SWIM HAIR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for protecting the hair of an individual from exposure to water during swimming and/or other water activities.

BACKGROUND

If unprotected, swimming causes an individual's hair to come in contact with water. Depending on the composition of the water, an individual's hair may be in contact with and/or exposed to compounds and/or chemicals, such as salt and chlorine that may damage the individual's hair.

In particular, for some individuals of different ethnic and/or cultural backgrounds, water may have additional negative effects on the individual's hair. For example, it is well known that individuals of African and other ethnic or culturally diverse descents may often have hair that is particularly sensitive to water, humidity, and/or any type of moisture. Water is also known to be detrimental to many hair styles worn by ethnic and diverse men and woman, which makes swimming and other water activities a challenging and often daunting exercise.

A swim cap is a common tool to protect an individual's hair from getting wet and/or damaged due to water exposure. Traditional swim caps that are currently available on the market often slip off and/or away from an individual's head while the individual is in or being exposed to water, which exposes their hair to water and its components. Furthermore, current swim caps that are commercially available are not generally considered to be aesthetically pleasing.

In a recent poll, about 60% of women (n=60) indicated they would not wear a traditional swim cap in public. And 75% of women who did wear swim caps in public indicated they had lower confidence when wearing a traditional swim cap. This small survey represents a much larger sentiment that indicates individuals and consumers often choose to not to use a swim cap at all and risk damaging their hair in order to feel and/or look more attractive or confident when in public.

To address the unmet needs of the consumer market, the present disclosure is directed to a swim hair composition. Described herein is a system and method that increases the protection provided to an individual's hair during swimming and/or other water activities. More specifically, described herein are systems and methods that include a swim hair apparatus with enhanced aesthetics, less slippage, and more protection for people with hair sensitive to water damage or detriment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are included to meet these and other needs. In one aspect, the present disclosure is direct to a swim hair to protect the hair of an individual comprising a wig with a first outer surface and a first inner surface, an inner shell with a second outer surface and a second inner surface, an inner lining with a third outer surface and a third inner surface, and at least one wig comb and at least one elastic strap attached to the third inner surface.

In one embodiment, the inner lining is made of a waterproof material. In some embodiments, the inner shell is made of a water resistant material. In other embodiments, the inner shell does not conform to a scalp of an individual.

In one embodiment, the one or more hair extensions are attached to the first outer surface of the wig. In some embodiments, the one or more hair extensions comprise natural hair or synthetic hair.

In one embodiment, the inner lining comprises polyurethane or silk. In some embodiments, the wig further comprises a lace mesh attached to the first outer surface.

In one embodiment, the at least one wig comb prevents the swim hair from slipping from a head of an individual. In some embodiments, the at least one elastic straps prevents the swim hair from slipping from a head of an individual. In other embodiments, the at least one wig comb may comprise at least four teeth. In some other embodiments, the at least one wig comb comprises metal or plastic.

In one embodiment, the at least one wig comb ranges in size from about 3 cm×2 cm to about 5 cm×4 cm. In some embodiments, the wig comprises a lace mesh.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a swim hair to prevent damage to the hair of an individual comprising a wig with a first outer surface and a first inner surface, wherein a lace mesh and hair extensions are positioned on the first outer surface, an inner shell with a second outer surface and a second inner surface, an inner lining with a third outer surface and a third inner surface, and at least one wig comb and at least one elastic strap attached to the head of the individual.

In one embodiment, the inner lining is made of a waterproof material. In some embodiments, the inner shell is made of a water resistant material.

In one embodiment, the inner shell does not conform to the head of the individual. In some embodiments, the hair extensions comprise natural hair or synthetic hair. In other embodiments, the at least one wig comb or the at least one elastic strap prevent the wig from slipping from the head of the individual.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic showing the different layers of the swim hair.

FIG. 2 is a schematic showing the swim hair with wig combs attached to the inner shell and/or the inner lining.

FIG. 3 is a schematic showing the swim hair with wig combs and at least one elastic strap.

FIG. 4 is a schematic showing the wig of the swim hair attached to a lace mesh.

FIG. 5 is an image of an embodiment of the inner shell of the swim hair.

FIG. 6 is an image of an inner view of an embodiment of the swim hair showing the different layers.

FIG. 7 is an image of an embodiment of the swim hair showing the different layers including the partial frontal closure.

FIG. 8 is an image of an embodiment of an elastic straps.

FIG. 9 is an image of an embodiment of a wig clip.

FIG. 10 is an image of a top view of an embodiment of the swim hair.

FIG. 11 is an image of an embodiment of the inner lining of the swim hair.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings described herein. Reference is also made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice what is claimed and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is directed to a swim hair system and a method that increases the protection provided to an individual's hair during swimming and/or other water activities (e.g., any activity that includes the use of water). An individual or user of the present disclosure may be any human, such as a male or female. An illustrative user of the products of the present disclosure may be a woman or a person who identifies as a woman.

