Hair replacement system, hair replacement applicator device or means and / or method of use or manufacturing thereof

Abstract

A hair replacement system is provided comprising hair replacement means arranged to provide the appearance of human hair in use. Electrical charge means (8) are provided and are configured to actively introduce, induce or apply a static electrical charge to the hair replacement means. Optionally adhesive means can be provided for adhering the hair replacement means or static electrically charged hair replacement means to surface or user in use.

Description

[0001] Hair replacement system, hair replacement applicator means or device, hair replacement means and / or method of use and / or manufacture of the same

[0002] The present invention relates to a hair replacement system, to hair replacement applicator means or device, hair replacement means and / or to a method of use or manufacture of the same.

[0003] Although the present description refers almost exclusively to the application of strands or fibres of a hair like product to the head of a person, the skilled person in the art will appreciate that the present invention could be used for the application of any type of material to any suitable surface and is not limited to covering male pattern baldness. For example, the system , applicator means or device, hair replacement means and / or method of the present invention could be used to provide the appearance of hair on any part of a user’s body, such as on a user’s face to provide the appearance of a beard, eye brows or moustache, or on a user’s arms, chest or legs to provide the appearance of body hair and / or the like. This can be used to help with alopecia, for cosmetic purposes, for therapeutic purposes, for theatrical purposes and / or the like. It can also be used by males and / or females as required.

[0004] Pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a hair loss condition that primarily affects the top and front of the human scalp. Male pattern baldness tends to be more common than female pattern baldness due to higher testosterone levels in men than women. However, in both men or women, pattern hair loss can change the aesthetic appearance of the person and can be upsetting and / orconcerning for the individual effected. In fact, it is well documented that hair loss in individuals can result in anxiety, depression and lack of confidence for the individuals. It is therefore an important to find an inexpensive, simple and non-surgical solution for these individuals.

[0005] It is known to apply powders to thinning hair to provide a user with the appearance of a thicker head of hair. Once such product in the market is called TOPPIK™. This product uses a coloured natural keratin protein powder comprising particles that are applied to clean, dry, styled hair. The powder is usually colour matched to a person’s remaining hair and shaken over the desired hair containing areas. The applied powder is then patted gently to set and provide the appearance of thicker looking hair by colouring the scalp and adhering to existing hair coverage. The adherence of the powder to existing hair coverage is believed to result from natural static charge found in the keratin protein that binds to the existing user’s hair strands. The powder remains in place on the existing hair strands until the static charge has been removed or discharged, usually resulting from the user washing their hair. Often, to enhance durability, hairspray or other adhesive composition is applied over the powder once it has been applied to a user’s existing hair.

[0006] Significant drawbacks to existing methods include the inability of the powder to bind to bald patches where there is no existing hair. Thus, the existing product can only be used to improve the appearance of thicker hair rather than deal with the issue of baldness or provide the appearance of hair where hair is not currently present. In addition, the powder particles are too small to realistically mimic human hair, particularly under close inspection.It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide a hair replacement system that addresses the abovementioned problems.

[0007] It is a further aim of the present invention to provide hair replacement applicator means or device for use in a hair replacement system.

[0008] It is a further aim of the present invention to provide hair replacement means or product that more closely resembles human hair.

[0009] It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide a method of applying hair replacement means or product that addresses the abovementioned problems.

[0010] It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide a method of using and / or manufacturing a hair replacement system, hair replacement apparatus and / or hair replacement product.

[0011] In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a hair replacement system comprising:

[0012] hair replacement means arranged to provide the appearance of human hair in use;

[0013] electrical charge means configured to introduce, induce or apply a static electrical charge to the hair replacement means; and optionally adhesive means for adhering the hair replacement means or static electrically charged hair replacement means to a surface or user in use.

[0014] The Applicants have surprisingly found that by actively applying a static electrical charge to the hair replacement means by electrical chargemeans, this allows the hair replacement means to adhere to the adhesive means in an orientation that more closely mimics human hair than currently available systems. In addition, or alternatively, by actively applying the static electrical charge to the hair replacement means (rather than simply relying on naturally occurring static electrical charge that may or may not be present), this increases the static electrical charge on the hair replacement means, thereby increasing the static electric engagement of the hair replacement means with any existing hair on the surface to which the hair replacement means is applied. It also increases the reliability and reproducibility of the application of the hair replacement means to a user’s skin in use. Therefore, in some embodiments, the hair replacement system could simply comprise the hair replacement means and the electrical charge means only to allow the hair replacement to more strongly engage with a user’s existing hair, and the adhesive means can just be an optional feature of the system or for use when there is no, or very little, existing hair present.

