WO2025027186A1

WO2025027186A1 - False eyelash support with flexible fixing tabs

Info

Publication number: WO2025027186A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/071974
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eric Caulier
Original assignee: LOreal SA
Current assignee: LOreal SA
Priority date: 2023-08-03
Filing date: 2024-08-02
Publication date: 2025-02-06
Anticipated expiration: 2026-02-03
Also published as: FR3151744A1; FR3151744B1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a support (3) for false eyelashes (1) comprising a housing (31) comprising a bottom (31 A), and an element (34) for retaining the false eyelash (1 ) extending protruding from the bottom (31 A) along an elevation direction (Z) and comprising a bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1) extending between the bottom (31 A) and an upper edge (36) curved around the elevation direction in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction, and tabs (38) for fixing a false eyelash. Each fixing tab extends facing the bearing wall between a first end (38A) integral with the bearing wall and a free end (38B) offset angularly with respect to the first end about the elevation direction (Z), in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction.

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE: FALSE EYELASH SUPPORT WITH FLEXIBLE FIXING TABS

The present invention relates to a false eyelash support comprising an inner housing comprising a bottom, at least one side wall and at least one element for retaining the false eyelash extending protruding from the bottom along an elevation direction, the retention element comprising at least one bearing wall for the false eyelash extending between the bottom and an upper edge inwardly curved about the elevation direction in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction, and at least two tabs for fixing a false eyelash, protruding from the bearing wall for the false eyelash.

When a user uses false eyelashes, it is necessary to have a suitable storage space in which the false eyelashes can be stored prior to placement on the natural eyelashes, and put away once removed.

In general, a false eyelash is formed of artificial fibres. It comprises a baseline to which a plurality of artificial eyelashes and/or artificial fibres are attached. The baseline of a false eyelash is curved to accommodate the curvature of the eyelid. Similarly, the artificial eyelashes are bent to replicate the curvature of the natural eyelashes.

Since false eyelashes are generally fragile and the curvature of their baseline or the curvature of the artificial eyelashes is generally easily deformable, the storage space granted to them has to be adapted so as to limit the deformations of the curves of the false eyelashes (curvature of the baseline and curvature of the artificial eyelashes), which could be generated during storage of the false eyelashes.

When false eyelashes are to be carried by a user, it is even more important that the false eyelashes are kept in their storage space so that they do not come into contact with objects that could damage them.

It is known to use false eyelash supports having an element for retaining at least one false eyelash, generally adapted to conform to the curved shape of the false eyelash. The retention element can act mechanically by a geometric characteristic such as a slot or grooves for inserting the false eyelash, or even such as a tab for pinching the false eyelash. The retention element may also act chemically, using a non-permanent adhesive to hold the false eyelash on the support. While some of these solutions allow the false eyelash to be held effectively on the support, they do not necessarily guarantee that the curves given to the false eyelash are maintained.

Especially, when a non-permanent adhesive is used, removal of the false eyelash from the support may result in damage by deformation of the curvature of the artificial eyelashes, the curvature of the baseline of the false eyelash, or may result in some artificial eyelashes being pulled off the false eyelash.

Furthermore, the use of clips or pinching tabs, exerting an elastic force on the false eyelash, generates a risk of alteration of the integrity of the false eyelash, especially when it is removed from the support, and/or generates a risk of alteration of the geometry of the false eyelash, in particular when it is stored on the support.

US9044077 describes a false eyelash support comprising a bottom and at least one element for retaining a false eyelash protruding from the bottom along an elevation direction. The retention element comprises clips for holding the false eyelash that pinch the false eyelash between two planar surfaces.

Other false eyelash supports are described in documents US3504682, US20210161265, CN216510310 and US10588389.

The support described especially in US9044077 ensures effective retention but does not give full satisfaction. Indeed, holding the false eyelash by pinching usually leads to unnatural and irreversible deformation of the false eyelash, which damages it. In some cases, the false eyelash ready to be applied to a user’s natural eyelashes no longer has a suitable shape and has therefore to be discarded.

One purpose of the invention is to provide a false eyelash support making it possible to hold false eyelashes robustly but reversibly, and without altering the false eyelashes when they are stored on the support and/or when the user removes them from the support.

To this end, one object of the invention is a false eyelash support of the aforementioned type, characterised in that each fixing tab extends facing the bearing wall for the false eyelash between a first end integral with the bearing wall for the false eyelash and a free end offset angularly with respect to the first end about the elevation direction, in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction.

Since the fixing tabs extend along a direction comprised in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction, the false eyelash can be held by the tabs without any particular deformation other than that resulting from its own weight. Indeed, the false eyelash is held against the bearing wall by being blocked but without being pinched, especially by the friction existing between the artificial eyelashes and the bearing wall under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash. The fixing tabs are mainly used to hold the false eyelash against the bearing wall and/or to prevent the false eyelash from moving apart from the bearing wall.

The elastic memory of the false eyelash, combined with the geometry of the fixing tabs, allows it to arch between the bearing wall and the fixing tabs in order to be held against the bearing wall.

The double curvature of the baseline of the false eyelash and the artificial eyelashes also strengthens the hold of the false eyelash against the bearing wall.

The user can then remove the false eyelash from the support and place it directly on their natural eyelashes without, in most cases, any additional operation for reshaping the false eyelash. Preserving the structural and geometric integrity of the false eyelash makes it easier to place it and achieve the desired result.

According to one alternative, the false eyelash support according to the invention comprises the following characteristic:

- each fixing tab extends in a curved way around the elevation direction, in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction.

Since the fixing tabs are inwardly curved, they more easily conform to the curvature of the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash and allow it to be held without deforming the curvature of the baseline.

- each tab defines, between the first end and the free end, at least one surface for jamming a false eyelash, extending facing the bearing wall for the false eyelash, at least a free part of the jamming surface extending at rest at a distance from the bearing wall for the false eyelash, defining an intermediate space between the fixing tab and the bearing wall.

The part of the jamming surface away from the bearing wall creates a space for confining the false eyelash which holds it in place on the support without generating any other particular deformation than that resulting from its own weight.

By “jamming”, it is meant that the false eyelash is suitable for being held between the jamming surface and the bearing wall, and against the bearing wall, but without being pinched. Holding the false eyelash is performed by the friction existing between the artificial eyelashes and the bearing wall under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash and by the abutment on the jamming surface that prevents the false eyelash from sliding on the bearing wall, away from it, by “slide” effect. According to one alternative, the false eyelash support according to the invention comprises the following characteristic:

- the entire jamming surface of the tabs extends at a distance from the bearing wall for the false eyelash between the first end and the free end.

When the entire jamming surface is located away from the bearing wall, the surface generating friction hold between the artificial eyelashes and the bearing wall under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash is maximum and the hold of the false eyelash is thus reinforced, minimising the risk of altering its integrity and/or its geometry.

- in at least one plane perpendicular to the elevation direction, the free part of the jamming surface extends at least partially in parallel to the bearing wall for the false eyelash, the minimum distance between the free part of the jamming surface and the bearing wall for the false eyelash taken along a normal to the bearing wall for the false eyelash being preferably greater than 0.1 mm, and in particular of between 0.2 mm and 1 .5 mm.

Since the minimum distance between the free part of the jamming surface and the bearing wall for the false eyelash is greater than 0.1 mm, and especially of between 0.2 mm and 1.5 mm, the false eyelash can be effectively held between the jamming surface and the wall by friction between the artificial eyelashes and the bearing wall under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash, while being protected from any damage. Indeed, this distance creates sufficient clearance so as not to press the false eyelash against the wall, and preferably not to touch the false eyelash. The clearance remains small enough to hinder the movement of the false eyelash, in particular in a direction normal to the bearing wall, and to ensure that it is held against the bearing wall.

- in the at least one plane perpendicular to the elevation direction, the free part of the jamming surface comprises, from the first end to the free end, a first section extending in parallel to the bearing wall for the false eyelash and a second section extending from the first section, the second section moving apart from the bearing wall for the false eyelash of the retention element.

The second section moving apart from the bearing wall for the false eyelash is useful for the user who wishes to grip the tab and possibly move it slightly apart in order to insert the false eyelash into the jamming surface, or in order to release the false eyelash from the retention element. This section creates an easy-to-find and user-accessible gripping surface.

Alternatively, the second section remains in the extension of the first section, and does not move apart from the bearing wall. When removing the false eyelash from the support, the false eyelash slides between the tabs without deforming them, under the effect of a tensile force exerted on the false eyelash by the user along a direction normal to the bearing wall and/or in a direction comprising a component parallel to the elevation direction of the retention element.

