Abstract: A nail painting marker is provided which includes a marker case housing a paint tube. The tube contains air brush marker paint which is applied using an applicator extending from the tube. The applicator has a tip for precise application of the paint to the nail. The tip is sealed with a removable cap when not in use. In the method of use, the nail is contacted directly with the tip of the marker so as to apply paint to the nail, without the need to reload the tip with paint, as with a brush. Multiple markers with different color paints can be used to apply multiple colors to each nail.

Abstract: A cutting tool includes first, second and third pairs of scissors. The first and third pairs of scissors are spaced apart from the second pair of scissors by a fixed distance. Each pair of scissors includes a first elongated member and a second elongated member pivotally coupled to the first elongated member. Each elongated member has a handle portion and a cutting portion, including a cutting blade. The cutting tool further includes spacing elements disposed between each pair of scissors to offset the pairs of scissors from each other. A retaining member is coupled to the first elongated member of each pair of scissors to secure the first elongated members together. The second elongated member of each pair of scissors, however, is movable independent of the other scissors. The cutting tool is ideally suited for cutting and styling hair when dry.

Abstract: A hairbrush is provided which includes a brush head that is detachable from the handle whereby numerous brush heads may be rolled into the hair and the handle removed such that the detached brush heads may act as curlers. The hairbrush includes a handle with a polygonal socket tool extending therefrom. A detent, preferably a spring loaded ball detent, protrudes from one of the side walls of the socket tool. The hairbrush also includes a brush head having a central core. An end wall of the central core defines a socket which is sized and shaped to receive the socket tool. A ridge defined by the socket engages the detent when the socket tool is inserted in the socket. Preferably, the hairbrush also includes a retraction mechanism for retracting the detent so that when the retraction mechanism is actuated the detent no longer engages the ridge of the socket.

Abstract: A hair replacement device which includes a hair attachment flap hingedly attached to the interior of the base and along its perimeter. A plurality of perforations are formed into the hair attachment flap where the preferred perforations are slits which may be shaped like arrow heads. A method of attaching a hair replacement device to a wearer's head is disclosed whereby the wearer's own natural hair is pulled through the perforations on the hair attachment flap and secured using adhesive.

Abstract: A hand held braiding apparatus is operative for braiding elongated filaments in the nature of natural hair and filaments of synthetic material. The apparatus includes a rotatable actuator having an opening operative for receiving a plurality of filament holders in the form of elongated cylindrical tubes. By repetitive operation of the actuator, the filament holders are manipulated into a sequence of positions which effect braiding of filaments received therein.

Abstract: A hand operated self-contained machine made out of molded plastic for applying an image on a nail of a person's digit or a golf ball, consisting of a base frame including side rails. An element is provided to establish a reference point. An image creating holder is integrally molded to the side rails. A wheel having projections holding a plate containing a plurality of images is supported on the holder and can be indexed to any one of a plurality of positions by the interaction of the projections and the holder. An image composed of an image defining coating material is created at one image position on the plate. A positioning member receives and adjustably positions a person's digit or object in an appropriate orientation relative to the reference point. A transfer member is mounted on the side rails and a manually operable drive member drives the transfer member in a continuous smooth movement, and a method wherein the support of the image plate is indexed to present a new image.

Abstract: A cosmetic applicator is disclosed which includes an applicator pad, or tip, comprised of a single piece of foam rubber having a substantially uniform thickness. An elongated handle, or wand, having at least one threaded end is positioned inside an opening in the applicator pad. An adhesive, inside the opening of the applicator pad, attaches the applicator pad to the threaded end of the handle. Notably, the adhesive may be inserted into the opening of the applicator pad during the assembly process and, most advantageously, it does not require drying for further handling. The method for making the applicator for applying cosmetics generally comprises placing an applicator tip in tension, forming a cavity in the applicator tip, and inserting a wand into the cavity.

Abstract: A chignon maker utilizing a cylindrical sleeve open at both ends. A captive rubber band surrounds one end to elasticize it. In use, the wearer pulls the cylindrical sleeve over her pony-tail so as to completely enclose the pony-tail with the elasticized end positioned at the base of her pony-tail. The wearer then twists the sleeve along with the enclosed pony-tail in an action similar to the action of wringing a towel. Subsequently, the wearer wraps the twisted sleeve in a spiral fashion around the base of her pony-tail thereby forming a chignon. The chignon is secured in place by tucking the non-elasticized end of the sleeve into the base of the pony-tail.