[0015] The Applicants have also surprisingly found that due, at least in part, to the orientation in which the hair replacement means engage with the existing hair or adhesive during application in use (typically as a result of the hair replacement means being statically charged), this allows the hair replacement means to be cut and / or styled using a conventional razor, scissors or hair cutting device. This can be done with the hair replacement means alone or in conjunction with any existing real hair the user already has on their scalp or skin. As such, one or more patterns, designs, images, styles and / or the like can be cut into the user’s hair or hair replacement means as per a conventional hair cut. This significantly improves both the aesthetic effect and the range of possible aesthetic effects that can be created for the user in use.It is to be noted that whilst the present description refers to “hair replacement”, this term is not just limited to replacing hair that previously existed on a surface or skin surface but can be used to provide hair or hair like means where hair did not previously exist or was not present in any significant amount before. For example, facial hair, scalp hair, eyebrows, a moustache, a beard and / or the like could be provided on a user’s skin where the same was not present before.

[0016] Preferably the hair replacement means includes or consists of any or any combination of a powder, one or more fibres, one or more strands, one or more filaments and / or the like.

[0017] Preferably the hair replacement means care formed in such a way to mimic the appearance of real human hair.

[0018] Preferably the hair replacement means can include, comprise or consist of any or any combination of a polymer, a plant-based polymer or protein, keratin, corn-based keratin, natural / real human hair, artificial hair and / or the like. For example, the hair replacement means could include, comprise or consist of corn-based keratin fibres.

[0019] Preferably the hair replacement means is a powder or comprises or consists of micro-fibres. For example, the powder or micro-fibres can have a diameter and / or length of approximately 0.01-0.08mm, and further preferably is approximately 0.03mm-0.08mm.Preferably the hair replacement means are fibres, strands or filaments of between approximately 0.05mm-7mm, and further preferably between 0.5mm to 5mm in length.

[0020] Further preferably the hair replacement means are fibres, strands or filaments can be any or any combination of approximately 1mm in length, approximately 2mm in length, approximately 3mm in length, approximately 4mm in length, approximately 5mm in length, approximately 6mm in length, approximately 7mm in length, or approximately 8mm in length.

[0021] Preferably the hair replacement means, fibres filaments, powder particles or strands are any or any combination of linear or substantially linear in form; flexible or substantially flexible in form.

[0022] Further preferably the hair replacement means, strands, fibres, filaments or powder particles are cylindrical, substantially cylindrical, tubular or substantially tubular in shape.

[0023] Typically the hair replacement means, fibres, strands or filaments are 8 mm or less in length, further preferably are 7mm or less in length, yet further preferably are 6mm or less in length, or yet further preferably are 5mm or less in length.

[0024] Preferably the hair replacement means, filaments, strands or fibres are at least 3mm in length. Further preferably the hair replacement means, filaments, strands or fibres are 3-5 mm in length.Preferably the diameter of the hair replacement means, filaments, strands, fibres, filaments or powder is the same or similar to human hair, and / or is between approximately 5-100pm in thickness or diameter.

[0025] In one example the cross-sectional shape of the powder, fibres, filaments or strands is circular or substantially circular in form, but other shapes could be provided, such as oval, hexagonal, triangular, rectangular and / or the like.

[0026] In one example, the hair replacement means is coloured or can be different colours, thereby allowing the same to be matched as close as possible to a user’s existing hair. For example, one or more dyes or colouring agents can be added to or coated onto the hair replacement means to provide a range of possible hair replacement colours.

[0027] In one example, the hair replacement means is treated to add a sheen, colour, coating and / or the like to make the hair replacement means appear more like human hair.

[0028] In one embodiment the hair replacement means, filaments, powder, strands and / or fibres are provided in an applicator means or device to allow dispensing of the same in use.

[0029] Preferably the applicator means or device is attached, detachably attached or integral with the electrical charge means, or a housing in which the electrical charge means are provided in use.In one embodiment the applicator means or device is separate to the electrical charge means (i.e. is a separate unit or container to the electrical charge means or housing in which the electrical charge means are provided in use).

[0030] In one embodiment the applicator means or device is configured or adapted to be combined with the electrical charge means.

[0031] In one embodiment the applicator means or device includes a dispensing head from which the hair replacement means are dispensed from in use. Typically, the dispensing head is a sprinkler type head to enable even or substantially even dispensing or distribution of the hair replacement means, powder, strands, filaments or fibres therefrom in use.