- the support wall of the false eyelash extending between the bottom of the inner housing and the curved upper edge of the retention element is concave at least facing each fixing tab.

The concave bearing wall helps to hold the false eyelash on the retention element. Indeed, the concave wall conforms to the curved shape of the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash when it is fitted to the bearing wall. Thus, on the one hand, the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash are protected from damage by deformation, and on the other hand, the concave shape of the wall, in combination with the inwardly curved shape of the tab, prevents the false eyelash from sliding, which could be generated by gravity.

- the retention element has a frustoconical shape of revolution about the elevation direction from the bottom of the inner housing to the curved upper edge, the curved upper edge having a closed circle or ellipse-shaped contour.

The frustoconical shape of the retention element not only gives an aesthetic appearance to the substrate, but also allows an inclined circular or elliptical shaped upper edge to be defined. This characteristic limits the deformation of the false eyelash, the baseline curve being deposited in proximity to the inclined upper edge, against the bearing wall. The circular or elliptical upper edge aims at mimicking the curvature of the baseline of the false eyelash and thus ensures it undergoes no deformation when the false eyelash is held on the support.

- the fixing tabs are elastically deformable. In one alternative, the tabs are elastically deformable. Thus, when the user moves the tab apart to insert the false eyelash into the jamming surface, or to remove the false eyelash, the tab returns to its initial position without having any residual deformation. Thus, cycles for moving the tabs apart can be performed (plurality of insertions and withdrawals) without affecting the effectiveness of false eyelash hold.

Alternatively, the tabs are rigid and when the false eyelash is removed from the support, the false eyelash slides between the tabs without deforming them, under the effect of a tensile force exerted on the false eyelash by the user.

- the support comprises a rice grain-shaped relief protruding from one of the bearing wall for the false eyelash or of the fixing tab to the other of the bearing wall for the false eyelash or of the fixing tab.

The presence of a rice grain-shaped protrusion more effectively holds the false eyelash between the tab and the bearing wall, performing light contact with the false eyelash.

- the inner housing comprises at least one longitudinal rib protruding from the bottom, the longitudinal rib connecting the retention element to at least one side wall of the inner housing.

The rib divides the inner housing into several compartments, which can be convenient for the user. It also reinforces the inner housing and allows the retention element to be directly connected to one of the side walls of the housing.

- the support comprises an outer housing defining an internal volume, the outer housing being configured to contain the inner housing.

The outer housing protects and closes the inner housing to protect the false eyelash from environmental contamination such as dust during storage.

- the outer housing defines a side opening for access to the internal volume, the inner housing being translatably movable with respect to the outer housing, through the access opening between a position inserted into the internal volume of the outer housing and a position extracted from the internal volume of the outer housing. The inner housing is sliding with respect to the outer housing in order to facilitate the extraction of the inner housing and access to the false eyelash and/or the retention element for the user.

- the inner housing comprises a gripping element intended to be gripped by a user to translatably move the inner housing between the inserted position and the extracted position.

The gripping element facilitates the extraction of the inner housing for the user who can simply grip the gripping element and translate the inner housing in order to access the false eyelash and/or the retention element of the support.

- the bottom of the inner housing has a polygonal shaped peripheral contour, preferably having more than five sides.

The polygonal shape of the bottom of the inner housing provides a pleasing aesthetic appearance for the user, especially by contrasting with the curved shapes present on the retention element of the support.

The invention also relates to a false eyelash kit of the type comprising a support as described above, and at least one false eyelash held on the support by means of at least one of the fixing tabs.

According to one alternative, the false eyelash kit according to the invention comprises the following characteristic:

- the bearing wall for the false eyelash extending between the bottom of the inner housing and the curved upper edge of the retention element is concave at least facing each fixing tab, the false eyelash being held by at least one fixing tab against the bearing wall, by friction between the artificial eyelashes and the bearing wall under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash, the or each fixing tab opposing the movement of the false eyelash in a direction normal to the bearing wall.

Since the false eyelash is held against the bearing wall without being pinched, especially by the friction existing between the artificial eyelashes and the bearing wall under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash, the structural and geometric integrity of the false eyelash is preserved.

The user can then remove the false eyelash from the support and place it directly on their natural eyelashes without, in most cases, any additional operation for reshaping the false eyelash. The use of false eyelashes is then made easier. Advantageously, the fixing tabs are moved apart from each other by a distance such that a user can pass a finger between two fixing tabs, for example to facilitate insertion of the false eyelash into the support.

The invention also relates to a method for gripping a false eyelash for application to natural eyelashes of the type comprising:

- providing a kit as described above;

- reversibly gripping the false eyelash by contact using an applicator for gripping the false eyelash by contact; and

- releasing the false eyelash out of the intermediate space between the or each fixing tab and the bearing wall.

By simple contact of the retaining surface of the applicator, the user grips the false eyelash and separates it from the retention element. The motion is then smoother, more comfortable and the user can grip the false eyelash without having to keep their fingers in tension as they would with a clip-shaped applicator.

According to an alternative, the gripping method comprises the following characteristic:

- releasing the false eyelash comprises moving the applicator carrying the false eyelash normally to the bearing wall, or/and a moving the applicator carrying the false eyelash comprising a component parallel to the elevation direction, relative to the bearing wall.

Since the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash are flexible, the user can disengage the false eyelash from the support by sliding the false eyelash away from the support.

The user approaches the applicator toward the false eyelash by substantially coinciding an elongation direction of the applicator with a normal to the retention member, until contact between the retaining surface of the applicator and the false eyelash.

When removing the applicator carrying the false eyelash away from the support, the user moves the applicator away from the support by substantially coinciding the elongation direction of the applicator with a normal to the retention element.

Alternatively, the user brings the applicator toward the false eyelash by substantially coinciding an elongation direction of the applicator with a normal to the retention element, until contact between the retaining surface of the applicator and the false eyelash, then applies to the applicator a combined motion relative to the support, comprising a component extending in parallel to an elevation direction of the retention element. In doing so, the retaining surface of the applicator contacts the baseline of the false eyelash and picks the false eyelash in this motion to separate it from the support.

In another alternative, the user separates the false eyelash from the support using a combination of these motions for extracting the false eyelash away from the support by means of the applicator.

The motion is simple and fast and does not require the user to reflect or make a complex twisting motion of the hand or other.

- the applicator comprises a system for reversibly retaining the false eyelash including a plurality of protruding retaining members, in particular a plurality of lugs and/or teeth, extending between an end connected to the retaining surface and a free end opposite to the connected end and wherein, during the contact-gripping step, the protruding retaining members insert into or/and embed into the false eyelash, advantageously by moving the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash apart, the false eyelash hooking by friction within the protruding retaining members.

As the protruding members insert between the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash by moving them apart, the user can reversibly grip the false eyelash by simple contact between the retaining surface of the applicator and the false eyelash.

The user can then pull the false eyelash that they have just gripped towards them, or lift it vertically, using the applicator, for example to release it from an intermediate space between a bearing wall for the false eyelash and a jamming tab placed facing the bearing wall, while having a robust and yet reversible retention of the false eyelash on the applicator.

The invention will appear more clearly upon reading the following description, given only by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[Fig. 1] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a fringe of false eyelashes,

[Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a cluster of false eyelashes,

[Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a support for a fringe of false eyelashes in the closed position,

[Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the false eyelash support of Fig. 3 in the extended position,

[Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a support for a cluster of individual false eyelashes in the closed position,

[Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the support of Fig. 5 in the extended position, [Fig. 7] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a false eyelash applicator comprising pads, [Fig. 8] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a pad of the false eyelash applicator of Fig. 7, [Fig. 9] [Fig. 10] Figs. 9 and 10 are schematic representations of the motion for gripping the false eyelash using the applicator of Fig. 7 from the false eyelash support of Fig. 3,

[Fig. 1 1] Fig. 1 1 is an enlarged view of the false eyelash held on the applicator of Fig. 7,

[Fig. 12] Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of the deposition of the false eyelash onto the natural eyelashes using the applicator of Fig. 7,

[Fig. 13] Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of pinching the false eyelash with the natural eyelashes using the applicator of Fig. 7,

[Fig. 14] Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a cleaning and drying box for false eyelashes, in the false eyelash cleaning configuration,

[Fig. 15] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view along a median vertical plane of the cleaning and drying box for false eyelashes of Fig. 14, in the false eyelash cleaning configuration,

[Fig. 16] Fig. 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the cleaning and drying box for false eyelashes of Fig. 14, in the false eyelash drying configuration, and

[Fig. 17] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view along a median vertical plane of the cleaning and drying box for false eyelashes of Fig. 14, in false eyelash drying configuration,

[Fig. 18] Fig. 18 is a schematic representation of the mechanical test performed in order to measure the force for retaining the false eyelash of Fig. 1 , on the support of Fig. 3,

[Fig. 19] Fig. 19 is a schematic representation of the mechanical test performed in order to measure the force for retaining the false eyelash of Fig. 1 , on the applicator of Fig. 7, and

[Fig. 20] Fig. 20 is a schematic representation of a mechanical test performed in order to measure the force for retaining the false eyelash of Fig. 1 on a user’s skin.

