Hair extension kit and apparatus

Abstract

A hair extension kit and apparatus include an elongated base strip, an elongated accessory strip, and a weft of hair extending from the accessory strip. A rear side of the accessory strip is releasably connectable to a front side of the base strip.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Hair extensions are an increasingly popular beauty accessory that increase the volume and length of a user's natural hair. There are various temporary and semi-permanent hair extension options available to present-day consumers. Clip-in hair extensions are one commonly-known form of temporary hair extension; the user generally clips a weft of hair to their natural hair for daily wear. More permanent options include wefts of hair that can be taped in, sewn in, or linked with microbeads to the natural hair.

[0002] The main limitation of semi-permanent hair extension options is the propensity to damage a user's natural hair. The constant weight of additional hair wefts and harsh attachment mechanisms cause stress and tension upon the user's natural hair. Common installation methods require the direct application of adhesives (e.g., glue, tape, heat-bond, etc.) upon the user's natural hair, inevitably resulting in natural hair loss when the extensions are removed. Combined with continuous wear, often weeks to months at a time, a user's natural hair can suffer substantial breakage and thinning, especially around the extension attachment points.

[0003] Although less damaging, temporary hair extensions (e.g., clips, halos, etc.) often have bulkier attachment mechanisms that are uncomfortable and aesthetically unpleasant to users. By nature, temporary extension methods are prone to falling out. Additionally, they often limit the choice of hairstyle available to a user who has to try and hide the extension attachment within their natural hair.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for improved hair extensions that allow for temporary wear to limit the negative impacts upon natural hair without compromising the aesthetic effects and durability sought by a user. There is also a need for hair extension attachment mechanisms that limit the tension upon a user's natural hair, mitigating the breakage and hair loss that many hair extension users experience. It is to such a kit and apparatus that the inventive concepts disclosed herein are directed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway, perspective view of a user with an exemplary embodiment of a hair extension apparatus constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

[0006] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a base strip.

[0007] FIG. 2B is a rear perspective view of the base strip.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the base strip attached to a user's scalp.

[0009] FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of an exemplary attachment of the base strip to a user's natural hair.

[0010] FIG. 4B is a perspective, cross-sectional view taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A.

[0011] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of an accessory strip.

[0012] FIG. 5B is a rear perspective view of the accessory strip

[0013] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the accessory strip.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of an accessory strip in a flat state.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the accessory strip of FIG. 7.

[0016] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the accessory strip of FIG. 7 in a folded state.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concepts disclosed herein in detail, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts are not limited in their application to the details of construction, experiments, exemplary data, and / or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description, or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts are capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting in any way.

[0018] In the following detailed description of embodiments of the inventive concepts, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the inventive concepts. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the inventive concepts within the disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the instant disclosure.

[0019] Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0020] In addition, the use of the “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the inventive concepts. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0021] Referring now to the drawings, the inventive concepts illustrated herein are broadly directed to a hair extension apparatus 12 that includes elements of a hair extension kit. The hair extension apparatus 12 allows for the temporary addition of hair length, volume, color, texture, or accessories (e.g., tinsel, string, jewelry, feathers, etc.) to augment the natural hair of a user. The term “user,” as used herein, encompasses persons who may be wearing and / or installing the hair extension apparatus. The term “natural hair” is used herein to refer to hair that grows from the scalp of the head.

[0022] The hair extension apparatus 12 broadly includes an elongated base strip 14 (hereinafter “base strip”) and an elongated accessory strip 16 (hereinafter “accessory strip”). These two components, the base strip 14 and the accessory strip 16, releasably connect to one another so the user can easily connect and disconnect the accessory hair from their head. In this manner, the user can enjoy the enhancement a semi-permanent hair extension provides without the constant weight and tension of semi-permanent accessory hair. The hair extension apparatus 12 further includes a plurality of connecting members 18 (hereinafter “connecting members”) for securing the base strip 14 to a scalp 13 that may be acquired separately from the kit.

[0023] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, the base strip 14 may be placed and secured against the scalp 13 by a plurality of connecting members 18 in any locations or directions the user chooses. However, the placement location of the base strip 14 on the scalp 13 is also the location where the accessory strip 16 of hair will extend. A user may install the base strip 14 themselves, or another may install it, such as a hairstylist or friend. Once installed, the base strip 14 may last as long as other semi-permanent hair extension applications, roughly 4-6 weeks. However, the hair extension apparatus 12 does not demand the user have heavy hair attached to their scalp for that period of time as most conventional methods do; only the base strip 14 is secured to the scalp semi-permanently.

[0024] Broadly, the base strip 14 has a length 20, a width 22, a front side 24, a rear side 26, a first longitudinal end 28, a second longitudinal end 30, a first lateral side 32, and a second lateral side 34. There is also a plurality of natural hair-receiving passages 36 (hereinafter “passages”) formed along the length 20 of the base strip 14. The passages 36 may be spaced along the length 20 of the base strip 14 in increments that depend upon the chosen number of attachment points to the scalp 13.

