WATERLESS SEBUM REMOVAL DEVICES

Abstract

WATERLESS SEBUM REMOVAL DEVICES Devices for waterless removal of sebum from a subject. A device includes a head having an air duct and hollow teeth fluidly connected to the air duct. The air duct and the hollow teeth allow passage of a heated airflow therethrough. When the heated airflow contacts sebum, it heats and softens the sebum to facilitate its removal from the subject. The devices may in practice exploit a Bernoulli effect to increase the flow rate of air passing through the hollow teeth to displace sebum from the subject. The devices may also include absorbent substrates, sensors, and control circuitry for intelligent management of device operation, such as controlling the operating mode of the device, to ensure effective sebum removal without damaging the hair or scalp of the subject. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: WATERLESS SEBUM REMOVAL DEVICES ABSTRACT

[0001] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a device for waterless removal of sebum from a subject, the device comprising: a head having therein an air duct and hollow teeth fluidly connected to the air duct, wherein the hollow teeth include tooth vents thereon configured for passage of a heated airflow from the air duct through the tooth vents; wherein the heated airflow is configured to contact, heat, and soften sebum on the scalp portion to facilitate removal of the sebum therefrom.

[0002] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a handle with an air duct therein that is fluidly connected to the head air duct; wherein passing an air flow, or the heated air flow, from the handle air duct to the head air duct causes the heated air flow to pass through the head air vent.

[0003] In embodiments, the device further comprises: an air blower disposed within the device and configured to generate an airflow within the device; and a heating element disposed within the device and configured to heat the airflow to produce the heated airflow.

[0004] In embodiments, the air blower includes a motor operatively connected to a fan such that operation of the motor causes rotational movement of the fan.

[0005] In embodiments, the heating element comprises a resistance unit operatively connected to a power source and is configured for a heating process to produce the heated airflow.

[0006] In embodiments, the heating process is configured to heat the airflow above a minimum temperature threshold to soften sebum and, below a maximum temperature threshold, to protect hair from heat damage.

[0007] In embodiments, the minimum temperature threshold is about 40°C at a hair position during use of the device.

[0008] In embodiments, the device further comprises a thermal sensor, positioned within the heated airflow to measure the temperature of the heated airflow, which is operatively connected to control circuitry of the device to control the heating process based on a temperature measured from the thermal sensor, the minimum temperature threshold and the maximum temperature threshold.

[0009] In embodiments, the thermal sensor comprises a capacitive temperature sensor or a dielectric resonator-based sensor configured for temperature measurement.

[0010] In embodiments, the device further comprises pressure sensors, positioned on the hollow teeth, configured to detect contact with the scalp of the individual.

[0011] In embodiments, in the absence of contact detection by the pressure sensors, the device is configured for a fiber heating process, and wherein, with contact detection by the pressure sensors, the device is configured for a scalp heating process.

[0012] In embodiments, passage of the heated airflow through the hollow teeth concentrates the heated airflow into a reduced radius relative to a radius of the head of the device, such that a moving speed of the heated airflow is increased due to a Bernoulli effect.

[0013] In embodiments, passage of the heated airflow through at least two tooth vents concentrates the heated airflow within the tooth vents, such that at least two speeds of movement of the heated airflow are altered due to the Bernoulli effect.

[0014] In embodiments, the device further comprises an absorbent substrate, positioned on the head, which is configured to contact a portion of the subject's hair or the subject's scalp and absorb sebum therefrom during use.

[0015] In embodiments, the device is configured to heat the absorbent substrate, such that sebum is heated when in contact with a heated absorbent substrate to decrease viscosity and facilitate removal of the sebum.

[0016] In embodiments, the velocities of the heated airflow are increased through the Bernoulli effect, such that the increased airflow displaces sebum from the portion of the individual's scalp.

[0017] In embodiments, the device includes four rows of hollow teeth configured to massage the subject's scalp portion during use.

[0018] In embodiments, the absorbent substrate may be removably attached to the curved portions of the head.

[0019] In some embodiments, the absorbent substrate may be removably attached with an adhesive backing or composition.

[0020] In embodiments, the absorbent substrate may be removably attached with an attachment mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a button, a clasp, a snap closure, a hook-and-loop closure, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof.

[0021] In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

[0022] In embodiments, the composition is a decontamination composition. sebum, a perfume composition or both.

[0023] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a kit comprising: a device of the disclosure; and an instruction manual for guiding use of the device in a method of waterless removal of sebum from a subject.

[0024] In embodiments, the kit further comprises an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of the head of the device, contact the hair and / or scalp of the subject, and absorb sebum from the hair and / or scalp during use.

[0025] In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

[0026] In embodiments, the composition is a decontamination composition. sebum, a perfume composition or both.

[0027] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a kit comprising: an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of a head of a waterless sebum removal device; and an instruction manual for guiding use of the absorbent substrate, the device, or both in a method of waterless sebum removal from a subject; wherein the device comprises a head having an air duct therein and hollow teeth fluidly connected to the air duct.

[0028] In embodiments, the absorbent substrate may be removably attached to curved portions of the device head with an adhesive backing or composition.

[0029] In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

[0030] In embodiments, the composition is a decontamination composition. sebum, a perfume composition or both.

[0031] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in simplified form which are described more fully below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter or to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0032] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] shows a flowchart of a typical soap washing process and water to remove sebum.

[0033] [Fig.2A] [Fig.2A] shows a diagram illustrating an example of a Coandâ effect, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0034] [Fig.2B] [Fig.2B] shows a diagram illustrating an example of a Coandâ effect of an example of a device for removing sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0035] [Fig.2C] [Fig.2C] shows a perspective view of an example of the Coandâ effect as it shapes the movement of a subject's hair, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0036] [Fig.2D] [Fig.2D] shows a diagram of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0037] [Fig.2E] [Fig.2E] shows a side view and diagram of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject, as well as pressure sensors and other elements of the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0038] [Fig.3A] [Fig.3A] shows a bottom view of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0039] [Fig.3B] [Fig.3B] shows a top view of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject and exemplary attachable substrates for use with the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0040] [Fig.3C] [Fig.3C] shows a front view of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject and an exemplary use of the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0041] [Fig.3D] [Fig.3D] shows a front view of a subject's hair before (left) and after (right) use of an exemplary device for removing sebum from the subject's hair, showing lifting of the hair following the removal of sebum, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0042] [Fig.4A] [Fig.4A] shows a perspective view of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject and exemplary attachable substrates for use with the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0043] [Fig.4B] [Fig.4B] shows a perspective view of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject and an exemplary scented attachable substrate for use with the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0044] [Fig.4C] [Fig.4C] shows a perspective view of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0045] [Fig.4D] [Fig.4D] shows a perspective view of an exemplary sebum removal device for a subject, with a substrate base and substrate base attachment removed showing air vents of the head of the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0046] [Fig.4E] [Fig.4E] shows a perspective cutaway view of an exemplary container for mixing a composition, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0047] [Fig.4F] [Fig.4F] shows a perspective view of a substrate base and a substrate base attachment, showing airflow over curved portions of the substrate base, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0048] [Fig.4G] [Fig.4G] shows a perspective view of an exemplary comb design for a sebum removal device of a subject; the illustrated device is configured to contact the scalp of the subject for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0049] [Fig.5A] [Fig.5A] shows a perspective view of an exemplary heating element adjacent to an exemplary fan, with temperature values indicated at different distances from the heating element shown, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0050] [Fig.5B] [Fig.5B] shows a graph illustrating the viscosity of sebum at different temperatures, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0051] [Fig.5C] [Fig.5C] shows a graph illustrating sebum removal performance under different conditions, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0052] [Fig.5D] [Fig.5D] shows a graph illustrating examples of effects of heat on sebum removal performance under different conditions, according to aspects of the disclosure. The results show that an exemplary device and method using a heated airflow can remove more than 35% of the sebum, and that the sebum removal is approximately the same under conditions at 40°C, 45°C, and 50°C.