A false eyelash kit comprises at least one false eyelash 1 , a false eyelash support 3 that is the subject of the present invention, represented in Figs. 3 to 6, and an applicator 5, represented in Figs. 7 and 8. It optionally includes a cleaning and drying box for the false eyelash 1 , which will be described below.

With reference to Figs. 1 and 2, the false eyelash 1 comprises a baseline 10 to which a plurality of artificial eyelashes 11 are attached. The artificial eyelashes 11 and advantageously the baseline 10 are formed of artificial fibres. By “artificial”, it is meant especially that the eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 and/or the fibres constituting them are not formed of natural eyelashes spontaneously growing on a human being in particular on the human being on which the false eyelash

I is placed.

The false eyelash 1 may be a full fringe, as represented in Fig. 1 . The baseline

10 and the artificial eyelashes 1 1 are then configured (in size and/or number of artificial eyelashes 11 provided) to fully cover, from end to end of the baseline of the natural eyelashes, a user’s natural eyelashes.

In this first case, the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 has, for example, a length, taken along the baseline 10 following its curvature, from one end to the other of the baseline 10, of between 15 mm and 35 mm.

Furthermore, in the case of a complete fringe, the false eyelash 1 , for example, has a mass of between 0.01 g and 0.09 g.

Alternatively, the false eyelash 1 may be a cluster of a few artificial eyelashes 11 connected to the baseline 10, as represented in Fig. 2. Such a false eyelash 1 is then referred to as a “cluster” and is generally used alone or in combination with other clustertype false eyelashes 1 in order to adorn part, or all, of the user’s natural eyelashes.

In this second case, the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 has, for example, a length, taken along the baseline 10 following its curvature, from one end to the other of the baseline 10, of between 0.3 cm and 1 cm.

Furthermore, in the case of a “cluster”, the false eyelash 1 has, for example, a mass of between 0.001 g and 0.008 g.

The baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 is generally inwardly curved in a C-shape so as to replicate the curvature of the baseline of the natural eyelashes.

Similarly, the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 are generally curved so as to replicate the curvature of the natural eyelashes. The curvature of the artificial eyelashes is substantially located in a plane perpendicular to the tangent to the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 , taken at the connection point of an artificial eyelash

I I to the baseline 10.

The false eyelash 1 has a density of artificial eyelashes 11 for example of between 20 artificial eyelashes 1 1 per centimetre of baseline 10 and 200 artificial eyelashes 1 1 per centimetre of baseline 10, preferably between 80 artificial eyelashes

11 per centimetre of baseline 10 and 150 artificial eyelashes 1 1 per centimetre of baseline 10. The artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 have a circular cross-section, for example, with a transverse extension of for example between 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm.

The artificial eyelashes 1 1 are for example made of polymer, especially polybutylene terephthalate and/or polyamide.

The baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 and/or the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 are capable of being covered with a cosmetic product having adhesive and/or aesthetic properties.

By “adhesive properties”, it is meant that the cosmetic product promotes adhesion between the false eyelash 1 and the user’s natural eyelashes.

By “aesthetic”, it is meant that the cosmetic product can be used to pigment the false eyelash 1 , to give them more volume and/or give them more length.

The cosmetic product is, for example, a makeup product.

More generally, a cosmetic product is a product as defined in EC Regulation N°1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, dated 30 November 2009, on cosmetic products.

The false eyelash support 3 is illustrated in Figs. 3 to 6. The support 3 comprises an outer housing 30 comprising an upper rim 30A and at least one side wall 30B, the upper rim 30A extending from the side wall 30B. The outer housing 30 defines an internal volume and is configured to receive an inner housing 31 in its internal volume.

The outer housing 30 has a side opening 32 for access to the internal volume of the outer housing 30. The inner housing 31 is translatably movable with respect to the outer housing 30 through the access opening 32 between a position inserted into the internal volume of the outer housing 30, represented in Figs. 3 and 5, and a position extracted from the internal volume of the outer housing 30, represented in Figs. 4 and 6. The translation of the inner housing 31 with respect to the outer housing 30 is performed along a direction of movement of the inner housing 31 towards the outside of the outer housing 30.

The upper rim 30A of the outer housing 30 defines an advantageously partially or fully transparent central window. By “transparent”, it is meant that the inside of the outer housing 30 is visible to the naked eye by a user outside the outer housing 30.

In the example represented in Figs. 3 to 6, the outer housing 30 is polygonal in shape, and more precisely hexagonal in shape. Thus, the side wall 30B of the outer housing 30 includes six side faces forming a hexagonal prism.

The inner housing 31 comprises a bottom 31 A and at least one side wall 31 B protruding vertically from the bottom 31 A. The bottom 31 A of the inner housing 31 has a polygonal-shaped peripheral contour, having more than five sides. In the example represented in Figs. 3 to 6, the bottom 31 A is hexagonal in shape, to correspond to the shape of the internal volume of the outer housing 30.

The inner housing 31 also comprises a gripping element 33 intended to be gripped by a user to translatably move the inner housing 31 between the inserted position and the extracted position from the internal volume of the outer housing 30.

The gripping element 33 can be a strip, a loop, a handle, or any other element serving as an interface with a user.

The gripping element 33 extends protruding outwardly from the outer housing 30, along the direction of movement of the inner housing 31 , as visible in Fig. 6.

The inner housing 31 comprises at least one element 34 for retaining at least one false eyelash 1 protruding from the bottom 31 A along a central elevation direction Z represented in Fig. 3. The central elevation direction Z is here perpendicular to the direction of movement of the inner housing 31 .

The inner housing 31 also comprises at least one rib 35 protruding from the bottom 31 A. The rib 35 here extends along the direction of movement of the inner housing 31 and connects the retention element 34 to at least one side wall 31 B of the housing 31.

In the example of Fig. 6, the rib 35 also connects the retention element 34 to the gripping element 33.

In the example represented in Figs. 3 to 6, the retention element 34 has a generally frustoconical shape of revolution about the central elevation direction Z from the bottom 31 A of the inner housing 31 to an upper edge 36. The upper edge 36 is inwardly curved about the central elevation direction Z in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z. The curved upper edge 36 then has, in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z, a closed circle or ellipse shaped contour.

The retention element 34 comprises at least one bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 extending between the bottom 31 A and the curved upper edge 36. The retention element 34 comprises at least two tabs 38 for fixing a false eyelash 1 , protruding from the bearing wall 37.

The bearing wall 37 advantageously has a curved shape.

In particular, the bearing wall 37 has an outwardly concave shape at least facing each fixing tab 38. In other words, the frustoconical shape of the retention element 34 is defined by rotation about the central elevation direction Z of a curved, outwardly concave generator.

In the example of Fig. 4, the bearing wall 37 has two opposite storage regions located on either side of the rib 35.

Each storage region is fitted at its ends along the rib 35 with two fixing tabs 38, directed towards each other.

In the example of Fig. 5, further fixing tabs 38, for example two additional fixing tabs 38, are disposed in each storage region, between the tabs 38 located at the ends.

Each fixing tab 38 extends facing the bearing wall 37 between a first end 38A integral with the bearing wall 37 and a free end 38B angularly offset with respect to the first end 38A about the elevation direction Z. The free end 38B here has a tapered shape.

Each fixing tab 38 extends curved about the elevation direction Z, in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z.

Each tab 38 defines, between the first end 38A and the free end 38B, at least one surface 39 for jamming a false eyelash 1 , extending facing the bearing wall 37 of the false eyelash 1 .

By “jamming”, it is meant that the false eyelash 1 is held between the jamming surface 39 and the bearing wall 37, and against the bearing wall 37, being blocked, but without being pinched. Holding the false eyelash 1 is performed by friction between the artificial eyelashes 1 1 and the bearing wall 37 under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash 1 which tends to press the false eyelash 1 against the bearing wall 37 by gravity.

Bearing the false eyelash 1 by gravity against the bearing wall 37 is sufficient for the false eyelash 1 to rest on the bearing wall 37, but the false eyelash 1 is light enough to be held against the bearing wall 37 without requiring squeezed against the bearing wall 37.