[0025] The length 20 of the base strip 14 is generally suited to accommodate any portion of the user's head circumference, ranging from 50 to 450 millimeters (mm), but any one base strip 14 may be optionally cut into shorter lengths based upon user personalization and preference. For example, some users may want longer strips of hair extensions that wrap around a large portion of the scalp 13 to provide uniform length, while others may want strategically placed shorter strips of hair in certain spots that need volume enhancement.

[0026] The width 22 of base strip 14 generally ranges between 5 mm and 20 mm, as smaller widths are easier to hide in the natural hair. However, it will be appreciated by those in the art of hair extension installation that the length 20 and width 22 of the base strip 14 can be manipulated to accommodate different areas or portions of the head depending upon the user's preferences.

[0027] The base strip 14 is generally thin so as to lay nearly flat against the user's scalp 13 for discreet hair enhancement. The thickness of the base strip 14 may range between 0.05 mm and 3 mm, as thicker additions to the scalp 13 become more difficult to hide within the natural hair.

[0028] The material of the base strip 14 is lightweight and flexible to allow for shaping to the contours of a user's head and generally unnoticeable wear. However, the material is also durable enough not to tear during installation and daily activities throughout the duration of wear. Notably, the material may be resistant to heat as it may come into contact with heat styling tools, and unaffected by water, as it may withstand the normal bathing and / or water activities of a user. For example, the base strip 14 material may include nylon, lace, satin, silk, polyester, cotton, or linen fabrics, or flexible plastics such as polyurethane.

[0029] The front side 24 of the base strip 14 is capable of releasable connection, adapted to engage the rear side of the accessory strip 52, while the rear side 26 of the base strip 14 has a texture suited for contact with the scalp 13. In an example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the front side 24 of the base strip 14 has a first part of a hook and loop fastener 40. In one version, it may be preferred to have a loop part of the hook and loop fastener on the base strip 14 to prevent the user's natural hair from becoming entangled with the base strip when the accessory strip 16 is detached from the base strip 14. The front side 24 of the base strip 14 may include other materials with engaging or connective surfaces like tape, hook-to-hook material, snaps, hook and eye clasps, magnetic claps, and friction closures. In all cases, the front side 24 of the base strip 14 has enough connective integrity to withstand the average daily activities of a user without unintentional disconnection of the accessory strip 16.

[0030] The material of the rear side 26 has a texture suited for wearability close to the scalp 13. For example, the rear side 26 material may be a biocompatible polymer, polyurethane, silk, suede, leather, mesh, silicone, gauze, or any other fabric that is not substantially irritating to the scalp 13. In some embodiments, the base strip 14 is composed of one material having the preferred characteristics for both the front side 24 and the rear side 26, such as a flexible strip of hook and loop fabric with loop fabric on the front side 24 and a smooth, flat rear side 26.

[0031] Particularly referencing FIGS. 3-4, the passages 36 may be formed on either the front side 24 of the base strip, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the rear side 26, or both the front side 24 and rear side 26, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The passages 36 may be formed by a plurality of sleeves 37 laterally attached to the base strip 14. In one embodiment, the sleeves 37 extend from the first lateral side 32 to the second lateral side 34 of the front side 24 of the base strip 14. The sleeves 37 may be formed of any generally smooth material that will not interact with the hair or heat tools applied to the hair, including, but not limited to, fabric, acrylic, nylon, silicone, polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC. For example, the sleeves 37 may be thin, flexible plastic sheets or tubular-shaped plastic members fixed to the base strip 14 by any suitable method.

[0032] In other embodiments, the passages 36 are formed by openings extending through the base strip 14 that allow for the passage of hair from the rear side 26 to the front side 24.

[0033] In securing the base strip 14 to the scalp 13, a first portion of a user's natural hair 42 (hereinafter “first portion”) is fed through the passages 36 by means known in the art and preferable to the user installing the base strip 14 (e.g., hook needles, pulling needles, pulling hooks, etc.). The amount of hair comprising the first portion 42 is illustrated as smaller strands in FIG. 4, but is only limited by the capacity of the passages 36 and may differ depending upon user preference. The position of the first portion 42 on the head—where the first portion of hair 42 originates on the scalp 13—may be anywhere generally proximal to the passages 36, but is directly proximal to base strip 14 for most users seeking to make the hair extensions less visible. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first portion 42 is a strand threaded through the passages 36 from immediately above the first lateral side 32 of the base strip 14. FIG. 4 illustrates a similar embodiment where the first portion 42 passes through passages 36 on both the front side 24 and rear side 26 of the base strip 14.

[0034] While the first portion of the natural hair 42 interacts with the passages 36 of the base strip 14, a second portion of the natural hair 44 (hereinafter “second portion”) may also be utilized to further secure the base strip 14. The second portion 44 is not threaded through the passages 36 but further supports the securement of the base strip 14 to the scalp 13 by providing another origin of attachment. The second portion 44 may also originate from anywhere on the scalp 13 generally proximal to the base strip 14, but is proximal to the base strip 14 for most users seeking discreet attachment. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the second portion 44 is a strand along the rear side 26 and second lateral side 34 of the base strip 14. In other embodiments the second portion 44 may be along any one, or all of, the rear side 26, first lateral side 32, and second lateral side 34 of the base strip 14.