Abstract: A hair bead stop and method of beading hair are disclosed. The bead stop comprises a first element with a passage therethrough and a second element movably mounted to the first element. In accordance with the method, the bead stop is threaded along a tool having a threader defining an aperture. At least one bead is also placed on the tool. Hair is passed through the aperture of the tool and then the bead and bead stop are moved along the tool over the aperture through which the hair extends, placing the bead and bead stop on the hair. Upon removal of the hair from the tool, the second element of the bead stop is moved with respect to the first to bind the hair between a first surface defined by the first element of the bead stop in the passage and an opposing surface of the second element. The bead(s) are maintained on the hair by the bead stop which is placed closer to the free end of the hair.

Abstract: A hood and related method for treatment of hair and protection of the face. The hood includes a first end with a protective collar that is sealed by an elastic band around the hairline of the person receiving hair treatment. A flexible bag is attached to the protective collar and contains the person's hair therein. The second end of the bag includes an opening through which the hair treatment specialist can treat the hair with fluids, the bottom of the bag preventing contact of the fluids with the person's neck, shoulders, or back. The opening at the second end permits easy access to the hair during treatment. The second opening of the bag can be closed with a drawstring to permit the treatment fluids to remain in contact with the person's hair.

Abstract: A nail tip removal apparatus includes a cup for holding nail tip removal solution. A transducer is mounted on the bottom of the cup to impart vibrations to the solution to promote penetration of the solution to soften the nail tip adhesive.

Abstract: A method for forming a dual component ornamental accessory for a fingernail which includes an elongated overlay having a top surface and a bottom surface and first and second ends, the first end having a shape and size approximating the shape and size of at least the end of a fingernail. The base portion is fixed to, and substantially coextensive with, at least the second end of the overlay. In preferred embodiments, the overlay is transparent or translucent while the base is translucent or opaque, and the base also forms an abutment for use in fitting the accessory to the end of the nail of the user. Furthermore, the present ornamental accessory is preferably an artificial fingernail tip, and most preferably a French tip.

Abstract: Systems of the invention for forming artificial fingernails include methods, apparatus and kits. A form implement is fashioned into a complementary shape of a fingernail. Acrylic material in a gelatinous state, applied to a base comprised of a natural fingernail and optionally an artificial fingernail tip, is molded by further application of a form. A form of the invention tends to shape the acrylic material in a preferred manner before it hardens in the polymerization process. The form, left in intimate contact with the hardening acrylic material, imparts its shape and texture to the material. A form, thereafter having been removed from a newly created artificial fingernail, creates a superior looking nail having a smooth transparent look which is more natural and desirable. In addition, forms of the invention result in better shaped nails having less defects than nails formed via commonly known techniques.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and an apparatus for decorating or coloring fingernails or toenails. According to the method, a subject's fingernail is scanned to obtain an image and the image is transferred to a computer. The computer then maps out the fingernail surface and scales a selected image or design to fit on the fingernail. This information is then used by the computer to activate an inkjet assembly to print out the stored image on the fingernail surface.

Abstract: An artificial nail tip facilitates the creation of "French" nails. The nail tip includes a dam which divides the surface of the nail into two regions. By applying acrylic materials of different colors to the two regions, filling the regions up against the dam, one creates a nail having more than one color, and having a well-defined boundary between regions of different color. In another embodiment, the dam is affixed directly to the fingernail, and some of the acrylic material is applied to a temporary form that is attached to the fingernail. As in the first embodiment, two differently-colored acrylic materials are applied to different regions, up to the dam, to create a "French" nail. The present invention makes it possible to create "French" nails without the need for extensive training or talent, since the dam provides a guide for the application of the differently-colored acrylics.