Friction is in particular reinforced by the respective curvatures of the baseline

10 of the false eyelash 1 , the artificial eyelashes 1 1 and the bearing wall 37.

The outwardly directed concave shape of the bearing wall 37 provides significant bearing and increases the friction surface between the artificial eyelashes

11 and the bearing wall 37. However, it does not hinder the false eyelash 1 from sliding outwardly by a “slide” effect.

To counteract this effect, each tab 38 facing the bearing wall 37 holds the false eyelash 1 against the bearing wall 37 in order to prevent the false eyelash 1 from moving apart from the bearing wall 37. Thus, holding each false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 is ensured by jamming it without pinching between the outwardly concave bearing wall 37 and at least one facing tab 38.

The false eyelash 1 thus keeps a natural shape and its deformation is minimal, since it simply abuts between the outwardly concave bearing wall 37 and at least one facing tab 38.

Furthermore, the elastic memory of the false eyelash 1 , combined with the geometry of the fixing tabs 38, allows it to arch between the bearing wall 37 and the fixing tabs 38 in order to be held against the bearing wall 37.

At least a free part of the jamming surface 39 extends at rest at a distance from the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 . In the example represented in Figs. 3 to 6, the entire jamming surface 39 of each tab 38 extends at a distance from the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 between the first end 38A and the free end 38B.

In at least one plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z, the free part of the jamming surface 39 extends at least partially in parallel to the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1. The minimum distance between the free part of the jamming surface 39 and the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 taken along a normal to the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 is preferably greater than 0.1 mm, and especially between 0.2 mm and 1 .5 mm.

This distance advantageously creates a clearance between the fixing tab 38 and the bearing wall 37, in which the false eyelash 1 is placed and held, bearing on the bearing wall 37 via the baseline 10 and/or artificial eyelashes 1 1 , without compression or clamping of the false eyelash 1 .

In this same plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z, the free part of the jamming surface 39 comprises, from the first end 38A to the free end 38B, a first section 39A extending in parallel to the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 and a second section 39B extending from the first section 39A, the second section 39B moving apart from the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 of the retention element 34.

In the example represented in Figs. 3 to 6, the first section 39A, in projection in a plane perpendicular to a normal to the bearing wall 37 facing the first section 39A, has a parallelogram-shaped contour, and more precisely a rectangle-shaped contour. The second section 39B, in projection in a plane perpendicular to a normal to the bearing wall 37 facing the second section 39B, has a trapezoidal shape converging from the first section 39A to the free end 38B.

Advantageously, the second section 39B comprises a chamfer at the free end 38B. The chamfers guide the false eyelash 1 when it is introduced between the fixing tab 38 and the bearing wall 37. In the example of Fig. 4, the length of each tab 38 taken along the wall 37 is less than half the length of the storage region taken along the wall 37 between two adjacent tabs 38, in particular less than 25% of the length of the storage region taken along the wall 37 between two adjacent tabs 38.

When removing the false eyelash 1 from the support 3 using the applicator 5, the false eyelash 1 , being not pinched between the jamming surface 39 and the bearing wall 37, slides between the tabs 38 without deforming them, under the effect of a tensile force exerted on the false eyelash 1 by the applicator 5 in a direction normal to the bearing wall 37.

Alternatively, and as will be described in more detail later, when removing the false eyelash 1 from the support 3 using the applicator 5, the false eyelash 1 slides between the tabs 38 without deforming them, under the effect of a tensile force exerted on the false eyelash 1 by the applicator 5 in a combined motion with respect to the support 3, comprising a component extending along the elevation direction Z.

The convergent shape of the second section 39B simplifies the removal of the false eyelash 1 from the support 3 according to one of the methods described below, minimising the risk of irreversible deformation of the false eyelash 1 .

Advantageously, the fixing tabs 38 are spaced apart from each other, in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z, by a distance such that a user can pass a finger between two fixing tabs 38, for example to facilitate the insertion of the false eyelash 1 between the fixing tabs 38 and the bearing wall 37 of the support 3.

Still alternatively, each tab 38 is elastically deformable between a fixing position in which the first section 39A extends by a first distance from the bearing wall 37 and a disengagement position in which the first section 39A extends by a second distance from the bearing wall 37, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

In another alternative, not represented, the support 3 also includes at least one relief, especially in the shape of a rice grain, protruding from one of the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 or of the fixing tab 38 to the other of the bearing wall 37 for the false eyelash 1 or of the fixing tab 38.

The support 3 thus designed allows the false eyelash 1 to be held robustly but reversibly. The false eyelash 1 removed from the support 3 is not deformed and is ready to be applied directly to natural eyelashes.

Indeed, since the fixing tabs 38 extend in a direction comprised in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction Z, the false eyelash 1 is held by the tabs 38 without any particular deformation other than that resulting from its own weight. The user can thus remove the false eyelash 1 from the support 3 and place it directly on their lashes without, in most cases, any additional operation of reshaping the false eyelash 1 .

Jamming the false eyelash 1 is effective since the artificial eyelashes 1 1 of the false eyelash 1 bear on the bearing wall 37 which has a concavity in cross-section in a plurality of vertical axial planes passing through the central elevation direction Z. Thus, the shape of the eyelashes 1 1 of the false eyelash 1 is preserved. In addition, the false eyelash 1 as a whole conforms to the curved shape of the bearing wall 37 in a plurality of planes perpendicular to the central elevation direction Z.

Furthermore, the tabs 38 follow this curvature in the perpendicular planes at least along the first section 39B, hindering the movement of the false eyelash 1 , in particular in a direction normal to the bearing wall 37, and ensuring its holding against the bearing wall 37.

The false eyelash applicator 5 is represented in Figs. 7 and 8.

The applicator 5 comprises a body 50 elongated along a longitudinal direction L represented in Fig. 7. The body 50 comprises an elongated central section 50A, a section 50B for gripping false eyelashes 1 extending from the central section 50A in a first sense along the longitudinal direction L, and a clip-shaped section 50C extending from the central section 50A along the longitudinal direction L, in a second sense longitudinally opposite to the gripping section 50B.

The sections 50B, 50C are connected to the central section 50A from which they respectively extend on either side of the central section 50A.

The gripping section 50B comprises a surface 51 for retaining false eyelashes 1 by contact, fitted with a system for reversibly retaining false eyelashes 1 by contact.

The retaining surface 51 generally extends along a transverse direction T, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. In at least one plane perpendicular to the transverse direction T, the cross-section of the retaining surface 51 is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction L and with respect to the transverse direction T.

The inclination of the section of the retaining surface 51 in projection in the plane perpendicular to the transverse direction T, relative to the longitudinal direction is for example between 10° and 80°, in particular between 30° and 50°.

The retaining surface 51 has a concave curved shape.

In the example represented in Figs. 7 and 8, the contact retaining system comprises a plurality of protruding retaining members 52, in particular a plurality of lugs. The protruding retaining members 2 are not limited to lugs as represented but could also comprise teeth and/or any other protruding element having capacities for retaining a false eyelash 1 (hooks for example).

The retaining surface 51 has a density of protruding members 52 of between 50 protruding members/cm² and 100 protruding members/cm², preferably greater than 70 protruding members/cm².

The retaining surface 51 also includes at least one zone 53 on its periphery devoid of protruding retaining members 52.

In the example of Fig. 7, the retaining surface 51 comprises two zones 53 devoid of protruding retaining members 52, each extending along two opposing transverse edges of the retaining surface 51 .

The length of the zone of the retaining surface 51 fitted with protruding retaining members 52, taken transversely along the retaining surface 51 following its curvature, is greater than 30%, in particular between 30% and 100% of the length of the baseline 10, as defined above. This allows for a robust hooking by simple contact.

The protruding members 52 each extend between an end 52A connected to the retaining surface 51 and a free end 52B opposite to the connected end 52A.

The protruding retaining members 52 have a transverse extension, taken in a direction substantially perpendicular to the elongation direction of the members 52, less than 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, and preferably equal to 0.2 mm.

Each protruding member 52 is, for example, spaced from a neighbouring protruding member 52 by a distance, taken in a plane perpendicular to the elongation direction of the members 52, of between 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm.

The protruding members 52 are suitable for engaging between the artificial eyelashes 1 1 of the false eyelash 1 , especially when the artificial eyelashes 11 have a transverse extension of between 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm.

The protruding retaining members 52 are for example made of polymer, especially polyolefin, in particular polypropylene.