[0035] Increasing the origins of attachment by having both the first portion 42 and the second portion 44 of hair to secure the base strip 14 lessens the damage to natural hair as tension is distributed between more hair attachment points. This results in less pulling and hair loss at any one attachment point. Further, the securement of the base strip 14 via the passages 36 and multiple portions of hair prevents sagging, movement, or flipping of the base strip 14 while still allowing the user to comfortably wear their hair in different styles, like pulling the hair up in a ponytail for example.

[0036] The first portions 42 and the second portions 44 of natural hair are joined at the second lateral side 34 of the base strip by connecting members 18, securing the base strip 14 to the scalp 13. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, the connecting member 18 is a micro-ring that is crimped to fix the first portion 42 and the second portion 44 of hair in place at the edge of the second lateral side of the base strip 34. As one in the art will appreciate, the connecting members 18 may be any art-disclosed ring, bead, loop, clamp, bond, or deformable material that is compatible with hair. Additionally, connecting members may be transparent or have different colors to accommodate different hair colors.

[0037] The sleeves 37 that form the passages 36 also serve to protect the natural hair, namely the first portion 42, which is used to secure the base strip 14, preventing interaction with the surface of the rear side 52 of the accessory strip 16. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the sleeves 37 prevent the hook fabric of the accessory strip 16 from contacting the user's first portion of natural hair 42.

[0038] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, an embodiment of the elongated accessory strip 16, which includes the augmenting hair chosen by the user, is shown. The accessory strip 16 has a front side 50 with a surface that faces away from the scalp 13 when the accessory strip 16 is connected to the base strip 14 and a rear side 52 that faces the scalp 13 and connects with the base strip 14. The user positions the rear side of the accessory strip 52 directly against the front side 24 of the base strip so that the two may interact and connect, thus creating a wearable hair extension secured to the scalp 13. Similarly, without assistance from another person, the user can disrupt the connection and release the accessory strip 16 from the base strip 14 at their discretion. The releasable connectivity of the base strip 14 and accessory strip 16, combined with the semi-permanent nature of the base strip 14 secured to the scalp 13, allows the user to quickly wear semi-permanent style hair extensions without the constant weight and pull of additional hair.

[0039] The accessory strip 16 is constructed to mate with the base strip 14 and thus may have a length 54 and width 56 compatible and customizable to match the length 20 and width 22 of the base strip 14. Similar to the base strip 14, the accessory strip 16 is also generally flexible and thin to decrease the bulk of the hair extension and shape to the user's head.

[0040] As the rear side 52 is capable of releasable connection with the base strip 14, it may be a material having the connective counterpart surface like tape, hook-to-hook material, snaps, hook and eye clasps, magnets, and friction closures. In the example embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 5, the rear side 52 has a hook part of a hook and loop fastener 57.

[0041] In one embodiment, the accessory strip 16 includes a mesh layer 60, a supportive intermediate layer of the accessory strip 16, and an adhesion layer 62 that integrates the components of the accessory strip 16. The adhesion layer 62 is one or more adhesive materials that form a pliable solid strip. In one embodiment, the adhesion layer 62 is one or more layers of polyurethane adhesive and heat-bonded tape that sandwich the mesh layer 60.

[0042] Several known flexible adhesive materials could be used in constructing the adhesion layer 62, including polyurethane, epoxy, acrylic, silicone, and other polymer adhesives. Adhesive tapes, notably heat bond tapes, may also be used and thus may superimpose a fabric layer into the adhesion layer 62. For example, an adhesive tape may include polyesters, polyacrylonitrile, polyamides, synthetic rubbers, polyolefins, epoxy resins, vinyl resins, acetate, aceto-chloride, acetal or butyral, cellulose derivatives, polyurethanes, or another oil-based glue. The adhesion layer 62 may be transparent or colored to match the user's scalp / skin or hair.

[0043] With reference to FIG. 6, the adhesion layer 62 also adheres the mesh layer 60 to the proximal end of a weft of hair 64 (also referred to as “weft” or “weft hair”) that extends from the front side of the accessory strip 50. The weft of hair 64 may be a polyurethane (“PU” or “skin”) weft 64a, as known in the art, that is fixed to the mesh layer 60 via the adhesion layer 62. Further, the adhesion layer 62 may also be the polyurethane base for the weft of hair 64a. In such an embodiment, the adhesion layer 62 includes the proximal end of the weft of hair 64a which lies parallel to the mesh layer 60.

[0044] Embodiments may also include an injected weft of hair 64b, in which weft hair is disposed through the mesh layer 60 perpendicularly and secured to the accessory strip by the adhesion layer 62. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6, the combination of polyurethane weft hair 64a and injected weft hair 64b creates a voluminous weft 64 that replicates the appearance of natural hair protruding from the scalp 13. Moreover, the disclosed weft of hair 64 is sturdy enough for regular wear, but also thin and lightweight enough that the user will not feel tension nor notice bulk from the extension.

[0045] The hair of the weft of hair 64 may be any accessory hair known in the art. This includes, but is not limited to, human hair, synthetic hair, or animal hair. As it may be appreciated by those in the art, better quality hair, such as unprocessed human hair, allows the user longer wear and more natural maintenance. The hair extension apparatus 12 allows for the user to disconnect the accessory strip 16 and maintain the weft of hair 64 however they see fit, which may include washing, drying, brushing, and heat styling as they do with natural hair. Similarly, the base strip 14 requires no extra care beyond routine washing and drying with the user's natural hair.