An exemplary user or individual of the present disclosure may be any person who suffers negative and/or detrimental effects to their hair and/or hairstyle when it is exposed to water or moisture, such as during water activities. An individual or user of the products of the present disclosure may be any human, male, female, man, or a woman. An individual or user may have any ethnic or culturally diverse descent, heritage, or ancestry. In one embodiment, the individual or user may have minimal, limited, or no European or Caucasian descent, heritage, or ancestry. While typically unnecessary, descent, heritage, and ancestry may be determined by genetic analysis, such as chromosomal, DNA, and RNA analysis.

Water activities may include, but are not limited to engaging in any type of activity that comprises any type or kind of water. In one embodiment, water activities are those that including bodies of water (e.g., ponds, lakes, ocean, pool, hot tub, bath tub, etc.), moving or flowing water (e.g., rivers or streams), or water rides, water attractions, or water roller coasters, such as those found in an amusement or water park. In a further embodiment, water activities also comprise minimal or no activity around, near, or in close proximity to water, such as sunbathing on a body of water, wading in a body of water, soaking in a tub of water, or splashing and/or playing in water.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a swim hair 100 comprises a wig 110 and a cap 120. The wig 110 comprises an outer surface 112 and an inner surface 114. The cap 120 comprises an inner shell 130 and an inner lining 140 (see FIGS. 6, 7 and 11).

The thickness of the wig 110 and the cap 120 may be any thickness that prevents water from entering the swim hair 100. In particular, the surfaces of the wig 112 and 114, as well as the inner shell 130 and inner lining 140 of the cap, may be any thickness required to confer water resistance or make the swim hair 100 waterproof. Specifically, there is no requirements of swim hair 100 that one portion or layer of the swim hair 100 be of a different thickness than any other layer or portion.

Referring to FIG. 1, the inner shell 130 has an outer surface 132 and an inner surface 134. The inner lining 140 has an outer surface 142 and an inner surface 144. The outer surface 142 of the inner lining 140 is in contact with the inner surface 134 of the inner shell 130. The inner surface 114 of the wig 110 is in contact with the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130. The inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140 may come in contact with a head, hair, and/or scalp of a user or an individual.

In one embodiment, the inner shell 130 is configured to be water resistant, such that the inner shell 130 is able to repel and/or resist at least about 50% of water that it comes in contact with. In illustrative embodiments, the inner shell may resist or prevent from about 50% to about 90% of water from entering the inner lining, including any specific or range of percentage comprised therein.

In some embodiments, the inner shell 130, including the outer surface 132 and the inner surface 134, comprise a water resistant and/or waterproof material. In some embodiments, the water resistant or waterproof material of the inner shell 130 may comprise polyester, nylon, spandex, or combinations thereof in order to provide resistance to water. In an illustrative embodiment, the inner shell 130 is comprised of about 82% polyester and about 18% spandex.

Referring to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 may be water resistant, such that the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 is able to repel and/or resist about 50% of water that it comes in contact with. In illustrative embodiments, the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 may resist or prevent from about 50% to about 90% of water from entering the inner shell, including any specific or range of percentage comprised therein.

In some embodiments, the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 may comprise a coating to further strengthen and/or fortify the water resistance of the inner shell 130. In one embodiment, the coating may comprise polyurethane. In another embodiment, the coating may comprise about 50% to about 100% polyurethane, including any specific or range of percentage comprised therein.

In some further embodiments, the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 may be colored to mimic a skin tone of an individual or a user. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 132 and/or inner surface 134 of the inner shell 130 may comprise a portion or a patch 164 that may be any color (see also FIG. 5). In one exemplary embodiment, the patch portion 164 of the inner shell 130 of the cap 120 may be colored to mimic a skin tone or skin color of the hair, head, and/or scalp of an individual or a user (e.g., of white, cream, beige, tan, brown, or black) in order to advantageously add to the flawless illusion that the cap 120 and wig 110 combination represent the natural head, hair, and/or scalp of the user or individual.

Referring to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the inner lining 140 may comprise one or more layers of a material (see also FIG. 11). In one embodiment, the inner lining 140 may comprise one or two layers of a material. In another embodiment, the inner lining 140 may comprise about one to about five or about one to about ten layers of a material, including any number or range of layers comprised therein.

In one embodiment, the inner lining 140 is configured to be waterproof. The outer surface 142 of the inner lining 140 is able to repel and/or resist about 100% of water that it comes in contact with. In some embodiments, the inner lining 140 may resist or prevent from about 90% to about 100% of water from entering the head, hair or scalp of the individual, including any specific or range of percentage comprised therein.