Abstract: A method of cutting one's own hair in a multitude of styles and lengths comprises placing one's head in an upside-down position and combing or brushing the hair in a downward fashion and thereafter shaking the head so as to let the hair settle. The hair is then gathered at the scalp and a first elastic band is wrapped about the hair adjacent the scalp so as to leave a length of hair extending beyond the first band. The head is then placed in an upright position and a second elastic band is wrapped about the length of hair directly adjacent the first band. The second band is then slid along the length of hair away from the first band until the desired length is reached. The ends of the hair extending beyond the second band are then cut along the outer edge of the second band. To produce a softer cut, the first band may be slid along the length of hair toward the second band prior to cutting the ends of the hair.

Abstract: A device and method for strengthening a natural fingernail includes a nail reinforcing device made of a pliable and conformable material having a thickness that is less than the thickness of a natural fingernail. The nail reinforcing device can be preformed and shaped to correspond to the shape of a natural fingernail or can be shaped to correspond to the general shape of the natural fingernail to which it is attached or adhered. A method for strengthening a natural fingernail of the present invention comprises applying an adhesive to at least a portion of the bottom (underneath) surface of the free end of the natural fingernail or to the upper surface of the nail reinforcing device. The nail reinforcing device is then positioned and maintained under the natural fingernail so as to provide contact between the upper surface of the nail reinforcing device and the bottom surface of the natural fingernail.

Abstract: The personal colors for facial cosmetics are determined by a method and a kit of equipment which determines an overall value for the individual by reference to skin, eye and hair features, determines a hue of the individual by reference to colors such as facial powders applied to the skin, and presents the personal colors based on the overall value and hue determined. A value determining scale is used to determine specific values of features by adjacent comparison to those features. An overall value chart contains information defining an overall value based on a predetermined multiple number of specific values of features. A personal color direction chart correlates values and hues to the desired personal colors.

Abstract: A method and device for making a weft of a weaving for wigs is disclosed. The method and device makes the weft mechanically, thus uniformly forming wig strands supported by the weft. Both the wig strands, forming the warps of the weaving, and the weaving yarns, forming the weft of the weaving, are made of the same material, such as human hair or synthetic resin material, so that there is no heterogeneity between them and this allows wearers of wigs to have a soft and comfortable feeling. Such weft is made by using an automatic machine without applying any bonding agent on the weaving or sewing the weaving using a sewing machine. Therefore, wigs can produced in commercial quantity while conserving labor cost.

Abstract: Elastomeric polymeric flosses comprising particulate modification agents stably associated with the surface thereof, as well as methods for their fabrication, are provided. In the subject flosses, particulate modification agents are either adsorbed to the surface of the floss or embedded in the surface of the floss. To fabricate the subject flosses, unmodified elastomeric flosses are contacted with particulate modification agents under conditions which provide for the stable association of the particles with the floss surface, where the floss surface may be softened to promote embedding of the particulate modification agents in the surface of the floss.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating hair comprises a motor, a housing engaging the housing, and a pair of combs, each comb movably engaged by the housing. A mechanism comprising two arms is engaged by the housing with each arm operably connected between one of the combs and the motor so as to force each comb to reciprocate substantially perpendicular to their longitudinal axis so as to cause the teeth of each comb to reciprocally cross back-and-forth, over and between the teeth of the other comb member. The apparatus can be used for detangling hair, removing parasites such as lice, and/or removing particles such as dandruff.

Abstract: The toothpick apparatus of the present invention consists of an elongated cylindrical device 13 having a thicker middle portion 17 tapering away from the middle toward opposing ends or points 19. The toothpick has a perforated area or break point near its middle 17 whereby when the toothpick is broken a useable length of dental floss 23 is exposed. The dental floss 23 is contained within layers of thin wood 21 which are rolled in order to form the toothpick. Additional embodiments of the present invention are also described.

Abstract: Footcare products and methods for caring for human feet useful for removing calluses, corns and the like from human feet while the human is standing on a surface, such as, a shower floor and applying an abrasive surface to the human foot is disclosed. Representative devices for at least partially alleviating foot discomfort due to skin build-up, such as, calluses include a base structure having an upper and a bottom surface, connecting structure operatively connected to the bottom surface of the base structure, for removably connecting the base structure to a solid surface, and abrasive means, operatively connected to the upper surface of the base structure, for removing skin build up from a human foot. Methods for using the footcare device are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for re-forming keratinous fibre cross links comprising contacting at least one oxidoreductase with the keratinous fibres for a sufficient period of time and under conditions sufficient to permit re-formation of keratinous fibre cross links. The method may be performed simultaneously with dyeing of said keratinous fibres. The invention also relates to the use at least one oxidoreductase for re-formation of keratinous fibre cross links.