[0053] [Fig.5E] [Fig.5E] shows a graph illustrating the effect of temperature on migration distance, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0054] [Fig.5F] [Fig.5F] shows a graph illustrating the effectiveness of the removal of sebum under different temperature conditions, depending on aspects of disclosure.

[0055] [Fig.5G] [Fig.5G] shows a graph illustrating the results of a high friction test corresponding to sebum removal under different conditions with a nonwoven substrate, according to aspects of the disclosure. It is apparent from the results that an exemplary device and method can remove about 40-50% of the sebum, and that a longer duration of use of the device can result in increased sebum removal.

[0056] [Fig.6A] [Fig.6A] shows a cross-sectional view of exemplary curved portions of a sebum removal device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0057] [Fig.6B] [Fig.6B] shows illustrations of airflows and images of uses of sebum removal devices with different slopes and aerodynamic properties, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0058] [Fig.6C] [Fig.6C] shows a cross-sectional view of examples of curved portions of a sebum removal device and illustrations of use of differently shaped curved portions of a sebum removal device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0059] [Fig.6D] [Fig.6D] shows an illustration of an exemplary experimental setup for measuring physical properties of hair with the use of a sebum removal device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0060] [Fig.6E] [Fig.6E] shows examples of results of an experiment for measuring the physical properties of hair with the use of a sebum removal device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0061] [Fig.7A] [Fig.7A] shows a flowchart of an exemplary heat-based sebum removal method, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0062] [Fig.7B] [Fig.7B] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of removing sebum with a Coandâ effect, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0063] [Fig.7C] [Fig.7C] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of maintaining an operating temperature of a heated airflow of a sebum removal device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0064] [Fig.7D] [Fig.7D] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of controlling a heating mode of a sebum removal device based on the distance of air vents from a subject's scalp during use, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0065] [Fig.8A] [Fig.8A] shows a side perspective view of an example of A waterless sebum removal device that includes hollow teeth fluidly connected to an air duct of the head and configured for passage of a heated airflow therethrough, including with a Bernoulli effect, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0066] [Fig.8B] [Fig.8B] shows a perspective front view of the exemplary device with hollow teeth, including with a Bernoulli effect, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0067] The foregoing aspects and numerous associated advantages of the present invention will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Detailed description

[0068] Water scarcity is a serious situation in which the demand for water is greater than the availability of water and is a growing concern in view of rapid urbanization and climate change. Water scarcity is of increasing concern, especially in urban areas, where it is predicted that one-third to nearly half of the global urban population will face water scarcity by 2050 (He, C., Liu, Z., Wu, J. et al. Future global urban water scarcity and potential solutions. Nat Commun 12, 4667 (2021)). While significant infrastructure investments should help meet demand and combat water scarcity, limiting water consumption at the individual level is another option that could help mitigate the demand for this precious natural resource.

[0069] At the individual level, water is generally used for bathing, cleaning, and food preparation. Sebum includes all the natural oils produced by the body's sebaceous glands, and a primary reason many people wash so frequently is due to the buildup of sebum on the scalp and hair, which can lead to a feeling of greasy or oily hair or greasy or oily skin and a subjective and progressive feeling of dissatisfaction with this condition, or even in some cases, anxiety. As shown in [Fig.l], a typical method 1 of removing sebum or oil from the hair may involve an individual obtaining water la, wetting the hair 1b, lathering shampoo le and washing the hair, rinsing the shampoo Id and drying the hair, including a pre-drying step with a towel le and optionally blow-drying the hair If, and finally removing the water 1g from the hair that was used to remove the sebum or oil with the shampoo or soap. .

[0070] While it is possible to use shower heads and other low-water washing systems, there is also a significant and continuing need for waterless sebum removal approaches that are effective enough to replace at least some washing sessions and allow individuals to reduce their washing frequency and reduce water demand. These approaches should also allow individuals to maintain their hygiene even in situations where access to water is nonexistent or restricted, such as outdoors or during an emergency. The present disclosure addresses these and other long-standing and unmet needs in the art.

[0071] Aspects of the disclosure make practical use of the Coanda effect to converge heated airflows onto a concentrated area and contact hair strands with an absorbent substrate, such that sebum is heated, softened, and transferred to the substrate for the waterless removal of sebum from a biological surface such as an individual's skin, hair, or scalp. The Coanda effect, illustrated in [Fig. 2A] as a general example, occurs when an airflow 3b attaches to a nearby surface 3a of a curved object 3, and remains attached to the surface 3a even when the surface 3a deviates from the initial direction of the airflow 3b. This results in a deviation of the shape of the airflow as it passes by the curved object 3. An exemplary configuration 4 of curved portions 4a of a waterless sebum removal device is shown in [Fig. 2B]. In the shown configuration 4, the theoretical direction of the airflow 4b is different from the actual observed direction of the airflow 4c, due to the Coandâ effect. In the context of an apparatus or device for use with a subject's hair according to the disclosure, as shown in [Fig. 2C], a Coandâ effect 5, resulting from the passage of an airflow from a nozzle 5a over curved surfaces 5c, shapes the subject's hair 5b and causes the subject's hair 5b to adhere to the curved surfaces 5c.According to embodiments of the disclosure, absorbent materials may be placed on the curved surfaces 5c, such that when the individual's scalp or hair 5b comes into contact with the absorbent materials due to the Coandâ effect 5, sebum may be readily transferred from the scalp or hair 5b to the absorbent materials for efficient and waterless removal of the sebum.