In some embodiments, the inner lining 140 comprises a waterproof material (e.g., the layers of material are waterproof). In some embodiments, the inner lining 140 is 100% resistant to water (i.e., waterproof). In other embodiments, the layers of the inner lining 140 are configured to be 100% resistant to water.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in other embodiments, the inner lining 140 may comprise a lining fabric 152. More specifically, the inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140 may comprise a lining fabric 152 that is present to help protect and preserve health of the natural hair of the individual while wearing the swim hair 100. Typically, the lining fabric 152 is located between the inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140 and the head, hair, or scalp of the user or individual.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the inner lining 140 may comprise a material (see also FIG. 11). The material of the inner lining 140 may be polyester, polyurethane, satin, silk, and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the silk may be in the form of silk fibers. In an illustrative embodiment, the inner lining 140 may comprise about 100% polyurethane, about 100% polyester, about 100% satin, about 100% silk, or any range of combinations of materials. In an illustrative embodiment, the inner shell 130 is comprised of about 82% polyester and about 18% spandex.

In one embodiment, the inner lining 140 may comprise a material that is a waterproof, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In one embodiment, the waterproof, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) may be in the form of a film or coating to enhance water resistance of the inner lining 140. In such embodiments, the inner lining 140 may comprise a material that confers water resistance to the lining and has any combination of polyurethane, polyester, satin, silk, and/or waterproof TPU film. The combination of the water resistant inner shell 130 with the waterproof inner lining 140 provides safe and secure prevention of water seepage and leakage into the swim hair 100.

Referring to FIG. 1, in some further embodiments, one or more non-slip silicone grips 136 may be comprised by the swim hair 100 in order to affix and/or adhere each of the multiple layers of swim hair 100 to each other. Doing so helps reduce and/or prevent the swim hair 100 from taking on water, moving, or coming off during activity. In some embodiments, the non-slip silicone grips 136 may be positioned to adhere to the inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140, or to the inner surface 134 of the inner shell 130, or to the inner surface 114 of the wig 110. In other embodiments, the non-slip silicone grip may be adhered to any part of the swim hair 100.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the swim hair 100 and 200 may include one or more wig combs 122. In some embodiments, the one or more wig combs 122 may be configured to be attached or connected to the inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140, or to the inner surface 134 of the inner shell 130, or to the inner surface 114 of the wig 110 (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11). In an exemplary embodiment, the wig combs 122 may be attached, affixed, adhered, and/or connected to any surface of the swim hair 100 and 200 by any means known in the art, such as by sewing, stitching, crocheting, quilting, stapling, taping, ironing, etc.

In other embodiments of the swim hair 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the one or more wig combs 122 may be sewn to the outer surface 142 of the inner lining 140 or to the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130. In some other embodiments, the one or more wig combs 122 may be sewn to a different part of the swim hair 100. The one or more wig combs 122 may be positioned to be horizontal in certain areas of the swim hair 100, vertical in other areas, or at any angle in between. In some embodiments, the one or more wig combs 122 may be sewn along a seam, such as a seam on the circumference 176 of the swim hair 100 (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11).

In one embodiment, the one or more wig combs 122 may be attached to any portion of the cap 120, the wig 110, and/or the swim hair 200. In illustrative embodiments, one or more wig combs 122 may be attached to the circumference 176 of the cap 120, the wig 110, and/or the swim hair 200, which may be any size. In exemplary embodiments, one or more wig combs 122 may be attached to the circumference 176 of the cap 120, the wig 110, and the swim hair 200, which may be any size to fit a human head.

In an illustrative embodiment, the circumference 176 of the cap 120, the wig 110, and the swim hair 200, such as one designed for adults, is about 2.6 cm×about 1.55 cm. In some embodiments, the circumference 176 of the cap 120 and wig 110 of the swim hair 200, such as one designed for teens, may be about 2.45 cm×about 1.5 cm. In other embodiments, the circumference 176 of the cap 120, the wig 110, and the swim hair 200, such as one designed for children, may be about 2.3 cm×about 1.45 cm (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11).

In one embodiment, the one or more wig combs 122 may be comprised of any material (see FIG. 9). For example, the one or more wig combs 122 may comprise metal (e.g., stainless steel) or plastic. In some embodiments, the one or more wig combs 122 may be comprised of fabric added to a part or portion of the one or more wig combs 122. In some embodiments, the fabric of the wig combs 122 may be polyester.

In other embodiments, the one or more wig combs 122 may comprise a number of wig combs 122 necessary to secure the swim hair 100 to the head, hair, or scalp of the user. In one embodiment, a wig comb 122 may comprise any number of teeth, such as at least, at, or about four (4) or more teeth, such as about four (4) to about ten (10), including any number or range of teeth comprised therein. In other embodiments, the teeth may be positioned in a sleek arc or semicircular design, such as along the circumference 176 of the seam of the swim hair 200 (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11).