[0032] Preferably the dispensing head includes at least one aperture which the hair replacement means, powder, strands, filaments or fibres are dispensed through or from in use.

[0033] Preferably the dispensing head includes a plurality of apertures which the hair replacement means, powder, strands, filaments or fibres are dispensed through or from in use.

[0034] Preferably the plurality of apertures are provided a spaced distance apart from each other on the dispensing head, and further preferably are provided an equidistant or substantially equidistant spaced distance apart from each other on the dispensing head.In one embodiment the diameter of the at least one aperture or each of the plurality of apertures defined in the dispensing head are approximately between 1.0-3. Omm, further preferably approximately between 1.5mm-2.7mm, and yet further preferably are approximately 1.5mm or 2.7mm.

[0035] Preferably the size and / or shape of the apertures at least partly determines the speed at which the hair replacement means, powder, fibres, strands or filaments are dispensed from the applicator means or device in use.

[0036] In one example, the dispensing head is detachably attached to the applicator means or body. This allows the dispensing head to be repaired, replaced, cleaned or interchanged with a dispensing head having different sized, shaped and / or arrangement of apertures.

[0037] In one example, two or more different dispensing heads are provided for use in the system or with the applicator means or device, each dispensing head having a different number, size and / or arrangement of apertures thereon to provide the user with an option of a different dispensing rate of the hair replacement means through the dispensing head in use. For example, if the user requires a relatively fast dispensing speed, they can use the dispensing head with the larger dispensing apertures, or if the user requires a relatively slow dispensing speed, they can use the dispensing head with the smaller dispensing apertures.

[0038] In one embodiment the applicator means or device comprises a main outer body portion and an inner cartridge or container that is attached, detachably attached or integral to or within the main body portion.Preferably the hair replacement means, powder, fibres, filaments or strands are provided in the inner cartridge or container in use.

[0039] Preferably the dispensing head can be attached, detachably attached or integral with the main body portion and / or the cartridge or container. In one embodiment the hair replacement means in the inner cartridge or container can be replenished as and when required. This can take place either by simply re-filling the existing cartridge or container in-situ within the outer main body portion or by removing the inner cartridge or container from the outer main body portion and refilling the same or replacing the same with a new cartridge or container.

[0040] Preferably the main body portion, applicator means or device, cartridge and / or container are cylindrical or tubular in shape. However, they could be any shape, size and / or design as required.

[0041] In one embodiment the electrical charge means is arranged to impart, introduce, induce or apply a negative static electrical charge to the hair replacement means, powder, fibres, filaments or strands in use.

[0042] In one embodiment the applicator device or means includes the electrical charge means via which the static electrical charge is applied to the hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres in use.

[0043] Preferably the hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres undergo triboelectrification before they are dispensed onto theuser’s body and / or dispensed from the applicator means or device in use.

[0044] Preferably the electrical charge means includes an electrical charge power source for providing an electrical power source and to actively generate static electrical charge that is applied to the hair replacement means in use.

[0045] In one embodiment the electrical charge power source is or includes a battery.

[0046] Preferably the electrical charge power source is or includes one or more rechargeable batteries.

[0047] In one example, the electrical charge power source is a 9V battery, a 3.7V LiPo battery, a plurality of batteries equalling about 9V and / or one or more batteries with a transformer to provide 9Volts or a required voltage in use.

[0048] In one embodiment the battery is a Lithium (Li) and / or Lithium polymer (LiPO) battery.

[0049] In one embodiment the electrical charge means is or includes an ioniser device or a negative ioniser device arranged to induce, introduce or apply a static electrical charge or negative static electrical charge to the hair replacement means in use.

[0050] Preferably the electrical charge power source powers the ioniser device or negative ioniser device in use.Preferably the dispensing head is provided a pre-determined distance from the electrical charge means to ensure the hair replacement means do not have a large distance to travel once a static electrical charge has been applied to the same before they are dispensed from the dispensing head in use. For example, the pre-determined distance is typically less than 15mm, and further preferably is between 12-13mm in length. This prevents discharging of the static electrically charged hair replacement means prior to them coming into contact with a user’s existing hair or adhesive in use.

[0051] In one embodiment the applicator means or device, the cartridge or container is formed from or includes electrically conductive material, thereby allowing the static electrical charge to pass from the electrical charge means or ioniser device to the hair replacement means, powder, fibres, strands or filaments contained within the same in use.

[0052] Preferably the applicator device or means, the cartridge or container is formed from or includes metal or aluminium. The metal or aluminium is electrically conductive to the static electrical charge but, in particular with regard to aluminium, is also lightweight and recyclable.