Abstract: Foundation is applied to a preselected area of the face that is centered therewithin and encompasses the eyes, nose and mouth thereof, the process for its application comprising the steps of: (a) placing a sizable first dot of foundation at a first position on each side of the nose near the nostrils; (b) stroking upward from the first position to meet the bridge of the nose; (c) blending the foundation of the first dot to cover the entire front and sides of the nose, whereby the nostrils retain enough of the foundation to cover red skin thereabout; (d) placing a sizable dot of the foundation on each side of the nose at a second position, the second position being under the corner of each eye immediately adjacent to the nose; (e) spreading the foundation of the second dot away from the nose while maintaining heaviest coverage at the second position, thereby covering the skin very close to the lower eyelashes; (f) blending the foundation downward; (g) applying more of the foundation in a back and forth motion a

Abstract: A device for producing a "hair wrap". The device includes an elongated open ended tube which has a layer of decorative material on the outside of the tube and an elongated filament loosely positioned within the tube and extending from both ends of the tube. One extending end of the filament has a loop. The device is used by extending a strand of hair through the loop at a first end of the tube and pulling the filament from the opposite end of the tube so that the loop and strand of hair are drawn into the tube. The tube or decorative material at the first end of the tube is secured to the strand of hair near the scalp and the filament is withdrawn from the tube. More specifically, the layer of decorative material are formed by winding a pair of strands of decorative material such as string or yarn about the tube so that an end of each strand of decorative material extends beyond the first end of the tube. The freely extending ends of the strand are used to secure the device to the strand of hair.

Abstract: A method of applying multi-colored designs to substrates such as fingernails or toenails. A mask/stencil is prepared by cutting a design in a thin flexible plastic sheet held on a backing sheet by a low tack adhesive. Preferably, the mask/stencil is cut in a computer driven plotter using a sharp blade in place of the usual pen. The mask/stencil is removed from the backing sheet and placed on the substrate with openings corresponding to the design. A colorant is applied over the mask/stencil and areas of the substrate exposed through the openings. The mask/stencil is then removed, leaving colored areas corresponding to mask/stencil openings. Additional mask/stencils with different openings corresponding to other portions of the final multi-color design are then applied, coated and removed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for holding and adornment of hair which makes use of a base member with first and second ends and a central base with a securement line secured to each end to define a hair holding opening therebetween. A first securement member and a second securement member are detachably securable with respect to the first base end section and the second base end section, respectively, to detachably secure the ends of the securement line thereto to facilitate ease in installing of the apparatus and responsive to removal of the securement members to facilitate removal thereof.

Abstract: Several single-head bi-directional razor devices and systems are disclosed. Each has a narrow, elongated bi-directional razor head attached or attachable to a transversely extending hand grip. The razor head may be constructed as a disposable cartridge if desired. Two pairs of narrow, razor blade strips are positioned within the head, with one pair of blades extending in one direction and the other pair generally extending in an opposite direction. Both sets of blades extend along the length of the head. The user may move the razor head in one direction for contacting one pair of blades against the user's skin for cutting hair and then, without lifting or tilting or repositioning the hand grip, move the handle in the opposite direction so that the other pair of blades cuts hair during reverse movement of the razor. In other words, the head remains engaged upon the skin for cutting hair in both directions. In some embodiments, the razor head is rigidly attached to the handle.

Abstract: A finger and toe nail repair kit and method wherein the kit comprises an adhesive which will both bond natural nail material and dissolve polystyrene, a multiplicity of polystyrene pellets, a cuticle stick, a buffing board with sufficient grit to grind a dried mixture of adhesive and polystyrene, and a buffing block to remove the shine from the nail after mending the nail and in preparation for a coating as desired.

Abstract: A method of covering a bald area (20) on a person's head uses a filler piece (10) having a foundation (12) with filler hair (14) attached thereto and conforming substantially to the shape of the bald area (20). The filler piece (10) is attached to the bald area (20) by adhering the foundation (12) thereto. Side hair (24) of sufficient length is then positioned in spanning relationship with the filler piece (10) and commingled with the filler hair (14) to hold the side hair (24) in the spanning relationship.