In one embodiment, the one or more wig combs 122 may be any size (see FIG. 9). In one embodiment, the one or more wig combs 122 may range in size from about 2 cm×1 cm to about 5 cm×4 cm, including every size comprised therein. In some embodiments, the one or more wig combs 122 may be about 3.6 cm×3.2 cm.

In one embodiment, the teeth of the one or more wig combs 122 may range in size from about 1.5 cm×about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm×about 3.5 cm, including every size comprised therein. In some embodiments, the teeth of the one or more wig combs 122 may be about 3.1 cm×about 2.1 cm in size.

In some embodiment, the one or more wig combs 122 may contact the user's head, hair, or scalp. In one embodiments, the swim hair 100 may include at least two wig combs 122 attached at a front end 102 of the swim hair 100. In other embodiments, the swim hair 100 may include at least two or three wig combs 122 attached to a back end 104 of the swim hair 100.

In one embodiment, the one or more wig combs 122 may be configured to aid in the attachment of the swim hair 100 to the user's head, hair, and/or scalp. In some embodiments, when the one or more wig combs 122 have securely engaged with the user's head, hair, and/or scalp to provide a security and/or locking mechanism that may prevent slippage, movement, release, and/or removal of the swim hair 100 from the head, hair, and/or scalp of the individual.

In other embodiments, the presence of one or more wig combs 122 and/or one or more elastic bands or straps 150 may also prevent the swim hair 100 from substantially or completely conforming to the top surface of the user's head, hair, and/or scalp. In one embodiment, the inner lining 140 and/or the inner shell 130 are unable to substantially or completely conforming to the top surface of the user's head, hair, and/or scalp due to the one or more wig combs 122 and/or one or more elastic bands or straps 150, although the swim hair 100 remains breathable, waterproof, and/or water resistant.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the swim hair 300 may include one or more elastic bands or straps 150. In some embodiments, the one or more elastic bands or straps 150 may be adjustable, stretchable, and/or versatile. In some embodiments, the one or more elastic bands or straps 150 may prevent slippage of the swim hair 300 from the user's head, hair, and/or scalp (see also FIG. 8).

In other embodiments, the one or more elastic bands or straps 150 may enable the swim hair 300 to prevent or reduce the amount of water from coming into contact with the inner shell 130, or the inner lining 140. In some other embodiments, the one or more elastic bands or straps 150 may enable the swim hair 300 to prevent or reduce the amount of water from coming into contact with the user's head, hair, and/or scalp.

In one embodiment, the swim hair 300 may include at least one elastic band or strap 150 attached to the inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140, the inner surface 134 of the inner shell 130, or to the inner surface 114 of the wig 110 (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11). In other embodiments, the swim hair 300 may include at least one elastic band or strap 150 attached to the outer surface 142 of the inner lining 140 or to the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130. In some other embodiments, the swim hair 300 may include at least one elastic band or strap 150 attached to any different part of the swim hair 300.

In one embodiment, the at least one elastic band or strap 150 may contact the user's head, hair, and/or scalp (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11). In some embodiments, the at least one elastic band or strap 150 may include one elastic band or strap 150 attached at a front end 102 of the swim hair 300. In other embodiments, the at least one elastic band or strap 150 may include one elastic band or strap 150 attached at a back end 104 of the swim hair 100. In some further embodiments, the at least one elastic band or strap 150 may include one elastic band or strap 150 attached to a back-right side 106 or a back-left side 108 of the swim hair 100.

The elastic band or strap 150 may be any size and dimensions necessary to fit and maintain the swim hair 100 on the head of the user or individual (see FIG. 8). In one embodiment, the elastic band or strap 150 may be at least about 3 inches in length to about 12 inches in length, including any specific or range of length comprised therein. In one embodiment, the elastic band or strap 150 may be at least about 5 inches in length.

In one embodiment, the elastic band or strap 150 may be at least about 0.25 inches in width to about 2.5 inches in width, including any specific or range of width comprised therein. In one embodiment, the elastic band or strap 150 may be at least about 1 inch in width. In one embodiment, the width of the elastic band or strap 150 may range of at least about 1.4 inches to about 1.6 inches, such as at least about 1.5 inches in width (see FIG. 8).