[0053] In one embodiment the electrical charge means applies the static electric charge, directly or indirectly, to an exterior of the cartridge or container and this static electrical charge is conducted, passes or is transferred to the hair replacement means located in the cartridge or container in use.Preferably the main outer body portion is formed from or includes electrically insulating material to prevent the static electrical charge from passing, being transferred or conducted from the electrical charge means and / or the inner cartridge or container to the main body portion in use.

[0054] In one example the electrically insulating material can include or consist of plastic, rubber, acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) or polypropylene (PP plastic) and / or the like.

[0055] In one embodiment connector means or a connector is provided between the electrical charge means and the applicator means or device, the cartridge or container to make electrical contact and / or to allow the static electrical charge to pass, be transferred or conducted between the same in use.

[0056] In one embodiment the static electrical charge is relayed to the cartridge or container through a connector or connection means. Typically the connector comprises, consists or includes electrically conducting material. Further typically the connector includes one or more metals.

[0057] In one embodiment the connector is a metal spring, sprung metal and / or the like.

[0058] Preferably the connector means or connector is formed from or includes electrically conductive material.

[0059] In one embodiment the connection means or connector is formed or arranged so as to resiliently bias the electrical charge means and theapplicator device or means, or cartridge or container together or towards each other in use. For example, the connection means or connector could be in the form of a spring connector. This allows the components of the applicator device or means to provide a relatively tight fit together in use and allows for manufacturing tolerances in the components of the applicator means or device.

[0060] In one example, the electrical charge means is provided at or adjacent a first end or base of the applicator device or means, the container or cartridge, and the dispensing head is provided at or adjacent a second end or top of the applicator device or means, the container or cartridge in use.

[0061] In one embodiment the inner cartridge or container has a recess defined in at least a base surface or surface arranged to be in contact with the connection means or connector in use.

[0062] Preferably the connection means or connector sits within the recess of the inner cartridge or recess and make electrical contact with the base surface of the inner cartridge or container in use.

[0063] In one embodiment the inner cartridge or container has a flat or planar base or surface that is arranged to be in contact with the connection means or connector in use.

[0064] In one embodiment the applicator means or device and / or the electrical charge means includes at least one power actuation means to move the same between on or off conditions in use.Preferably the at least one power actuation means is or includes an on / off switch, button, actuation means and / or the like.

[0065] In one embodiment the applicator means or device or electrical charge means includes a USB charger for allowing electrical charging of the same in use.

[0066] In one embodiment the electrical charge means, the electrical charge source, power actuation means and / or USB charger are connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) from which the applicator means device is controlled.

[0067] In one embodiment the dispensing head, applicator means or device, main body portion and / or electrical charge means includes one or more insulating portions and / or sealing means. Typically, the insulating portions and / or sealing means can include one or more seals, rubber gaskets and / or the like.

[0068] In one embodiment closure means are provided on or associated with the dispensing head and / or housing of the electrical charge means to cover the dispensing head when not in use or cover the electrical charge means housing. For example, the closure means could include a cap, screw cap, lid and / or the like.

[0069] In one embodiment attachment means are provided on or associated with the applicator means and / or device, the cartridge or container, the main body portion, the closure means and / or the electrical charge means for allowing attachment or detachable attachment of one or more of these components together in use.Preferably the attachment means could include any or any combination adhesive, welding, friction fit, screw threaded means, inter-engaging members, one or more clips, nuts and bolts, screws, ties, apertures, recesses, protrusions and / or the like.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment of the invention the adhesive means is applied to a surface or skin surface of a user before application of the statically charged hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres in use. This typically allows the hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres to adhere to the surface (and adhesive), even if there is no existing hair present. This is a significant advantage over the prior art and provides for cosmetic hair replacement or provision in an otherwise bald (substantially hair free) area.

[0071] Preferably the hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres are evenly or substantially evenly distributed when applied to a surface in use.

[0072] Preferably the static electrically charged hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres orientate in an upright or substantially upright position with respect to the surface or skin to which they touch following application / dispensing. This more closely mimics the orientation of real human hair and, in one example, provides the appearance of “stubble” on a user’s skin.

[0073] Preferably the static electrically charged hair replacement means are arranged to adhere to the adhesive applied to the user’s skin in use prior to natural discharging of the static electricity of the hair replacementmeans. Thus, once applied to the adhesive, the static electricity can dissipate but the hair replacement means remains in position on the user’s skin.