[0046] Turning now to FIGS. 7-9, an alternative accessory strip 16a is shown that includes two wefts of hair 64 for a more voluminous hair extension. The accessory strip 16a is tripartite, having a first longitudinal portion 70, a second longitudinal portion 72, and an intermediate longitudinal portion 74 between the first longitudinal portion 70 and second longitudinal portion 72. The first longitudinal portion 70 and the second longitudinal portion 72 of the mesh layer 60 of the accessory strip 16a each include elongated adhesion layers 62 and have wefts of hair 64 extending from the adhesion layers 62. On the rear side 52 of the accessory strip 16a, the intermediate longitudinal portion 74 releasably connects with the base strip 14 for connection to the scalp 13.

[0047] When the connective surface of the intermediate portion 74, the second part of a hook and loop fastener 57, for example, engages the front side 24 of the base strip 14, the first 70 and second 72 longitudinal portions can hinge relative to the intermediate portion 74. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the hinging of the mesh layer 60 allows the user to double the hair extension volume without requiring two rows of extensions. The result is less bulk and hair extensions that fall naturally to create volume.

[0048] In this alternative embodiment of the accessory strip 16a, a user can easily bring the extension hair upward into a style, like a ponytail or bun, without worrying about the visibility of the hair extension or awkward tugging on the hair. This is because the hair can hinge relative to the intermediate portion 74 connected to the scalp 13 via the base strip 14, just as natural hair would. The wefts of hair 64 may also include both polyurethane weft 64a and injected weft 64b to provide a full, natural-looking weft that replicates the look of natural hair pulled up from the scalp 13.

[0049] From the above description, it is clear that the inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein are well adapted to carry out the objects and attain the advantages mentioned herein and those inherent in the invention. While exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts have been described for purposes of this disclosure, it will be understood that numerous changes may be made that will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are accomplished within the spirit of the inventive concepts disclosed and / or defined in the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concepts disclosed herein in detail, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts are not limited in their application to the details of construction, experiments, exemplary data, and / or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description, or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts are capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting in any way.

[0018]In the following detailed description of embodiments of the inventive concepts, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the inventive concepts. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the inventive concepts within the disclosure ma...

BACKGROUND

[0001] Hair extensions are an increasingly popular beauty accessory that increase the volume and length of a user's natural hair. There are various temporary and semi-permanent hair extension options available to present-day consumers. Clip-in hair extensions are one commonly-known form of temporary hair extension; the user generally clips a weft of hair to their natural hair for daily wear. More permanent options include wefts of hair that can be taped in, sewn in, or linked with microbeads to the natural hair.

[0002] The main limitation of semi-permanent hair extension options is the propensity to damage a user's natural hair. The constant weight of additional hair wefts and harsh attachment mechanisms cause stress and tension upon the user's natural hair. Common installation methods require the direct application of adhesives (e.g., glue, tape, heat-bond, etc.) upon the user's natural hair, inevitably resulting in natural hair loss when the extensions are removed. Combined with continuous wear, often weeks to months at a time, a user's natural hair can suffer substantial breakage and thinning, especially around the extension attachment points.

[0003] Although less damaging, temporary hair extensions (e.g., clips, halos, etc.) often have bulkier attachment mechanisms that are uncomfortable and aesthetically unpleasant to users. By nature, temporary extension methods are prone to falling out. Additionally, they often limit the choice of hairstyle available to a user who has to try and hide the extension attachment within their natural hair.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for improved hair extensions that allow for temporary wear to limit the negative impacts upon natural hair without compromising the aesthetic effects and durability sought by a user. There is also a need for hair extension attachment mechanisms that limit the tension upon a user's natural hair, mitigating the breakage and hair loss that many hair extension users experience. It is to such a kit and apparatus that the inventive concepts disclosed herein are directed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway, perspective view of a user with an exemplary embodiment of a hair extension apparatus constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

[0006] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a base strip.

[0007] FIG. 2B is a rear perspective view of the base strip.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the base strip attached to a user's scalp.

[0009] FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of an exemplary attachment of the base strip to a user's natural hair.

[0010] FIG. 4B is a perspective, cross-sectional view taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A.

[0011] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of an accessory strip.

[0012] FIG. 5B is a rear perspective view of the accessory strip

[0013] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the accessory strip.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of an accessory strip in a flat state.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the accessory strip of FIG. 7.

[0016] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the accessory strip of FIG. 7 in a folded state.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concepts disclosed herein in detail, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts are not limited in their application to the details of construction, experiments, exemplary data, and / or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description, or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts are capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting in any way.

[0018] In the following detailed description of embodiments of the inventive concepts, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the inventive concepts. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the inventive concepts within the disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the instant disclosure.

