CURING LED UV

Abstract

An attachment device for a hair dryer that includes an ultraviolet (UV) light for facilitating curing of a cosmetic composition, such as a hair dye, that is applied to hair of an individual, as well as a hair dryer system that includes such an attachment device. Methods of using the attachment device and/or a system for curing a cosmetic composition, and computational devices configured to perform all or part of the methods.

Description

SUMMARY

In an aspect, the disclosure provides an attachment device for a hair dryer, the attachment device comprising an ultraviolet (UV) light configured to cure a cosmetic composition.

In embodiments, the attachment device is an after-market device configured for use with a hair dryer and comprises a plurality of securements for securement of the attachment device to the hair dryer.

In embodiments, the plurality of securements is configured for securement of the attachment device to a securement rail of the hair dryer.

In embodiments, the cosmetic composition is configured for application to hair of an individual and is UV photocurable.

In embodiments, the cosmetic composition includes a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment device, or both.

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a hair dryer comprising a securement rail configured for securement of the attachment device thereto.

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a hair dryer system comprising the hair dryer and the attachment device.

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a method for curing a cosmetic composition, the method comprising: applying the cosmetic composition to a surface; activating a blower of a hair dryer, such that the hair dryer blows air onto the cosmetic composition on the surface; and activating a UV light of an attachment device for the hair dryer, such that UV light emitted from the attachment device irradiates the cosmetic composition on the surface; wherein the attachment device is attachable to the hair dryer.

In embodiments, the attachment device is attached to the hair dryer.

In embodiments, a beam of the UV light of the attachment device and a portion of the hot air blown by the hair dryer are coincident with a portion of the cosmetic composition on the surface.

In embodiments, the cosmetic composition is formulated for application to hair of an individual and is UV photocurable.

In embodiments, the cosmetic composition includes a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment device, or both.

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a hair dryer system comprising computational circuitry configured to perform all or any portion of a method.

In embodiments, the computational circuitry comprises a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon instructions configured for execution by the processor. In other embodiments, the computational circuitry comprises dedicated hardware circuitry.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a profile view of an example hair dryer system for ultraviolet (UV) curing of a cosmetic composition using a UV light attachment of the system, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a diagram of an example hair dryer system, including a hair dryer with a UV light attachment (light-emitting diode, LED) attached thereto, in use to cure a cosmetic composition on an individual's hair, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows a flow chart of an example method for applying and curing a cosmetic composition with an example hair dryer system, according to aspects of the disclosure.

TABLE 1
Drawings elements and descriptions.
Reference Description
1         Hair dryer system
2         UV light attachment device
3         Hair dryer
4a        Rearward securement (UV light attachment device)
4b        Forward securement (UV light attachment device)
5a        Rearward securement (Hair dryer)
5b        Forward securement (Hair dryer)
6         Securement rail
7         Blown air path
8         Irradiated UV light beam
9         Individual's hair
10        Method for applying and curing a cosmetic composition
11        Start
12        Preparing hair
13        Applying composition to hair
14        Curing composition on hair
15        Finish

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this disclosure will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Existing devices and methods for hair coloring typically utilize an oxidative chemical reaction that can be corrosive to tissues and is overly time consuming. With these approaches, typically, two compounds are mixed to form a hair dye composition, and the hair dye composition is then meticulously applied to the hair. These approaches take time but can be able to produce colored hair that lasts for three or more weeks. There is a need for devices and methods for applying hair dye compositions onto the hair and curing the hair dye compositions for satisfactory lasting of the colored hair. The present disclosure addresses this and other long-felt and unmet needs in the art.

As shown at FIG. 1, an example hair dryer system 1 for ultraviolet (UV) curing of a cosmetic composition comprises a UV light attachment device 2 affixed to a hair dryer 3. In embodiments, a UV light attachment device 2 can be provided as an after-market device for attachment to a commercially available hair dryer 3, such as by way of rearward and forward securements 4a and 4b that are securable around the UV light attachment device 2, and rearward and forward securements 5a and 5b that are securable around the hair dryer 3. Securements 4a and 4b can be connected to securements 5a and 5b to secure the UV light attachment device 2 to the hair dryer 3.

