HK1094675A - Method, apparatus, and composition for treating acne - Google Patents

Description

Methods, devices and compositions for treating acne

Technical Field

Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to skin treatment, and more particularly to treating acne.

Background

Facial skin repair has been accomplished by chemical treatment known as "chemical peeling" or laser treatment known as "laser surgery" and peeling by a machine driven device, such as with sandpaper. Often, these methods require medical supervision, present some risk of adverse side effects, and are painful and uncomfortable to handle. Both of these methods require a long recovery time between treatments.

Microdermabrasion (e.g., microdermabrasion, microparticulate skin rejuvenation) is a skin care technique in which skin exfoliation is controllably performed to ameliorate and remove skin abnormalities. A typical microdermabrasion machine consists of a vacuum pump compressor that draws corundum (alumina or bauxite) crystals from a container through an output tube into a hand-held wand. When the hand-held wand is applied to the skin, it creates a path in which the lens contacts the skin, being sucked into the suction tube leading to the used lens and the worn skin treatment container. A filter in the suction tube protects the moving parts of the vacuum pump. The technician manipulates the hand-held wand over the skin of the subject, causing exfoliation.

Thus, for a specialty clinic, a compressor, a corundum supply, a vacuum pump, and a treatment vessel are required in order for a patient to be microdermabrased by a trained technician. However, such complex, expensive systems are not suitable for home use.

In addition to the need for facial skin repair, acne treatment is also required by many adults and adolescents. Acne is caused by the presence of bacteria called propionibacterium acnes (p.ace) on the human skin. During adolescence and prior to the menstrual cycle in some women, the body produces relatively high levels of androgenic hormones, which can over-stimulate the sebaceous (e.g., sebaceous) glands of the skin. When these glands are stimulated, an oily substance known as sebum is produced.

Excess sebum can block the hair follicle, which results in a follicular plug (follicullar plug) known as a comedone. These clogged hair follicles allow propionibacterium acnes to proliferate. Some people are allergic to propionibacterium acnes, and these people have an excessive immune response to this bacterium, resulting in acne.

The two main types of acne are acne consisting of whiteheads and blackheads and inflammatory acne with red, sometimes painful papules, pustules and cysts. Adults and adolescents may have both acne and inflammatory acne.

Drawings

The various embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements. It should be noted that references to "an," "the," "other," "alternative," or "various" embodiments in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references mean at least one.

Fig. 1 is a top view of one embodiment of a portable applicator having a snap-on disc (snap-on disc) with an applicator pad coupled to a portion of the applicator.

Fig. 2 is a side view of the applicator of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional rear view of the applicator of fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is an exploded side view of the applicator of fig. 1.

Figure 5 is an exploded side view of a second embodiment of an applicator.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart describing one embodiment of a skin treatment operation.

Figure 7 is a side view of a third embodiment of an applicator.

Figure 8 is a side view of a fourth embodiment of an applicator.

Fig. 9 is a side view of a fifth embodiment of an applicator.

Fig. 10 is a side view of a sixth embodiment of an applicator.

Fig. 11 is a flow chart describing one embodiment of an acne treatment operation.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, certain structures and devices are omitted or simplified in order to avoid obscuring the details of the various embodiments.

The following description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative embodiments. However, these examples should not be construed as limiting, as they are not intended to be exhaustive of all possible implementations.

The disclosed compositions comprise a matrix, a plurality of abrasive particles, and an acne treatment. Suitable abrasive particles include inorganic particles such as corundum (e.g., alumina, bauxite, and Al)₂O₃) Magnesium oxide (e.g., MgO), and gemstones including, but not limited to, diamond, garnet, sapphire, ruby, emerald, and topaz. In one embodiment, the abrasive particles are crystallites having an average particle size of about 34 micrometers (μm) to 556 μm (320 to 30 mesh). More preferably, the average particle size of the crystallites is about 42 μm to 198 μm (280 to 60 mesh).

The abrasive nature of the particles in the composition makes the composition suitable as a release agent to improve the appearance and feel of human skin and to remove skin anomalies. More specifically, abrasive particles tend to remove the outer layer of skin (epidermis), leaving the underlying skin exposed. The human body responds to this by creating a new layer of skin.