[0074] Preferably the statically charged hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres orientate in a direction transverse or substantially transverse, upright or substantially upright, to the skin surface when they are applied to / dispensed on the same in use.

[0075] Preferably the static charge ensures that a majority of hair replacement means, powder, filaments, strands or fibres have only one end in contact with the adhesive that is pre-applied to the surface or skin surface in use.

[0076] In one embodiment the adhesive is chosen to have a drying time of between 2-5 minutes, thereby maintaining a degree of tackiness for a time sufficient to allow the user to apply the statically charged hair replacement means to the same in use. Once the hair replacement means is adhered to the adhesive and the adhesive dries, the static charge can naturally dissipate without the hair replacement means detaching from the user’s skin or existing hair.

[0077] Preferably the adhesive means is any adhesive that allows adherence of the hair replacement means to a surface, human skin, or skin surface in use.

[0078] Preferably the adhesive is any or any combination of an acrylic based polymer or copolymer, hydrolysed keratin, spray plaster.In one embodiment the adhesive includes or consists of any or any combination of alcohol, water, dimethyl ether hydrofluorocarbon 152A, Amp-acrylate, co-polymer, PEG-12 Dimethicone, panthenol, triethyl citrate, hydrolysed keratin or one or more fragrance agents.

[0079] In one embodiment the adhesive is sprayed onto the skin and / or scalp in use.

[0080] In one embodiment the adhesive is a conventional adhesive used to adhere hair pieces or wigs to a user’s head.

[0081] Preferably the adhesive means is a non-allergenic adhesive, such as for example, a spray on plaster adhesive.

[0082] In one embodiment a further adhesive or hair spray can optionally be applied to the hair replacement means once attached to a user’s hair and / or skin in use. This further adhesive or hair spray provides a further means of retaining the hair replacement means to a user in use.

[0083] In one embodiment a positive static electrical charge is applied to the hair replacement means following manufacture of the same to prevent or reduce clumping of the hair replacement means, powder, fibres, filaments, strands and / or the like. This application of static electric charge typically takes place before any negative static electric charge is applied to the hair replacement means by the electrical charge means of the present invention and before the hair replacement means is applied on a user and / or dispensed from an applicator means or device. This allows the hair replacement means to be dispensed or applied in a relative even and consistent manner in use.Preferably the hair replacement system or hair replacement means is provided for cosmetic purposes, aesthetic purposes, therapeutic purposes, medical purposes, theatrical purposes and / or the like.

[0084] In one embodiment the system can include a hair template that can be used to help provide a hair line, one or more patterns, designs, logos, shapes and / or styles on application or following application of the hair replacement means to a user in use.

[0085] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided an applicator device or means for applying hair replacement means to a surface in use and / or method of use or manufacture thereof.

[0086] Preferably the applicator means or device includes electrical charge means for applying a static electrical charge to hair replacement means locatable in the applicator means or device in use.

[0087] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided hair replacement means or product and / or method of use or manufacture thereof.

[0088] Preferably the hair replacement means or product is capable of receiving a static electrical charge in use and is in the form of a fibre, strand or filament of between 0.1mm-8.0mm in length.

[0089] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided an adhesive for using with a hair replacement system.Preferably the adhesive includes or consists of any or any combination of alcohol, water, dimethyl ether hydrofluorocarbon 152A, Amp-acrylate, co-polymer, PEG-12 Dimethicone, panthenol, triethyl citrate, hydrolysed keratin or one or more fragrance agents.

[0090] According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a hair replacement system, said method including the steps of providing hair replacement means arranged to provide the appearance of human hair;

[0091] providing electrical charge means that are arranged to apply, induce or introduce a static electrical charge to the hair replacement means; and optionally providing adhesive means for adhering the hair replacement means or static electrically charged hair replacement means to a surface in use.

[0092] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using a hair replacement system; said method including the steps of actively introducing, inducing or applying a static electrical charge to hair replacement means using electrical charge means; applying the static electrically charged hair replacement means to a surface in use; and optionally applying adhesive to the surface prior to applying the static electrically charged hair replacement means to the surface.

[0093] Preferably the hair or hair replacement system can be removed by discharging the static electrical charge and / or removing any adhesive, such as for example, as a result of a user washing their hair; by cutting the hair or hair replacement means using a conventional hair cuttingtool, such as for example a razor or scissors; by natural discharge of the static electrical charge and / or the like.

[0094] Preferably the hair replacement means can be self-applied by the user.

[0095] Preferably the user can re-fill the applicator means or device, cartridge or container with hair replacement means as and when required in use.

