| 摘要 |
An array of microneedles is provided to apply semi-permanent or permanent markings to skin, or to apply semi-permanent subcutaneous makeup or other cosmetic compounds to skin. The microneedles can apply identifications or other tattoo-like graphics, and will not enter into the dermal layer of the skin so that the application procedure is painless. The markings can be made permanent or semi-permanent, and can be applied with monochrome or multi-color inks, or even inks that are not visible at human eye wavelengths. The preferred inks contain particles of a certain minimum size that will not diffuse too far through the skin, thereby maintaining a high resolution, and if placed into the epidermis, the marking will disappear from the skin after a time period. The microneedle array is also useful for delivering specific compounds or actives into the skin, such as cosmetic compounds or nutrients, or various skin structure modifiers that can be delivered subcutaneously without having to visit a cosmetic surgery clinic. In addition, color cosmetics could also be delivered subcutaneously to provide long-term benefits for the skin, and even makeup or lipstick-type coloring compounds can be delivered by use of the microneedle patches described hereinabove. The color cosmetics are delivered into the epidermis, where they remain in place for at least one or two months. Since the epidermis is renewable, the color makeup or color cosmetics that are delivered would eventually wear out, since the epidermis is renewable; the delivered color pigment or dye, or skin structure support actives (such as polymers) will remain in the epidermis for only a finite time (e.g., 1-3 months), and then will be expunged from the body. This allows a person to change their "look" according to changes in fashion and style, which typically change every season. |