Acne treatments may include, for example, one or more of the following: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, retinol, triclosan, green tea extract, deep sea mud (ocean clay), lactic acid, glycolic acid, secretions of Chilean snail helium Aspersa muller, zinc oxide, talc, camphor, tea tree oil, tea tree extract, koala nut extract, coenzyme Q10, sodium hyaluronate, polyethylene glycol, aloe vera, panthenol, allantoin, sodium sulfacetamide, sodium chloride, magnesium stearate, iron oxide, goat milk, glycerin, emu oil, vitamin A (palmitate), vitamin E (tocopherol), selfheal extract, colloidal silver, magnesium aluminum silicate, lauryl sulfate, tartaric acid, quinoline (hydroquinoline), and hydroxy acids.

Acne treatments generally function to at least one of reduce the level of propionibacterium acnes, reduce sebum production, and open pores. In various embodiments, salicylic acid is included in the composition as an acne treatment agent in an amount from about 0.25% to about 5.0% by weight of the composition. It is generally understood that salicylic acid unblocks the pore by chemically destroying the follicular plug (e.g., blackhead).

In various embodiments, sulfur is included in the composition as an acne treatment agent in an amount from about 5.0% to about 10.0% by weight of the composition. In other embodiments, benzoyl peroxide is included in the composition as an acne treatment agent in an amount from about 5.0% to about 10.0% by weight of the composition. Benzoyl peroxide kills propionibacterium acnes by penetrating the hair follicles and releasing hydrogen peroxide, where it cannot survive. Benzoyl peroxide is also known to provide a drying effect, a seborrhea (seborrhoeic) inhibiting effect and a moderate desquamation.

It is believed that by one or more (preferably a series) of these exfoliation/acne treatments, the treated skin may be improved. Such improvements include improvements in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, white lines, inflammatory and/or non-inflammatory acne, acne scars, surgical scars, rough skin, age spots, blotchy skin, and sun damaged skin.

In one embodiment, the composition comprises a matrix capable of having a plurality of abrasive particles suspended therein. The base of the composition may also include antioxidants, flavors/fragrances, vitamins (particularly vitamins A, C and E), minerals, emulsifiers, toners, acids (such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid), detergents, whey, lotions, liquids, elixirs, sunscreens, and tonics. Antimicrobial agents, bactericides and thickeners may also be included in the compositions.

In another embodiment, the base of the composition is a liquid containing a cleansing component including, for example, soap, salicylic acid, and lauryl sulfate (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium lauryl ether sulfate). Other components, such as surfactants and emulsifiers, may also be included.

In one embodiment, corundum (e.g., alumina) microcrystalline abrasive particles are combined with the cream moisturizer base in an amount of about 5 to 100 grams of corundum per ounce of cream, preferably 10 to 50 grams per ounce, and more preferably 10 to 20 grams per ounce. For example, a suitable composition comprises 20-70% by weight corundum, 20-70% aloe vera gel and 5-20% sodium lauryl sulfate.

The abrasive particles suspended in the matrix provide gentle microdermabrasion of the skin to rejuvenate/rejuvenate the skin, with the skin being smooth and soft after each treatment and without requiring any recovery time. Thus, to reduce and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles; shrinking pores; reduce or remove sunburn, age spots and skin discoloration; tightening skin and muscle tone; the sagging is reduced; the treatment can be repeated daily with the addition of new epidermal cells, and the elimination of the skin of the sore. This method of rejuvenating skin, particularly facial skin, is ideal for patients who are unwilling or unable to undergo laser surgery, chemical exfoliation or machine driven exfoliation.

One example of a suitable composition comprising a cream base, corundum (alumina) microcrystals and salicylic acid includes:

composition (I)	Percentage of
		Salicylic acid	1.00
Alumina oxide	40.00

Water (W)	31.35
		Caprylic/capric triglyceride	3.50
Ethyl hexyl palmitate	3.20
		Safflower oil	3.00
Cetyl alcohol	2.00
		Sodium hexadecyl sulfate	1.90
Stearic acid	1.50
		Cetyl alcohol	1.50
Wheat germ oil	1.20
		Propylene glycol	1.20
Triethanolamine	1.00
		Carbomer	0.90
Nordihydroguaiaretic acid	0.90
		Health-care chrysanthemum oil	0.90
Oleanolic acid	0.85
		PEG-60 Almond glyceride	0.70
Octanediol (caprylyl glycol)	0.60
		Glycerol	0.60
Phenoxyethanol	0.50
		Allantoin	0.25
Ascorbyl palmitate	0.20
		Nipagin methyl ester	0.20
Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E)	0.15
		Nipagin butyl ester	0.15
Retinyl palmitate (vitamin A)	0.10
		Chamomile extract	0.10
Radix Arnebiae extract	0.10
		Chrysanthemum morifolium extract	0.10
Extract of Hypericum japonicum	0.10