[0019] Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0020] In addition, the use of the “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the inventive concepts. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0021] Referring now to the drawings, the inventive concepts illustrated herein are broadly directed to a hair extension apparatus 12 that includes elements of a hair extension kit. The hair extension apparatus 12 allows for the temporary addition of hair length, volume, color, texture, or accessories (e.g., tinsel, string, jewelry, feathers, etc.) to augment the natural hair of a user. The term “user,” as used herein, encompasses persons who may be wearing and / or installing the hair extension apparatus. The term “natural hair” is used herein to refer to hair that grows from the scalp of the head.

[0022] The hair extension apparatus 12 broadly includes an elongated base strip 14 (hereinafter “base strip”) and an elongated accessory strip 16 (hereinafter “accessory strip”). These two components, the base strip 14 and the accessory strip 16, releasably connect to one another so the user can easily connect and disconnect the accessory hair from their head. In this manner, the user can enjoy the enhancement a semi-permanent hair extension provides without the constant weight and tension of semi-permanent accessory hair. The hair extension apparatus 12 further includes a plurality of connecting members 18 (hereinafter “connecting members”) for securing the base strip 14 to a scalp 13 that may be acquired separately from the kit.

[0023] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, the base strip 14 may be placed and secured against the scalp 13 by a plurality of connecting members 18 in any locations or directions the user chooses. However, the placement location of the base strip 14 on the scalp 13 is also the location where the accessory strip 16 of hair will extend. A user may install the base strip 14 themselves, or another may install it, such as a hairstylist or friend. Once installed, the base strip 14 may last as long as other semi-permanent hair extension applications, roughly 4-6 weeks. However, the hair extension apparatus 12 does not demand the user have heavy hair attached to their scalp for that period of time as most conventional methods do; only the base strip 14 is secured to the scalp semi-permanently.

[0024] Broadly, the base strip 14 has a length 20, a width 22, a front side 24, a rear side 26, a first longitudinal end 28, a second longitudinal end 30, a first lateral side 32, and a second lateral side 34. There is also a plurality of natural hair-receiving passages 36 (hereinafter “passages”) formed along the length 20 of the base strip 14. The passages 36 may be spaced along the length 20 of the base strip 14 in increments that depend upon the chosen number of attachment points to the scalp 13.

[0025] The length 20 of the base strip 14 is generally suited to accommodate any portion of the user's head circumference, ranging from 50 to 450 millimeters (mm), but any one base strip 14 may be optionally cut into shorter lengths based upon user personalization and preference. For example, some users may want longer strips of hair extensions that wrap around a large portion of the scalp 13 to provide uniform length, while others may want strategically placed shorter strips of hair in certain spots that need volume enhancement.

[0026] The width 22 of base strip 14 generally ranges between 5 mm and 20 mm, as smaller widths are easier to hide in the natural hair. However, it will be appreciated by those in the art of hair extension installation that the length 20 and width 22 of the base strip 14 can be manipulated to accommodate different areas or portions of the head depending upon the user's preferences.

[0027] The base strip 14 is generally thin so as to lay nearly flat against the user's scalp 13 for discreet hair enhancement. The thickness of the base strip 14 may range between 0.05 mm and 3 mm, as thicker additions to the scalp 13 become more difficult to hide within the natural hair.

[0028] The material of the base strip 14 is lightweight and flexible to allow for shaping to the contours of a user's head and generally unnoticeable wear. However, the material is also durable enough not to tear during installation and daily activities throughout the duration of wear. Notably, the material may be resistant to heat as it may come into contact with heat styling tools, and unaffected by water, as it may withstand the normal bathing and / or water activities of a user. For example, the base strip 14 material may include nylon, lace, satin, silk, polyester, cotton, or linen fabrics, or flexible plastics such as polyurethane.

[0029] The front side 24 of the base strip 14 is capable of releasable connection, adapted to engage the rear side of the accessory strip 52, while the rear side 26 of the base strip 14 has a texture suited for contact with the scalp 13. In an example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the front side 24 of the base strip 14 has a first part of a hook and loop fastener 40. In one version, it may be preferred to have a loop part of the hook and loop fastener on the base strip 14 to prevent the user's natural hair from becoming entangled with the base strip when the accessory strip 16 is detached from the base strip 14. The front side 24 of the base strip 14 may include other materials with engaging or connective surfaces like tape, hook-to-hook material, snaps, hook and eye clasps, magnetic claps, and friction closures. In all cases, the front side 24 of the base strip 14 has enough connective integrity to withstand the average daily activities of a user without unintentional disconnection of the accessory strip 16.

[0030] The material of the rear side 26 has a texture suited for wearability close to the scalp 13. For example, the rear side 26 material may be a biocompatible polymer, polyurethane, silk, suede, leather, mesh, silicone, gauze, or any other fabric that is not substantially irritating to the scalp 13. In some embodiments, the base strip 14 is composed of one material having the preferred characteristics for both the front side 24 and the rear side 26, such as a flexible strip of hook and loop fabric with loop fabric on the front side 24 and a smooth, flat rear side 26.