In one embodiment, the elastic band or strap 150 is stretched from its non-stretched state when a user or individual places and positions the swim hair 100 on their head, hair, and/or scalp (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11). Typically, the elastic band or strap 150 comprises elasticity that ranges from about 10% to about 50%, including any specific or range of elasticity comprised therein. In an illustrative embodiment, the elastic band or strap 150 comprises about 25% elasticity. In such an embodiment having about 25% elasticity, when it is stretched from its non-stretched state to a stretched state, the elastic band or strap 150 provides an average, a maximum, or at least about 1.8 inches of additional length to the circumference 176 of the swim hair 100. Accordingly, in one embodiment, an illustrative elastic band that is 5 inches in length could stretch up to 6.8 inches when the swim hair 100 is placed on the head, hair, and/or scalp of a user or individual.

The elastic band or strap 150 of the swim hair 100 may also be used in a pairs or a set. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a first elastic band or strap 154 and a second elastic band or strap 156 may be used in a set. The first elastic band or strap 154 may comprise one or more hooks 172, while a second elastic band or strap 156 may comprise one or more eyes 174 or vice versa. The first 154 and the second 156 elastic band or strap may be contacted, attached, secured, and/or adjoined to form a single elastic band or strap 150. For example, the one or more hooks 172 of the first elastic band or strap 154 may be hooked into the one or more eyes 174 of the second elastic band or strap 156 to form a single elastic band or strap 150 that will secure and/or seal the swim hair 100 onto the head, hair, or scalp of the user or individual (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 11).

In other embodiments, the wig 110 may be an accessory to the cap 120. In some embodiments, the wig 110 may be configured to attach to the cap 120 in order to give the illusion that a user or individual has natural hair growing from their own head, hair, and/or scalp. In other embodiments, the wig 110 may include one or more hair extensions 118 that typically comprise a plurality (e.g., hundreds, thousands, or millions) of hair strands 170. In some embodiments, the wig 110 may include one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 to provide the impression that the swim hair 400 is authentic and naturally grown from the head, hair, and/or scalp of the individual.

The hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 of the swim hair 400 shown in FIG. 4 may be made of any material known in the art. In one embodiment, the hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 comprise a synthetic material. In some embodiments, the one or more synthetic hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 may be made of polymers. In one embodiment, synthetic material of the hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 may comprise acrylic, plastic, nylon, kanekalon, and/or combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the wig 110 may include one or more synthetic hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 that are not polymeric in nature. In one embodiment, the wig 110 may include one or more synthetic hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 that do not comprise polymers. In other embodiments, the wig 110 may include one or more synthetic hair extensions 118 or hair strands 170 that do not comprise shape-memory polymers.

In one embodiment, the wig 110 may include one or more hair extensions 118 made of natural hair, such as hair that has been grown, taken from, and/or provided by another living organism (e.g., a human, horse, etc.). In one embodiment, the wig 110 may include multiple or a plurality of hair strands, or hair extensions to provide a full head of hair to create the wig 110 (see FIGS. 6, 7, 10, and 11). In some embodiments, the wig 110 may include one or more hair extensions 118 made of freshly cut or virgin hair. In some embodiments, the wig 110 may include one or more hair extensions 118 made of 100% virgin hair strands 170. In other embodiments, the hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be any blend of natural, virgin, and/or synthetic hair.

In other embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be of any texture and in any natural or non-natural color. In some other embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be bleached, dyed, and/or styled with or without heat or other hair products.

In other embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be of any length. In some embodiments, the length of the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may range from about 1 inch to about 30 inches, including any specific or range of lengths comprised therein.

Beyond the hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170, the wig 110 portion of the swim hair 100 can be designed using several different kinds of materials for the base and/or scalp portion 158 of the wig 110 (see FIGS. 6, 7, 10, and 11). In some embodiments, the base and/or scalp portion 158 of the wig 110 align with, is in contact with, is affixed, or adheres to the inner surface 114 of the wig 110. For example, the base or scalp component 158 of the wig 110 may include any material.

Illustrative materials used for the scalp component 158 of the wig 110 may include, but are not limited to lace, silk, thin skin, and/or monofilament. Each of these materials are available in several different shades to blend perfectly with various scalp and/or skin tones of any individual. In addition, the material of the scalp component 158 of the wig 110 can be tinted and/or transparent to match and/or blend with various scalp and/or skin tones of any individual.

Thin skin refers to a polyurethane material that can be used for the base or scalp component 158 of the wig 110. Thin skin may be used for the front of the hairline and/or the entire base or scalp component 158 of the wig 110. The extremely thin polyurethane material (e.g., microthin) is advantageously ventilated by hand using a looping technique, such that the hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 will stay secure in the wig 110 longer and appear to be growing directly out of the scalp of the user or individual.

A monofilament base or scalp component 158 of the wig 110 comprise a thin, breathable nylon or polyester mesh material typically located at the crown of the wig 110. The monofilament base or scalp component 158 of the wig 110 gives the illusion of skin and assumes the user's natural scalp color by partially revealing the scalp of the individual below.