[0072] Any of the various components of a waterless sebum removal device may be implemented, according to embodiments. As shown in [Fig. 2D], a schematic of an exemplary device 6 for removing sebum from a subject includes a battery 6b that is operatively connected to a charger 6a. The battery 6b is also operatively connected to a power board 6c, which is in turn operatively connected to one or more elements for heat generation 6d (e.g., a heater or a resistive heater; e.g., a heating coil). Control of the heat generation by the power board 6c may be accomplished with a control board 6e, which is operatively connected to the one or more heat generation elements 6d and one or more airflow generation elements 6f (e.g., a fan; e.g., a rotating fan).The airflow generating element(s) 6f generate(s) an airflow that passes through an air duct 6g of the device and, in embodiments, produces a Coandâ effect. The Coandâ airflow may also be heated by the heat generating element(s) 6d for a targeted energy output 6h following use of the device.

[0073] Although any battery or power source may be used for an exemplary device 6, in at least some embodiments, a rechargeable battery 6b is used and may be recharged using a charger 6a. Recharging of the rechargeable battery 6b by the charger 6a may be accomplished by wired charging, for example, with physical electrical contacts between the rechargeable battery 6b and the charger 6a, for applying a voltage from a power source, such as an alternating current (AC) outlet, to recharge the rechargeable battery. 6b. However, in other implementations, the recharging of the rechargeable battery 6b by the charger 6a may be done by wireless recharging, for example, by contactless coupling or electromagnetic coupling between the rechargeable battery 6b and the charger 6a. In such implementations, the charger 6a may act as a kind of charging station, near which the device 6 may be placed for inductive recharging of the rechargeable battery 6b by the charger 6a.In these and other implementations, wireless charging may be accomplished by passing an alternating current through an induction coil in the charger 6a, such that the moving electrical charge creates a magnetic field whose strength fluctuates with fluctuations in the magnitude of the electric current, and the varying magnetic field induces an alternating electric current in an induction coil of the device 6 that passes through a rectifier to be converted to direct current (DC) for recharging the rechargeable battery 6b. Although examples of wired and wireless battery charging implementations are provided herein, any suitable wired or wireless charging implementation may be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

[0074] As shown in [Fig.5A], an exemplary heating element may be placed adjacent to an exemplary fan, such that the fan generates an airflow and the heating element heats the airflow to produce a heated airflow during operation. The indicated temperature values, taken at different distances from the heating element, illustrate the decrease in temperature with increasing distance from the heating element. Since a user may place a device distal or proximal to a subject's head for a sebum removal treatment, there may be a risk of heat damage to the hair or scalp, for example, if the air reaching the subject's hair or scalp is too hot.

[0075] Accordingly, as shown in [Fig.2E], elements 7 of an exemplary device for removing sebum from a subject are shown. A waterless sebum removal device may include a head portion 7a that includes a plurality of pressure sensors 7h as components of a plurality of tines 7g for contact with the hair and scalp of the subject during use. When the tines 7g contact the scalp of the subject, the pressure sensors 7h detect pressure due to this contact, for example, by deformation of the tines 7g, and transmit or modify a signal in operational communication with a microcontroller unit (MCU) 7b to detect contact of the tines 7g with the scalp. Any suitable pressure or force sensor may be implemented in embodiments, including, but not necessarily limited to: a pneumatic load cell, a hydraulic load cell, a piezoelectric crystal load cell, an inductive load cell, a capacitive load cell, a magnetostrictive load cell, a strain gauge load cell, or any combination thereof. In this manner, the device may be configured to detect contact with the individual's scalp.

[0076] In the presented embodiments and other examples, in the absence of contact detection by pressure sensors 7h, the device is configured for a fiber heating process (e.g., by using a Coandâ effect to generate an airflow to melt the sebum and guide the hair fibers), which may have minimum and maximum temperature thresholds adapted to heating and decreasing the viscosity of the sebum at a greater distance from the scalp, e.g., by generating a lower temperature or a more heated airflow at the point of contact.As soon as a contact is detected by the pressure sensors 7h, the device is configured for a scalp heating process (e.g., by using a Bernoulli effect to generate an airflow to accelerate sebum melting and increase hair volume), which may have higher temperature thresholds than those of the fiber heating process, due to the presence of a larger amount of sebum on the scalp. A transition between the scalp and fiber heating modes may be achieved by implementing a valve 7d that is operatively connected to the MCU 7b, which in turn is operatively connected to pressure sensors 7h for conditional actuation of the valve 7d. Furthermore, a motor and fan assembly 7c may be implemented to generate a heated airflow, which may be regulated with, for example, the valve 7d.The valve 7d may be further opened in the absence of contact detection by the pressure sensors 7h (i.e., for a hair / fiber heating mode and a lower operating temperature range) such that the temperature of the heated airflow decreases, and may be further closed in the event of contact detection by the pressure sensors 7h (i.e., for a scalp heating mode and a higher operating temperature range) such that the temperature of the heated airflow increases.

[0077] As shown in [Fig.7D], an exemplary method 28 of controlling a heating mode of a sebum removal device includes several steps that may be performed, in whole or in part, and in any order, whether in parallel or sequentially, by control circuitry of the device. In a first step 28a, the device is activated. A reading from the pressure sensor may be received by the control circuitry, which performs one or more logic steps to determine whether the pressure sensors of the device are in contact with the leather scalp in step 28b. If the device touches the scalp (step 28b: YES), then the control circuitry may heat the airflow in a scalp heating mode in step 28d. If the device does not touch the scalp (step 28b: NO), then the control circuitry may heat the airflow in a fiber heating mode in step 28c. In embodiments, the pressure sensors may remain passive or inactive until they contact a surface such as the scalp, after which they transmit a signal to the control circuitry, which is treated by the control circuitry as an indication of scalp contact.In other embodiments, the pressure sensors may maintain a signal to the control circuitry that is interrupted by contact of the pressure sensors with a surface such as the scalp, after which the signal is not transmitted to the control circuitry, and the absence of a signal is treated by the control circuitry as an indication of contact with the scalp.

[0078] Although the embodiment shown uses dynamic temperature control of the heated airflow to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the device at different distances from the scalp, in other embodiments, the temperature of the heated airflow may be constant or within a fixed temperature range. For example, the heated airflow may be maintained within a temperature range that is suitable for a scalp heating process or, alternatively, a fiber heating process, or both. In these and other embodiments, the pressure sensors 7h and dynamic temperature control may be optional and, in at least some embodiments, may be omitted from the device.

[0079] As shown in [Fig.7C], an exemplary method 27 of maintaining an operating temperature of a heated airflow of a sebum removal device includes several steps that may be performed, in whole or in part, and in any order, whether in parallel or sequentially, by control circuitry of the device. For example, an airflow may be generated 27a and heated 27b at the same time. However, a step that depends on the result of a previous step may be performed later depending on this condition; for example, the airflow is to be cooled 27f only if the temperature of the heated airflow is not lower than a maximum threshold (step 27e: NO).