[0096] The hair or hair replacement system, apparatus or product and / or method of using or manufacturing the same can be used for therapeutic purposes, cosmetic purposes, medical purposes, theatrical purposes and / or the like.

[0097] Specific embodiments of the invention are now described with reference to the following figures wherein;

[0098] Figures la and lb show a dispenser or applicator device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention,

[0099] Figure 2 shows an exploded diagram of the dispenser or applicator device in Figure 1;

[0100] Figure 3 shows the inner cartridge with dispensing head attached to the same;

[0101] Figure 4 shows the outer housing of the electronics unit;

[0102] Figure 5 shows the main body portion of the applicator device;Figures 6a and 6b show a before and after image respectively of a user of the present invention; and

[0103] Figures 7a and 7b show a before and after image respectively of a further user of the present invention.

[0104] The present inventive concept concerns a self-applied, unique cosmetic hair replacement product. To the best of the Applicants knowledge, there is no other product at present that can cover bald areas convincingly. The closest being hair thickening powder that can only attach to existing hair strands. On completely bald areas the hair thickening powder haven’t anything to adhere to and has the appearance of dust on the scalp. The Applicants have designed new technology for the age-old problem of hair loss, alopecia or baldness but the present invention can also be used to provide a hair like product where their hair may not have previously existed or been located on a user’s body.

[0105] In one embodiment of the present invention, the hair replacement system Stubblehead™ is provided and is a cosmetic hair replacement system made up of:

[0106] Stubbleglu™ — an adhesive, which is preferably a breathable adhesive and which further preferably is provided in an aerosol or recyclable aerosol container and which can be spray or otherwise applied to a user’s skin or scalp in use.

[0107] Stubblecut™ — hair replacement means in the form of fibres or strandswhich are typically in 3mm & 5mm lengths. The fibres or strands are held in a cartridge complete with a purpose designed sprinkler head from which the strands or fibres are dispensed in use. The cartridge istypically made of recyclable metals. The cartridge is detachably inserted into a main applicator body portion in use.

[0108] Stubblehead™ applicator — A unique design of a rechargeable, high-tech applicator which creates static and transfers it to the Stubblecut™. The technology within the applicator enables a high percentage of Stubblecut™ strands or fibres to stand upright in the Stubbleglu™ giving a lasting 3D natural hair like effect. The applicator is easily recharged from a USB port. The ON / OFF push button switch can, in one example, illuminate GREEN to show that it is ON, RED to show it needs re-charging, AMBER whilst charging and then BLUE when fully charged. It automatically turns off in the unlikely event of power overload.

[0109] Application of strands or fibres

[0110] Before using Stubblehead™, the recipient’s hair should be cut down to approx. 3mm or 5mm depending on the desired Stubblecut™ length to be used. After spraying on the Stubbleglu™ to an affected area of the scalp, Stubblecut™ is applied from the Stubblehead™ applicator whilst the Stubbleglu™ is still tacky. It can be used with or without a hairline template.

[0111] Turning now to figures la and lb, where la shows a perspective view of the applicator means or device 102 including an outer main body portion or casing 2 and an inner cartridge 6, and figure lb shows a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating the assembled location of the components shown in the exploded diagram in figure 2:

[0112] base cover 1

[0113] main body portion 2closure cap 3

[0114] electronics base unit 4

[0115] electronics base unit lid 5

[0116] aluminium cartridge 6

[0117] sprinkler head 7

[0118] ioniser 8

[0119] Li PO battery 9

[0120] PCB board 10

[0121] rubber ring on sprinkler head 11

[0122] gasket inside cap 12

[0123] spacer 13.

[0124] Referring to figure 2, the electronic components of the system are housed in an electronics unit 1 comprising an inner base 4 and a lid 5. The electronic components in this embodiment are located within base 4 and include a negative ioniser unit 8 to generate negative static electrical charge for applying to the hair replacement means in use, a battery 9 for providing an electrical power source and a PCB board 10 on which the electronic components are located. Other electronic components may be included, such as for example, a transformer, a processing chip, connectors and / or the like.

[0125] An on / off switch 104 can be provided to switch the electrical power source between on and off conditions in use. At least part of the switch 104 protrudes outwardly from an aperture 107 defined in the electronics unit 1 and base 4.A USB charger 106 is provided which connects to the PCB board 10 to allow a user to recharge the battery via the USB charger in use. A USB aperture 109 is defined in the electronics unit 1 and base 4.