In embodiments, securements 4a and 5a, and 4b and 5b, can be connected together with any suitable fastener, including but not necessarily limited to screws and threaded holes, hook and loop fasteners, complementary magnets, snap connectors, buckles, buttons, zippers, straps, and the like. In embodiments, positions or configurations of securements 4a and 5a, and 4b and 5b are adjustable, such that an angle of the UV light attachment device 2 relative to the hair dryer 3 is adjustable, for example, for adjustment of alignment of a UV light beam of the UV light attachment device 2 with a path of blown air of the hair dryer 3. Since different hair dryers 3 can be shaped differently, resulting in different angles between the UV light beam and the path of blown air, adjustment of the angle between the UV light attachment device 2 and the hair dryer 3 can enable compensation for these differences and help the UV light beam be at least partially coincident with a point of impact of the blown air with hair of an individual during use of the system.

In embodiments, the hair dryer 3 can be provided from a factory, or can be equipped as an after-market addition, with a securement rail 6. The securement rail 6 can be comprised of one or more ridges along a length thereof for securement of securements 4a and 4b, and 5a and 5b, thereto at any position along the length of the securement rail 6. In example embodiments and for purposes of illustration, the securement rail 6, and the securements 4a and 4b, and 5a and 5b, can be considered to function in a manner that corresponds with that of a firearm optics rail with optics attachments, or the like. However, in embodiments, the attachment is integrated or integral with the hair dryer, such that the system is configured as a unit.

As shown at FIG. 2, a hair dryer system can be used to cure and dry a cosmetic composition applied to an individual's hair. As shown, a hair dryer system can include the UV light attachment device attached to the hair dryer. During use, the UV light attachment device can emit a UV light beam 8, and the hair dryer can emit a blown air path 7. The UV light beam 8 can be at least partially coincident with the blown air path 7 at a portion of the individual's hair 9, or can contact the individual's hair 9 at a position near or adjacent to a point of contact of the blown air path 7 with the individual's hair 9, according to embodiments. A UV photocurable cosmetic composition can be cured by the UV light beam 8, and the individual's hair dried of excess water or other liquid by the blown air path 7, simultaneously. In this manner, the time for curing and drying is reduced.

Accordingly, in embodiments, an attachment device for a hair dryer comprises a UV light-emitting diode (LED) light that is configured to cure a cosmetic composition, such as a hair dye, applied to an individual's hair. The UV LED light of the attachment can irradiate an area that is at, near, or adjacent to an output of the hair dryer when attached to the hair dryer, such that warm or hot air emitted by the hair dryer is at least partially coincident with UV light of the attachment. In embodiments, the cosmetic composition can be cured with the hot air, the UV light, or both for improved curing of the cosmetic composition.

In embodiments, the cosmetic composition is configured for application to the hair of an individual, such as the hair on the head. The cosmetic composition can be, or can include, a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment, or both. The hair dye can be for introduction of a hair color to the individual's hair, for example.

FIG. 3 shows a flow chart of an example method for applying and curing a cosmetic composition with an example hair dryer system. A method 10 can include, at step 11, start; at step 12, preparing the hair for application of the cosmetic composition; at step 13, applying the cosmetic composition to the hair; at step 14, activating a UV light of an attachment device for the hair dryer, such that UV light irradiates the cosmetic composition on the hair; and optionally, activating a blower of the hair dryer, such that the hair dryer blows air onto the cosmetic composition on the hair. In embodiments, the attachment is attachable (and/or attached) to the hair dryer for ergonomic use of one or both of the blower and the UV light, such that a user does not need to change their grip or change out a device being held for use of these features of the combination.