[0080] Considering the overall flow of the method 27, an air flow is generated 27a, for example, by an activation or continuous activation of a motor and a fan of the device. As a second step of the method 27, the air flow is heated 27b, for example, by an activation or continuous activation of a heating element of the device. The temperature of the heated air flow is measured 27c, for example, by a thermal sensor or thermometer, positioned within the heated air stream to measure the temperature of the heated air stream, which is operatively connected to the control circuitry of the device. Temperature readings from the thermal sensor are received by the control circuitry which performs one or more logic steps to determine whether a measured temperature is above a minimum threshold (step 27d). If the measured temperature is not above the minimum threshold (step 27d: NO), then control proceeds to step 27b to further heat the heated air stream. If the measured temperature is above the minimum threshold (step 27d: YES), then control proceeds to step 27e, where the control circuitry performs one or more logic steps to determine whether the measured temperature is below a maximum threshold.If the measured temperature is not below the maximum threshold (step 27e: NO), then control proceeds to step 27f where the heated airflow is cooled, for example, by activating a valve to restrict the heated airflow or restricting the exposure of the heated airflow to a heating element or, alternatively, by adjusting the voltage applied to the heating element to reduce the heat emitted by the heating element. After step 27f, control proceeds to step 27c, where the temperature of the heated airflow is measured. If the measured temperature is below the maximum threshold (step 27e: YES), then control proceeds to step 27c, where the temperature of the heated airflow is measured.

[0081] With respect to temperature ranges of the heated airflow that are suitable for softening sebum without damaging hair fibers, it has been found that a minimum temperature of about 40°C may be suitable for heating and reducing the viscosity of the sebum, and a maximum temperature of about 216°C is suitable for avoiding damage to hair fibers. Since softening of sebum occurs at temperatures well below 216°C, a lower maximum temperature may be used, in embodiments, to have a more gentle but effective heating process. Testing at temperatures below 40°C has also shown an effect on sebum viscosity, with a decrease in sebum viscosity of about 40-50% occurring at about 29°C, for example.

[0082] As used herein, "about" an amount means the exact amount specified as well as all amounts that fall within the range defined by 10% below the specified amount and 10% above the specified amount, inclusive.

[0083] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the minimum temperature threshold for the heated airflow may be about 25°C, about 26°C, about 27°C, about 28°C, about 29°C, about 30°C, about 31°C, about 32°C, about 33°C, about 34°C, about 35°C, about 36°C, about 37°C, about 38°C, about 39°C, about 40°C, about 41°C, about 42°C, about 43°C, about 44°C, about 45°C, about 46°C, about 47°C, about 48°C, about 49°C, about 50°C, about 51°C, about 52°C, about 53°C, about 54°C, about 55°C, about 56°C, about 57°C, about 58°C, about 59°C, about 60°C, or a higher temperature, in order to ensure the decrease of sebum viscosity.

[0084] In embodiments, the maximum temperature threshold may be about 216°C, about 200°C, about 190°C, about 180°C, about 170°C, about 160°C, about 150°C, about 140°C, about 130°C, about 120°C, about 110°C, about 100°C, about 95°C, about 90°C, about 85°C, about 80°C, about 75°C, about 70°C, or a lower temperature.

[0085] In cases where a minimum temperature threshold is applied, the heated airflow may need to contact the sebum for a particular period of time to reduce the viscosity of the sebum and be effective. Thus, in embodiments, the heated airflow may effectively reduce the viscosity of the sebum after contact of the heated airflow with the sebum for about 1 s, about 2 s, about 3 s, about 4 s, about 5 s, about 6 s, about 7 s, about 8 s, about 9 s, about 10 s, about 11 s, about 12 s, about 13 s, about 14 s, about 15 s, about 16 s, about 17 s, about 18 s, about 19 s, about 20 s, about 21 s, about 22 s, about 23 s, about 24 s, about 25 s, about 26 s, about 27 s, about 28 s, about 29 s, about 30 s, about 31 s, about 32 s, about 33 s, about 34 s, about 35 s, about 36 s, about 37 s, about 38 s, about 39 s, about 40 s, about 41 s, about 42 s, about 43 s, about 44 s, about 45 s, about 46 s, about 47 s, about 48 s, about 49 s, about 50 s, about 51 s, about 52 s, about 53 s, about 54 s, about 55 s, about 56 s, about 57 s, about 58 s, about 59 s, about 60 s, about 61 s, about 62 s, about 63 s s, about 22 s, about 23 s, about 24 s, about 25 s, about 26 s, about 27 s, about 28 s, about 29 s, about 30 s, about 35 s, about 40 s, about 45 s, about 50 s, about 55 s, about 60 s, about 70 s, about 80 s, about 90 s, about 100 s, about 110 s, about 120 s, about 130 s, about 140 s, about 150 s, about 160 s, about 170 s, about 180 s, about 210 s, about 240 s, about 270 s, about 300 s, about 330 s, about 360 s, about 390 s, about 420 s, about 480 s, about 540 s, about 600 s, or longer, to ensure that the viscosity of the sebum decreases.

[0086] In embodiments, a lower temperature may require a longer contact time to be effective, and a higher temperature may not require a longer contact time to be effective. Identifying effective Contact Time / Heated Airflow Temperature combinations that are acceptable to users may proceed by experimenting with different hair types and sizes under different conditions. Automated or semi-automated programs for particular uses or applications, for example, sebum removal programs whose parameters, including time and temperature, are a function of hair type or size, may be implemented with programmable device control circuitry and, optionally, be selected by a user.

[0087] In embodiments, a device may include hollow teeth configured to directly contact a subject's scalp and direct a heated airflow onto the scalp, using a higher airflow rate to dislodge more sebum from the scalp. The increased airflow rate may be implemented by taking advantage of a Bernoulli effect, in which the flow rate of a gas increases as the gas moves from a larger diameter volume to and through a smaller diameter volume. In such embodiments, the head of the device has a larger diameter than the hollow teeth, such that the airflow increases in velocity as it passes through the hollow teeth.Since the hollow teeth are in direct contact with the scalp, in this mode of operation the heated airflow contacts the scalp at a higher airflow speed, which improves the removal of sebum from the scalp, which generally has a greater amount of sebum than hair.

[0088] Accordingly, as shown in Figures 8A and 8B, an exemplary waterless sebum removal device may include hollow teeth configured to contact and massage the scalp, and allow a heated airflow having a high airflow rate to pass therethrough to contact the scalp and facilitate the removal of sebum from the scalp. A device 29 for waterless sebum removal includes a head 29a having an air duct therein and hollow teeth 29b fluidly connected to the air duct. The hollow teeth 29b include tooth vents 29d thereon that are fluidly connected to the interior of the hollow teeth 29b and to the air duct within the head 29a. In this manner, the tooth vents 29d are configured for passage of a heated airflow from the air duct through the tooth vents 29d.The heated airflow contacts, heats and softens the scalp sebum, making it easier to remove from the scalp.