Abstract: A dental floss article is provided comprising a fiber having a predetermined length and defined by at least one substantially rigid portion and at least one flexible portion.

Abstract: Improved dental flosses are provided, including multicomponent coextruded filaments and/or filaments having a multilobal cross-section. Some preferred flosses of the invention are capable of bulking.

Abstract: A hair wrap strip is provided for styling a person's hair having an elongated, porous band of absorbent multi-layered material of sufficient length to extend around the person's head at the hair line. The band is stretched and an adhesive tab carried at one end of the band is connected to the other end of the band. The band is applied after the hair has been shampooed and had a styling gel and/or setting lotion applied but before the hair is dried. The use of this apparatus facilitates a method for straightening hair by using the elongated, porous band. The use of the band results in minimum fly-away hair and with a maximum degree of straightening the hair.

Abstract: Graduated artificial fingernail tips for creating longer fingernails includes an artificial fingernail tip and length-indiciating indicia on an upper surface of the tip. The length-indicating indicia may be numbers or letters corresponding to graduated trim points. A method for applying the graduated artificial fingernail tips is also provided which includes buffing out the indicia after conventional adhesion of the tip to the natural nails. The graduated tips and method enable a quick and easy application of the tips to create a manicure with nails of substantially uniform length.

Abstract: A method for cutting hair which realizes a hairstyle to give a light appearance of movability and vividness by giving natural irregularities to length of the hair. Three different reference lengths are used for one hairstyle. A founding portion of hair is cut by using a shortest reference length, hair of a vector portion is cut by using a middle reference length, and hair of an outer portion that forms an appearance of the hairstyle is cut by using a longest reference length.

Abstract: A plurality of interacting hair fashioners are used to style hair. Each interacting hair fashioner comprises a predetermined strap, a predetermined base, and a predetermined opening. At least one end of each strap is releasably or permanently attached to a corresponding base, defining a corresponding opening therebetween. Each interacting hair fashioner can be made of a predetermined material, for example flexible or resilient material; reconfigurable material capable of being bent repeatedly without fracturing; or rigid material; or the like. At least two interacting hair fashioners are used to roll two hair groups in two opposite directions. Then, these two interacting hair fashioners are couple interlock the two hair groups together by being intertwined together or by using coupling device. Further, additional interacting hair fashioners can be used together with these two interacting hair fashioners to style additional hair.

Abstract: Personal oral hygiene of the general population is improved by making flossing considerably easier and less time consuming than it is when performed pursuant to current recommendations of the dental profession. This invention is an improved method for cleaning the interproximal tooth surfaces, comprising alternating the flossing of the lower teeth and the upper teeth in separate flossing sessions. A preferred embodiment is to floss the lower teeth on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and the upper teeth on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (or Sundays). This invention can maintain gingival health with less than half the time and effort of currently recommended methods. An alternative embodiment is to floss the lower and upper teeth on alternate days, irrespective of the day of the week. The invention may be carried out with any type of dental floss, and with any mechanical or electrical flossing aid, as well as other kinds of interdental cleaners.

Abstract: In the preferred method of drying one's hair, a glove of moisture absorbent material is worn on each hand. The user alternates between running the glove of one hand through the wet hair and holding a hair dryer in the other hand. The hot air from the dryer is directed onto both the hair in the vicinity of the glove and onto the glove itself in order for the hot air to dry the hair and in order for the hot air to maintain the moisture-absorbency of the glove so that the hot air and glove cooperate to speed the drying process.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing artificial fingernails and/or fingernail polish includes a receptacle holding a quantity of solvent for dissolving artificial fingernails and/or fingernail polish. The receptacle has an open top through which all the fingers of a user's hand can be inserted simultaneously to immerse the user's fingertips in the solvent. An annular brush is secured inside the receptacle in position to engage the fingernails of fingers inserted through the open top, for scuffing the fingernails to facilitate dissolving and removing fingernail polish and/or artificial fingernails from the fingers of the user. A rotatable finger support and locating device is positioned concentrically with the annular brush to assist in properly supporting and locating the fingers of the user relative to the brush, and a splash shield is positioned around the periphery of the open top to minimize splashing of solvent from the receptacle during use.