[0126] The electronic components are arranged to create a negative static charge which is relayed through a spring connector (not shown) through a hole in the electronics base lid 5 (which would be sealed). It then connects to the underside of the cartridge 6 that holds the hair replacement means or fibres when a main outer body portion 2 and the electronics unit 1 are screwed together in use.

[0127] The main outer body portion 2 is detachably attached to the electronics unit 1 via attachment means, which is in this example are complementary screw threads 200, 202. The main outer body portion 2 is typically formed from electrical insulating material to prevent unwanted electrical charge from passing from the electronics unit 1 to the user.

[0128] A removable inner cartridge 6 is locatable within the main outer body portion 2. The removable inner cartridge is of slightly smaller dimensions to the main outer body portion 2 so as to form a relatively snug fit when fitted together in use. In this example, the removable inner cartridge is formed from an electrically conductive material, such as metal or aluminium to allow static electrical charge to pass from the ioniser 9 to the hair replacement means or fibres contained within the cartridge 6 in use.

[0129] The removable inner cartridge 6 has a first end 204 which sits on and / or above the lid 5 when the device is assembled together in use. A secondend 206 of the inner cartridge 6 is provided with a dispensing head 7 detachably attached to the same. Sealing means in the form of a rubber gasket 11 is provided between the dispensing head 7 and the inner cartridge 6.

[0130] An electrically conductive connector (not shown) typically provides electrical contact or is arranged to allow transmission of static electrical charge from the ioniser unit 8 to the inner cartridge 6 in use. The static electrical charge, once applied to the inner cartridge 6, is transmitted, passes to any hair replacement fibres or powder contained within the inner cartridge 6 in use.

[0131] The dispensing head 7 in one example can be detachably attached to the inner cartridge by friction fit or a push fit connection. However, other attachment means could be provided if required. In the illustrated example, the dispensing head 7 is in the form of a plate like member but other arrangements could be provided. The dispensing head 7 includes a plurality of dispensing apertures 208 defined through the same. The dispensing apertures 208 are of such size and shape that hair replacement means or fibres can be dispensed from the cartridge and through the same in use.

[0132] The fibres, which in one example can be corn based keratin fibres of 3mm or 5mm in length, are located in the cartridge 6. The cartridge is located within the main body portion 1. Negative electrical static charge is actively applied to the fibres contained within the cartridge via the ioniser 8 and the statically charged fibres are then dispensed via the dispensing head onto a suitable surface in use.An adhesive can be applied to any bald areas of skin onto which the hair replacement fibres are to be dispensed. The adhesive can be any skin friendly adhesive. When the statically charged fibres are dispensed onto the adhesive, they are discharged in an upright manner onto the adhesive so that only one end adheres in the adhesive and the other end is protruding outwardly away from the adhesive. This provides a stubble like appearance mimicking that of real human hair.

[0133] Once the hair fibres have been applied, the adhesive dries, thereby leaving the hair fibres in an engaged position on the user’s skin. The static charge can then dissipate naturally from the hair fibres without detachment of the hair fibres from the user’s skin. In one embodiment it is recommended that the fibres are further sprayed with a hair spray or other such adhesive once applied to a user to set the same and improve longevity of the product to the user’s skin or existing hair in use.

[0134] Figures 6a and 6b show before and after shots respectively of a person using the present invention. In figure 6a, it can be seen that the user has thinning hair on top and a receding hair line. The user then applies the hair replacement fibres of the present invention in accordance with the method of the present invention and the resulting aesthetic improvement in the thickness of the hair and in the hair line can be seen in figure 6b. The user typically chooses a colour and length of hair fibre that closely matches their existing colour and hair length.

[0135] Figures 7a and 7b show before and after shots respectively of a further person using the present invention. In figure 7a, it can be seen that the user has thinning hair on top and a receding hair line. The user thenapplies the hair replacement fibres of the present invention in accordance with the method of the present invention and the resulting aesthetic improvement in the thickness of the hair and in the hair line can be seen in figure 7b. The user typically chooses a colour and length of hair fibre that closely matches their existing colour and hair length.

[0136] A hair template can optionally be used to allow hair lines to be created accurately. It will also be understood that a hair template can optionally be used to create one or more patterns, images, designs, styles and / or the like in the hair or hair replacement means. A conventional razor can be used, in some embodiments, to create one or more patterns, images, designs, styles and / or the like once the hair replacement means have been applied to a user. Thus, in some embodiment, the hair replacement means can be cut in a similar manner to that of real hair.

