionally also include the printing of a multitude of carbon dots intended to be arranged in the first main electrode 221.

Preferably, the carbon ink is then heated with an annealing process at 110°C for 3 minutes. Annealing stabilizes the ink and gives the carbon the necessary electrical properties.

Step a) then preferably comprises a step a2), preferably intermediate, of printing, preferably in zinc, for each galvanic couple 240 of one of the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242, as illustrated in FIG. 15 .

Preferably, the zinc is deposited partially above the carbon connectors. Advantageously, as can be seen in the FIG. 15 , the zinc ink covers the full shape of the p or q that each of the couple connectors 246 and the last connector 245 forms without however covering the tail of the latter.

Preferably, the zinc is then heated with an annealing at 110°C for 3 minutes. Annealing stabilizes the ink and gives the zinc the necessary electrical properties.

Then, step a) preferably comprises a step a3), successive to step a2), of printing in silver and/or silver chloride for each galvanic couple 240 of the other among the first conductive pole 241 and the second conductive pole 242 (i.e. the conductive poles which are not those printed in zinc). Step a3) also preferably comprises the printing in silver and/or silver chloride of the first main electrode 221 and of the first counter-electrode 231.

Step a3) leads to the first face 2a of the support layer 2 illustrated in FIG. 16 .

Advantageously, the same steps are implemented to obtain the second face 2b of the support layer 2. According to one embodiment, the prints are implemented on the back of the first face 2a, on the same support film 21. According to this embodiment, the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 are printed on the first face 21a of the support film 21 and the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 are printed on the second face 21b of the support film 21. According to another embodiment, the prints are implemented on another support film 21, different from the support film 21 of the first face 2a (but the support films 21 can be part of the same initial support, before cutting), the two printed assemblies will then be assembled. According to this embodiment, the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 are printed on the first face 211a of a first support film 211 and the second main electrode 222 and the second counter-electrode 232 are printed on the first face 212a of a second support film 212. The manufacturing method further advantageously comprises a step b) of forming at least one first impregnation layer 4a and/or a second impregnation layer 4b by arranging at least one impregnation film 41 on the first face 2a and/or the second face 2b of the support layer 2.

Advantageously, step b) is implemented by heat-sealing. As explained previously, step b) may preferably comprise the placement of a plurality of impregnation films 41, for example three impregnation films 41a, 41b, 41c, in order to form the first impregnation layer 4a and/or the second impregnation layer 4b. Then, in a step c), advantageously, at least one first stencil layer 6 and/or one second stencil layer 6 are formed by placing at least one stencil film 61 on the first impregnation layer 4a and/or on the second impregnation layer 4b. Step c) aims in particular to arrange the permeable zones 62 of the first stencil layer 6 opposite the free zones 44 of the first impregnation layer 4 and/or of the second stencil layer 6 opposite the free zones 44 of the second impregnation layer 4. It will be understood that the stencil film 61 may itself come from a manufacturing sub-process which may in particular comprise steps of forming permeable zones 62, for example by cutting, drilling, stamping, etc.

Preferably, the at least one stencil film 61 is arranged on the first impregnation layer 4 so that, for the at least one printed assembly, at least one permeable zone 62 of the at least one stencil film 61 is arranged opposite at least a part of a galvanic couple 240 of the current generator 24 extending at least in a part of the free space 243 of the galvanic couple 240. It is understood that the step is similar for the arrangement of the stencil film 61 of the second stencil layer 6 on the second impregnation layer 4b.

Advantageously, step c) consists of simultaneously forming the first stencil layer 6 and the first adhesive layer 5 by placing an assembled assembly comprising the first stencil layer 6 and the first adhesive layer 5 on the first impregnation layer 4. In this case, as explained previously, a double-sided adhesive film 51 may be used, one of the faces comprising a cover forming the stencil film 61. It is understood that the step is similar for the formation of the second stencil layer 6 and the second adhesive layer 5.

The assembly of the first stencil layer 6 to the first impregnation layer 4 and/or of the second stencil layer 6 to the second impregnation layer 4b can for example be implemented by heat welding.

In the case where the second face 1b of the treatment device 1 is already formed on the back of the first face 1a of the treatment device 1, i.e. the treatment device 1 is formed but it must be separated from the rest of the support, the manufacturing method advantageously comprises a step d) of obtaining a treatment device 1 by cutting into the desired shapes (for example drop, circle and triangular) defined previously from the superposition of the support layer 2, the impregnation layers 4a, 4b and the stencil layers 6.