Isobutyl paraben	0.10
		Propylparaben	0.10
Nipagin ethyl ester	0.05

In one embodiment, the provided compositions are placed in a jar (not shown) having a mouth large enough to enable the applicators of the various devices described below to be submerged into the composition in the jar. Alternatively, the composition may be scooped out of the bottle by hand and applied to the area of skin to be treated. Pump mechanisms or spray bottle tube configurations for dispensing the composition are also suitable.

One embodiment of a suitable apparatus for lightening skin comprises a portable device with a vibrating head and an applicator coupled to the vibrating head. The applicator has a size suitable for contacting a localized area of human skin.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, a powered (e.g., by a direct current ("DC") battery or an alternating current ("AC") power source) applicator device (e.g., a vibrator) includes a vibrating apparatus housed in a device housing end 10. The device also includes a handle portion 11 adapted to be mounted in the interior cavity, a removable/replaceable power source such as batteries (e.g., multiple AA batteries), optional circuitry for coupling to an AC power source, and circuitry for operating a motor (e.g., DC) drive. In one embodiment, the device is molded in a plastic package.

The device also includes an applicator 12 coupled to the device tip 10. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1 and 2, applicator 12 is a porous material, such as a cloth or sponge, having dimensions suitable for contacting an area of human skin, such as a sponge pad, e.g., a polyurethane sponge pad, a latex sponge pad, or other closed cell sponge material. One suitable sponge material is commonly referred to as a "make-up" sponge material, typically used in the cosmetic arts. In one embodiment, the sponge material has a pore size of from 15 microns to about 410 microns.

Open cell sponge materials may be used in place of, or in addition to, closed cell materials. Likewise, applicator 12 may comprise a non-porous material, such as synthetic rubber, plastic, or latex, which may be used in place of or in addition to the porous material.

In one embodiment, the pore size of the applicator is at least the same as the average particle size of the abrasive particles. In another embodiment, the applicator has a pore size that allows abrasive particles to pass into the applicator during manipulation of the composition on the skin. Such a pore size advantageously allows abrasive particles to recede into the applicator to prevent excessive skin abrasion during use. In one embodiment, the pore size is small enough that the abrasive particles do not become so deeply embedded in the applicator as to have no particle abrasive effect. In other words, the pore size is determined such that the level of absorption of the particles within the applicator allows them to remain as an effective abrasive.

In various embodiments, a heating unit may also be provided within, adjacent to, or both applicator 12. In embodiments, the heating unit is capable of heating the applicator to between 100 ° F and 120 ° F. The heating unit may be, for example, an infrared lamp, an ultraviolet lamp, and/or a resistive heating element connected to a power source. The heat of the heating unit advantageously relieves the skin from pain during the treatment.

Fig. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the device of fig. 1, in particular the vibrating part of the device. In the cross-sectional view, the operation of the vibration mechanism is described. In this embodiment, the device includes a removable power source. In this case, the device includes a handle 11 having an internal cavity 25 for receiving a removable power source. In one embodiment, the power source for operating the vibrator is two AA batteries that are mounted within the interior cavity 25 of the handle 11. Conductors 23 and 24 define the ends of the lumen. Wires 26 and 28 coupled to conductor 23 draw current to/from motor 40. The leads 26 are coupled to a circuit board 30 that includes a switch 35 that controls the operation of a motor 40. The switch 35 may be a two-position switch (on/off) or a multi-position switch that operates the motor 40 at multiple speeds.

A motor 40 is disposed within the interior 20 of the end 10 and includes a shaft 42 extending from one end of the motor 40. As the engine 40 operates, the shaft 42 rotates (as shown).