In embodiments, a beam of the UV light of the attachment and, optionally, a portion of the hot air blown by the hair dryer, can be at least partially coincident with a portion of the cosmetic composition on the hair, as shown at FIG. 2 by way of a non-limiting example. This can facilitate a user to both style and color the hair with a combination device. As such, in embodiments, the cosmetic composition can be applied with a use of a combination device that includes the attachment and the hair dryer. In embodiments, application of the cosmetic composition can be adjusted, for example with a use of the combination device, for coating and coverage of the hair with the cosmetic composition. Example adjustments include activation and/or deactivation of application of the cosmetic composition as needed, adjustment of a distance between the combination device and the hair as needed, activation and/or deactivation of the beam of the UV light and/or the blower of the hair dryer as needed, and the like.

In embodiments, the hair can be treated with shampoo, conditioner, plasma, hot air, or any combination thereof, to change the surface texture of the hair and enhance penetration of the cosmetic composition into and adhesion to the hair. In embodiments, the hair is treated with shampoo before, during, and/or after application of the cosmetic composition to the hair. In embodiments, the hair is treated with conditioner before, during, and/or after application of the cosmetic composition to the hair. In embodiments, the hair is treated with plasma before, during, and/or after application of the cosmetic composition to the hair. In embodiments, the hair is treated with warm and/or hot air before, during, and/or after application of the cosmetic composition to the hair. In embodiments, an ion generator can be used to activate the aerosolized cosmetic composition, e.g., prior to application to the hair. In embodiments, one or more of these and/or other treatment(s) can be applied with a use of the combination device, for example.

In embodiments, the intensity of the UV light and/or the hair dryer blower, such as rate of air movement and/or level of heat, can be adjusted as part of the application process. Such adjustments can be made based on a distance of the device from the hair or scalp of an individual, for example, to avoid excessive heating or damage to the hair or scalp. In embodiments, the cosmetic composition can be aerosolized and/or provided as a consumable for a use with the combination device; for example, the cosmetic composition can be provided as a cartridge or the like.

Referring back to FIG. 1, in at least some embodiments, a UV light attachment device 2 can be configured for emission of an infrared (IR) light beam. In embodiments, the IR light beam can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a near IR band. In embodiments, the near IR band can be within the range of 650 to 850 nm wavelength, or any portion thereof. The IR light beam can, in embodiments, cure a cosmetic composition that is configured for management or improvement of hair fibers, for example. In embodiments, a cosmetic composition that is curable with the IR light beam is not or does not include a hair coloration composition.

In embodiments, a combination device includes a thermal sensor, placed within a middle portion of an air stream of the hair dryer, where the blown air is warmest. The thermal sensor can be configured to measure temperature of the blown air. The thermal sensor can be operably connected to control circuitry of the combination device; in embodiments, the control circuitry can increase or decrease temperature of the blown air by controlled activation or deactivation of a heating element of the hair dryer, for example. In embodiments, the control circuitry can be configured for computation of a cumulative power projected onto or near the individual's hair or scalp, as a sum of power output by the UV light and the hair dryer. In embodiments, temperature of the blown air can be prioritized for reduction in the event that the cumulative power is above a threshold value, such that a hair coloration process (e.g., with a hair color composition) is not negatively impacted by excessive drying of the hair. In embodiments, the UV light can be automatically decreased or deactivated if the cumulative power is above a threshold value, for example, to reduce the risk of injury to the hair or scalp.

In embodiments, the UV light attachment can comprise a lens system configured to focus the UV light beam on a particular portion of the hair or scalp, for example, such that a broader or narrower focus is achieved. This can be useful, for example, for curing a photocurable hair color composition over a larger area with a broader focus of the lens system. This can also be useful, for example, for curing a photocurable hair color composition over a smaller area with a narrower focus of the lens system; such a narrower focus can be helpful for generating certain hair color styles, such as highlights, for example. In embodiments, control circuitry can be configured for operation of the lens system and adjustment of the focus, as an automatic adjustment, based on selection of an operation mode by a user; for example, the user could select a “broad” focus for a sweeping coloration of large areas of the hair, or could select a “narrow” focus for highlights. In embodiments, adjustment of the lens system can be manual, for example, by manual rotation of a focusing lens by a user, for example.