[0031] Particularly referencing FIGS. 3-4, the passages 36 may be formed on either the front side 24 of the base strip, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the rear side 26, or both the front side 24 and rear side 26, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The passages 36 may be formed by a plurality of sleeves 37 laterally attached to the base strip 14. In one embodiment, the sleeves 37 extend from the first lateral side 32 to the second lateral side 34 of the front side 24 of the base strip 14. The sleeves 37 may be formed of any generally smooth material that will not interact with the hair or heat tools applied to the hair, including, but not limited to, fabric, acrylic, nylon, silicone, polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC. For example, the sleeves 37 may be thin, flexible plastic sheets or tubular-shaped plastic members fixed to the base strip 14 by any suitable method.

[0032] In other embodiments, the passages 36 are formed by openings extending through the base strip 14 that allow for the passage of hair from the rear side 26 to the front side 24.

[0033] In securing the base strip 14 to the scalp 13, a first portion of a user's natural hair 42 (hereinafter “first portion”) is fed through the passages 36 by means known in the art and preferable to the user installing the base strip 14 (e.g., hook needles, pulling needles, pulling hooks, etc.). The amount of hair comprising the first portion 42 is illustrated as smaller strands in FIG. 4, but is only limited by the capacity of the passages 36 and may differ depending upon user preference. The position of the first portion 42 on the head—where the first portion of hair 42 originates on the scalp 13—may be anywhere generally proximal to the passages 36, but is directly proximal to base strip 14 for most users seeking to make the hair extensions less visible. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first portion 42 is a strand threaded through the passages 36 from immediately above the first lateral side 32 of the base strip 14. FIG. 4 illustrates a similar embodiment where the first portion 42 passes through passages 36 on both the front side 24 and rear side 26 of the base strip 14.

[0034] While the first portion of the natural hair 42 interacts with the passages 36 of the base strip 14, a second portion of the natural hair 44 (hereinafter “second portion”) may also be utilized to further secure the base strip 14. The second portion 44 is not threaded through the passages 36 but further supports the securement of the base strip 14 to the scalp 13 by providing another origin of attachment. The second portion 44 may also originate from anywhere on the scalp 13 generally proximal to the base strip 14, but is proximal to the base strip 14 for most users seeking discreet attachment. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the second portion 44 is a strand along the rear side 26 and second lateral side 34 of the base strip 14. In other embodiments the second portion 44 may be along any one, or all of, the rear side 26, first lateral side 32, and second lateral side 34 of the base strip 14.

[0035] Increasing the origins of attachment by having both the first portion 42 and the second portion 44 of hair to secure the base strip 14 lessens the damage to natural hair as tension is distributed between more hair attachment points. This results in less pulling and hair loss at any one attachment point. Further, the securement of the base strip 14 via the passages 36 and multiple portions of hair prevents sagging, movement, or flipping of the base strip 14 while still allowing the user to comfortably wear their hair in different styles, like pulling the hair up in a ponytail for example.

[0036] The first portions 42 and the second portions 44 of natural hair are joined at the second lateral side 34 of the base strip by connecting members 18, securing the base strip 14 to the scalp 13. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, the connecting member 18 is a micro-ring that is crimped to fix the first portion 42 and the second portion 44 of hair in place at the edge of the second lateral side of the base strip 34. As one in the art will appreciate, the connecting members 18 may be any art-disclosed ring, bead, loop, clamp, bond, or deformable material that is compatible with hair. Additionally, connecting members may be transparent or have different colors to accommodate different hair colors.

[0037] The sleeves 37 that form the passages 36 also serve to protect the natural hair, namely the first portion 42, which is used to secure the base strip 14, preventing interaction with the surface of the rear side 52 of the accessory strip 16. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the sleeves 37 prevent the hook fabric of the accessory strip 16 from contacting the user's first portion of natural hair 42.

[0038] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, an embodiment of the elongated accessory strip 16, which includes the augmenting hair chosen by the user, is shown. The accessory strip 16 has a front side 50 with a surface that faces away from the scalp 13 when the accessory strip 16 is connected to the base strip 14 and a rear side 52 that faces the scalp 13 and connects with the base strip 14. The user positions the rear side of the accessory strip 52 directly against the front side 24 of the base strip so that the two may interact and connect, thus creating a wearable hair extension secured to the scalp 13. Similarly, without assistance from another person, the user can disrupt the connection and release the accessory strip 16 from the base strip 14 at their discretion. The releasable connectivity of the base strip 14 and accessory strip 16, combined with the semi-permanent nature of the base strip 14 secured to the scalp 13, allows the user to quickly wear semi-permanent style hair extensions without the constant weight and pull of additional hair.

[0039] The accessory strip 16 is constructed to mate with the base strip 14 and thus may have a length 54 and width 56 compatible and customizable to match the length 20 and width 22 of the base strip 14. Similar to the base strip 14, the accessory strip 16 is also generally flexible and thin to decrease the bulk of the hair extension and shape to the user's head.

[0040] As the rear side 52 is capable of releasable connection with the base strip 14, it may be a material having the connective counterpart surface like tape, hook-to-hook material, snaps, hook and eye clasps, magnets, and friction closures. In the example embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 5, the rear side 52 has a hook part of a hook and loop fastener 57.