[0089] In embodiments, an inner diameter of the hollow teeth 29b is smaller than an inner diameter of the head 29a. When airflow passes from inside the head 29a and into the hollow teeth 29b, this introduces an increased airflow rate into the hollow teeth 29b relative to an airflow rate into the head 29a due to the Bernoulli effect. The increased airflow rate is able to contact the softened sebum and dislodge it from the scalp.

[0090] The illustrated embodiment also includes a handle with an air duct therein that is fluidly connected to the head air duct 29a. Passage of an air flow, or the heated air flow, from the handle air duct to the head air duct 29a causes the heated air flow to pass through the air vent of the head 29a. The illustrated embodiment also includes an air blower disposed within the device 29 and configured to generate an airflow within the device 29, and a heating element disposed within the device 29 and configured to heat the airflow to produce the heated airflow. Examples of forms and functions of these and other device elements are described in more detail herein.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the device 29 also includes pressure sensors 29c, positioned on the hollow teeth 29b, configured to detect contact with the scalp of the individual. In embodiments, in the absence of detection of contact by the pressure sensors 29c, the device 29 is configured for a process of removing sebum from the fibers, and upon detection of contact by the pressure sensors 29c, the device 29 is configured for a process of removing sebum from the scalp. In embodiments, a process of removing sebum from the fibers may include directing the flow of heated air along the curved portions of the head of the device, implementing a Coandâ effect as described herein.In embodiments, a process for removing sebum from the scalp may include directing heated airflow through the hollow teeth 29b, implementing a Bernoulli effect as described herein. In embodiments, the device 29 may include a plurality of pressure sensors 29c as components of the hollow teeth 29b for contact with the subject's scalp during use. When the hollow teeth 29b contact the subject's scalp, the pressure sensors 29c detect pressure resulting from that contact, e.g., by deformation of the hollow teeth 29b or by another pressure sensing mechanism, and transmit or modify a signal in operational communication with a microcontroller unit (MCU) to detect contact of the hollow teeth 29b with the scalp.Any suitable pressure or force sensor may be implemented in embodiments, including, but not necessarily limited to: a pneumatic load cell, a hydraulic load cell, a piezoelectric crystal load cell, an inductive load cell, a capacitive load cell, a magnetostrictive load cell, a strain gauge load cell, or any combination thereof. In this manner, the device 29 may be configured to detect contact with the individual's scalp.

[0092] In embodiments, the device 29 may be switched between a plurality of operating modes including the process of removing sebum from the fibers and the process of removing sebum from the scalp by altering the path of travel of the heated airflow within the device 29. In embodiments, detection of contact with the scalp by the pressure sensors 29c may cause a valve, or other element, to open or close. mechanical, in order to modify the trajectory of the airflow from the air vents of the device 29 to the hollow teeth 29b of the device 29 to implement the Bernoulli effect and remove sebum from the scalp. These and other control and operating functions of the device may be intelligently controlled or managed by the processor circuitry.

[0093] Accordingly, in some aspects, the disclosure provides a "smart" waterless sebum removal device comprising circuitry configured to perform all or part of a method, including, but not necessarily limited to, regulating the temperature of the heated airflow, detecting the force indicative of scalp contact, and the like. In embodiments, the circuitry of a device is configurable with a processor and processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable medium of the device. In embodiments, a 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 device includes dedicated hardware circuitry.Additional circuitry configuration of the device may include wireless communication or networking circuitry, e.g., 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 other circuitry of the computing device, may be used to request, retrieve, and / or receive data from a computing device or a remote server, for example. In embodiments, the device may be operated using a computing device, such as a smartphone or personal computing device, which may be operated by a user via a graphical user interface, as known in the art.In embodiments, the circuitry may include an operative connection of one or more sensors with the processor, or other circuitry, to perform logical operations and / or methods based on data received from the one or more sensors, e.g., optical sensors, thermal sensors, and the like.

[0094] Any suitable form factor may be implemented for a sebum removal device, including form factors that emit a heated airflow from one or more air vents, which passes along one or more curved portions of the device to alter the path of travel of the heated airflow due to the Coanda effect. The slope of one or more curved portions may be adjusted or optimized, through experimentation, to achieve the desired effect of adhering hair fibers to one or more curved portions and to form a focal line at which the heated airflow is concentrated. In this way, the heated airflow is concentrated at the focal line and comes into contact with the sebum, heating it, softening it and removing it without causing heat-related damage to the hair or scalp.

[0095] Although the Coanda effect is concretely implemented in many embodiments of the device, in at least some embodiments, a waterless sebum removal device may be operational without necessarily employing the Coanda effect. For example, another waterless sebum removal device may implement a number of hair pressing approaches that may include a hair combing or binding structure to ensure physical separation of the sebum from the hair. These and other implementations may deliver heat to the hair using a heated airflow that is not necessarily impaired by the Coanda effect or, alternatively, may deliver heat to the hair by conduction, due to direct contact of the hair with a heated hair combing or binding structure.These and other such approaches can heat the hair and soften the sebum so that the sebum has reduced viscosity and is easily removed from the hair and scalp, whether by the force of the heated airflow, combing the hair or attachment structure, or a nonwoven substrate.

[0096] In at least some embodiments in which the Coandâ effect is implemented, the selection of the slope of the device, as exemplarily illustrated in [Fig. 6A], may be informed by experiments with different slopes, as exemplarily illustrated in Figures 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E. For example, as shown in [Fig. 6A], a plurality of slopes 21 may be tested. A steep slope 21a may be compared to a gentle slope 21b. In the embodiment shown, the steep slope 21a may be characterized at least in part by the amount of rise (i.e., 50 units) divided by the amount of travel (i.e., 15 units; or half of 30 units). Similarly, the gentle slope 21b can be characterized at least in part by the amount of climb (i.e., 50 units) divided by the amount of run (i.e., 10 units; or half of 20 units).Thus, in the embodiment shown, the slopes of the curved portions of the steep slope 21a are equal to 50 units / 15 units = 3.33, and the slopes of the curved portions of the gentle slope 21b are equal to 50 units / 10 units = 5.00. Although continuously sloping curved portions are shown in these examples, discontinuously sloping curved portions may be implemented, without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure, for example, to modify or improve the aerodynamic properties of the device. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, different dimensions (including, but not limited to, the amount of climb and the amount of travel) will give rise to different Coandâ effects.