In various embodiments, the combination device can be a “smart hair dryer” that includes, among other features, one or more sensors (e.g., thermal sensor) that are operably connected with circuitry configured for performing logic operations based on data received from the one or more sensors for automated, semi-automated, or assisted manual application of the cosmetic composition to a portion of the body of an individual. The logic operations can include all or part of a method and/or process of the disclosure, for example, optionally in combination with additional logic operations. Attachment devices, hair dryers, and/or devices or systems of the disclosure can be provided as kits that include instructional materials configured to direct a user in a use of the kit.

As such, in aspects, the disclosure provides a “smart hair dryer” computational system or device comprising circuitry configured to perform all or part of a method, and in at least some aspects, a system and/or network of computational devices comprising at least part of such circuitry. In embodiments, a smart hair dryer computational device can include a form factor that corresponds to a form factor of a hair dryer, a hair dryer system, or the like, as disclosed herein. In embodiments, circuitry of such a computational device is configurable with a processor and processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable medium of the computational device, as a non-limiting example, but other approaches for configuring circuitry of the computational device can be implemented in embodiments. In embodiments, the computational device includes a processor for execution of instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, for enabling the processor to carry out all or part of a method or process of the disclosure. Accordingly, in embodiments, a computational device includes a software application configured to perform all or part of one or more methods or processes of the disclosure, in any order or combination. However, in embodiments, a computational device includes dedicated hardware circuitry. Further configuration of circuitry of the computational device can include networking circuitry, for example, circuitry configured for a wireless connection, such as a Bluetooth® connection, a Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) connection, and/or a Wi-Fi® connection, and/or a wired connection. The networking circuitry, in combination with circuitry of the computational device, can be used to request, retrieve, and/or receive data from a remote server, for example. In embodiments, the circuitry can include operable connection of one or more sensors with the processor, or other circuitry, for performing logic operations and/or methods based on data received from the one or more sensors, for example.

Terminology

As used herein, including in the claims, the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and the like, refer to the singular and the plural forms of the object or element referenced. The term “comprising” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or steps. The term “consisting of,” as used in a claim, excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The term “consisting essentially of,” as used in a claim, limits the scope of the claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claim.

As used herein, the term “device,” and similar terms, refers to an electronic device that is configured, or that can be configured, to perform all or part of a method or process of the disclosure. The term “system,” and similar terms, refers to two or more, i.e., multiple, devices that together are configured, or can be configured, to perform all or part of a method or process of the disclosure. Devices and systems can be operably connected by one or more electronic telecommunications connections or network connections for electronic communications that utilize one or more networking protocols for the transmission or exchange of data, for example, for carrying out all or part of a method as a computational method. The term “computational method” refers to a method, or a portion of a method, that is carried out substantially or entirely by a device or system, with little or no human or manual input.

As used herein, the term “instructional material,” and similar terms, refers to any material or media, whether print, audio, visual, illustrative, audiovisual, tactile, or otherwise, that can convey to an individual information about how to use a kit, device, system, or other aspect of the disclosure in a method or process for remote sebum measurement.

Non-Limiting Embodiments

While general features of the disclosure are described and shown and particular features of the disclosure are set forth in the claims, the following non-limiting embodiments relate to features, and combinations of features, that are explicitly envisioned as being part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting Embodiments contain elements that are modular and can be combined with each other in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting Embodiment, which can itself be further combined with other non-limiting Embodiments.

Embodiment 1. An attachment device for a hair dryer, the attachment device comprising an ultraviolet (UV) light configured to cure a cosmetic composition.

Embodiment 2. The attachment device of Embodiment 1 or any other Embodiment, wherein the attachment device is an after-market device configured for use with a hair dryer and comprises a plurality of securements for securement of the attachment device to the hair dryer.