[0041] In one embodiment, the accessory strip 16 includes a mesh layer 60, a supportive intermediate layer of the accessory strip 16, and an adhesion layer 62 that integrates the components of the accessory strip 16. The adhesion layer 62 is one or more adhesive materials that form a pliable solid strip. In one embodiment, the adhesion layer 62 is one or more layers of polyurethane adhesive and heat-bonded tape that sandwich the mesh layer 60.

[0042] Several known flexible adhesive materials could be used in constructing the adhesion layer 62, including polyurethane, epoxy, acrylic, silicone, and other polymer adhesives. Adhesive tapes, notably heat bond tapes, may also be used and thus may superimpose a fabric layer into the adhesion layer 62. For example, an adhesive tape may include polyesters, polyacrylonitrile, polyamides, synthetic rubbers, polyolefins, epoxy resins, vinyl resins, acetate, aceto-chloride, acetal or butyral, cellulose derivatives, polyurethanes, or another oil-based glue. The adhesion layer 62 may be transparent or colored to match the user's scalp / skin or hair.

[0043] With reference to FIG. 6, the adhesion layer 62 also adheres the mesh layer 60 to the proximal end of a weft of hair 64 (also referred to as “weft” or “weft hair”) that extends from the front side of the accessory strip 50. The weft of hair 64 may be a polyurethane (“PU” or “skin”) weft 64a, as known in the art, that is fixed to the mesh layer 60 via the adhesion layer 62. Further, the adhesion layer 62 may also be the polyurethane base for the weft of hair 64a. In such an embodiment, the adhesion layer 62 includes the proximal end of the weft of hair 64a which lies parallel to the mesh layer 60.

[0044] Embodiments may also include an injected weft of hair 64b, in which weft hair is disposed through the mesh layer 60 perpendicularly and secured to the accessory strip by the adhesion layer 62. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6, the combination of polyurethane weft hair 64a and injected weft hair 64b creates a voluminous weft 64 that replicates the appearance of natural hair protruding from the scalp 13. Moreover, the disclosed weft of hair 64 is sturdy enough for regular wear, but also thin and lightweight enough that the user will not feel tension nor notice bulk from the extension.

[0045] The hair of the weft of hair 64 may be any accessory hair known in the art. This includes, but is not limited to, human hair, synthetic hair, or animal hair. As it may be appreciated by those in the art, better quality hair, such as unprocessed human hair, allows the user longer wear and more natural maintenance. The hair extension apparatus 12 allows for the user to disconnect the accessory strip 16 and maintain the weft of hair 64 however they see fit, which may include washing, drying, brushing, and heat styling as they do with natural hair. Similarly, the base strip 14 requires no extra care beyond routine washing and drying with the user's natural hair.

[0046] Turning now to FIGS. 7-9, an alternative accessory strip 16a is shown that includes two wefts of hair 64 for a more voluminous hair extension. The accessory strip 16a is tripartite, having a first longitudinal portion 70, a second longitudinal portion 72, and an intermediate longitudinal portion 74 between the first longitudinal portion 70 and second longitudinal portion 72. The first longitudinal portion 70 and the second longitudinal portion 72 of the mesh layer 60 of the accessory strip 16a each include elongated adhesion layers 62 and have wefts of hair 64 extending from the adhesion layers 62. On the rear side 52 of the accessory strip 16a, the intermediate longitudinal portion 74 releasably connects with the base strip 14 for connection to the scalp 13.

[0047] When the connective surface of the intermediate portion 74, the second part of a hook and loop fastener 57, for example, engages the front side 24 of the base strip 14, the first 70 and second 72 longitudinal portions can hinge relative to the intermediate portion 74. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the hinging of the mesh layer 60 allows the user to double the hair extension volume without requiring two rows of extensions. The result is less bulk and hair extensions that fall naturally to create volume.

[0048] In this alternative embodiment of the accessory strip 16a, a user can easily bring the extension hair upward into a style, like a ponytail or bun, without worrying about the visibility of the hair extension or awkward tugging on the hair. This is because the hair can hinge relative to the intermediate portion 74 connected to the scalp 13 via the base strip 14, just as natural hair would. The wefts of hair 64 may also include both polyurethane weft 64a and injected weft 64b to provide a full, natural-looking weft that replicates the look of natural hair pulled up from the scalp 13.

[0049] From the above description, it is clear that the inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein are well adapted to carry out the objects and attain the advantages mentioned herein and those inherent in the invention. While exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts have been described for purposes of this disclosure, it will be understood that numerous changes may be made that will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are accomplished within the spirit of the inventive concepts disclosed and / or defined in the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concepts disclosed herein in detail, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts are not limited in their application to the details of construction, experiments, exemplary data, and / or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description, or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concepts are capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting in any way.

[0018]In the following detailed description of embodiments of the inventive concepts, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the inventive concepts. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the inventive concepts within the disclosure ma...

Claims

1. A hair extension kit, comprising:an elongated base strip having a length, a width, a front side, a rear side, a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a plurality of natural hair-receiving passages spaced along the length thereof such that the base strip is securable to a scalp of a user when the first portion of the user's natural hair is positioned through the natural hair-receiving passages of the base strip and the second portion of the natural hair is positioned along at least one of the front side and the rear side of the base strip;an elongated accessory strip having a length, a width, a front side, a rear side, a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side; anda weft of hair extending from the accessory strip,wherein the rear side of the accessory strip is releasably connectable to the front side of the base strip.