In the case where all the printing and addition of layers have been carried out on the same face of a support, the manufacturing method advantageously comprises a step d) of obtaining a first part of the treatment device 1 by cutting into the desired shapes the first part of the support layer 2 (i.e. its first face 2a), the first impregnation layer 4a and the first stencil layer 6. Step d) further comprises a step d) of obtaining a second part of the treatment device 1 by cutting into the desired shapes the second part of the support layer 2 (i.e. its first face 2b), the second impregnation layer 4b and the second stencil layer 6. According to this embodiment, the first main electrode 221 and the first counter-electrode 231 are printed on the first face 211a of the first support film 211 and the second main electrode 222 and the second ... 232 are printed on the first face 212a of the second support film 212. Step d) further advantageously comprises a step of bonding, preferably from an impermeable and electrically insulating material, the two parts of the treatment device 1 so as to form the treatment device 1. More precisely, the support films 211, 212 are bonded via their second faces 211b, 212b.

Kit

According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a kit for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation comprising:
- a processing device 1;
- one or more electrically conductive activation products intended to soak the impregnation layer(s) 4 and to possibly activate the current generator(s) 24 if the latter comprise galvanic couples 240.

Another kit for implementing the treatment device 1 will be described. The kit includes:
- an assembly comprising a support layer 2, possibly one or two impregnation layers 4 and preferably one or two stencil layers 6 assembled;
- possibly a separate stencil layer 6;
- and one or more electrically conductive activation products.

The stencil layer 6 is possibly detached, separate from the processing device 1. It can then be envisaged that the stencil layer 6 is reusable and can therefore be used on different devices 1. The stencil layer 6 can therefore be used for each of the faces of the processing device 1, i.e. opposite each of the faces 2a, 2b of the support layer 2.

Preferably, the activation product has a pH of between 4 and 10, in particular between 5 and 7 so as to respect the user's skin and not attack it. Preferably, the pH of the activation product is adapted to the materials of the galvanic couples 240 so as to optimize the effectiveness of the treatment device 1.

For example, in the case of a galvanic couple 240 whose second conductive pole 241 (being a negative pole) is made of zinc, the more acidic the activation product, the more the zinc will oxidize and the better the redox reaction and therefore the effectiveness of the treatment device 1 will be. Thus, it will be preferred in this case to use an activation product whose pH is of the order of 5. In other cases, it may be preferred for the pH to be higher, i.e. for the activation product to have a pH of the order of 7.

The activation product may contain an active agent to be released into the skin for skin treatment, such as vitamin C.

Advantageously, the kit includes two activation products, a first product and a second product, the products allowing complementary treatments.

To use the kit, the user arranges the stencil layer 6 so that the permeable areas 62 are opposite the free areas 44, if the latter is not already. Marks could be drawn on the impregnation layer 4 to indicate the free areas 4. Furthermore, the stencil layer 6 could have the same shape as the impregnation layer 4 so that the user can correctly position the stencil layer 6 by superimposing the perimeter of the stencil layer 6 on the perimeter of the impregnation layer 4.

Then, the user can implement the method of use described previously.

Claims (7)

Device (1) for treating the skin of a user by iontophoresis and/or electrostimulation intended to be applied to the skin of the user, the treatment device (1) comprising:
- a support layer (2) comprising a first face (2a) and a second face (2b) opposite the first face (2a);
- a first main electrode (221) and a first counter electrode (231) arranged on the first face (2a) of the support layer (2);
- a second main electrode (222) and a second counter-electrode (232) arranged on the second face (2b) of the support layer (2);
- a current generator (24) adapted to be electrically connected to the first main electrode (221) as well as to the first counter-electrode (231), and/or to the second main electrode (222) as well as to the second counter-electrode (232). Processing device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processing device (1) comprises a first current generator (24a) arranged on the first face (2a) of the support layer (2) and a second current generator (24b) arranged on the second face (2b) of the support layer (2), each of the first and second current generators (24a; 24b) comprising at least one galvanic couple (240), the galvanic couple (240) being formed of a first conductive pole (241) which is a positive pole and a second conductive pole (242) which is a negative pole separated from each other by a free space (243). Treatment device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first current generator (241) and/or the second current generator (242) are printed from conductive inks on the support film (21). A processing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first and second main electrodes (221, 222) and the first and second counter electrodes (231, 232) are printed from conductive inks on the support film (21). Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the support layer (2) comprises a single support film (21) comprising a first face (21a) and a second face (21b) opposite the first face (21a), the first main electrode (221) and the first counter-electrode (231) being arranged on the first face (21a) and the second main electrode (222) and the second counter-electrode (232) being arranged on the second face (21b). The processing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the support layer (2) comprises a first support film (211) and a second support film (212), the first support film (211) comprising a first face (211a) and a second face (211b) opposite each other, the second support film (212) comprising a first face (212a) and a second face (212b) opposite each other, the first main electrode (221) and the first counter electrode (231) being arranged on the first face (211a) of the first support film (211) and the second main electrode (222) and the second counter electrode (232) being arranged on the first face (212a) of the second support film (212), the support films (211, 212) being connected to each other at their second faces (211b, 212b). Treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one support film (21) is impermeable.