Embodiment 3. The attachment device of Embodiment 2 or any other Embodiment, wherein the plurality of securements is configured for securement of the attachment device to a securement rail of the hair dryer.

Embodiment 4. The attachment device of any one of Embodiments 1-3 or any other Embodiment, wherein the cosmetic composition is configured for application to hair of an individual and is UV photocurable.

Embodiment 5. The attachment device of any one of Embodiments 1-4 or any other Embodiment, wherein the cosmetic composition includes a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment device, or both.

Embodiment 6. A hair dryer comprising a securement rail configured for securement of the attachment device of any one of Embodiments 1-5 or any other Embodiment thereto.

Embodiment 7. A hair dryer system comprising the hair dryer of Embodiment 6 and the attachment device of any one of Embodiments 1-5 or any other Embodiment.

Embodiment 8. A method for curing a cosmetic composition, the method comprising: applying the cosmetic composition to a surface; activating a blower of a hair dryer, such that the hair dryer blows air onto the cosmetic composition on the surface; and activating a UV light of an attachment device for the hair dryer, such that UV light emitted from the attachment device irradiates the cosmetic composition on the surface; wherein the attachment device is attachable to the hair dryer.

Embodiment 9. The method of Embodiment 8 or any other Embodiment, wherein the attachment device is attached to the hair dryer.

Embodiment 10. The method of Embodiment 8 or any other Embodiment, wherein a beam of the UV light of the attachment device and a portion of the hot air blown by the hair dryer are coincident with a portion of the cosmetic composition on the surface.

Embodiment 11. The method of Embodiment 8 or any other Embodiment, wherein the cosmetic composition is formulated for application to hair of an individual and is UV photocurable.

Embodiment 12. The method of Embodiment 11 or any other Embodiment, wherein the cosmetic composition includes a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment device, or both.

Embodiment 13. A hair dryer system comprising computational circuitry configured to perform all or any portion of the method of Embodiment 8 or any other Embodiment.

Embodiment 14. The hair dryer system of Embodiment 13 or any other Embodiment, wherein the computational circuitry comprises a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon instructions configured for execution by the processor.

Embodiment 15. The hair dryer system of Embodiment 13 or any other Embodiment, wherein the computational circuitry comprises dedicated hardware circuitry.

While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An attachment device for a hair dryer, the attachment device comprising an ultraviolet (UV) light configured to cure a cosmetic composition.

2. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the attachment device is an after-market device configured for use with a hair dryer and comprises a plurality of securements for securement of the attachment device to the hair dryer.

3. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein the plurality of securements is configured for securement of the attachment device to a securement rail of the hair dryer.

4. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the cosmetic composition is configured for application to hair of an individual and is UV photocurable.

5. The attachment device of claim 4, wherein the cosmetic composition includes a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment device, or both.

6. A hair dryer comprising a securement rail configured for securement of the attachment device of claim 1 thereto.

7. A hair dryer system comprising the hair dryer of claim 6.

8. A method for curing a cosmetic composition, the method comprising: applying the cosmetic composition to a surface;activating a blower of a hair dryer, such that the hair dryer blows air onto the cosmetic composition on the surface; andactivating a UV light of an attachment device for the hair dryer, such that UV light emitted from the attachment device irradiates the cosmetic composition on the surface;wherein the attachment device is attachable to the hair dryer.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the attachment device is attached to the hair dryer.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein a beam of the UV light of the attachment device and a portion of the hot air blown by the hair dryer are coincident with a portion of the cosmetic composition on the surface.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the cosmetic composition is formulated for application to hair of an individual and is UV photocurable.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the cosmetic composition includes a hair dye that is curable with hot air of the hair dryer, UV light of the attachment device, or both.

13. A hair dryer system comprising computational circuitry configured to perform all or any portion of the method of claim 8.

14. The hair dryer system of claim 13, wherein the computational circuitry comprises a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon instructions configured for execution by the processor.

15. The hair dryer system of claim 13, wherein the computational circuitry comprises dedicated hardware circuitry.