Abstract: A device for applying agents, such as coloring agents, to selected strands of hair includes a first sheet of foil and a second sheet of foil. The first sheet of foil has a first folded end and a first free end. The second sheet of foil also has two ends, namely a second folded end and a second free end. The first sheet and the second sheet are arranged so that the first folded end wraps around the second free end of the second sheet, and so that the second folded end wraps around the first free end of the first sheet. This provides for thicker ends for easy pick up of the sheets and also keeps the sheets together as they are picked up. In addition, after the chemical has been placed onto the hair, the folded ends are closest to the scalp which provides for added strength at the scalp and for better sealing of the foil. A plurality of the first and second sheet assemblies can be placed into a box for dispensing.

Abstract: The elongated toenail file of this invention is a strip of material of a length sufficient to enable people to file their toenails while in a comfortable sitting position. A length of 18 inches has been found sufficient for this purpose. The front side of the toenail file has an abrasive surface for filing and the back side of the toenail file is smooth with transversely tapering portions terminating in thin longitudinal edges to fit comfortably between adjacent toes while filing.

Abstract: A hair cutting method includes positioning a strand of hair between normally open blade ends of a scissors. The scissors have a pair of elongated members, each member having a blade end, an intermediate gripping section, and a spring end. Each blade end has a cutting edge. The elongated members are connected to each other by a pivot element disposed near a junction where the blade ends and intermediate gripping sections join. The spring ends each have tips which are connected together to bias the elongated members, so that the blade ends move about the pivot element into an open position. The blade ends come together in a cutting fashion with their cutting edges engaging to trim the edge of the nail upon the user grasping both intermediate gripping sections between the user's thumb and a finger of the user and pressing the intermediate gripping sections towards each other. Each blade end as measured from a tip of the blade to the point of connection with the pivot element has a length exceeding two inches.

Abstract: This invention is for a new decorative hair ornament, a braidlet, and a method to attach it to one's hair. The braidlet is a tube-like device that covers the ends of braids and also allows for further ornamentation to be hung from the tubes. This invention adds another option for both men and women trying to style or decorate their hair. The versatility of the ornamentation allows for it to be easily removable and adjustable. The braidlet is simply constructed and therefore can be made to suit ones tastes, according to the amount of money one wished to spend. As such, the braidlet can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing artificial support to the entire underneath surface of a natural fingernail so that the natural nail can grow without breaking.

Abstract: A hair styling tool is provided for wrapping hair around and into a hair tail. The hair styling tool includes a U-shaped hook and an arm each attached to and extending outwardly from a handle.

Abstract: Cosmetic compositions, well suited for the permanent deformation of keratinous fibers, for example permanent waves for topical application to human hair, comprise at least one reducing agent and/or at least one oxidizing agent other than a peroxide or cresol, at least one of reducing and/or oxidizing agents normally eliciting a skin irritating side effect, and an effective skin irritant-attenuating/eliminating amount of at least one substance P antagonist and/or at least one CGRP antagonist, in a physiologically acceptable medium therefor.

Abstract: Acrylic and fiberglass fingernails are applied using an aid having a flexible fingernail support shield wrappable around the end of a human finger defining an aperture suitable to receive a fingernail. A substantially conical resilient pinching member defining an expandable slit is placed over the flexible support shield and the fingernail augmentation is applied over the shield.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for devising an applicator including a method of securing a settable material in the applicator operable to apply cosmetic materials to an external surface.

Abstract: An adjustable hair holder and method for same allows attractive, stylish hair retention comprising a comb, a restraint member, and a fabric or similar flexible midsection forming a pouch connecting the comb and restraint such that the restraint can secure a ponytail, the ponytail can be substantially surrounded and retained within the flexible midsection pouch, and the comb is placed at substantially the base of the ponytail to secure the hair in a fashionable, reliable holder. The pouch preferably includes elastic sides which secure the hair in a snug fashion which allows the invention to be utilized in health-conscious and safety-conscious environments such as food service establishments, hospitals, high-technology manufacturing facilities, etc.