A silktop base or scalp component 158 of the wig 110 is also known as Triple Reversed Knots or Hidden knots. Silktop bases provide the most realistic looking wig scalp component 158 in comparison to other base options. Silktop bases are designed using a high quality silk base at the top and/or crown, while having lace material in the front, back and sides.

In one embodiment of the swim hair 400 shown in FIG. 4, the base and/or scalp component 158 of the wig 110 portion may include a lace mesh 160. In illustrative embodiments, the lace mesh 160 may comprise one or more lace closures 162, one or more hair extensions 118, and/or one or more hair strands 170 (see FIGS. 6, 7, 10, and 11). In some embodiments, the lace closure 162 is an inherent piece of the lace mesh 160 and is not a separate component. In other embodiments, the one or more lace closures 162 may be a separate or additional component to the lace mesh 160, and may be attached, connected, and/or affixed to the lace mesh 160 by any means (e.g., sewing and/or adhesive).

In other embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be attached, connected, and/or affixed to the lace mesh 160 by any means (e.g., sewing and/or adhesive). In some embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be directly sewn on the lace mesh 160. In some other embodiments, each hair strand 170 of freshly cut, natural, or synthetic hair providing the one or more hair extensions 118 that may be pulled into one or more holes in the lace mesh 160 to create a natural looking scalp for the swim hair 100.

In illustrative embodiments, the lace mesh 160, and particularly the lace closure 162, may be configured to be attached to, connected to, affixed to, and/or positioned atop the patch 164 of the cap 120 in order to create a natural looking scalp of the user (see FIGS. 6, 7, 10, and 11). In one embodiment, the lace mesh 160 and the patch 164 of the cap 120 are made to be the same size and/or dimensions, such that the lace mesh 160 and/or the lace closure 162 can be perfectly positioned to lay on top of the patch portion 164 of the cap 120 in order to create a more natural looking scalp on the swim hair 100 for the user. For example, in one embodiment, the lace mesh 160 and the patch portion 164 of the cap 120 can both be sized to be about 5×5 cm, such that the lace mesh 160 may be perfectly positioned atop and affixed to the patch portion 164 of the cap 120 beneath in order to create a more natural looking scalp on the swim hair 100 for the user.

In one embodiment, the lace mesh 160 and the patch 164 of the cap 120 are made to be the same color as the skin tone or skin color of an individual or a user (see FIG. 10). In one embodiment, having the lace mesh 160 and the patch 164 of the cap 120 the same color or tone to match the skin color or tone of the user (e.g., any tone of white, cream, beige, tan, brown, or black) is particularly advantageous in the region of the swim hair 100 where the user may part their hair and further expose the scalp component 158 of the wig 110, the lace mesh 160, and/or the patch portion 164 of the cap 120, in order to create a more natural looking scalp on the swim hair 100 for the user or individual.

In some embodiments, the lace mesh 160 may be any material comprising lace. In some embodiments, the lace mesh 160 may be made of any type of lace. For example, the lace of the lace mesh 160 may be any type of lace, including, but not limited to Swiss lace, French lace, stretch lace, and/or high definition lace.

French lace is a very durable material. French lace is also a very breathable material. In some embodiments, French lace may be used for the front of the hairline and/or the entire base 158 of the wig 110. French lace has good disappearing qualities on the front hairline since it gives the illusion of skin.

Swiss lace is a very delicate material. Swiss lace is also a very breathable material. In some embodiments, Swiss lace may be used for the front of the hairline and/or the entire base 158 of the wig 110.

Swiss lace is finer and more fragile than French lace. Swiss lace also blends better with the skin for a less visible appearance than does French lace. One embodiment of a Swiss lace is a high definition lace, which is just an even thinner version of the traditional Swiss lace.

Finally, stretch lace is generally used in the base 158 of the wig 110 around the perimeter to ensure a perfect fit. Stretch lace is usually located at the crown or ears of the wig 110. The remainder of the base 158 of the wig 110 is designed using French lace, Swiss lace or some of the various materials as described herein.

In one embodiment, the lace mesh 160 with the one or more or plurality of hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170 may be attached to the outer surface 112 of the wig 110. In one embodiment, the outer surface 112 of the wig 110 or the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 may be configured to look like a human scalp (see FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the outer surface 112 of the wig 110 or the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 may be colored in any hue or color, particularly such colors (e.g., of white, cream, beige, tan, brown, or black) to match the skin tone or skin color of the user or individual.