Coupled to one end of the shaft 42 of the motor 40 is an eccentric mass 45. In this embodiment, eccentric mass 45 is a semi-cylindrical body coupled to post 42 along its axial direction. In this way, when the eccentric mass 45 rotates, its shape generates a rhythmic movement in the end 10 of the device, thus generating vibrations.

Fig. 4 shows an exploded side view of the device of fig. 1. The device comprises a handle 11 which is dimensioned to be grasped by a human hand. The handle portion 11 includes an internal cavity 25 for receiving a removable/replaceable power source, such as one or more batteries 50 (e.g., two AA batteries). Cover 55 snaps into handle portion 11 to seal the power source within the interior cavity of handle portion 11.

Fig. 4 also shows the configuration of applicator 12 relative to device tip 10. In one embodiment, applicator 12 is coupled to cap 13 (such as by an adhesive between applicator 12 and one surface of cap 13). As shown, the cap 13 is an annular body having a diameter similar to the oscillating head 27 of the device end 10. In one embodiment, the vibrating head 27 is about one to two inches (about 2.5 to 5 centimeters) in diameter. In one embodiment, the diameter of vibrating head 27 is, for example, slightly larger than the body of end 10 as shown by edge 19 by 0.01 to 0.03 inches (1-2 millimeters).

The underside of the cap 13 has an internal cavity 17. One or more protrusions 18 extend from the side wall of cap 13 (defining interior cavity 17) so that cap 13 does not easily fit over rim 19 of end 10. In one embodiment, cap 13 is made of a thin plastic material, which allows the cap to be deformed and snapped over lip 19, vibrating head 27 and onto end 10 to securely hold cap 13 in place. Alternatively, the cap may have a groove that snaps over a ridge around the inner wall of the end.

Applicator 12, which is secured to the top end of cap 13, may be replaced after multiple uses. In one embodiment, after use, applicator 12 and cap 13 can be removed from the device for cleaning. When the applicator 12 (and cap 13) is deemed to be no longer useful after cleaning, such as one or more times, it may be discarded and replaced. In one embodiment, applicator 12 may be replaced and discarded after a single use. In this embodiment, applicator 12 may be coupled to cap 13 by adhesive tape, form fitting, or similar means of removably attaching applicator 12 to cap 13.

In the embodiments described with reference to fig. 1 to 4, a device with a vibration mechanism is described. It is believed that in applying the composition to an area of human skin and manipulating the composition (e.g., polishing the skin) by movement of the vibration device and/or the user's hand, the vibratory action (e.g., of the applicator) helps stimulate the skin, muscles and tissues to regenerate the treatment area, as described with reference to fig. 6 and the accompanying text. In use, the vibration mechanism may or may not be used, as appreciated.

It is also contemplated to polish the skin by a mechanism capable of rotating the applicator instead of or in conjunction with the above-described vibratory motion. In an embodiment, the rotation mechanism is configured to rotate the applicator about a central axis of the applicator. In another embodiment, the rotation mechanism is configured to rotate the applicator about an eccentric axis of the applicator (e.g., to generate a random orbit). A representative random orbit or standard orbit oscillation is about 6000 revolutions per minute or less.

In addition, various embodiments include an acoustic wave generator disposed within the applicator, near the applicator, or both. In operation, sound waves generated by the sound wave generator travel through the applicator and massage the user's skin. One suitable acoustic wave generator is an ultrasonic generator, which generates acoustic waves from, for example, a vibrating crystal in the generator. The acoustic waves may be used to increase the circulation to the region being treated.

Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of a manually operated device. The device 50 includes a handle 55 adapted for one-handed operation by a human. One end of handle 55 includes a tip 58 that, in one embodiment, is sized to receive cap 13 and applicator 12 in a manner similar to that described with reference to fig. 1-4.

Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of a manually operated device. The device 70 includes an end 72 and a handle coupled to the end and adapted to be operated by a human hand. The shank includes a first member 74 extending from the end 72 and a second member 76 coupled to the first member 74 at an angle (θ). The angle theta is 0 to 180 degrees. The second member 76 has a first end 76A, a second end 76B, and an intermediate portion between the first end 76A and the second end 76B. An applicator 78 is coupled to the tip 72 and has dimensions suitable for contacting localized areas of human skin.