2. The hair extension kit of claim 1, wherein the base strip comprises a longitudinal strip and a plurality of lateral strips extending from at least one of the front side and the rear side of the longitudinal strip so as to cooperate with the longitudinal strip to form the plurality of natural hair-receiving passages.

3. The hair extension kit of claim 2, wherein the natural hair-receiving passages extend from the first lateral side to the second lateral side.

4. The hair extension kit of claim 1, wherein the front side of the base strip has a first part of a hook and loop fastener, and wherein the rear side of the accessory strip has a second part of the hook and loop fastener.

5. The hair extension kit of claim 1, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, and wherein a proximal end of the weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer.

6. The hair extension kit of claim 1, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, and wherein a proximal end of a first portion of the weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a second portion of the weft of hair is secured solely to the adhesion layer.

7. The hair extension kit of claim 1, wherein the elongated access strip has a first longitudinal portion, a second longitudinal portion, and an intermediate longitudinal portion between the first longitudinal portion and the second longitudinal portion, with at least the first longitudinal portion being hingeable relative to the intermediate longitudinal portion, wherein the weft of hair is a first weft of hair extending from the first longitudinal portion, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a second weft of hair extending from the second longitudinal portion so the first weft of hair overlaps the second weft of hair when the first longitudinal portion is hinged with the first longitudinal portion superimposed over the intermediate longitudinal portion.

8. The hair extension apparatus of claim 7, wherein the front side of the base strip has a first part of a hook and loop fastener, and wherein the rear side of the intermediate longitudinal portion of the accessory strip has a second part of the hook and loop fastener cooperating with the first part of the hook and loop fastener to releasably connect the accessory strip to the base strip.

9. The hair extension kit of claim 7, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, wherein a proximal end of the first weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of the second weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer.

10. The hair extension kit of claim 7, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, wherein a proximal end of a first portion of the first weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a second portion of the first weft of hair is secured solely to the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a first portion of the second weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a second portion of the second weft of hair is secured solely to the adhesion layer.

11. A hair extension apparatus, comprising:an elongated base strip having a length, a width, a front side, a rear side, a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a plurality of natural hair-receiving passages spaced along the length thereof;a plurality of connecting members secured to a first portion and a second portion of a user's natural hair in a way that the base strip is secured to a scalp of the user with the first portion of the user's natural hair positioned through the natural hair-receiving passages of the base strip and the second portion of the natural hair positioned along at least one of the front side and the rear side of the base strip with the base strip interposed between the connecting members and the user's scalp;an elongated accessory strip having a length, a width, a front side, a rear side, a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side; anda weft of hair extending from the accessory strip,wherein the rear side of the accessory strip is releasably connected to the front side of the base strip.

12. The hair extension apparatus of claim 11, wherein the base strip comprises a longitudinal strip and a plurality of lateral strips extending from at least one of the front side and the rear side of the longitudinal strip so as to cooperate with the longitudinal strip to form the plurality of natural hair-receiving passages.

13. The hair extension apparatus of claim 12, wherein the natural hair-receiving passages extend from the first lateral side to the second lateral side.

14. The hair extension apparatus of claim 11, wherein each of the connecting members is a microbead.

15. The hair extension apparatus of claim 11, wherein the front side of the base strip has a first part of a hook and loop fastener, and wherein the rear side of the accessory strip has a second part of the hook and loop fastener cooperating with the first part of the hook and loop fastener to releasably connect the accessory strip to the base strip.

16. The hair extension apparatus of claim 11, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, and wherein a proximal end of the weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer.

17. The hair extension apparatus of claim 11, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, and wherein a proximal end of a first portion of the weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a second portion of the weft of hair is secured solely to the adhesion layer.

18. The hair extension apparatus of claim 11, wherein the elongated access strip has a first longitudinal portion, a second longitudinal portion, and an intermediate longitudinal portion between the first longitudinal portion and the second longitudinal portion, with at least the first longitudinal portion being hingeable relative to the intermediate longitudinal portion, wherein the weft of hair is a first weft of hair extending from the first longitudinal portion, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a second weft of hair extending from the second longitudinal portion so the first weft of hair overlaps the second weft of hair when the first longitudinal portion is hinged with the first longitudinal portion superimposed over the intermediate longitudinal portion.

19. The hair extension apparatus of claim 18, wherein the front side of the base strip has a first part of a hook and loop fastener, and wherein the rear side of the intermediate longitudinal portion of the accessory strip has a second part of the hook and loop fastener cooperating with the first part of the hook and loop fastener to releasably connect the accessory strip to the base strip.

20. The hair extension apparatus of claim 18, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, wherein a proximal end of the first weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of the second weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer.

21. The hair extension apparatus of claim 18, wherein the elongated accessory strip has a mesh layer and an adhesion layer secured to the mesh layer, wherein a proximal end of a first portion of the first weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a second portion of the first weft of hair is secured solely to the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a first portion of the second weft of hair is disposed through the mesh layer and secured thereto by the adhesion layer, and wherein a proximal end of a second portion of the second weft of hair is secured solely to the adhesion layer.

Images