[0097] As shown in [Fig.6B], curved portions with different slopes 21a, 21b may introduce different clearances between the hair and the wall of the curved portions. Furthermore, since different types of hair have different strengths and flexibilities, this effect may be exploited to configure particular designs for particular hair types. For example, one or more designs including one or more curved portions with different slopes may be implemented for one or more hair types, including, but not limited to, straight hair types, wavy hair types, curly hair types, and hair types with very tight curls.Similarly, one or more different curved portions may be implemented for one or more thicknesses of hair, including, but not limited to, fine hair (e.g., strands with a thickness < 0.05 mm), medium hair (e.g., strands with a thickness > 0.05 mm and a thickness < 0.08 mm), and thick hair (e.g., strands with a thickness > 0.08 mm). Other properties of the hair may contribute to its flexibility and ability to adhere to the wall of the curved portions, including flexibility or stiffness, which may be conditioned by the presence of products in the hair, as well as the density and electrostatic characteristics of the strands, such as the tendency to accumulate an electrostatic charge, and the like.These and other hair characteristics may be taken into account when testing or selecting one or more features of the device, including, but not limited to, slope values for the curved portions 21a, 21b, to facilitate adhesion of the hair to the curved portions using the Coandâ effect without interfering with placement of the device head between the hair strands for use.

[0098] As shown in [Fig. 6C], examples of curved portions 23 having certain radii or slope dimensions X may be tested to evaluate the deformation of the hair strands due to the Coandâ effect and the resulting adhesion of the hair strands to the walls of the curved portions. For example, different curved portions 23a, 23b having different radii or slope properties (X=10, X=8) may be evaluated using images captured during use, with and without airflow. Another experimental setup 24 is shown in [Fig. 6D], by which it is possible to determine the force with which the Coandâ effect attracts or creates additional tension, and horizontally displaces, one or more hair strands 24d. For example, a strand of hair 24d may be attached to a blood pressure monitor 24c, which is attached to a support beam 24b resting on a surface 24a, such as a table counter.The experimental curved portions 24e can be placed adjacent to the hair strand 24d, and an airflow . F applied to the configuration, for example, from above. A horizontal force Fn, resulting from the Coandâ effect, horizontally moves the hair strand 24d toward the experimental curved portions 24e, and the distance of the displacement can be measured using a ruler or other distance indicator. When the airflow F is applied, the tension force applied to the hair strand 24d can be measured with the tensiometer 24c. As shown in [Fig.ôE], the periodic application of the airflow over time results in corresponding measurements from the tensiometer, with an Fmax of 0.14 N. Thus, the airflow velocity F, the dimensions of the curved portions of the device, or both, can be developed and configured for use with one or more particular sizes or types of hair to avoid breaking the hair strands when using the device.An additional variable that can be included in this and other experiments is the temperature of the heated airflow, which can potentially impact the strength of the wicks and the ease with which the wicks are moved due to the Coanda effect during use.

[0099] In testing various designs, it has been found that a steeper slope of the curved portions introduces greater horizontal displacement and hair bending and a gentler slope of the curved portions introduces less horizontal displacement and hair bending. However, since a significantly steeper slope may be more difficult to insert between hair strands during use, a balanced or intermediate slope may be implemented in embodiments to facilitate insertion of the curved portions into the hair while also maintaining satisfactory horizontal displacement and hair bending for sebum removal.

[0100] Experiments conducted under different sebum removal conditions provided comparative information on exemplary parameters for sebum removal devices and methods, according to various aspects of the disclosure. For example, an in vitro oil removal test with the weight of a strand of hair as a measurement readout revealed that heated substrates and wet and heated substrates were more effective at sebum removal than unheated dry substrates ([Fig. 5C], Table 1). Tests applying a heated airflow at temperatures below 40°C, below 45°C, or below 50°C for 5 min. revealed that a minimum temperature threshold of about 40°C may be suitable for sebum removal ([Fig. 5D]).Furthermore, an in vitro migration distance assay evaluating the movement of oils along a surface following the application of heated or unheated airflow for extended periods revealed that the heated airflow (35 °C) moved oils along . from the surface at a much greater distance than the unheated airflow (5 °C) ([Fig. 5E]), which is consistent with the better ability of the heated airflow to reduce sebum viscosity. This association was also observed in a removal efficiency test ([Fig. 5F]). A high friction test, in which nonwoven substrates were in contact with hair samples for different periods, revealed that sebum was transferred from the hair sample to the substrates over time, with decreasing returns observed in the range of approximately 2 min to 5 min of contact time.

[0101] After identifying effective parameter sets for sebum removal, a prototype design of a device was developed. A bottom view of an exemplary sebum removal device for a subject is shown in [Fig. 3A]; in the orientation shown, the air vents 8f and 8e face the observer, such that a heated airflow passing through the air vents 8f and 8e would travel in the general direction toward the observer. A device 8 includes a head 8g attached to a handle 8h. An air duct within the handle 8h is fluidly connected to an air duct within the head 8g. As an airflow moves through the air duct of the handle 8h, it may pass through the air duct of the head 8g and exit the air vents 8f and 8e.As the airflow exits the air vents 8f and 8e, it contacts the curved portions 8d and 8c of the head and adheres to the curved portions 8d and 8c according to a Coandâ effect formed by the curved portions 8d and 8c of the head. In the embodiment shown, the curved portions 8d and 8c of the head converge toward a ridge 8b that extends along a length of the head 8g. The curved portions 8d and 8c of the head may include solid surfaces for adhering a substrate 8j thereto, as shown in [Fig. 3B]. The device 8 may be provided or configured for use with any of a number of substrates 8i for sebum removal. As shown in [Fig.3C], with the substrate attached to an exemplary device 9, the heated airflow including 9b and 9c moves from the head 9a of the device 9 along the curved portions of the device 9, with the substrate thereon, and contacts the hair and scalp of a subject 9d for waterless removal of sebum. When the substrate contacts the scalp and the heated airflow heats and softens the sebum, the sebum can be more easily wiped off, absorbed, or otherwise transferred from the scalp to the substrate. In this manner, sebum can be effectively removed from the subject 9d without the use of water, detergents or soap, or baths.

[0102] Various aspects of the disclosure may provide a variety of benefits. For example, in [Fig.3D], there is shown an illustration 10 of a subject before 10a and after 10b use of a sebum removal device of the disclosure. Due to the removal of sebum, the subject's hair may exhibit more volume and be lighter due to the reduction in mass due to the removal of sebum. For example, the subject's hair may have more bounce or volume. These and other findings in the disclosure may correspond to high levels of consumer satisfaction and a high likelihood of reuse and water conservation.