The dimensions of the protruding retaining members 52, and in particular their transverse extension, allow the protruding members 52 to be flexible, and especially to be elastically flexurally deformable.

In the example of Fig. 7, all protruding members 52 have an identical height taken along the longitudinal direction L, the height being between 1 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 2 mm.

The shell surface defined by the free ends 52B of the protruding members 52 thus follows the profile, in particular the concave profile, of the retaining surface 51 . The protruding members 52 can be parallelepipedal, conical or frustoconical, or cylindrical in shape.

The clip-shaped section 50C comprises a first branch 54 optionally fitted with a first end pad 55, and a second branch 56 optionally fitted with a second end pad 57.

The first and second branches 54, 56 are joined at the central section 50A.

The first and second branches 54, 56 are elongated along the longitudinal direction L.

The first branch 54 and the second branch 56 here extend substantially in a plane B (visible in Fig. 7), inclined or orthogonal to the transverse direction T. They are movable relative to each other along a pinching direction P represented in Fig. 7, between a resting configuration in which the second pad 57 is disposed away from the first pad 55 and a pinching configuration in which the second pad 57 is brought close to the first pad 55.

The pinching direction P forms with the transverse direction T, in projection in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L, an angle of between 30° and 90°.

The pads 55, 57 have an inwardly curved contour 58, for example bananashaped, in projection in a median plane passing between the first branch 54 and the second branch 56 of the clip.

The body 50 of the applicator 5 is made as a single piece, the first pad 55 and the second pad 57 being respectively added to the first tab 54 and to the second tab 56 by means of fixing elements 59, represented in Fig. 8.

The fixing elements 59 are here pins fitted with a radial widening ensuring retention by blocking in corresponding holes, provided on the branches 54, 56.

The body 50 of the applicator 5 is for example made of polymer, especially polyolefin, in particular polypropylene. The pads 55 and 57 are for example made of thermoplastic elastomers.

Alternatively, the body 50 is for example made of a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, for example a copolymer composed of polybutylene terephthalate and a polyether, such as the Hytrel® elastomer, for example.

The pads 55 and 57 are for example made of nitrile and/or silicone, or a mixture of nitrile and silicone.

Advantageously, and especially when the adhesive intended to be applied to the false eyelash 1 is an adhesive mascara, the pads 55, 57 are made of a material different from the body 50 of the applicator. For example, the pads 55, 57 are made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When the adhesive intended to be applied to the false eyelash 1 is a glue, the pads 55, 57 are, for example, made as one piece with the body 50 of the applicator 5.

Alternatively, not represented, the applicator 5 does not comprise pads 55, 57 but pinching portions made as one piece with the body 50 of the applicator 5.

In this alternative, the branches 54, 56 are movable relative to each other along the pinching direction P, between a resting configuration in which the pinching portion of the first branch 54 is disposed away from the pinching portion of the second branch 56 and a pinching configuration in which the pinching portion of the first branch 54 is brought closer to the pinching portion of the second branch 56.

When placing the false eyelash 1 using such an applicator 5, and as will be described in more detail later, the user first places the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5 on the false eyelash 1 in order to grip it by reversible retention by contact.

The protruding members 52 insert between the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 by moving them apart, such that the artificial eyelashes 11 hook by friction within these protruding members 52, as visible in Fig. 1 1 .

The user then deposits the false eyelash 1 onto natural eyelashes while holding the applicator 5 above the eyes of the person onto whom the false eyelash 1 is deposited. Preferably, the user seeks to deposit the false eyelash 1 onto the natural eyelashes by aligning the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 with a baseline of the natural eyelashes.

After this depositing step, the user turns the applicator 5 over and pinches the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes using the pads 55, 57 by switching from the resting configuration of the first tab 54 and the second tab 56 to the pinching configuration. This step of pinching the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes fuses the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes, and ensures a more lasting and aesthetic result.

In an alternative, not represented, the retaining surface 51 is planar.

Still in an alternative not represented, the retaining surface 51 is planar and the protruding members 52 have different heights, taken along the longitudinal direction L, the shell defined by the free ends 52B of the protruding members 52 being a concave shell. In this alternative, the height of each protruding member 52 is between 1 mm and 5 mm.

In another alternative, the retaining surface 51 of the applicator is an adhesive layer for retaining the false eyelash 1 .

The applicator 5 thus designed allows the user to place the false eyelash 1 on natural eyelashes in a simplified and precise manner. The system for retaining 51 the false eyelash 1 by contact simplifies placement for the user who does not have to apply and maintain a pressure force with their fingers as with an applicator having two limbs forming a clip between them.

By simple contact, the user grips the false eyelash 1 and moves it to the natural eyelashes. The motion is then smoother, more relaxed than when the user has to maintain a force on a clip for gripping the false eyelash 1 to hold it in the pinching position and the user can apply the false eyelash 1 to the natural eyelashes without muscle contraction, which increases positioning precision.

Figs. 9 and 10 illustrate a method for transferring a false eyelash 1 from a support 3 to an applicator 5.

In the example of Figs. 9 and 10, the false eyelash 1 , the support 3 and the applicator 5 are advantageously as described above.

The user initially has the support 3 which comprises at least one retention element 34 on which at least one false eyelash 1 is held, and the applicator 5 which defines a retaining surface 51 .

Holding the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 of the support 3 defines a force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34.

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 of the support 3 results from a mechanical engagement of the false eyelash 1 in the retention element 34, without adhesion of the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 of the support 3.

This force, measured along a normal to the bearing wall 37 of the retention element 34, is for example greater than 0.06 N and is in particular between 0.01 N and 0.1 N.

With reference to Fig. 18, this force is for example measured in a climatic enclosure (not represented) using a dynamometer 84.

The dynamometer 84 preferably operates with an accuracy of ±0.2% of the movement speed value, and advantageously meets the following technical characteristics: accuracy of ±0.5% of the minimum full scale, minimum sampling frequency of 1000Hz.

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the support 3 is measured using such a dynamometer 84. An applicator 5 as described above, connected to the dynamometer 84, gradually moves the false eyelash 1 (preferably at a speed of 165 mm/min), away from a retention element 34 identical to that of the support 3, until separation of the false eyelash 1 from the retention element 34. The operating procedure implemented to measure the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 comprises the following steps of:

- thermostat the articles to be tested (retention element 34, false eyelash 1 and applicator 5) at 23°C for at least 3 hours,

- assemble the false eyelash 1 to the retaining element 34,

- hold the sample comprising the false eyelash 1 assembled to the retention element 34 assembled to the base 86 of the dynamometer 84 with the horizontal elevation axis Z,

- hook the applicator 5 onto the head of the dynamometer 84, positioned vertically above the base 86 and move the head of the dynamometer 84 to bring the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5 into contact with the false eyelashes 1 while maintaining the longitudinal direction L of the applicator 5 vertically,

- set the movement speed to 165 ± 10 mm per minute,

- switch on the dynamometer 84 to move the applicator 5 vertically upwardly away from the retention element 34, and

- read and/or record the force measured by the dynamometer 84 when the false eyelash 1 separates from the retention element 34, this force corresponding to the force measured.

Holding the sample to be tested (false eyelash 1 assembled on the retention element 34) on the base 86 of the dynamometer 84 is, for example, performed using a lower clamping jaw 88, as represented in Fig. 18.

Holding the applicator 5 on the head of the dynamometer 84 is, for example, performed with an upper clamping jaw 90.

As visible in Fig. 9, the user reversibly grips the false eyelash 1 with the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5.

Reversible gripping is performed by simple contact between the retaining surface 51 and the false eyelash 1 .

This gripping defines a force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 induced by the contact between the false eyelash 1 and the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5.

This force, measured along a normal to the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5, is for example greater than 0.2 N and is in particular between 0.1 N and 0.4 N.

For example, this force is measured in a climatic enclosure using the equipment and the operating mode described above.

Only the variations in the operating mode will be described below, regarding Fig. 19. The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 is measured using the dynamometer 84, with the false eyelash 1 being gradually moved away from the applicator 5 at a speed of 165 mm/min until separation of the applicator 5 and the false eyelash 1 .

To do this, the applicator 5 is immobilised vertically in the lower clamping jaw 88 with its retaining surface 51 facing upward. The false eyelash 1 is disposed assembled on the retaining surface 51 .

A double-sided adhesive tape 94 is applied to the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 and is connected vertically to the upper clamping jaw 90 of the dynamometer 84 via a hook 92, as represented in Fig. 19.

The force measured corresponds to the force measured by the dynamometer 84 when the false eyelash 1 separates from the applicator 5.