Claims

Claims1. A hair replacement system comprising:hair replacement means arranged to provide the appearance of human hair in use;electrical charge means configured to introduce, induce or apply a static electrical charge to the hair replacement means; and optionally adhesive means for adhering the hair replacement means or static electrically charged hair replacement means to surface or user in use.

2. The hair replacement system according to claim 1, wherein the hair replacement means includes or consists of any or any combination of a powder, one or more fibres, strands or filaments.

3. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the hair replacement means includes, comprises or consists of any or any combination of a polymer, a plant-based polymer or protein, keratin, corn-based keratin, natural human hair, or artificial hair.

4. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein when the hair replacement means is in the form of one or more fibres, strands or filaments, they are of a length between 0.1mm to 8mm in length; and / or wherein when the hair replacement means is in the form of a powder, the powder has a diameter and / or length of 1pm or less.

5. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the hair replacement means is any or any combination of tubular or circular in cross section; is linear or substantially linear in form; has a thickness or diameter of 5-100pm; is flexible or substantially flexible in form; is coloured or includes one or more colouring agents or dyes; or is provided with a sheen or coating.

6. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system includes an applicator means or device in which the hair replacement means are provided to allow dispensing of the hair replacement means therefrom in use.

7. The hair replacement system according to claim 6, wherein the applicator device is attached, detachably attached or is integrally formed with the electrical charge means or a housing in which the electrical charge means are provided in use; or the application device is separate to the electrical means or housing in which the electrical charge means are provided in use.

8. The hair replacement system according to claim 6, wherein the applicator means or device includes a dispensing head from which the hair replacement means are dispensed from in use.

9. The hair replacement system according to claim 8, wherein the dispensing head includes at least one or a plurality of apertures through which the hair replacement means are dispensed in use.

10. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the applicator means or device includes a main outer body portion and an inner cartridge or container, andwherein the inner cartridge or container is arranged to receive the hair replacement means in use.

11. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrical charge means are arranged to actively impart, introduce, induce or apply a negative static electrical charge directly or indirectly to the hair replacement means in use.

12. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrical charge means includes an ioniser device and an electrical charge power source for powering the ioniser in use.

13. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim wherein the applicator means or device or the inner cartridge or container is formed from or includes electrically conductive material, thereby allowing static electric charge to pass from the electrical charge means or ioniser device to the hair replacement means contained within the applicator means or device or the cartridge or container in use.

14. The hair replacement system according to claim 10, wherein the main outer body portion is formed from or includes electrically insulating material to prevent the static electric charge from passing or being transferred from the electrical charge means and / or the inner cartridge or container to the main outer body portion in use.

15. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein connector means or resiliently biased connector means are provided between the electrical charge means and theapplicator means or device or inner cartridge or container to pass or transfer the static electric charge from the electrical charge means to the applicator means or device or inner cartridge or container in use.

16. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrical charge is provided in contact with, at or adjacent a first or base end of the applicator means or device, the container or cartridge, and the dispensing head is provided at or adjacent a second or top end of the applicator means or device, the container or cartridge.

17. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrical charge means are provided with power actuation means to move the same between on or off conditions in use.

18. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein attachment means are provided on or associated with the applicator means or device, the cartridge or container, the main body portion, the closure means and / or the electrical charge means for allowing attachment or detachable attachment of one or more of these components together in use.

19. The hair replacement system according to any preceding claim, wherein the adhesive means includes any or any combination of: an adhesive that allows adherence of the hair replacement means to a surface, skin or human skin surface; an adhesive with a drying time of between 2-5 minutes; an acrylicbased polymer; a copolymer; hydrolysed keratin; non-allergenic adhesive; or spray plaster.

20. An applicator device or means for applying hair replacement means to a surface in use; said applicator device or means including electrical charge means for applying a static electrical charge to hair replacement means locatable in the application device or means in use.

21. Hair replacement means or product, said hair replacement means or product capable of receiving a static electric charge in use, and wherein said hair replacement means or product is in the form of a fibre, filament or strand of between 0.1mm-8mm in length.

22. A method of manufacturing a hair replacement system, said method including the steps of providing hair replacement means arranged to provide the appearance of human hair in use; providing electrical charge means that are arranged to apply, induce or introduce a static electrical charge to the hair replacement means; and optionally providing adhesive means for adhering the hair replacement means or static electrically charged hair replacement means to a surface in use.

23. A method of using a hair replacement system; said method including the steps of actively introducing, inducing or applying a static electrical charge to hair replacement means via electrical charge means; applying the static electrically charged hair replacement means to a surface in use; and optionally applyingadhesive to the surface prior to applying the static electrically charged hair replacement means to the surface.

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