[0103] Considering the features of an exemplary device kit 11, as shown in [Fig. 4A], the device kit 11 may include a device 11a with curved portions configured to receive a substrate 11b thereon. In embodiments, the substrate 11b is one of a plurality of substrates 11c, containing identical, similar, dissimilar, or different features among the plurality of substrates 11e. For example, as they are used, the substrates 11e may become soiled, and be replaced with new substrates. Another exemplary device kit 12 is shown in [Fig. 4B], and includes a device 12a and a scented component 12b, which may include independent scent or pre-scented substrates, for example.Use of a scented substrate with the device 12a may result in transfer of the fragrance from the substrate to the hair or scalp of the subject, providing a scented aesthetic. Although scented substrates may be provided with a scented composition infused into the substrate, this is only one example of an infused substrate; another example includes a substrate infused with a sebum-removing composition. Exemplary sebum-removing compositions may include, for example, a retinoid, an exfoliant such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, an oil, a diluent, a carrier, a salt, a buffering component for pH control, or any combination thereof.

[0104] In various embodiments, a composition may be infused into a nonwoven substrate and the infused substrate dried or dehydrated, for example, for packaging or offering for sale, and provided to a user in a dry state. The user may then re-wet the infused substrate before use, so that the elements of the composition are solubilized and active in water. However, in other embodiments, a substrate may be provided to a user in a dry state, optionally in combination with a composition, which the user may then infuse into the substrate before use of the substrate.As will be understood by those skilled in the art, these and other relatively minor uses of water with aspects of the disclosure do not undermine the use of the term "waterless" as used herein, which generally refers to aspects that can be carried out without a significant or substantial amount of water as is otherwise customary in processes with soap or detergent baths.

[0105] A perspective view of an exemplary waterless sebum removal device is shown in [Fig. 4C], with other configurations and views of the exemplary device shown in Figures 4D, 4E, 4F, and 4G. In the shown embodiment, a device 13 for waterless sebum removal from a subject includes a handle 13a and a head 13b that includes a substrate base 13c and a substrate base attachment 13b for attaching a substrate to the substrate base 13c. In the shown embodiment, the substrate base 13c also includes curved portions for producing a Coanda effect on an airflow, such that the airflow is shaped into an arc by the Coanda effect and bends the hair toward the curved portions during use.In embodiments, the handle 13a includes a dorsal portion 13g, a ventral portion 13h, a left portion 13i, and a right portion 13j, which together form a handle housing that includes an air duct 13d therein. In embodiments, the handle air duct 13d is fluidly connected to a head air duct 13n, as shown in [Fig. 4E], such that air flows from the handle air duct 13d into the head air duct 13n and out through head air vents 13k, where the airflow contacts curved portions 13m of the substrate base to generate the Coandâ effect. As shown in [Fig.4D], in embodiments, the substrate base 13c is detachable from the head 13b of the device 13 by bending deformation and removal of the substrate base 13c from the substrate base attachment member 131.This configuration may be used to clean or repair the device 13, remove a used substrate from the substrate base 13c, or attach a new substrate to the substrate base 13c, for example. A nonwoven substrate may be attached to the substrate base 13c by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, an adhesive backing, an adhesive substance, a button, a clasp, a snap fastener, a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof. In at least some embodiments, the substrate may be attached to the substrate base 13c, at least in part, by a pressure or friction fit due to the attachment of the substrate base attachment 131 to the substrate base 13c; in such embodiments, the substrate may be attached between the substrate base attachment 131 and the substrate base 13c and held in place by these features.However, other attachment mechanisms for securing the substrate to the substrate base 13c may be implemented without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

[0106] As shown in [Fig.4G], in at least some embodiments, a substrate base 13c includes a plurality of channels 13p, formed by a plurality of ridges 13o, configured to guide an airflow (curved arrows) over curved portions of the substrate base 13c and through the channels 13p. The shown configuration forms a comb for the device, configured to contact the scalp for the removal of sebum from the subject. In this and other embodiments in which a nonwoven substrate is attached to the substrate base 13c, the curvature of the airflow around the substrate, which maps to the shape of the curved portions of the substrate base 13c, bends the subject's hair and increases the contact of the hair and scalp with the substrate. This helps to absorb sebum and oil from the hair and scalp for waterless cleansing.

[0107] In various aspects, the disclosure provides methods for waterless sebum removal that rely at least in part on heating sebum with a heated airflow to reduce the viscosity of the sebum and remove the sebum from hair. In various aspects, a method may be performed by a user, or by requesting a user to perform the method (e.g., by providing the user with an instruction manual to guide the user in using a device, performing a method, or the like).

[0108] Sebum removal may be facilitated by the use of a substrate, which may or may not be heated, and which may be dry or wet. As shown in [Fig. 7A], a method 26a for waterless sebum removal includes, in step 26b, generating a heated airflow configured to soften the sebum; in step 26c, contacting the hair and / or scalp with the heated airflow; in step 26d, providing a substrate for capturing the sebum; in step 26e (optional), heating the substrate; and in step 26f, contacting the hair and / or scalp with the substrate or the heated substrate, as appropriate. As shown in [Fig.7B], a method 26g for waterless sebum removal with practical application of the Coandâ effect includes, in step 26h, generating a heated airflow with a Coandâ effect that is configured to soften sebum; in step 26i, contacting the hair and / or scalp with the heated airflow having the Coandâ effect; in step 26j, providing a substrate configured to capture sebum; in step 26k (optional), heating the substrate; and in step 26 1, contacting the hair and / or scalp with the substrate or the heated substrate, as the case may be. PAINTINGS

[0109] [Table 1]

[0110] Table 1. Test data for oil removal from a hair strand in vitro using a waterless device (see also [Fig.5C]). Sebum Removal Step Description Hair Strand Weight (g) N / A Original Hair Strand Weight 8.45 N / A Hair Strand with Oil 8.75 1 Cold air flow with dry substrate 8.68 2 Heated air flow with dry substrate 8.53 3 Heated air flow with wet substrate 8.49 NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

[0111] Although 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 contemplated as part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting embodiments contain elements that are modular and may be combined with each other in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting embodiment, which may itself be further combined with other non-limiting embodiments.

[0112] Embodiment 1. A device for waterless removal of sebum from a subject, the device comprising: a head having therein an air duct and hollow teeth fluidly connected to the air duct, wherein the hollow teeth include tooth vents thereon configured for passage of a heated airflow from the air duct through the tooth vents; wherein the heated airflow is configured to contact, heat, and soften sebum on the scalp portion to facilitate removal of sebum therefrom.

[0113] Embodiment 2. A device according to Embodiment 1 or any other embodiment, further comprising: a handle with an air duct therein that is fluidly connected to the head air duct; wherein passing an air flow, or the heated air flow, from the handle air duct to the head air duct causes the heated air flow to pass through the head air vent.

[0114] Embodiment 3. A device according to any one of Embodiments 1-2 or any other embodiment, further comprising: an air blower disposed within the device and configured to generate an airflow within the device and a heating element disposed within the device and configured to heat the airflow to produce the heated airflow.