The retention element 34 and the retaining surface 51 are configured such that the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the support 3 induced by the retention element 34 is less than the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 induced by the contact between the false eyelash 1 and the retaining surface 51 .

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the support 3 is advantageously less than or equal to 75% of the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5.

Different modes for picking up the false eyelash 1 from the support 3 by the applicator 5 will now be described in detail.

In a first embodiment, with reference to Fig. 9, the user approaches the applicator 5 toward the false eyelash 1 by substantially coinciding the longitudinal direction L of the applicator 5 with a normal to the bearing wall 37 until the protruding members 52 penetrate within the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 .

The false eyelash 1 held by the penetration of the protruding members 52 within the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 is represented in Fig. 1 1.

When removing the applicator 5 carrying the false eyelash 1 away from the support 3, as represented in Fig. 10, the user moves the applicator 5 away from the support 3 by substantially coinciding the longitudinal direction L of the applicator 5 with a normal to the bearing wall 37. The false eyelash 1 then slides between the bearing wall 37 and the tabs 38 in a circumferential direction to the elevation direction Z. It thus exits the intermediate space defined between each tab 38 and the facing bearing wall 37.

Alternatively, the user brings the applicator 5 toward the false eyelash 1 by substantially coinciding the longitudinal direction L of the applicator 5 with a normal to the bearing wall 37 until the protruding members penetrate within the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 , then applies to the applicator 5 a combined motion with respect to the support 3, comprising a component extending along the elevation direction Z. In doing so, the protruding members 52 of the applicator 5 contact the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 and pick the false eyelash 1 in this motion to separate them from the support 3. The false eyelash 1 then slides between the bearing surface 37 and the tabs 38 along the elevation direction Z. It is lifted out of the intermediate space defined between each tab 38 and the facing bearing wall 37.

In another alternative, the user separates the false eyelash 1 from the support 3 using a combination of these motions for extracting the false eyelash 1 away from the support 3 by means of the applicator 5.

Since the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 of the support 3 is less than the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5, moving the applicator 5 away from the support 3 disengages the false eyelash 1 from the retention element 34 of the support 3 by simple contact between the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5 and the false eyelash 1 .

Moving the applicator 5 away from the support 3 is performed by simply moving the retaining surface 51 away from the element 34 for retaining the false eyelash 1 , without gripping or pulling the false eyelash 1 by the fingers of the user or an operator, or by a tool for retaining the false eyelash 1 .

Thus, a simple engagement by contact between the retaining surface 51 and the false eyelash 1 , as visible in Fig. 1 1 , ensures a mechanical retention of the false eyelash 1 on the retaining surface 51 which is more robust than the mechanical retention of the false eyelash 1 in the retention element 34. The false eyelash 1 can thus be released from the retention support 34 simply by manipulating the applicator 5, without any risk of it becoming detached from the retaining surface 51 .

As visible in Figs. 9 and 10, moving the applicator 5 away from the support 3 is performed by the user by a motion along a direction normal to the bearing wall 37 of the retention element 34 of the support 3, or alternatively with a component along the elevation direction Z, or, in a combined motion along a normal to the bearing wall 37 and along the elevation direction Z. The user, by gripping the false eyelash 1 by contact with the retaining surface 51 and moving the applicator 5 in a motion as described above, easily disengages the false eyelash 1 from the retention element 34 without damaging the false eyelash 1 . Moving the applicator 5 away from the support 3 is followed by a step of depositing the false eyelash 1 onto the user’s natural eyelashes, as will be described later. The method for transferring a false eyelash 1 onto an applicator 5 from a support 3 as described makes it easier for the user to transfer the false eyelash 1 , without altering the false eyelash 1 when the user removes it from the support 3.

By simple contact with the retaining surface 51 , the user grips the false eyelash

I and separates it from the retention element 34. The gesture is simplified, smooth and comfortable for the user who can grip the false eyelash 1 without having to keep their fingers in tension as they would with a clip-shaped applicator.

In addition, since the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 induced with contact with the retaining surface 51 is greater than the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the retention element 34 of the support 3, the user does not need to retain the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 when removing the applicator 5, and thus does not apply pressure on part of the false eyelash 1 , which could deform the artificial eyelashes 11 and/or the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 .

Figs. 12 and 13 illustrate a method for transferring a false eyelash 1 from an applicator 5 to a user’s natural eyelashes.

In the example of Figs. 12 and 13, the false eyelash 1 and the applicator 5 are advantageously as described above.

The user initially has an adhesive product, at least one false eyelash 1 , and an applicator 5 that comprises a retaining surface 51 .

During a preliminary step, not represented, the user deposits the adhesive product onto the baseline of the natural eyelashes and/or onto the natural eyelashes and/or onto the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 and/or onto the artificial eyelashes

I I of the false eyelash 1 .

Alternatively, the user initially has a false eyelash 1 with glue pre-applied, that is, provided with an adhesive product already present on the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 .

The user then reversibly grips the false eyelash 1 with the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5. As described above, the contact between the false eyelash 1 and the retaining surface 51 defines a force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 induced by the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5, and the reversible gripping of the false eyelash 1 is performed by simple contact between the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5 and the false eyelash 1 .

The user then transfers, as represented in Fig. 12, the false eyelash 1 from the applicator 5 to the natural eyelashes so as to deposit the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 onto a baseline of the natural eyelashes and/or on the natural eyelashes. Once the false eyelash 1 has been deposited, the user removes the applicator 5 by moving it away from the user’s eyes. Removing the applicator 5 causes the false eyelash 1 to separate from the retaining surface 51 .

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 is less than the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the natural eyelashes induced by the adhesive product.

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the natural eyelashes or on the skin of the eyelid, induced by the adhesive product, measured along a direction normal to the natural eyelashes, is for example greater than 0.5 N and is in particular between 0.4 N and 1 N.

The adhesive product used to stick the false eyelash 1 to the natural eyelashes or to the skin of the eyelid is, for example, an acrylate-, in particular ethylhexyl acrylate copolymer-based glue, for example the glue marketed by the ARDELL Company under the reference DUO ® or DUO GREEN®.

Alternatively, the adhesive product used to stick the false eyelash 1 to the natural eyelashes or to the skin of the eyelid is, for example, a glue as described in document W02019003453A1 , or in document W02019003454A1 , or DAITOSOL 5500 ® glue described in patent application WO2015/154804.

Only variations in the operating mode will be described below, with reference to Fig. 20.

The false eyelash 1 is previously stuck to a region of a user’s skin 96 (schematically represented by a square in Fig. 20) using an adhesive product as described above.

The adhesive product is, for example, applied to the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 and the baseline 10 fitted with the adhesive product is applied to a region of the skin 96.

The region of the skin 96 can for example be taken on the top of a user’s hand.

The region of the skin 96 is placed on the base 86, under the dynamometer head 84.

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the user’s skin 96 induced by the adhesive product is measured using the dynamometer 84, the false eyelash 1 being progressively moved away from the user’s skin 96 at a speed of 165 mm/min, as visible in Fig. 20, until separation of the false eyelash 1 from the skin 96. To this end, a double-sided adhesive tape 94 is applied to the artificial eyelashes 11 of the false eyelash 1 , for example between the region of the skin 96 and the artificial eyelashes 11 and is connected vertically to the upper clamping jaw 90 of the dynamometer 84 via a hook 92, as represented in Fig. 20.

The force measured corresponds to the force measured by the dynamometer 84 when the false eyelash 1 , in particular the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 , separates from the skin 96.

The force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the natural eyelashes is advantageously greater than or equal to 125%, preferably comprised between 150% and 250% of the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5.

Removing the applicator 5 then leaves the false eyelash 1 in place on the natural eyelashes, by simple contact between the false eyelash 1 , the adhesive product and the natural eyelashes and/or the baseline of the natural eyelashes.

Removing the applicator 5 is performed by simply moving the retaining surface 51 away from the false eyelash 1 , without gripping or pulling the false eyelash 1 by the user’s or an operator’s fingers, or by a tool for retaining the false eyelash 1 .

Advantageously, the transfer and deposition of the false eyelash 1 onto the natural eyelashes takes place above the eyes of the person receiving the false eyelash 1 . In other words, the user’s hand is above the eyes of the person receiving the false eyelash 1 , as illustrated in Fig. 12, throughout the transfer and deposition. Thus, the visual field of the person receiving the false eyelash 1 is not obstructed during the deposition of the false eyelash 1 onto the natural eyelashes and the user benefits, on the one hand, from better precision during the deposition, and, on the other hand, from a more comfortable gesture, in particular in the case where the user is the person receiving the false eyelash 1 .

As visible in Fig. 13, removing the applicator 5 is followed by a step of pinching the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes, using a pinching region 55, 57 of the applicator 5.

