Applicators and methods for applying a microneedle patch to a skin of a subject, and microneedle patches

A kit comprising an applicator and a patch,

• the applicator comprising:
• a base for positioning onto the skin, the base comprising:
• a skin-side end;
• a holder for holding the microneedle patch in position relative to the skin-side end, and
• at least two contact parts at the skin-side end for contacting the skin, of which at least one is movable over the skin and away from another contact part to stretch the skin at least during penetration of the skin by a microneedle of the patch;
• the applicator further comprising an interface for an actuator, for actuating a movement of the microneedle patch relative to the skin-side end to penetrate at least into the stratum corneum of the epidermis of the skin with the microneedle.

A method of applying a microneedle patch to a skin of a subject with an applicator, the applicator comprising:

• a base for positioning onto the skin, the base comprising:
• a skin-side end;
• a holder for holding the microneedle patch in position relative to the skin-side end, and
• at least two contact parts at the skin-side end for contacting the skin, of which at least one is movable over the skin and away from another contact part to stretch the skin at least during penetration of the skin by a microneedle of the patch;
• the applicator further comprising an interface for an actuator, for actuating a movement of the microneedle patch relative to the skin-side end to penetrate at least into the stratum corneum of the epidermis of the skin with the microneedle;
• the method comprising:
• positioning the applicator provided with the microneedle patch on the skin;
• stretching the skin by moving at least one contact part over the skin and away from another contact part;
• actuating a movement of the microneedle patch relative to the skin;
• and
• penetrating at least into the stratum corneum of the epidermis of the skin with the microneedle by the movement of the microneedle patch.