[0115] Embodiment 4. A device according to Embodiment 3 or any other embodiment, wherein the air blower comprises a motor operatively connected to a fan such that operation of the motor causes rotational movement of the fan.

[0116] Embodiment 5. Device according to any one of embodiments 3 to 4 or according to any other embodiment, wherein the heating element comprises a resistance unit operatively connected to a power source and is configured for a heating process enabling the production of the heated airflow.

[0117] Embodiment 6. A device according to Embodiment 5 or any other embodiment, wherein the heating process is configured to heat the airflow above a minimum temperature threshold to soften sebum and below a maximum temperature threshold to protect hair from heat damage.

[0118] Embodiment 7. A device according to Embodiment 6 or any other embodiment, wherein the minimum temperature threshold is about 40°C at a hair position during use of the device.

[0119] Embodiment 8. A device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 7 or any other embodiment, further comprising a thermal sensor, positioned within the heated airflow for measuring the temperature of the heated airflow, which is operatively connected to the control circuitry of the device for controlling the heating process based on a measured temperature of the thermal sensor, the minimum temperature threshold and the maximum temperature threshold.

[0120] Embodiment 9. Device according to Embodiment 8 or according to any other embodiment, wherein the thermal sensor comprises a capacitive temperature sensor or a dielectric resonator-based sensor configured for temperature measurement.

[0121] Embodiment 10. Device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9 or any other embodiment, further comprising pressure sensors, positioned on the hollow teeth, configured to detect contact with the scalp of the individual.

[0122] Embodiment 11. Device according to embodiment 10 or any other embodiment, wherein, in the absence of contact detection by the pressure sensors, the device is configured for a process of removing sebum from the fibers, and wherein, with contact detection by the pressure sensors, the device is configured for a process of removing sebum from the scalp.

[0123] Embodiment 12. A device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 11 or any other embodiment, wherein a passage of the heated air flow through the hollow teeth concentrates the heated air flow within a reduced radius compared to a radius of the head of the device, so that a speed of movement of the heated air flow is increased due to a Bernoulli effect.

[0124] Embodiment 13. Device according to embodiment 12 or any other embodiment, wherein the passage of the heated air flow through at least two tooth vents concentrate the heated airflow within the tooth vents, so that at least two speeds of movement of the heated airflow are changed due to the Bernoulli effect.

[0125] Embodiment 14. A device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13 or any other embodiment, further comprising an absorbent substrate, positioned on the head, which is configured to contact a portion of the subject's hair or the subject's scalp and absorb sebum therefrom during use.

[0126] Embodiment 15. A device according to Embodiment 14 or any other embodiment, wherein the device is configured to heat the absorbent substrate, such that sebum is heated when in contact with a heated absorbent substrate to reduce viscosity and facilitate removal of the sebum.

[0127] Embodiment 16. A device according to any one of embodiments 13 to 15 or any other embodiment, wherein the velocities of the heated airflow are increased by the Bernoulli effect, such that the increased airflow displaces sebum from the individual's scalp portion.

[0128] Embodiment 17. A device according to any one of embodiments 13 to 16 or any other embodiment, wherein the device comprises four rows of hollow teeth configured to massage the subject's scalp portion during use.

[0129] Embodiment 18. A device according to any one of embodiments 14 to 17 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to the curved portions of the head.

[0130] Embodiment 19. A device according to any one of Embodiments 14 to 18 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an adhesive backing or composition.

[0131] Embodiment 20. A device according to any one of Embodiments 14 to 19 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an attachment mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a button, a clasp, a snap fastener, a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof.

[0132] Embodiment 21. A device according to any one of embodiments 14 to 20 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

[0133] Embodiment 22. A device according to Embodiment 21 or any other embodiment, wherein the composition is a sebum-removing composition, a perfumed composition, or both.

[0134] Embodiment 23. A kit comprising: the device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 22 or according to any other embodiment and an instruction manual for guiding the use of the device in a method of waterless removal of sebum from a subject.

[0135] Embodiment 24. A kit according to embodiment 23 or any other embodiment, further comprising an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of the head of the device, contact the hair and / or scalp of the subject and absorb sebum from the hair and / or scalp during use.

[0136] Embodiment 25. A kit according to Embodiment 24 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

[0137] Embodiment 26. A kit according to Embodiment 25 or any other embodiment, wherein the composition is a sebum-removing composition, a perfumed composition, or both.

[0138] Embodiment 27. A kit comprising: an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of a head of a waterless sebum removal device; and instructions for use for guiding use of the absorbent substrate, the device, or both in a method of waterless sebum removal from a subject; wherein the device comprises a head having an air duct therein and hollow teeth fluidly connected to the air duct.

[0139] Embodiment 28. A kit according to Embodiment 27 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to curved portions of the device head with an adhesive backing or composition.

[0140] Embodiment 29. A kit according to any one of Embodiments 27 to 28 or any other embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

[0141] Embodiment 30. A kit according to Embodiment 29 or any other embodiment, wherein the composition is a sebum-removing composition, a perfumed composition, or both.

[0142] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. A device (29) for waterless removal of sebum from a subject, the device comprising: - a head (29a) comprising therein an air duct and hollow teeth (29b) fluidly connected to the air duct, wherein the hollow teeth include tooth vents (29d) thereon configured for passage of a heated airflow from the air duct through the tooth vents; - wherein the heated airflow is configured to contact, heat and soften sebum on the scalp portion to facilitate removal of sebum therefrom.

2. A device (29) according to claim 1, further comprising: - a handle with an air duct therein which is fluidly connected to the head air duct; - wherein passing an air flow, or the heated air flow, from the handle air duct to the head air duct causes the heated air flow to pass through the head air vent.

3. A device (29) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising: - an air blower disposed within the device and configured to generate an airflow within the device; and - a heating element disposed within the device, the heating element comprising a resistance unit operatively connected to a power source and being configured for a process of heating the airflow to produce the heated airflow.

4. The device (29) of claim 3, wherein the heating process is configured to heat the airflow above a minimum temperature threshold to soften sebum and below a maximum temperature threshold to protect hair from heat damage.

5. A device according to claim 4, wherein the minimum temperature threshold is about 40°C at a hair position during use of the device.

6. Device (29) according to any one of claims 4 or 5, further comprising a thermal sensor, positioned within the heated air flow for a temperature measurement of the heated air flow, which is operatively connected to a control circuitry of the device for controlling the heating process based on a measured temperature of the thermal sensor, the minimum temperature threshold and the maximum temperature threshold.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the thermal sensor comprises a capacitive temperature sensor or a dielectric resonator-based sensor configured for temperature measurement.

8. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the passage of the heated air flow through the hollow teeth concentrates the heated air flow into a reduced radius compared to a radius of the head of the device, so that a speed of movement of the heated air flow is increased due to a Bernoulli effect.

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