The step of reversibly gripping the false eyelash 1 with the retaining surface 51 of the applicator 5 is performed with the gripping section 50B of the applicator 5, and the step of pinching the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes using the pinching region 55, 57 of the applicator 5 is performed with the clip-shaped section 50C of the applicator 5, opposite to the gripping section along the elongation direction L of the applicator 5.

In order to perform the step of pinching the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes, the user turns over the applicator 5 to switch from the gripping configuration with the gripping section 50B to the pinching configuration with the clipshaped section 50C.

The step of pinching the false eyelash 1 with the natural eyelashes, illustrated in Fig. 13, is performed quickly after depositing the false eyelash 1 by means of the structure of the applicator 5 comprising sections 50B, 50C, having different functionalities.

The method for applying the false eyelash 1 as described is simple and allows precise placement of the false eyelash 1 for the user.

By simple contact with the retaining surface 51 , the user grips the false eyelash 1 and moves it to the natural eyelashes. Since the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the applicator 5 is less than the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the natural eyelashes induced by the adhesive product, the user does not need to use their fingers, or any tool, in order to retain the false eyelash 1 on the natural eyelashes when removing the applicator 5.

The motion is then smoother, more relaxed and the user can apply false eyelash 1 to the natural eyelashes without muscle contraction, increasing comfort and positioning precision.

In addition, once the false eyelash 1 is correctly positioned on the natural eyelashes with the applicator 5, the force for retaining the false eyelash 1 on the natural eyelashes induced by the adhesive product ensures the immobility of the false eyelash 1 when removing the applicator 5.

As indicated above, the kit for false eyelashes 1 according to the invention also comprises a cleaning and drying box 70 for false eyelashes 1 , represented in Figs. 14 to 17.

The box 70 comprises a sealed compartment 71 for cleaning at least one false eyelash 1 , as well as a permeable compartment 72 for drying the at least one false eyelash 1 .

The box 70 also comprises a protective cover 73 intended to reversibly close the permeable compartment 72.

Fixing the protective cover 73 to the permeable compartment 72 is, for example, carried out by snapping, screwing, or, as represented in the embodiment of Figs. 14 to 17, by placing the cover 73 on the permeable compartment 72 with a hand- releasable tightening, in order to maintain the cover 73 fixed to the permeable compartment 72. To this end, the permeable compartment 72 may comprise an additional fixing system, not represented, capable of cooperating with the protective cover 73 in order to reversibly close the permeable compartment 72.

Furthermore, the box 70 comprises a transfer basket 74 capable of receiving at least one false eyelash 1. The transfer basket 74 is configured to be successively inserted into the sealed compartment 71 for cleaning the false eyelash 1 , as represented in Figs. 14 and 15, and into the permeable compartment 72 for drying the false eyelash 1 , as represented in Figs. 16 and 17.

The sealed compartment 71 for cleaning at least one false eyelash 1 comprises a bottom 71 A and at least one side wall 71 B.

The sealed compartment 71 is made at least partially of an at least partially transparent material, preferably completely transparent. By “transparent”, it is meant that an observer located outside the sealed compartment 71 can see with the naked eye the inside of the sealed compartment 71 .

The sealed compartment 71 comprises a system 75 for reversibly fixing the permeable compartment 72 to the sealed compartment 71 .

The permeable compartment 72 for drying the at least one false eyelash 1 comprises a bottom 72A and at least one side wall 72B.

The permeable compartment 72 is configured to be separated from the sealed compartment 71 and to reversibly switch from an assembled configuration on the sealed compartment 71 to a disassembled configuration from the sealed compartment 71.

The permeable compartment 72 includes an additional reversible fixing system 76 configured to cooperate with the system 75 for reversibly fixing the sealed compartment 71 , in order to assemble the sealed compartment 71 with the permeable compartment 72.

When the additional system 76 for reversibly fixing the permeable compartment 72 cooperates with the system 75 for reversibly fixing the sealed compartment 71 , the sealed compartment 71 is sealingly plugged by the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72.

In the example represented in Figs. 1 1 to 13, the system 75 for reversibly fixing the sealed compartment 71 in cooperation with the additional system 76 for reversibly fixing the permeable compartment 76 is a screw system. The permeable compartment 72 is configured to be screwed onto the sealed compartment 71 . Thus, the user can intuitively sealingly close the sealed compartment 71 , using the permeable compartment 72, and the box 70 thus includes fewer detachable parts and can be compact.

The protective cover 73 comprises an upper partition 73A and at least one side partition 73B.

The protective cover 73 has openings 77 for air circulation through its upper partition 73A and/or its side partition 73B.

The air circulating through the openings 77 advantageously allows the inside of the permeable compartment 72 to be ventilated when the cover 73 closes the permeable compartment 72, and accelerates and promotes the drying of the false eyelash 1 located inside the permeable compartment 72.

In the example of Figs. 11 to 13, the protective cover 73 has at least two openings 77 facing each other and extending through the side partition 73B of the protective cover 73. The openings 77 are oblong in shape, elongated along a normal to the upper partition 73A of the cover 73.

The transfer basket comprises a bottom 74A and at least one side wall 74B.

In the example represented in Figs. 1 1 to 13, the sealed compartment 71 , the permeable compartment 72 and the transfer basket 74 are cylindrical in shape.

The bottom 71 A of the sealed compartment 71 , the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72, and the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 have a concave internal surface.

Advantageously, the inwardly curved shape of the bottoms 71 A, 72A, and 74A promotes the cleaning and drying of the false eyelash 1 in that it allows the residues of a cleaning composition to be concentrated in a local central zone and prevents the false eyelash 1 from soaking in the residue when it is in the drying phase.

Furthermore, the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 is located at a distance from the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72 when the transfer basket 74 is inserted into the permeable compartment 72.

To this end, the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72 advantageously comprises at least one element 72C protruding from the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72 toward the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 when the transfer basket 74 is inserted into the permeable compartment 72.

In the example of Figs. 14 to 17, the protruding element 72C is a continuous annular rib extending protruding from the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72.

Alternatively, the element 72C is a discontinuous rib. Thus, the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 bears on the protruding element 72C when it is inserted into the permeable compartment 72 and is kept at a distance from the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72.

A space for collecting the surplus cleaning composition is thus provided between the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 and the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72.

Alternatively, not represented, or in addition, the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 advantageously comprises at least one protruding element, in particular a rib, in particular an annular, continuous or discontinuous rib, protruding from the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 toward the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72, and through which the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 bears on the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72 when inserted therein.

Similarly, a space for collecting the surplus cleaning composition is thus provided between the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 and the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72.

The height separating the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 and the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72, taken vertically at the centre of the transfer basket 74, when the transfer basket 74 is inserted into the permeable compartment 72, is for example greater than 0.01 mm and is in particular between 0.05 mm and 5 mm.

The transfer basket 74 includes through holes 78. The holes 78 are advantageously located in the bottom 74A of the basket 74.

The holes 78 ensure efficient drainage of the cleaning composition out of the transfer basket 74 and the cleaning composition can be housed in the space formed between the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 and the bottom 72A of the permeable compartment 72.

By means of these arrangements, the false eyelash 1 located on the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 does not excessively soak in the surplus cleaning composition when the transfer basket 74 is placed in the permeable compartment 72 for drying the false eyelash 1 .

The transfer basket 74 also comprises a gripping zone 79 intended to be gripped by a user in order to insert or remove the transfer basket 74 into/from the sealed compartment 71 and/or the permeable compartment 72.

A rim of the side wall 74B forms the gripping zone 79 of the transfer basket 74.

More precisely, an annular bead 74C is present on an upper edge of the side wall 74B of the transfer basket 74 and facilitates gripping of the transfer basket 74 by the user. In the example represented in Figs. 14 to 17, the annular bead 74C is continuous and extends over the entire upper edge of the sidewall 74B protruding into the transfer basket 74.

Alternatively, not represented, the transfer basket 74 includes a gripping member extending protruding from the side wall 74B toward the outside of the transfer basket 74 and/or the transfer basket 74 includes a central lug protruding from the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74 toward the inside of the transfer basket 74 and extending in a normal direction to the bottom 74A of the transfer basket 74.

In all these examples, the transfer basket 74 is fully movable away from the sealed compartment 71 and the permeable compartment 72.

In order to clean and dry the false eyelash 1 , the user uses the cleaning and drying box 70 by performing the following steps.