As described herein, the handle shape allows the user to hold the device in different ways to facilitate application of the appropriate composition. For example, the user may slide their fingers under the second part 76 so that the user's palm faces downward toward the end 72. Alternatively, the user may grasp the second member 76 with fingers.

Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a manually operated device. The device 80 includes an end 82 and a handle coupled to the end and adapted for manipulation by a human hand. The handle includes a first member 84 extending from the end 82 and a second member 86 coupled to the first member 84. Applicator 88 is coupled to tip 82 and has dimensions suitable for contacting localized areas of human skin.

The second member 86 has a first end 86A, a second end 86B, and an intermediate portion between the first end 86A and the second end 86B. An intermediate portion of the second member 86 is coupled to the first member 84. In addition, the intermediate portion of the second member 86 has a groove 89 formed therein. Each recess 89 may accommodate at least one finger. Although the groove 89 is disposed on the underside of the second member 86 in fig. 8, the groove 89 may be disposed in any orientation and/or location on the second member 86 to facilitate gripping by a user.

Fig. 9 shows another embodiment of a manually operated device. The device 90 includes an end 92 and a handle coupled to the end and adapted for manipulation by a human hand. The handle includes a first member 94 extending from the end 92 and a second member 96 coupled to the first member 94. Applicator 98 is coupled to end 92 and has dimensions suitable for contacting localized areas of human skin.

The second member 96 has a first end 96A, a second end 96B, and an intermediate portion between the first end 96A and the second end 96B. First end 96A of second member 96 is coupled to first member 94.

Fig. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a manually operated device. The device 100 includes an end 102 and a handle coupled to the end and adapted for manipulation by a human hand. The handle includes a first member 104 extending from the end 102 and a second member 106 coupled to the first member 104. Applicator 108 is coupled to tip 102 and has dimensions suitable for contacting localized areas of human skin.

The second member 106 has a first end 106A, a second end 106B, and an intermediate portion between the first end 106A and the second end 106B. A first end 106A of the second member 106 is coupled to the first member 104 at an angle (β). In the illustrated embodiment, β is an obtuse angle.

Fig. 6 shows a flow chart of a method of using an apparatus comprising an engine driven vibrating mechanism or a manually operated device. First, the user fits the applicator to a device (e.g., a vibrator or random orbital device) (block 400). Next, a composition, such as a moisturizer, abrasive particles, and acne treatment, is disposed on the applicator (block 420). This can be accomplished by dipping the applicator into a container containing the composition, or by placing the composition directly onto the applicator (i.e., by a dispenser, squirt bottle, spatula, or other suitable device).

The user then applies the composition disposed on the applicator to the area of skin to be treated (block 440). For example, a user may first apply about one-quarter inch of the composition (e.g., disposed on the applicator) over the entire surface of the porous applicator. The user then dots the area of skin to be treated at locations that are, for example, about three inches apart.

The user then manipulates the composition over the area of skin to be treated using the device (vibrator) (block 460). In embodiments, the working composition (block 460) is characterized by: the device is moved over the skin area using a stationary, upward, cyclic stroke (e.g., a vibrator or a random orbital motion device). In one embodiment, the manipulation of the composition continues for one to ten minutes, or until the composition has been applied to the skin and the skin appears soft and smooth.

Finally, the user wipes off any unabsorbed portion of the composition (block 480), and may optionally rinse or clean the area. In one embodiment, the composition having the moisturizer as the primary component may be worked until substantially all of the moisturizer (and any other components) is absorbed by the skin and only the abrasive particles remain on the skin surface. The abrasive particles can be brushed off and the area of skin cleaned with a mild cleanser. In an alternative embodiment, the user cleanses the area of skin with a mild cleanser, rinses the skin with warm water, and pat the skin dry with a soft towel using gentle circular strokes prior to applying the composition to the skin.

It should be noted that during the application of the composition to the skin 440, the user may apply the composition to an area of the skin before activating the device (vibrator) to manipulate the composition on the skin. Alternatively, the user may apply the composition to the skin simultaneously and manipulate the composition over the area of skin to be treated. Alternatively, the user may simultaneously apply the composition to the applicator, dot the area to be treated, and operate with a rotary stroke. With a vibrator applicator, the user can control the applicator with the vibrator in an on (vibrating) position or an off position for lighter treatments.