In some embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 may include one or more partial or whole lace closures 162. In some embodiments, the one or more partial or whole lace closures 162 may be any size, some sizes cover just the forehead of an individual while other larger sizes cover a substantially larger portion of the head or forehead of an individual (e.g., a lace frontal closure). In some embodiments, the one or more partial or whole lace closures 162 may be sized to be about 2×2 cm, 3×3 cm, 4×4 cm, 5×5 cm, 6×6 cm, 2×4 cm, 2×6 cm, 4×6 cm, 13×6 cm, or any combination of dimensions. The lace closures 162 may cover a part or the entire forehead of the user wearing the swim hair 400. The lace closure may comprise a lace frontal portion that is about 13×5 cm or larger in size.

In one embodiment, the one or more hair extensions 118 may be styled with a partial or a whole lace closure 162. In some embodiments, the one or more hair extensions 118 may have a frontal (e.g., a partial) closure that does not extend only across the portion of the wig 110. In other embodiment, the one or more hair extensions 118 may have a whole lace closure that extends 360 degrees around the circumference 176 of the wig 110 or the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130.

In some embodiments, the partial or whole lace closure 162 may be a single component of the swim hair 100 that comprises 100% lace. In another embodiment, the partial or whole lace closure 162 may be configured to be attached or contacted to the at least one elastic band or strap 150, such that the lace transitions into the at least one elastic band or strap 150, such as in an inherent and/or seamless fashion. The partial or whole lace closure 162 may be configured by being placed directly on the outer surface 132 of the of the inner shell 130 and then being sewn to the inner shell 130 while ensuring the at least one elastic band or strap 150 maintains its elastic properties. In some other embodiments, the placement of the partial or whole lace closure 162 may be determined by the color of the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 of the swim hair 400.

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the outer surface 132 of the inner shell 130 of the swim hair 100. FIG. 6 provides an inner view of an embodiment of the swim hair 500 showing the different layers: the inner shell 130, the inner lining 140, and the wig 110. FIG. 6 also shows the hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170, the lace mesh 160, the elastic bands or straps 150, and the wig combs 122. In one embodiment, the inner shell 130, the inner lining 140, the wig 110, the one or more wig combs 122, the at least one elastic band or strap 150, the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170, the lace mesh 160, and the partial or whole lace closure 162 may be attached to each other by thread, glue or adhesive, pins, buttons, a fastener, hooks and eyes, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 7 is an embodiment of the swim hair 600 showing the different layers as described for FIG. 6, including the partial frontal closure 162. FIG. 8 shows a an embodiment of the elastic straps 150 and FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a wig clip 122, both of which may be used to securely attach or affix the swim hair 500/600 to the head, hair, and/or scalp of a user or an individual. FIG. 10 is a top view of an embodiment of the swim hair 700 showing the one or more hair extensions 118 and/or hair strands 170, and the partial or whole lace closure 162. FIG. 11 is a view of an embodiment of the inner surface 144 of the inner lining 140 of the swim hair 800 without a lining fabric 152.

EXAMPLES
Example 1

The swim hair 100 was compared to a traditional swim cap in the market to determine the impact of swim hair 100 and of the traditional swim cap on the user's hair. The swim hair 100 and the traditional swim cap were placed or positioned upon mannequin or wig doll heads and tested to examine their ability to keep the user's hair dry under a continuous stream of water. Upon the doll heads, the swim hair 100 and the traditional swim cap were placed under an active stream of water with continuous water flow having a medium pressure for about 2 hrs.

All interior materials of the swim hair 100 remained uncompromised and dry for the full 2 hours. There was no seepage of water into the swim hair 100 observed. In contrast, the interior material of the traditional swim cap could not withstand the active stream of water for more than 25 seconds. This experimental data confirms that the swim hair 100 is able to keep hair dry (e.g., at least about 2 hours or about 7200 seconds) about 288 times longer than a traditional swim cap (e.g., about 25 seconds).

Example 2

The swim hair 100 was compared to a traditional swim cap in a fitness area swimming pool. A user (n=1) tested whether the swim hair 100 and the traditional swim cap would stay on the user's head when doing intense water activities for about 2 hours at a time. Intense water activities included, but were not limited to frontwards flip, backwards flip, cannon balls, diving, swimming, etc. in the water. The traditional swim cap slid off of the user's head after the user performed a second of two summersaults.

However, the swim hair 100 was able to withstand high intensity water activities and remained on an individual's head for the full duration (e.g., 2 hours) of activity. Notably, the elasticity of the traditional swim cap and the swim hair 100 was the same or similar. However, it was determined or concluded that the ability for the swim hair 100 to remain on the user's head, hair, or scalp was because of the presence of the wig combs 122 and/or elastic bands or straps 150 since there was no internal support inside the traditional swim cap.