First, the user places the false eyelash(es) to be cleaned in the transfer basket 74 located in the sealed compartment 71. Alternatively, the user places the false eyelash(es) to be cleaned in the transfer basket 74 located outside the sealed compartment 71 and then places the transfer basket 74 with the false eyelash(es) to be cleaned in the sealed compartment 71 .

The cleaning and drying box 70 is then in the configuration for cleaning the false eyelash 1 , illustrated in Figs. 14 and 15.

The user immerses the false eyelash 1 received in the transfer basket 74 in a cleaning composition within the sealed compartment 71 for cleaning. The cleansing composition may be a makeup remover, micellar water, or any other composition intended to remove a specific product added to the false eyelash.

The user then sealingly closes the sealed compartment 71 tightly using the permeable compartment 72, by cooperation between the additional system 76 for reversibly fixing the permeable compartment 72 and the system 75 for reversibly fixing the sealed compartment 71 .

The hermetic closure of the sealed compartment 71 is, for example, achieved by screwing the permeable compartment 72 onto the sealed compartment 71 .

The user may shake the unit 70 in order to clean the false eyelash 1 . Sufficient shaking allows the cleansing composition to advantageously impregnate the false eyelash 1 and remove any product added on the false eyelash 1 that the user wishes to remove.

Once the false eyelash 1 has been cleaned, the user disassembles the permeable compartment 72 from the sealed compartment 71 , and possibly removes the protective cover 73 from the permeable compartment 72. Disassembling the permeable compartment 72 from the sealed compartment

71 is, for example, performed by unscrewing the permeable compartment 72 from the sealed compartment 71.

Removing the protective cover 73 from the permeable compartment 72 is, for example, performed by unsnapping, unscrewing and/or moving the protective cover

73 away from the permeable compartment 72.

In order to allow the false eyelashes 1 to dry, the user moves the transfer basket

74 from the sealed compartment 71 to the inside of the permeable compartment 72, without having to touch the false eyelashes 1 directly and risk altering their structural and/or geometric integrity.

The cleaning and drying box 70 is then in the drying configuration, illustrated in Figs. 16 and 17.

Finally, the user closes the protective cover 73 on the permeable compartment

72 to allow the false eyelash 1 to dry protected from surrounding contamination.

The step of closing the protective cover 73 on the permeable compartment 72 is as described above, that is, is carried out, for example, by snapping, screwing and/or positioning the protective cover 73 on the permeable compartment 72.

The cleaning and drying box 70 for false eyelashes thus allows the false eyelash 1 to be cleaned simply and effectively and dried quickly, while preserving their shape and integrity during the cleaning and drying step, by means of the absence of handling of the false eyelash 1 between cleaning and drying, and while protecting them from environmental contamination.

Since the sealed compartment 71 can be assembled with the permeable compartment 72, the cleaning box 70 according to the invention is compact and easily transportable by a user.

The transfer basket 74 allows the user to insert the false eyelash 1 into the sealed compartment 71 for the cleaning step, to transfer the false eyelash 1 from the sealed compartment 71 to the permeable compartment 72 in order to allow the false eyelash 1 to dry, and this without ever having to touch the false eyelash 1 with a gripping element, such as fingers, for example.

The curved shape of the artificial eyelashes 1 1 of the false eyelash 1 and the curvature of the baseline 10 of the false eyelash 1 are thus preserved.

The false eyelash 1 is thus effectively cleaned and dried, and ready to be reused for a new application on natural eyelashes by a user.

Claims

1. A support (3) for false eyelashes (1 ) comprising an inner housing (31 ) comprising a bottom (31 A), at least one side wall (31 B) and at least one element (34) for retaining a false eyelash (1) extending protruding from the bottom (31 A) in an elevation direction (Z), the retention element (34) comprising at least one bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) extending between the bottom (31 A) and an upper edge (36) curved around the elevation direction (Z) in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z), and at least two tabs (38) for fixing the false eyelash (1 ), protruding from the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ), characterised in that each fixing tab (38) extends facing the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) between a first end (38A) integral with the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) and a free end (38B) offset angularly with respect to the first end (38A) about the elevation direction (Z), in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z).

2. The support (3) according to claim 1 , wherein each fixing tab (38) extends in a curved way around the elevation direction (Z), in projection in a plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z).

3. The support (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each tab (38) defines, between the first end (38A) and the free end (38B), at least one surface (39) for jamming a false eyelash (1 ), extending facing the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ), at least a free part of the jamming surface (39) extending at rest at a distance from the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ), defining an intermediate space between the fixing tab (38) and the bearing wall (37).

4. The support (3) according to claim 3, wherein the entire surface (39) for jamming the tabs (38) extends at a distance from the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) between the first end (38A) and the free end (38B).

5. The support (3) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein in at least one plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z), the free part of the jamming surface (39) extends at least partially in parallel to the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ), the minimum distance between the free part of the jamming surface (39) and the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) taken along a normal to the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) being preferably greater than 0.1 mm, and especially between 0.2 mm and 1 .5 mm.

6. The support (3) according to claim 5, wherein, in the at least one plane perpendicular to the elevation direction (Z), the free part of the jamming surface (39) comprises, from the first end (38A) to the free end (38B), a first section (39A) extending in parallel to the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) and a second section (39B) extending from the first section (39A), the second section (39B) moving apart from the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) of the retention element (34).

7. The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) extending between the bottom (31 A) of the inner housing (31) and the curved upper edge (36) of the retention element (34) is concave at least facing each fixing tab (38).

8. The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the retention element (34) has a frustoconical shape of revolution about the elevation direction (Z) from the bottom (31 A) of the inner housing (31 ) to the curved upper edge (36), the curved upper edge (36) having a closed circle or ellipse-shaped contour.

9. The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing tabs (38) are elastically deformable.

10. The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a rice grain-shaped relief protruding from one of the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) or of the fixing tab (38) to the other of the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) or of the fixing tab (38).

1 1 . The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner housing (31 ) comprises at least one longitudinal rib (35) protruding from the bottom (31 A), the longitudinal rib (35) connecting the retention element (34) to at least one side wall (31 B) of the inner housing (31 ).

12. The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support (3) comprises an outer housing (30) defining an internal volume, the outer housing (30) being configured to contain the inner housing (31 ).

13. The support (3) according to claim 12, wherein the outer housing (30) defines a side opening (32) for access to the internal volume, the inner housing (31 ) being translatably movable with respect to the outer housing (30), through the access opening (32) between a position inserted into the internal volume of the outer housing (30) and a position extracted from the internal volume of the outer housing (30).

14. The support (3) according to claim 13, wherein the inner housing (31 ) comprises a gripping element (33) intended to be gripped by a user to translatably move the inner housing (31 ) between the inserted position and the extracted position.

15. The support (3) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom (31 A) of the inner housing (31 ) has a polygonal shaped peripheral contour, preferably having more than five sides.

16. A kit comprising a support (3) according to any of claims 1 to 15, and at least one false eyelash (1 ) held on the support (3) via at least one of the fixing tabs (38).

17. The kit according to claim 16, wherein the bearing wall (37) for the false eyelash (1 ) extending between the bottom (31 A) of the inner housing (31 ) and the curved upper edge (36) of the retention element (34) is concave at least facing each fixing tab (38), the false eyelash (1 ) being held by at least one fixing tab (38) against the bearing wall (37), by friction between the artificial eyelashes (11 ) and the bearing wall (37) under the effect of the own weight of the false eyelash (1 ), the or each fixing tab (38) opposing the movement of the false eyelash (1 ) in a direction normal to the bearing wall (37).

18. A method for gripping a false eyelash (1 ) for application to natural eyelashes comprising the following steps of: providing a kit according to any of claims 16 or 17; reversibly gripping the false eyelash (1 ) by contact using an applicator (5) for gripping the false eyelash (1 ) by contact; and releasing the false eyelash (1 ) out of the intermediate space between the or each fixing tab (38) and the bearing wall (37).

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein releasing the false eyelash (1 ) includes moving the applicator (5) carrying the false eyelash (1 ) normally to the bearing wall (37), or/and moving the applicator (5) carrying the false eyelash (1 ) comprising a component parallel to the elevation direction (Z), relative to the bearing wall (37).

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the applicator (5) comprises a system for reversibly retaining the false eyelash (1 ) including a plurality of protruding retaining members (52), in particular a plurality of protruding lugs and/or teeth, extending between an end (52A) connected to the retaining surface (51 ) and a free end (52B) opposite to the connected end and wherein, during the contact gripping step, the protruding retaining members (52) insert or/and embed into the false eyelash (1 ), advantageously by moving the artificial eyelashes of the false eyelash (1 ) apart, the false eyelash (1 ) hooking by friction within the protruding retaining members (52).