Fig. 11 illustrates a method of treating skin using a composition comprising abrasive particles and an acne treatment. In block 210, the composition is applied directly or indirectly (as described above) to the area of skin to be treated. In one embodiment, the composition comprises a matrix, a plurality of abrasive particles having an average particle size of less than about 125 microns, and an acne treatment agent.

In block 212, the composition is manipulated on the skin. As mentioned above, manipulation may require manual movement or motor driven movement of the applicator over the skin. Additionally, the operation may include at least one of vibrating, rotating, heating, and propagating sound waves through the applicator.

The method depicted in fig. 11 advantageously removes an epidermal portion of a human skin layer (e.g., microdermabrasion) while providing the skin with an acne treatment. The type of acne treatment agent in the composition determines the mechanism by which the composition treats acne. For example, acne can be treated by reducing the level of propionibacterium acnes, reducing sebum production, and opening pores. The abrasive nature of the particles in the composition enhances the accessibility to skin pores, resulting in increased effectiveness of the acne treatment agent (e.g., more accessibility makes certain agents more effective at killing propionibacterium acnes and opening pores).

It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of various embodiments have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure, function, and design of various embodiments, this disclosure is illustrative only. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of structure, control of parts, and composition of matter without departing from the scope of the various embodiments as expressed by the broad general meaning of the terms of the appended claims.

Claims (24)

1. A composition, comprising:

a substrate adapted for application to human skin;

a plurality of abrasive particles having an average particle size of less than about 125 microns; and

an acne treating agent.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the acne treatment agent comprises:

at least one of salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and sulfur.

3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the acne treatment agent comprises:

salicylic acid in an amount of about 0.25% to 5.0% by weight of the composition.

4. The composition of claim 2, wherein the acne treatment agent comprises:

benzoyl peroxide in an amount of about 5.0% to about 10.0% by weight of the composition.

5. The composition of claim 2, wherein the acne treatment agent comprises:

sulfur in an amount of about 5.0% to about 10.0% by weight of the composition.

6. The composition of claim 1, further comprising:

at least one of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, detergents, and emulsifiers.

7. The composition of claim 1, wherein the abrasive particles comprise:

at least one of corundum, magnesium oxide and gem stone.

8. The composition of claim 7, wherein the gemstone comprises:

at least one of diamond, garnet, sapphire, ruby, emerald, and topaz.

9. A method, the method comprising:

applying a composition to an area of human skin, the composition comprising a matrix, a plurality of abrasive particles, and an acne treatment; and

operating said composition on said area of human skin with a motor-driven device.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the operations comprise:

the skin is wiped with the device, which includes a handle adapted for manual operation by a human hand, a tip coupled to the handle, and an applicator coupled to the tip and having a size adapted to contact a localized area of human skin.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the applicator comprises: a porous material.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the porous material has a pore size at least the same as the average particle size of the abrasive particles.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the porous material has a pore size that enables the abrasive particles to enter the porous material during operation of the composition.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the operations comprise:

at least one of vibrating and rotating the applicator.

15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

heating the applicator.

16. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

propagating sound waves through the applicator.

17. A method, the method comprising:

applying a composition to an area of human skin, the composition comprising a matrix, a plurality of abrasive particles having an average particle size of less than about 125 microns, and an acne treatment; and

operating the composition on the area of human skin.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the operations comprise:

the skin is wiped with a device having a handle adapted for manipulation by a human hand, an end coupled to the handle, and an applicator coupled to the end and having a size suitable for contacting a localized portion of human skin.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the applicator comprises:

a porous material.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the porous material has a pore size at least the same as the average particle size of the abrasive particles.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the porous material has a pore size that enables the abrasive particles to pass into the porous material during operation of the composition.

22. A method, the method comprising:

removing at least a portion of the epidermis from the area of human skin using a composition comprising abrasive particles having an average particle size of less than about 125 microns; and

while providing an acne treatment to the area of skin.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the removing comprises:

a microdermabrasion is performed on the area of skin.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the providing comprises:

introducing a composition comprising an acne treatment agent capable of at least reducing the level of propionibacterium acnes, reducing sebum production, or opening pores.