The combination of the wig combs 122 and the elastic bands or straps 150 increased the structural strength, resistance, and durability of the swim hair 100, which remained in tack on the subject's head after performing high-intensity activities for over 2 hours. Based upon this research, it has been determined that the swim hair 100 was significantly more durable, such as 100% more durable than the traditional swim cap to withstand high water activity without seepage and/or slippage.

Example 3

The effect of temperature on the swim hair 100 was compared to the effect of temperature on a traditional swim cap. After being exposed to about 90° F. for about 8 hours (e.g., a full day), 100% of 10 subjects wearing the swim hair 100 reported about 0% to about 5% moisture and/or perspiration. The dryness of the subjects' head, hair, and/or scalp was measured before and after wearing the swim hair.

After doing so, it was determined that for those subjects who reported wetness in their hair after wearing the swim hair, the wetness was not caused by the water activities. Instead. The wetness observed after wearing the swim hair was due to natural sweat from the user due to the heat, and not due to water seepage or slippage of the swim hair. The 5% perspiration was observed by identifying or measuring how much of the user's hair had wetness vs dryness after the 8 hour time period on a scale of 1% being very little wetness and 100% being completely wet. Several factors, such as menopause and/or hypohidrosis, were acknowledged to contribute and/or impact the perspiration level of a user, particularly a female user.

About 95% of subjects wearing the swim hair 100 reported dry hair. After testing, it was determined that water does not enter the inner lining 140. In fact, it is the inner lining 140 that is substantially responsible for rendering the swim hair 100 waterproof. In particular, it was determined that the combination of the wig combs 122 with the elastic bands 150 comprised by the inner lining 140 readily make the swim hair 100 waterproof.

This conclusion was also supported by the evidence of moisture on a user's hair when the elastic band 150 is not properly functioning and/or is broken. Under these circumstances, water may enter the inner lining 140, particularly if one or more of the wig combs 112 and/or the elastic bands or straps 150 are broken or malfunctioning. However, in the absence of any compromise of the wig combs 112 and/or the elastic bands or straps 150, the swim hair was 99.9% dry (i.e., the absence of lack of moisture or liquid, such as sweat or water) and/or effective in preventing the user's hair from getting wet when the user is swimming or partaking in water activities.

However, moisture (i.e., the presence of trace amounts of liquid, such as sweat or water) was observed when the seal of the elastic bands or straps 150 was compromised and the individual engaged in minimal water activities. Intense water activities or extensive submersion engaged by the individual caused seepage or wetness (i.e., the coverage or saturation of hair with liquid, such as sweat or water) under the seal of the elastic bands or straps 150 when the bands or straps were compromised or malfunctioning.

Accordingly, the swim hair 100 product was shown to stay on the user's head for longer periods of time and to provide durability during high-intensity water activities. In addition, the swim hair 100 was shown to keep hair dry longer and during direct impact water activities. Moreover, the swim hair 100 keeps hair drier and for longer lengths of time, especially during high intensity water activities, as compared to traditional swim caps known in the market. Therefore, the present swim hair 100 solution is advantageous for any individual, particularly those whose hair is sensitive to water, moisture, and/or humidity or any damaging components comprised therein.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the presently described subject matter are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Specified numerical ranges of units, measurements, and/or values comprise, consist essentially or, or consist of all the numerical values, units, measurements, and/or ranges including or within those ranges and/or endpoints, whether those numerical values, units, measurements, and/or ranges are explicitly specified in the present disclosure or not.

Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms “first”, “second”, “third” and the like, as used herein do not denote any order or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. The term “or” is meant to be inclusive and mean either or all of the listed items. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect.

Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising”, “including,” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. The term “comprising” or “comprises” refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method that is inclusive and does not exclude additional elements, components, and/or method steps. The term “comprising” also refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method embodiment of the present disclosure that is inclusive and does not exclude additional elements, components, or method steps.

The phrase “consisting of” or “consists of” refers to a compound, composition, formulation, or method that excludes the presence of any additional elements, components, or method steps. The term “consisting of” also refers to a compound, composition, formulation, or method of the present disclosure that excludes the presence of any additional elements, components, or method steps.

The phrase “consisting essentially of” or “consists essentially of” refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method that is inclusive of additional elements, components, or method steps that do not materially affect the characteristic(s) of the composition, compound, formulation, or method. The phrase “consisting essentially of” also refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method of the present disclosure that is inclusive of additional elements, components, or method steps that do not materially affect the characteristic(s) of the composition, compound, formulation, or method steps.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about”, and “substantially” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “may be” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances, the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable, or suitable.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used individually, together, or in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the subject matter set forth herein without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the disclosed subject matter, they are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the subject matter described herein should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

This written description uses examples to disclose several embodiments of the subject matter set forth herein, including the best mode, and also to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to practice the embodiments of disclosed subject matter, including making and using the devices or systems and performing the methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter described herein is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

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